China · East Asia

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

When to go for the best experience — weather, prices & tips

Month-by-Month Guide to Shanghai

Jan

4°C / 39°F

7d rain

Feb

6°C / 43°F

8d rain

Shoulder

Mar

10°C / 50°F

10d rain

Best

Apr

16°C / 61°F

10d rain

Best

May

21°C / 70°F

10d rain

Best

Jun

25°C / 77°F

12d rain

Shoulder

Jul

30°C / 86°F

10d rain

Aug

30°C / 86°F

9d rain

Shoulder

Sep

26°C / 79°F

8d rain

Best

Oct

20°C / 68°F

6d rain

Best

Nov

14°C / 57°F

5d rain

Best

Dec

6°C / 43°F

5d rain

Shoulder

Best monthsShoulder seasonOff-season

Recommended Months in Detail

March

Best

Weather: Cool, warming up

Temp: 10°C (50°F) · 72% humidity

Rain: ~10 rainy days

Pack: Light jacket, rain gear

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$576

April

Best

Weather: Mild & pleasant

Temp: 16°C (61°F) · 70% humidity

Rain: ~10 rainy days

Pack: Light layers, umbrella

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$620

May

Best

Weather: Warm & pleasant

Temp: 21°C (70°F) · 70% humidity

Rain: ~10 rainy days

Pack: Light clothing, rain jacket

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$664

September

Best

Weather: Warm & pleasant

Temp: 26°C (79°F) · 70% humidity

Rain: ~8 rainy days

Pack: Light layers

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$588

October

Best

Weather: Cool & pleasant

Temp: 20°C (68°F) · 68% humidity

Rain: ~6 rainy days

Pack: Light jacket

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$633

November

Best

Weather: Cool

Temp: 14°C (57°F) · 68% humidity

Rain: ~5 rainy days

Pack: Warm jacket, layers

Est. daily cost$122/day

Est. flights$677

Save Money in Shoulder Season

Peak Season

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

Avg. flights$626

Daily cost (mid-range)$122/day

7-day trip total$1480

Shoulder Season

Feb, Jun, Aug, Dec

Avg. flights$490

Daily cost (mid-range)$122/day

7-day trip total$1344

Fly shoulder season and save ~$136 on flights alone

Money-Saving Tips for Shanghai

Walk the Bund for free — best at night

Use the Shanghai Metro — one of the cheapest in the world

Eat dumplings at local spots for $1-3

Visit free museums on certain days of the week

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Shanghai?

The best months to visit Shanghai are March, April, May, September, October, November. During these months you'll enjoy the most favorable weather and travel conditions.

What is the cheapest time to visit Shanghai?

Shoulder season (February, June, August, December) typically offers lower flight prices — around $490 vs $626 during peak season. Budget travellers can spend as little as $41/day on the ground.

What is the weather like in Shanghai?

During the best months, expect cool, warming up with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F). Check the month-by-month breakdown above for detailed climate info.

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