Travel Guide for Shanghai

Shanghai, perched along China’s eastern coast, is a vibrant hub where historic temples meet futuristic skyscrapers. Once a small fishing village, it blossomed into a global metropolis famous for its cosmopolitan flair and dynamic history.

During July, expect hot, humid weather and the occasional summer rain shower—perfect for ducking into lively cafés or co-working spaces. Digital nomads on a budget will love the city’s affordable street food, easy public transport, and abundant Wi-Fi, making Shanghai ideal for work and exploration.

Shanghai is easily accessible by air, with two major international airports: Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA). Most international visitors arrive via Pudong, while Hongqiao handles domestic and some regional flights. High-speed trains connect Shanghai to cities like Beijing, Hangzhou, and Suzhou, making rail a convenient option.

For digital nomads on a budget, booking early and using discount travel platforms can yield good deals on flights and trains. Intercity buses are also an option but tend to be slower. July in Shanghai is hot and humid, with occasional rainstorms, which may cause flight or train delays, so build in extra time for your travel plans.

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are mild and pleasant, while winters are chilly and damp. Summers, especially from June to August, are hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

From July 11 to July 18, expect high humidity, frequent rain showers, and daytime highs around 33°C (91°F). This time falls within the East Asian monsoon season, so heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms are possible. Typhoons sometimes occur in July, so stay updated on local weather alerts during your visit.

For a digital nomad on an average budget, central neighborhoods like Jing’an, the Former French Concession, or Xintiandi offer great hotel options, excellent cafés, co-working spaces, and easy metro access. Reputable mid-range hotels include The Middle House, Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, and URBN Boutique Shanghai. Hostels like Mingtown Etour or the Rock & Wood International are friendly and budget-conscious.

Booking.com and Agoda are the most reliable sites for deals on Shanghai hotels. July is a busy travel month, so book early to secure the best rates and availability. Consider accommodations with strong Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and proximity to subway lines for convenient city exploration during your stay.

Shanghai’s cuisine features dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and savory braised pork (hong shao rou). Streets in the French Concession and Yuyuan Garden offer tasty street food and local snacks. Try a traditional Shanghai breakfast at stalls or bustling canteens where locals dine.

For digital nomads on an average budget, hip cafes like Manner Coffee and Egg offer reliable Wi-Fi and relaxed atmospheres, while Lost Heaven and Hai Di Lao give excellent value for local and Yunnan cuisine. Rooftop bars like Bar Rouge provide stunning Bund views for an evening drink. Tipping isn’t customary; service charges may already be included.

Allergy and vegetarian options are available at modern eateries, though classic spots may have limited choices. English menus are common in international neighborhoods, and food delivery apps make it easy to try local flavors from co-working spaces or your accommodation.

Explore the vibrant arts-and-culture scene at the Power Station of Art or the M50 art district, offering contemporary galleries perfect for inspiration and networking. At night, enjoy lively rooftop bars on the Bund, or soak in local theater performances for entertainment.

For outdoor adventure, stroll or cycle along the tree-lined streets of the French Concession and visit Yu Garden. Join guided walking tours for historic sightseeing, and don’t miss the food scene—from street snacks in popular night markets to dumplings in affordable local eateries. July also features summer festivals, making it an exciting time for digital nomads.

Discover a different side of Shanghai by exploring the ruins of Shikumen alleyways in areas like Tianzifang after midnight, where local life lingers in the quiet. Delve into the city’s quirky Propaganda Poster Art Centre, hidden in a nondescript apartment basement—perfect for history buffs seeking relics of the Mao era.

Take a guided graffiti tour through M50 art district’s warehouses to spot avant-garde murals. For an adrenaline rush, try urban river kayaking on Suzhou Creek or seek out secret rooftop bars with unparalleled skyline views, frequented mostly by locals and expats.