China, Asia
Shanghai in May
Warm and pleasant, but skip the Labor Day holiday in the first days of the month, when the Bund and Yu Garden are packed.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Shanghai. Warm and pleasant, but skip the Labor Day holiday in the first days of the month, when the Bund and Yu Garden are packed.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 77F (25C), rising humidity
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What May is like in Shanghai
May is warm and pleasant, with highs near 77F (25C) and rising humidity. Parks are green and evenings are made for strolling the Bund. The catch is the Labor Day holiday in the first days of the month, when the Bund and Yu Garden are packed with domestic travelers. After that, crowds ease back to normal.
This month suits families, couples, and first-timers who can skip the first few days. Book attractions online ahead, since many require passport details. If you want cooler air and fewer people, November is a strong alternative.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Shanghai this month.
Evenings on the Bund
Warm nights are perfect for watching the lights come on across the river.
Green parks
City parks and gardens are lush and full of locals.
Shanghai Tower views
Clear days give long views from one of the world's highest observation decks.
What to pack for May
- Breathable clothes
- A light rain jacket
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
Our timing tip
Plan your trip to start after the Labor Day holiday in early May.
Book Shanghai for May.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ShanghaiOpens a hotel search for Shanghai in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in ShanghaiWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in ShanghaiTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Shanghai for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Shanghai
The Bund
Walk it at dusk as the lights come on, then again early in the morning when locals practice tai chi along the river.
Yu Garden and the Old City
A classical Ming garden surrounded by a busy bazaar. Go at opening time; afternoons and holidays are packed.
Shanghai Museum
One of China's best museums for bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy. Reserve free timed tickets online in advance.
Shanghai Tower observation deck
Among the highest observation decks in the world. Clear fall days give the longest views.
The former French Concession
Tree-lined streets, lane houses, cafes, and boutiques. Best explored on foot in spring or fall.
Shanghai Disneyland
Avoid Chinese holidays and summer weekends; weekdays in spring and fall bring the shortest lines.
Beat the crowds
- Keep your Shanghai days out of October 1 to 7 and the early May Labor Day holiday; the Bund and Yu Garden become crowd-control operations.
- Visit Yu Garden right at opening, and the Bund early in the morning or late at night after the light show crowd thins.
- Do water towns on weekdays and pick the less famous ones; Zhujiajiao gets tour buses, smaller towns get far fewer.
- Book Shanghai Museum reservations as soon as they open; weekend slots go fast.
Know before you go
- Many museums, including the Shanghai Museum, close on Mondays. Check each one before planning.
- Around Chinese New Year, smaller restaurants and family businesses close for several days while staff travel home; hotels, malls, and major attractions stay open.
- Typhoons between July and September can suspend ferries, flights, and outdoor attractions for a day or two.
- Many attractions require advance online booking with passport details, and popular slots can sell out on weekends.
Shanghai in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Shanghai?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Shanghai. Warm and pleasant, but skip the Labor Day holiday in the first days of the month, when the Bund and Yu Garden are packed.
What is the weather like in Shanghai in May?
Warm, highs near 77F (25C), rising humidity.
Is Shanghai crowded in May?
Shanghai is busy in May, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
Keep planning Shanghai.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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