Book Flights to Shanghai
Tickets for Our Most Popular Flights to Shanghai
flight_takeoff
flight_land
ZAR
*Fares displayed have been collected within the last 48hrs and may no longer be available at time of booking. Additional fees and charges for optional products and services may apply.
Flights to Shanghai with Most Searches on Etihad
flight_takeoff
flight_land
ZAR
There are no fares that match your filter criteria. Please adjust your filters.
*Fares displayed have been collected within the last 48hrs and may no longer be available at time of booking. Additional fees and charges for optional products and services may apply.
Dazzling Shanghai
Book flights to Shanghai, the futuristic and history-filled city on China’s central coast. Discover a hub of innovation and a treasure trove of architecture.
Glistening skyscrapers rise high over the Huangpu River. Among these giants is the Shanghai Tower – the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world.
The Bund on the waterfront in central Shanghai boasts styles ranging from Gothic and Baroque to Romanesque, Classicism and Renaissance. Shanghai is also home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Art Deco architecture, dating back to the 1920s and ‘30s.
Whether you’re looking for the buzz of a modern city, a high-end shopping experience, or authentic Shanghai cuisine, this mesmerising city has it all.
Fly to Shanghai today with Etihad Airways.
What’s the weather like in Shanghai?
Average temperature Average rainfall
JAN
4°C
4cm
FEB
6°C
6cm
MAR
9°C
8cm
APR
15°C
10cm
MAY
20°C
11cm
JUN
24°C
15cm
JUL
29°C
12cm
AUG
29°C
13cm
SEP
24°C
13cm
OCT
19°C
12cm
NOV
13°C
11cm
DEC
7°C
11cm
Shanghai is a bustling, year-round destination. However, May to October is when most tourists visit this dynamic city.
For pleasant temperatures, fly to Shanghai in spring – which runs from the end of March through to the end of May – or in autumn (September and October).
Reasons to visit Shanghai
Experience the Bund
Stretching for almost a mile from the Waibaidu Bridge to East Jinling Road, the Bund – or Waitan – is an iconic symbol of Shanghai. This section of the Huangpu River’s west bank showcases an incredible mix of the city’s past and future.
Take a leisurely stroll along Waitan to admire the eclectic architectural styles, including a beautiful collection of neoclassical buildings. Take a moment to look across the river and admire Pudong’s futuristic skyline, featuring world-famous skyscrapers.
Visit at night to see the grandeur of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, World Financial Center and Jin Mao Tower illuminated.
Splash out on Nanjing Road
Shanghai is renowned the world over for the deluxe shopping experience found in this lively district.
Nanjing Road stretches for more than three miles and has hundreds of outlets, ranging from boutiques and historic shops to sprawling multi-level malls, department stores and even theatres. Take a stroll to get a feel for the energetic buzz or spend a day engaging in some serious retail therapy.
Visiting at night offers a different experience entirely. The glittering avenue is adorned with neon signs and the atmosphere is electric. Enjoy music from performers on the streets as you sip something delicious from an open-air spot.
Serenity of Yuyuan Garden
In Shanghai’s Old Town, you’ll come across the beautiful Yuyuan Garden. Overflowing with ornate buildings, bridges, pagodas and decorated with flowers, statues and ponds, this serene space offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the busy city.
Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden was once a private area for the Pan family and provides a fascinating window into the world of ancient China. Afterwards, head to the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar to explore traditional tea houses and grab a souvenir or snack.
Things to know before you fly to Shanghai
Transfers from the airport
It’s easy to get into the city from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Book an airport transfer online with Etihad before you fly.
Alternatively, catch a taxi to reach the city in 30 to 45 minutes. You can also use the metro – it’s about an hour-long journey to downtown Shanghai.
Language
Chinese Mandarin is the official language of China and is widely spoken in Shanghai. For an easy, friendly greeting when communicating with locals, hello in Mandarin is ‘Nǐ hǎo’ (pronounced ‘nee haow’).
There are English counters at train stations and signs on the metro are in English too.
Getting around
There is a network of buses and trains in operation in Shanghai and the metro is also easy to use. Station announcements are usually made in both Chinese and English, making them tourist-friendly.
Public holidays
The biggest celebration in Shanghai each year is Chinese New Year, which falls in January or February. Some businesses close for up to three weeks during this period, most people take at least a week-long holiday and accommodation costs may increase.
Flying to Shanghai: FAQs
Where should I stay in Shanghai?
The Pudong district is where many of the city’s stunning skyscrapers are located, while the Bund and People’s Square are good places to stay for easy access to attractions.
If you prefer a more traditional experience, stay in the Old Town. For a slice of local life and great shopping choices, opt for Xujiahui or South Shanghai.
How many days should I spend in Shanghai?
You should be able to experience all of Shanghai’s main attractions within three days.
However, if you’d like to immerse yourself in the local culture and take things at a slower pace, five days to a week is ideal, with time for a day trip out to Suzhou – a 30-minute bullet train ride away. You could also go on to explore more of China.
What attractions should I visit in Shanghai?
On the west bank of Huangpu River is the Bund, or Waitan, which offers an iconic snapshot of the city – both past and present.
Other things to see include Moganshan 50, Shanghai’s art district and Yu Garden, a beautiful and tranquil botanical treasure.
What food is Shanghai known for?
Shanghai’s food scene is buzzing, boasting an array of signature dishes.
One of the city’s most famous foods is Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. These light dumplings are filled with mince, seafood or vegetables and a hot broth – find them both in street markets and upmarket restaurants.
Why we love Shanghai
“There is so much going on in Shanghai. The first thing you’ll notice is the neon lights of the skyscrapers but dig deeper and you’ll find a range of architectural styles. Visit Moganshan 50 to find local art galleries and the latest exhibitions.”
Why fly to Shanghai with Etihad?
Make your own choices when booking your flight tickets to Shanghai with a range of options available, whichever cabin you’re flying in.
Guests in First and Business can access airport lounges where available, and Economy guests can often pay for access too. Eat in the restaurant, book in for a spa treatment in some lounges, or connect to the Wi-Fi and surf or work.
Across all cabins, every seat reclines and offers real comfort so you can arrive refreshed in Shanghai. On long haul flights, relax with a blanket and pillow. In Economy, you have the opportunity to upgrade your seat and enjoy generous legroom.
Our inflight entertainment system is there to be enjoyed by everyone on board. Select from thousands of hours of movies, TV and music.
During the flight, every guest receives a complimentary meal and drink. The food on board is inspired by the destination and created from fresh ingredients.
*Aircraft, cabins and services may vary by route and flight. You can check this when you search for your flight. This page was last updated Sept 2019.