Shanghai, China Cruise Port Guide
As China's largest and most cosmopolitan metropolis, Shanghai serves as a dazzling gateway to East Asia for cruise travelers. Major cruise operators like Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises regularly dock in this vibrant mega-city.
Passengers are treated to a captivating juxtaposition of ultra-modern skyscrapers and preserved historical neighborhoods right along the water, making it a favorite stop for Asian itineraries.
For more information on Shanghai, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Shanghai City Guide
In This Guide
- Key Shanghai Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Visiting Shanghai Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Shanghai Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in China
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Monthly Pricing
Key Shanghai Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
Visitors on a day excursion can stroll along The Bund (Waitan) to admire historic colonial architecture across the water from the futuristic skyline of Pudong. A short drive away, the tranquil traditional gardens at Yu Garden (Yuyuan) offer classic Qing Dynasty landscapes and bustling bazaar alleys.
For panoramic views of the skyline, travelers can head up to the observation deck of the towering Shanghai Tower or visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu Ta). Cultural enthusiasts should not miss the world-class artifacts housed inside the Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan) near People’s Square (Renmin Guangchang).
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Located about an hour southwest of downtown, the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao offers picturesque canals, stone bridges, and traditional courtyard homes. Cruisers seeking a scenic day trip can explore its historic waterways or visit Zhujiajiao Kezhi Garden.
Travelers interested in historic regional cities can take a high-speed train to Suzhou, famous for its UNESCO-listed classical gardens roughly 30 minutes to an hour away by rail, or Hangzhou, renowned for its picturesque West Lake.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Port Location
Smaller ships dock directly at the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal on the Huangpu River, located just minutes from downtown and The Bund (Waitan). However, larger mega-ships dock at Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, which is approximately 15 miles north of the city center.
Tendering is rarely required as vessels dock alongside modern piers. Both terminals offer passenger amenities including currency exchange desks, information counters, and taxi stands.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Local Currency
The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). While foreign currencies like US Dollars and Euros are not accepted for everyday purchases, currency exchange counters and ATMs are widely available at cruise terminals and banks.
Credit cards are accepted at high-end hotels and large department stores, but mobile payment platforms dominate daily transactions; setting up digital payment apps linked to an international credit card prior to arrival is highly recommended.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Safety Considerations
Shanghai is widely considered one of the safest major cities in the world for international visitors, with low rates of violent crime. Independent exploration during daytime and nighttime is generally safe for cruise passengers.
Tourists should remain vigilant against common scams around major sites like Nanjing Road (Nanjing Lu), particularly tea house scams or overpricing by unofficial taxis. Using official taxi stands or arranged excursions minimizes potential issues.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Weather & Climate
Shanghai experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Springs and autumns offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C), making them ideal periods for sightseeing.
Summers are hot, humid, and rainy with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F (32°C), alongside occasional typhoon threats between July and September. Cruisers visiting in winter should pack warm layers, as temperatures often drop near freezing.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Getting Around
Shanghai features an extensive, clean, and efficient metro network that connects major sights, though taking a taxi from cruise terminals is often preferred by international visitors. Taxis are abundant and affordable, but passengers should ensure drivers use the meter and have destination addresses written in Chinese characters.
For quick transit from Pudong Airport into the city, passengers can ride the high-speed Shanghai Maglev Train (SMT). Sightseers can also book an organized city tour or take a relaxing Huangpu River cruise to view the illuminated skyline.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Shopping
Shopaholics can explore Nanjing Road (Nanjing Lu), one of the busiest shopping streets in the world featuring luxury boutiques and mega department stores. For local handicrafts and antiques, the lanes of Tianzifang and Shanghai Old City (Nanshi) offer unique boutiques in historic settings.
Popular local souvenirs include silk garments, green tea, ceramics, and traditional calligraphy sets. While prices in department stores are fixed, bargaining is expected in local markets like the Shanghai City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao) bazaar.
Last updated on October 26, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights
This 8-hour Shanghai tour explores the city's must-see sites from old and modern perspectives, including the colonial Bund, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and Shanghai Tower. You will also visit the elegant Ming Dynasty Yu Garden, old town bazaar, charming French Concession, exquisite Jade Buddha Temple, and China's No.1 famous shopping street.
Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour
Discover Shanghai’s incredible attractions and the beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town on this wonderful private day tour with a professional guide. You will spend half the day exploring antiquated architecture and taking a boat ride on tranquil canals in Zhujiajiao, followed by a tour of Shanghai's top city attractions.
Shanghai Private Tour: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Boat Ride
This half-day private tour offers a short getaway to beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town to explore classic Chinese buildings and take a relaxing boat ride along the canals. Available in the morning or afternoon, the tour includes all entrance fees, a private guide, and transfers, with options to upgrade for a lunch or dinner experience.
Suzhou Private Day Trip from Shanghai with Bullet Train Option
This fully customizable private day trip to Suzhou, the 'Oriental Venice,' features UNESCO-listed ancient gardens and picturesque canal networks under the lead of an expert guide. You will discover the unique charms of the water town's lively markets through optional packages tailored to your needs.
Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining Experience
See the prosperous evening views of the Bund and landmarks like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Shanghai Tower during a 60-minute Huangpu River cruise. This night tour also includes a visit to the Xintiandi area.
From Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Water Town Private Tour with Boat Ride
Enjoy a relaxing, flexible half-day private tour of the 'Oriental Venice,' Zhujiajiao, with a lovely local guide to explore Ming and Qing architecture and Kezhi Garden. This personalized experience includes a fun boat ride through ancient water alley streets and waterways.
Private Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train with All Inclusive Option
Departing at 9:30am with a private guide, this full-day sightseeing tour from Shanghai explores Suzhou's beautiful gardens, including the Humble Administrator's Garden and Tiger Hill. You will take a boat ride on the Grand Canal and learn the 3rd-century history of the ancient Panmen Gate.
4-Hour Private Shanghai City Tour with Old and New Highlights
This 4-hour ultimate private tour is 100% customized based on your schedule and interests to explore Shanghai's history, culture, and modern and ancient perspectives. With a local expert guide, you will visit sites ranging from ancient elegant gardens and the historical Bund to the charming French Concession.
4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour
This fully customizable 4-hour private tour allows you to pick two to three incredible Shanghai attractions to visit in a comfortable vehicle with a professional guide. You can follow the suggested itinerary or provide your own list of sites upon meeting with your guide.
Half-Day Bike Tour of Shanghai Old Town with Food Tasting
Enjoy an interactive and fun half-day bicycle tour that explores Shanghai like a local with an experienced Tour leader on an off-the-beaten-path route. This multi-theme journey covers the city's food, architecture, history, traditions, and religion.
Shanghai Circus World ERA Theatre Acrobatics Ticket
Visit the Shanghai Circus World ERA Theatre for an unforgettable acrobatics show featuring talented performers on bikes and motorcycles in a unique spectacle set to beautiful Chinese music. This impressive cultural show utilizes incredible special effects to create an immersive experience.
Private Amazing Shanghai City Day Tour in Your Way
Make the most of a day in Shanghai with this private customized highlights tour led by a professional guide to the Bund skyline and the world’s tallest observatory at Shanghai Tower. You will also visit Tianzifang in the Former French Concession, the traditional Yuyuan Garden and bazaar, and a century-old Buddhist temple.
Shanghai Small-Group Night Tour by Bike
Explore the 'City that never sleeps' on a vintage bike with an expert Tour Leader during this multi-theme adventure from the Chinese Old Town to the dazzling Bund. Along the way, you will learn about Chinese history, discover Art Deco architecture gems, and taste delicious local food.
Private Shanghai Shopping Tour with Local Shopping Guru
This fully customized 4-hour private shopping tour explores Shanghai's reputation as the 'Shopping Paradise' and 'Oriental Paris' through its department stores, markets, and hundred-year-old shops. You will visit tailor-made markets and specialty shops to find good bargains with local assistance.
Shanghai Night River Cruise VIP Seating with Private Transfer and Dinner Option
Capture spectacular night views of landmarks like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Tower from the VIP seating area of a 60-minute Huangpu River cruise. This exclusive private tour with an expert guide showcases the lit-up sites along the Bund and other fantastic landmarks.
3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund
Explore the historical heart of Shanghai’s ancient Jewish quarter in Hongkou, known as 'Little Vienna,' on a private tour featuring the Jewish Refugees Museum. You will learn about Jewish history while walking through Huoshan Park, the old Jewish community, and backstreet lanes.
Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Flexible Private Tour
This private day tour features a half-day in the 'Oriental Venice' of Zhujiajiao and a half-day exploring Shanghai highlights with guide and transfer services included. You can choose to visit locations such as the Bund, Yu Garden bazaar, Xitiandi, Jade Buddha Temple, and People Square Park.
Fully Customized Shanghai with Fun: Highlights, Food & Local Gems
Licensed guide Scarlett Mao, who has a Master's in Psychotherapy from Sydney and hundreds of reviews, designs personalized tours focused on authentic local food and real moments. As a global traveler, she tailors highlights to your style and designs the day as she would her own holiday.
Private Half Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Water Town with Gondola Ride
This 4.5-hour tour to the serene Zhujiajiao features a gondola ride under ancient bridges and a stroll through Ming and Qing dynasty streets and architecture. You will explore local shops and sample delicacies such as sticky rice dumplings (zong zi) and steamed pork.
Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this 3.5-hour tour provides a quick, comprehensive view of Shanghai’s history and culture through sites like Yuyuan Garden and the Confucius Temple. The experience includes a special Confucian tea ceremony, historic backstreets, and local dumpling tasting.
Visiting Shanghai Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Shanghai Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai
Last updated on June 13, 2025
❓ 1. What is the best way to get from the cruise terminal to the main attractions?
Taxis or ride-hailing services like DiDi are the most convenient ways to reach main attractions from the cruise terminal; the Shanghai Metro is also an option but may require transfers.
❓ 2. What are the must-see attractions and landmarks within walking distance or a short ride from the port?
Must-see attractions like The Bund, Nanjing Road, and Yu Garden are a taxi or metro ride away, offering iconic skylines, bustling shopping, and traditional Chinese architecture.
❓ 3. What local foods or restaurants should I try near the port?
Try local Shanghainese specialties such as Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns) at numerous restaurants found throughout the city, especially near popular tourist areas.
❓ What is the local currency and what is the exchange rate?
The local currency is Unknown. The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY); ATMs are available at the cruise terminal, airports, and banks, but be aware that mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are dominant in China.
❓ 5. What is the typical weather when cruises visit, and what should I pack?
Cruises typically visit during spring (mild, 15-25°C) or autumn (cool, 15-25°C); pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella, as rain is possible.
❓ 6. Are there good beaches nearby, and how do I get to them?
Shanghai is not known for easily accessible beaches suitable for a short cruise visit; the coastline is mostly industrial or mudflats.
❓ 7. What are the best shore excursion options - through the cruise line or independent?
Cruise line excursions are convenient for visiting key sights hassle-free, while independent travel using taxis or pre-booked guides offers more flexibility but requires careful planning.
❓ 8. What shopping opportunities are available, and what are good local souvenirs?
Explore Nanjing Road for department stores and souvenir shops; popular local souvenirs include silk products, tea, Chinese calligraphy, and traditional crafts.
❓ 9. What other interesting places or towns are within a reasonable distance to visit?
Consider a day trip to a nearby water town like Zhujiajiao, known for its canals and ancient bridges, accessible by organized tour or taxi.
❓ 10. What's a surprising or interesting fact about Shanghai, China?
Shanghai is home to the world's first commercial Maglev train, connecting Pudong International Airport to the city at speeds up to 431 km/h (268 mph).
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Shanghai
Sailings visiting Shanghai during the peak seasons of winter and fall are significantly more expensive than the the low season of summer. On average cruises that visit Shanghai are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. Check the graph below for the average cost per day by month.
