Best Travel Apps & Websites in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China, Shanghai, Travel Planning & Tips Pages, Best Travel Apps & Websites

Best Travel Apps & Websites in Shanghai, China

WeChat

1. WeChat

WeChat is more than a messaging app in China; it's vital for communication and payment in Shanghai. It solves the challenge of language barriers by offering translation features and enables mobile payments almost anywhere in the city.
  • Language Support: Offers a basic translation feature to help communicate locally.
  • Mobile Payment: Widely accepted for transactions, from street vendors to high-end stores.
  • Transport Integration: Can be used for metro and taxi payments through integration with Shanghai's transport system.
  • Social Networking: Connects you with locals and provides travel tips.
  • Access to Information: Provides quick updates on local events and news.
AutoNavi (Amap)

2. AutoNavi (Amap)

This map application is widely used in China and provides detailed public transport routes in Shanghai. It tackles the issue of navigation with its comprehensive bus, metro, and walking directions tailored for local routes.
  • Real-time Updates: Offers live updates on traffic conditions and subway times.
  • Language Options: Available in multiple languages including English.
  • Detailed Routes: Provides step-by-step navigation for various modes of transport.
  • Offline Maps: Allows downloading of maps to avoid data charges.
  • Localized Content: Features points of interest and reviews from local users.
DiDi Chuxing

3. DiDi Chuxing

DiDi is the leading ride-sharing service in China, equivalent to Uber but with more extensive coverage in Shanghai. It helps overcome the transportation gap by offering various ride options and cashless payments.
  • Multiple Ride Options: Offers options from shared rides to luxury cars.
  • Driver Ratings: Users can view ratings to select trustworthy drivers.
  • Cashless Payments: Integration with WeChat Pay and Alipay for easy payment.
  • In-app Translation: Provides basic translation between riders and drivers.
  • 24/7 Availability: Ensures transportation is available at any time.
Ctrip

4. Ctrip

Ctrip, now known as Trip.com, is a top travel booking platform in China, catering well to travelers in Shanghai. It tackles the challenge of itinerary planning by offering everything from flights to attraction tickets.
  • Comprehensive Booking: Options for booking flights, hotels, trains, and cars.
  • Rate Comparison: Displays price comparisons for numerous services.
  • Local Experiences: Curates lists of local tours and activities.
  • User Reviews: Offers credible reviews from past customers.
  • Multilingual Support: Provides service in multiple languages for international users.
Ele.me

5. Ele.me

Ele.me is a leading food delivery app in Shanghai, simplifying dining options for travelers. It overcomes the difficulty of finding food by delivering diverse cuisines promptly to your location.
  • Extensive Choice: Delivers food from a wide array of restaurants.
  • Scheduled Deliveries: Allows for advanced scheduling for convenience.
  • Dietary Options: Offers filters for dietary preferences and allergens.
  • Easy Payment: Supports mobile payments through major apps.
  • User Reviews: Displays ratings and feedback from previous customers.
Babelcarp

6. Babelcarp

Babelcarp acts as a digital translator for identifying culinary options in Shanghai. It solves the problem of deciphering complex Chinese menus by translating dishes for better meal choices.
  • Menu Translation: Gives clear translations of complex dish names.
  • Culinary Guide: Offers insights into local ingredients and cooking styles.
  • Offline Use: Does not require an internet connection once downloaded.
  • Simple Interface: Easy for non-tech-savvy users to navigate.
  • Cultural Notes: Provides background on traditional foods and customs.
QQ Music

7. QQ Music

For music lovers, QQ Music is the ideal app for accessing trending tunes in Shanghai and across China. It breaks the barrier of music availability, offering a vast library of local and international hits.
  • Large Music Library: Includes both Chinese and international artists.
  • Offline Listening: Supports downloading tracks for offline play.
  • User Playlists: Curated playlists by users and local experts for all music genres.
  • High-Quality Streaming: Offers music at various audio quality levels.
  • Live Streaming Events: Access to live concerts and events within the app.
Shanghai Metro App

8. Shanghai Metro App

Essential for tourists, this app provides real-time metro information in Shanghai. It resolves navigation issues in the sprawling metro system and makes route planning straightforward.
  • Real-time Updates: Delivers live train schedules and service notices.
  • Route Planning: Helps map out the fastest paths between stations.
  • Fare Information: Displays fare estimates for trips.
  • Map Integration: Includes detailed maps of each station.
  • Offline Mode: Offers app functionalities without needing constant internet.
Bon App!

9. Bon App!

This app serves as a high-quality restaurant guide specifically aimed at expats in Shanghai. It tackles the challenge of finding reliable dining options by offering curated reviews and recommendations.
  • Curated Reviews: In-depth reviews by food critics and expats.
  • Expat Tips: Focused on dietary preferences and familiar cuisines.
  • Reservation Integration: Enables bookings from within the app.
  • Exclusive Deals: Access to discounts and promotions at featured eateries.
  • Multilingual Interface: Available in multiple languages, useful for international travelers.
Fliggy

10. Fliggy

Known as "Feizhu" in China, Fliggy is a popular travel service by Alibaba offering deals on travel services in Shanghai. It addresses trip expense concerns by providing competitive rates and exclusive deals.
  • User Discounts: Frequent promotions and discount offers.
  • Integrated Payment: Easy payment through Alipay.
  • Loyalty Program: Collect points for future discounts and upgrades.
  • User-friendly Interface: Simplified navigation even for first-time users.
  • Travel Packages: Offers bundled packages for cost-effective travel plans.
Smart Shanghai

11. Smart Shanghai

Provides comprehensive event listings and city news, perfect for those looking to explore the cultural scene. It simplifies event exploration by listing concerts, exhibitions, and performances happening around the city.
  • Event Listings: Up-to-date information on local events.
  • Venue Details: Description and directions for event locations.
  • Expat Community: Features sections catering to expat interests.
  • Tickets and Reservations: Offers links to purchase event tickets.
  • Blog Content: Insightful articles about living and traveling in Shanghai.
i-Tour Shanghai

12. i-Tour Shanghai

This app offers guided city tours focusing on history and culture, ideal for those wanting an educational experience. It overcomes the challenge of self-guided tours by providing content-rich audio and video guides.
  • Audio Guides: Provides detailed audio explanations for landmarks.
  • Historical Insights: Accurately describes cultural and historical contexts.
  • Visual Content: Includes images and videos to enhance learning.
  • Offline Access: Content is downloadable to save on data.
  • Varied Itineraries: Offers different tours based on interests.
Alipay

13. Alipay

While predominantly known as a payment platform, Alipay provides essential services for travelers in Shanghai. It tackles the issue of making payments without cash and enables fast transactions across the city.
  • Universal Acceptance: Accepted in almost all Shanghai retail outlets.
  • Currency Conversion: Offers automatic currency exchange services.
  • Quick Transactions: Speeds up payments, from shopping to dining.
  • Added Services: Features such as bill payments and insurance.
  • Security Features: Strong encryption for secure financial transactions.
Pleco

14. Pleco

Pleco is a Chinese language learning app that assists travelers in understanding the local language in Shanghai. It solves the language barrier problem by providing translations and language tools.
  • Dictionary Resources: Comprehensive dictionary available offline.
  • Handwriting Recognition: Helps with character recognition and translation.
  • Pronunciation Guide: Audio pronunciation for language learning.
  • Flashcards: Offers a feature to build vocabulary efficiently.
  • Optical Character Recognition: Translating Chinese characters through the camera.
Taobao

15. Taobao

As China's leading online marketplace, Taobao offers opportunities for bargain shopping while in Shanghai. It tackles shopping difficulties by providing a plethora of products at competitive prices.
  • Dynamic Range: Offers anything from fashion to electronics.
  • User Reviews: Ratings and reviews to gauge product quality.
  • Integrated Payments: Simple checkout via Alipay or WeChat.
  • Local Sellers: Access to unique items from Shanghai-based sellers.
  • Alerts and Notifications: Updates on deals and promotions.
Klook

16. Klook

This app offers countless experiences and activity booking services, perfect for discovering Shanghai's highlights. It simplifies the planning of activities with curated lists and instant booking options.
  • Wide Activity Range: From traditional tours to adventurous outings.
  • Instant Booking: Quick booking confirmed without delays.
  • Customer Reviews: Verified user feedback for assurance.
  • Promotional Offers: Regular discounts and special deals.
  • Mobile Tickets: Direct app-based ticket entry for attractions.
WorldNomads

17. WorldNomads

A vital tool for travel insurance, WorldNomads offers customized insurance packages for travelers in Shanghai. It eases health concerns by ensuring safety and support throughout the trip.
  • Tailored Insurance: Custom coverage plans for different needs.
  • 24/7 Assistance: Round-the-clock support services.
  • Coverage for Activities: Includes insurance for adventure activities.
  • Easy Claims Process: Simplified claims payout and tracking.
  • Multimedia Content: Insightful articles and tips for safe traveling.
Mandarin House

18. Mandarin House

This app links you with language schools and courses specifically in Shanghai. It addresses the challenge of language communication by enabling immersive learning experiences locally.
  • Course Options: Various levels from beginner to advanced.
  • Cultural Immersion: Programs that combine language with local culture.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Offers part-time and full-time classes.
  • Qualified Instructors: Experienced teachers certified for Mandarin education.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow learners and locals.
HappyCow

19. HappyCow

Ideal for vegan and vegetarian travelers, HappyCow lists plant-based dining options in Shanghai. This app alleviates food choice concerns by providing ratings and locations for cruelty-free dining.
  • Specialized Focus: Prioritizes local vegan and vegetarian offerings.
  • GPS Integration: Shows nearby certified vegan restaurants.
  • User Contributions: Community-added reviews and photos.
  • Dietary Filters: Ability to sort by vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free.
  • Resource Articles: Content on plant-based living in the local area.
China Train Booking

20. China Train Booking

This app simplifies the complex train ticketing system in China, crucial for exploring regions beyond Shanghai. It resolves the booking challenge by offering a straightforward ticket purchasing interface.
  • Direct Booking: Simple platform for secure ticket purchase.
  • Station Information: Comprehensive details on train routes and schedules.
  • Ticket Availability: Real-time updates on seat availability.
  • Multiple Payment Options: Supports major global cards.
  • Cancellation Policy: Clear terms for changes and cancellations.