China's most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai rose to global prominence in the 19th century as a treaty port where European, American, and Japanese concessions created a uniquely international metropolis. The Bund's neoclassical facades face off against Pudong's futuristic skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. The French Concession's plane-tree-lined streets preserve the city's colonial-era charm and cafe culture.
Nights sit around 23°C and afternoons around 30°C, though some days reach 34°C.
Shanghai has real seasons: summer afternoons sit around 32°C, winter ones around 11°C.
Some summer days reach 38°C, and some winter nights drop below freezing.
Most of the rain falls in summer, least in winter. The wettest month is August, with 210 mm.
Air quality is worth watching: December averages an AQI of 168, while October clears to 98.
Days stretch to about 14.0 hours of light in June and shrink to 10.0 in December — something to weigh if you work to a fixed timezone.
For what you're after, the best month in Shanghai is May. Expect fast internet (419 Mbps) and a moderate cost of living (about €1500 a month).
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