Shanghai in March
Great time to visit
March marks Shanghai's emergence from winter doldrums. The weather's moody but manageable, and the city starts buzzing again with reasonable prices before peak season hits.
Weather
March teases spring with warmer afternoons but mornings still bite. Rain becomes more frequent as the season shifts, creating that signature Shanghai dampness. Cherry blossoms start blooming in Zhongshan Park by month's end.
15°C high7°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$110/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Shanghai International Literary Festival
- •Cherry blossom season begins
March Tips
- •Layer obsessively - 20-degree temperature swings are normal
- •Umbrella is non-negotiable
- •Book weekend brunches in advance as expats emerge from winter hibernation
All Months
Spring (March-May) brings mild weather and blooming magnolias along Fuxing Road. Temperatures hover around 15-20°C and rain stays light. Fall (September-November) mirrors spring with crisp air and comfortable walking weather. These are peak seasons though - hotels cost 30% more and attractions get crowded. Summer turns sticky and brutal with 35°C heat plus humidity that feels like breathing soup. But indoor malls and restaurants blast AC, making it bearable if you plan around the heat. Winter drops to 5°C with occasional snow, but Christmas markets pop up in Xintiandi and hotel rates plummet. Avoid Golden Week (first week of October) when domestic tourists flood the city and everything doubles in price.
Shanghai Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
9/10
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