Solo Female Travel in Shanghai

Shanghai, an energetic international metropolis, located on the eastern coast of China at the mouth of the Yangtze River, is known globally for its fast-paced life, modernity, and audacious architecture. It serves as a jewel of Asian culture, bringing together the traditional and the futuristic, offering a stellar mix of culinary experiences from street-food vendors to glamorous rooftop bars. Key attractions include the iconic skyline of Pudong, with the 2,073-foot-tall Shanghai Tower standing out, the traditional architecture of Yu Garden in the old town, and the high-energy shopping Mecca of Nanjing Road. Renowned for its Lujiazui skyline, museums, and historic buildings, Shanghai beautifully marries the East's old-world charm with the West's modern vibrance.

Travel rating

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Travel index

Safety:Very safe

Shanghai is generally a safe city for solo female travelers with low levels of crime. The city has a 24-hour security system and police are readily accessible. However, like any major city, it is advised to be cautious especially at night in quiet areas and when using taxis. Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded places such as markets and train stations, so it's recommended to keep your belongings secure at all times. Following general safety advice such as avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night and being mindful of your personal belongings can help you enjoy a trouble-free stay in Shanghai.

Transport:Easy

The overall convenience and ease of navigating through Shanghai city is rather high. There is an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including metros, buses, taxis, and bicycle sharing programs. Signs in public spaces and on public transport are usually in both Chinese and English, simplifying navigation for English speakers. Additionally, local people are generally friendly and helpful if you ask for directions. However, certain crowded periods like rush hours can be quite hectic. Also, understanding bus routes can be challenging for non-Mandarin speakers.

Things to do:Fascinating

Shanghai offers an impressive mix of modern and traditional experiences. It houses an array of futuristic skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, alongside age-old gardens and temples like the Yuyuan Garden and Jing'an Temple. Highlights include a notable food scene with myriad local delicacies and street foods, awe-inspiring sunset views at the Bund, and fascinating museums such the Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center for the culture pilgrims. Shopping enthusiasts can explore the upscale stores of Nanjing Road or the local boutiques in Tianzifang. Its versatility makes it an engaging destination for a wide range of travel styles.

Food:Excellent

Shanghai's cuisine is an absolute delight. Both street food and fine dining options feature a versatile range of flavors that cater to every taste. It offers a wonderful mix of traditional elements, innovative fusion, and international cuisine. Seafood is a must-try, with Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings) being local favorites. Don't miss out on various types of noodles and the wonderfully diverse assortment of sweet and savory snacks available throughout the city. Local markets offer unique experiences too, showcasing the diverse food culture of Shanghai.

Budget:Moderate

Shanghai, as a cosmopolitan city, offers a wide range of options for various budgets. Affordable street food and public transportation are available. However, tourist attraction entries, upscale dining, and shopping can be quite expensive.

Is Shanghai worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

4.6/5

Group travel experience

It was an amazing experience and it’s really safe to travel as a lady . But make sure you have your translator with you if you can’t speak mandarin. The people are really friendly and easy going . I had countless gifts.

Posted: January 12, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

A year ago, I visited Shanghai by myself. It seemed that there was an extraordinary lack of sexual harassment there, which made me feel extremely safe. China has its challenges (mainly language, taxis, and crowds), but public transport is amazing and easy. The food is worth the visit. It's a great place for a solo trip.

Posted: October 1, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went to Shanghai alone and it was a wonderful, invigorating experience. I treated myself to a hotel instead of a hostel and essentially roamed Shanghai alone for three days according to my own schedule. When I had enough of the city, I did some research online, took a train to Anhui province and climbed a mountain (Huangshan). It was amazing. Sometimes it was frightening (I don't speak Mandarin at all), but I managed to understand it and people were very kind and helpful.

Posted: September 27, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Shanghai

Meet local women in Shanghai who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Rafiqua

Rafiqua

About Me

I am. South African teacher working in Shanghai. I've lived in Asia for the last nine years.

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Preetha

Preetha

About Me

Hello everyone, my name is Preetha. I’m an Indian citizen, living in Shanghai, China. I work as a freelance data scientist. I love traveling and tech πŸ˜‰

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Stay with locals in Shanghai

Stay with local women in Shanghai who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Kelly

Kelly

Shanghai

Can host for:

1 day

About me

Pleasure with lifestyle and open minded to talk everything

Speaking

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Hana

Hana

Shanghai

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hiiii I am an outgoing girl who loves travel!

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Upcoming visitors to Shanghai

Connect with upcoming visitors to Shanghai who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Sandra

Sandra

About Me

The one thing I love about traveling is experiencing something new. Although I am always looking for the next adventure, I'm actually a homebody. I like the balance. I have traveled mostly in Asian and a bit of Europe. Now I want to see Africa and South America.

Speaking

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Laura

Laura

About Me

πŸ˜ŠπŸ€Έβ€β™€οΈπŸŒ³πŸ”οΈπŸ§˜β€β™€οΈπŸŽ¨πŸŒŒπŸ‘£βœ¨πŸŒπŸΎπŸŒ»πŸ”¬πŸ₯ΎπŸ΅πŸ

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