Best Time to Visit Shanghai
The best months to visit Shanghai are Apr, Oct, Nov. Here is the full monthly breakdown.
Photo: Ralf Leineweber / Unsplash
Best Months: Apr, Oct, Nov
These months offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and low rainfall for visiting Shanghai. Expect highs of 22°C to 24°C to 18°C with relatively dry conditions.
Warmest Month
August
34°C high
Coldest Month
January
1°C low
Driest Month
December
4 rain days
Wettest Month
June
22 rain days
Monthly Weather
January
High: 10°C / Low: 1°C
5 rain days
February
High: 10°C / Low: 3°C
12 rain days
March
High: 17°C / Low: 7°C
10 rain days
April
High: 22°C / Low: 13°C
12 rain days
May
High: 26°C / Low: 17°C
11 rain days
June
High: 28°C / Low: 21°C
22 rain days
July
High: 33°C / Low: 26°C
20 rain days
August
High: 34°C / Low: 26°C
14 rain days
September
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
20 rain days
October
High: 24°C / Low: 17°C
9 rain days
November
High: 18°C / Low: 11°C
7 rain days
December
High: 12°C / Low: 4°C
4 rain days
Tourist Seasons in Shanghai
Peak Season
April, October, November
- +Best weather conditions
- +Most activities and events
- -Higher prices and larger crowds
- -Book accommodation well in advance
Shoulder Season
March, May, September, December
- +Good weather, fewer tourists
- +Better value for accommodation
- +More authentic local experiences
- ~Some attractions may have reduced hours
Off Season
January, February, June, July, August
- +Lowest prices of the year
- +No crowds at attractions
- -Weather may be less favourable
- -Some seasonal businesses may close
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January | 10°C | 1°C | 5 | Off Season |
February | 10°C | 3°C | 12 | Off Season |
March | 17°C | 7°C | 10 | Shoulder Season |
April★ | 22°C | 13°C | 12 | Peak Season |
May | 26°C | 17°C | 11 | Shoulder Season |
June | 28°C | 21°C | 22 | Off Season |
July | 33°C | 26°C | 20 | Off Season |
August | 34°C | 26°C | 14 | Off Season |
September | 30°C | 24°C | 20 | Shoulder Season |
October★ | 24°C | 17°C | 9 | Peak Season |
November★ | 18°C | 11°C | 7 | Peak Season |
December | 12°C | 4°C | 4 | Shoulder Season |
Season Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Shanghai?
What is the weather like in Shanghai?
When is peak tourist season in Shanghai?
Is Shanghai worth visiting in winter?
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Shanghai
Make the most of your trip by booking popular tours and activities in advance.
Shanghai Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Shanghai on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Shanghai Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Shanghai with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Shanghai: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Shanghai's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Shanghai: Scenic Excursion
Escape Shanghai for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Shanghai Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Shanghai's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Shanghai
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
French Concession
Charming tree-lined streets with European-style architecture, boutiques, cafes, and bars.
Our top picks in French Concession
The Bund
Historic waterfront promenade with iconic skyline views and grand colonial architecture.
Our top picks in The Bund
Pudong (Lujiazui)
The futuristic financial district with towering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and modern attractions.
Our top picks in Pudong (Lujiazui)
Located in Jin Mao Tower, offering breathtaking views and a popular bar.
Book NowLuxurious hotel with exceptional service and panoramic city views.
Book NowSituated in the Shanghai World Financial Center, known for its art collection and fine dining.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in Shanghai?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
More Shanghai Travel Guides
Plan Your Perfect Shanghai Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.