The Shanghai Metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to get around the city. With numerous lines covering extensive areas, it minimizes the challenge of navigating the city's vastness. The signs and announcements are in English, making it user-friendly for international travelers.

Taxis in Shanghai are a convenient option, available at all hours and can be hailed from the street or booked through apps. They are fast and can get you to specific locations directly. Use of the Didi app is recommended to overcome any language barriers.

Shanghai has a vibrant bike-sharing system with plentiful bicycles available in most areas. Utilizing bikes can help you navigate short distances quickly while avoiding traffic jams. Apps like Mobike and Ofo make it easy to find and unlock bikes.

Walking is an ideal way to explore Shanghai's unique blend of modern and traditional settings. It allows you to discover hidden gems in neighborhoods like French Concession and around The Bund. Walking is viable for sightseeing while absorbing the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Buses in Shanghai are numerous and cover areas that may not be within walking distance from metro stations. They offer an affordable alternative for reaching less accessible areas. The Bus #71, a rapid transit line, is especially handy for crossing the city efficiently.

The Shanghai Maglev Train offers a unique and very fast way to travel between the city and Pudong Airport. This train uses magnetic levitation, making the journey not just quick but an experience in itself. It covers the 30km distance in just about 8 minutes.

Ferry rides across the Huangpu River offer a scenic way to see the city's skyline and get from east to west. It's a leisurely way to travel and ideal for tourists who want to see the city from the water. The ferry is primarily a mode for crossing the river rather than touring.

Electric scooter rentals in Shanghai are emerging as popular for quick and easy navigation in the city. They provide a convenient means to cover more ground than walking but with more flexibility than larger vehicles. Apps like Lime offer rentals with ease.

Services like Didi Chuxing provide a convenient alternative to taxis with app-based booking. They offer an array of vehicle options for more personalized travel. With cashless payment through the app, it circumvents possible cash-handling complications.

Tulip Cruises along the Huangpu River offer new perspectives of Shanghai's skyline and historical architecture. While primarily sightseeing-oriented, these tours replace short trips between docks along the river. These cruises provide accessible explorations of iconic landmarks from the water.

This is an excellent option for first-time travelers who want a guided experience without needing to use language skills. These bus tours provide commentary, covering major attractions efficiently while informing passengers about significant sights. They are usually hop-on-hop-off, meaning flexibility in exploration.

Shuttle buses from Pudong and Hongqiao airports to various parts of Shanghai cater to travelers seeking straightforward transit. They offer a cost-effective and direct connection to central Shanghai. These shuttles reduce the inconvenience of navigating public transport with bulky luggage.

Walking tours in areas such as Yuyuan Garden or Tianzifang offer a historical lens on Shanghai's traditional quarters. Ideal for days when time and weather permit leisurely exploration. Great for those who love to blend culture and history with exercise.

Car rentals offer the freedom to take day trips outside Shanghai to nearby attractions like Zhujiajiao Water Town. Good for those comfortable driving in foreign countries on the right side of the road. Having a car can be beneficial when carrying lots of souvenirs or luggage.

For longer journeys beyond the city center, Shanghai's suburban rail lines provide access to neighboring towns and scenic areas. It's a faster option than buses for such distances and offers the comfort of a standard train ride. Useful for those keen on exploring the outskirts without hiring a vehicle.

The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel tram ride offers a unique, albeit brief, journey beneath the Huangpu River. More a quirky attraction than practical transit, it combines convenience with a light show as you travel. Good for tourists looking for an entertaining shortcut.

Specialized services are available for those requiring mobility assistance. They provide services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and adapts Shanghai's public transport offerings to more inclusive formats. Convenience for travelers who need tailored support in getting around.

Electric vehicle (EV) sharing services in Shanghai deliver an eco-friendly option for getting around. These EVs can be rented via apps, making them accessible to those who seek more autonomy than public transport allows. Similar in application to ride-sharing but allows for self-driving.

For fitness enthusiasts, Shanghai offers various city routes such as those around Century Park, ideal for jogging or walking. These routes help blend exercise with sightseeing in harmonious settings. Tackling many areas allows seeing different neighborhood characters while staying active.

The Shanghai Public Transportation Card (SPTC) simplifies payments across buses, metro, ferries, and some taxis. It alleviates the hassle of carrying change and allows easy, cashless transit across different modes. The card can be recharged at stations, making it ideal for regular travelers.