When is it cheapest to visit Shanghai?

Shanghai is cheapest to visit in February, June, and November.

Peak season is March, April, July, August, and December, when rooms cost the most.

Shanghai seasons and room prices

Shanghai is most pleasant in spring from March to May and autumn from September to November, and hotel prices rise with the weather. Mid June to early July is the plum rain season, July and August are hot and humid, and typhoons can brush the city in August and September. The dearest weeks are the National Day golden week from October 1 and the Labour Day holiday in early May, when domestic travellers fill the city, plus the China International Import Expo in early November, which floods the business hotels. Over Chinese New Year the city empties and rooms get cheap, but many restaurants and shops close for days. Winter outside that holiday is the low point.

Shanghai local costs and payment

The currency is the yuan, and payment runs almost entirely on Alipay and WeChat Pay, so the phone comes before the card. Both apps accept foreign cards, and setting one up before you fly covers taxis, convenience stores and most restaurants. Hotels, department stores and larger restaurants take international cards directly, while small shops may accept only the apps, and since cash remains legal tender a small reserve is sensible. Hotel rates in China are usually displayed with tax and service included, but sites differ, so compare on the total. Pay in yuan and decline home currency conversion.