Where to Stay in Shanghai: Best Areas & Hotels Recommended

Shanghai, an international metropolis at the mouth of the Yangtze River, is not only a core hub for China’s finance and trade but also a paragon of East-West cultural integration. Here, modern skyscrapers stand alongside historic lanes, and bustling urban life interweaves with unique cultural landscapes, attracting countless foreign tourists every year.

However, the accommodation options in this thriving Asian city can be a “sweet burden” — with nearly 8,626 hotels offering approximately 437,788 rooms, travelers often find themselves caught in a dilemma when making a choice. Don’t worry, we have carefully selected the best accommodation spots for you, helping you easily start this Shanghai journey that combines international flair with local charm.

Where to stay in Shanghai

Shanghai’s efficient metro system makes getting around easy, but choosing the right neighborhood enhances your experience. The city divides naturally into two distinct areas: Pudong on the east bank offers a modern business hub with iconic skyscrapers like Shanghai Tower, ideal for business travelers with its luxury hotels and quick airport access via Maglev train. Meanwhile, Puxi on the west bank preserves Shanghai’s historic charm, featuring the colonial-era Bund, shopping along Nanjing Road, and the tree-lined streets of the French Concession dotted with boutique cafes.

First-time visitors often prefer Puxi for its blend of history and culture, while business travelers may opt for Pudong’s convenience. Both areas provide excellent metro connections, letting you explore Shanghai’s diverse attractions with ease.

Hotels Near The Bund: Best for a Touch of Luxury

Shanghai’s most famous landmark stretches along the western bank of the Huangpu River, where historic European architecture meets the futuristic skyline of Pudong. This iconic promenade has been the city’s glamorous face for over a century.

The Bund remains Shanghai’s premier luxury destination, home to the city’s most exclusive hotels, designer boutiques, and fine dining establishments. Every stay here promises elegant accommodations with breathtaking river views and easy access to Shanghai’s top attractions.

Waldorf Astoria

Perfectly located in the heart of Shanghai’s iconic Bund area, this luxurious hotel offers unbeatable convenience. Just steps away from the Huangpu River waterfront and a pleasant 10-minute walk to the historic Yuyuan Garden, it puts Shanghai’s best attractions within easy reach.

Half of its rooms and suites offer stunning Huangpu River views. Guests enjoy marble bathrooms with Asprey amenities, smart room controls, and exquisite dining including a near-Michelin-star Chinese restaurant. Special mention goes to concierge Jack Jude Rookie, whose exceptional service enhances every guest’s stay.

Waldorf Astoria swimming pool — swimming pool

Waldorf Astoria Chinese Restaurant — swimming pool

Location: 990 meters from Yuyuan Garden Metro Station
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 2317 RMB. Booking on Trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Massage room, Spa, Indoor swimming pool etc
Nearby attractions: Nanjing Road, The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai City God Temple
Rating: 4.9 on tripadvisor

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Since 1929, this legendary hotel has stood proudly on the Bund as one of China’s first luxury accommodations. Its prime location in Huangpu District places guests steps from Shanghai’s most iconic sights while offering easy metro access.

The hotel maintains clean, comfortable rooms alongside excellent facilities. Guests enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet and complimentary afternoon tea, though reservations are required for the rooftop dining area. From its Art Deco charm to its reliable service, the Peace Hotel continues to deliver quality hospitality in a historic setting.

Fairmont Peace Hotel twin room — Spanish style suites

Location: 500 meters from Nanjing East Road Metro Station
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 2400 RMB. Booking on Trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Massage room, Spa, Indoor swimming pool etc
Nearby attractions: Nanjing Road, The Bund, Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Rating: 5.0 on tripadvisor

W Shanghai – The Bund

Shanghai Bund W Hotel is located in the bustling North Bund area. It offers 374 stylish rooms and suites that creatively blend classical Chinese elements with modern fashion, offering stunning views of the Huangpu River. Its outdoor swimming pool provides a spectacular view of the Bund skyline, making it a popular destination for tourists. The room facilities are excellent, ensuring a comfortable stay. However, the service quality is slightly below that of other five-star hotels. Despite this, the hotel remains an ideal choice for travelers visiting Shanghai due to its unique design and breathtaking scenery.

Outdoor swimming pool of Shanghai W Hotel

Location: 120 meters from International Cruise Center Metro Station, Line 12
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 2400 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Massage room, Spa, Indoor/Outdoor swimming pool etc
Nearby attractions: The Bund, Huangpu River
Rating: 4.8 on tripadvisor

Shanghai French Concession Hotels: Historic Charm & Modern Comfort

Nestled in the heart of Shanghai, the historic French Concession charms visitors with its tree-shaded avenues and beautifully preserved 1920s architecture. This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood offers an authentic taste of Shanghai life, where art galleries and designer boutiques occupy renovated villas alongside cozy cafés and buzzing restaurants. Staying here means enjoying the city’s cultural riches while escaping the tourist crowds, with excellent metro connections putting the rest of Shanghai within easy reach.

Shanghai Hengshan Moller Villa Hotel

Nestled at No. 30 Shaanxi South Road, Shanghai Hengshan Moller Villa is a historic gem with over 80 years of history. This beautifully restored villa blends Nordic architectural charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique and elegant retreat in central Shanghai.

The property stands out for its peaceful ambiance — surprisingly quiet even during nights, making it ideal for travelers seeking rest in the city. The breakfast is another highlight, featuring a generous selection of both Western and Chinese dishes.

The lush garden adds to the charm, providing a lovely setting for relaxation. Overall, Shanghai Moller Villa is a distinctive boutique hotel that delivers character, tranquility, and a touch of old-world elegance — perfect for culture-conscious travelers looking for something beyond the typical high-rise hotel experience.

Location: 700 meters from Nanjing West Road Metro Station, Line 2 / Line 10
Style: Castle Villa Hotel
Price Range: 1173 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Feature: Beautiful Gardens
Nearby attractions: French Concession, Jing’an Temple, Huaihai Road Shopping Street
Rating: 4.2 on tripadvisor

Shanghai Donghu Hotel

Shanghai Donghu Hotel is a conveniently located hotel in the heart of Shanghai, situated just a short walk away from Huaihai Road. It takes only 5 to 10 minutes on foot to reach the hotel from Shanxi South Road Metro Station (Lines 1 and 10), with many restaurants along the way, offering a wide variety of dining options including Western cuisine, Chinese food, cafes, and bars.

The hotel features comprehensive facilities, beautiful surroundings, and elegant décor, while also preserving its unique historical charm. It offers guests a distinctive and memorable stay. For travelers who wish to enjoy modern comforts while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of old Shanghai, Shanghai Donghu Hotel is an ideal choice.

Indoor swimming pool on Shanghai Donghu Hotel

single bed room on Shanghai Donghu Hotel

Location: 600 meters from Changshu Road Metro Station, Line 1 / Line 7
Style: Castle Villa Hotel
Price Range: 883 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Sauna, Indoor swimming pool etc
Nearby attractions: French Concession, Jing’an Temple, Huaihai Road Shopping Street
Rating: 4.3 on tripadvisor

Hotels Near People’s Square: The Sightseeing Hub

Located in downtown Shanghai, People’s Square is the city’s central hub. This area puts you close to top attractions like the Shanghai Museum and Nanjing Road shopping street. With three metro lines connecting here, you can easily explore the whole city. For sightseers wanting to maximize their time, staying in People’s Square means less travel time and more time to enjoy Shanghai’s best sights, shops, and restaurants right outside your door. On weekends, don’t miss the unique “Marriage Market” where local parents meet to find matches for their children – just one of the many local experiences right on your doorstep.

Dayin International Youth Hostel

Located at the intersection of Nanjing East Road and People’s Square, this hostel is within walking distance of Shanghai’s main attractions – just 30 meters from the shopping street, 80 meters from People’s Park, and a 15-minute walk from the Bund. This bustling neighborhood offers a wide range of dining and convenience stores.

The lobby has a lively bar serving local craft beers, making it a great social spot for travelers. With options ranging from dorm beds to private doubles, it caters to diverse travelers – backpackers, business guests, couples and leisure seekers alike. Spacious rooms and clean facilities complement its unbeatable location near metro stations, making it ideal for experiencing central Shanghai.

Location: 340 meters from People’s Square Metro Station, Line 1 / Line 2
Style: Design Hostel
Price Range: 160 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Yoga session, Hiking
Nearby attractions: Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, People’s Square, Shanghai History Museum
Rating: 4.5 on tripadvisor

Jin Jiang Pacific Hotel

Perfectly positioned in central Shanghai, this historic hotel sits just 5 minutes’ walk from Nanjing Road shopping street and the Shanghai Museum. The People’s Square metro station (Lines 1/2/8) is at your doorstep for easy citywide access.

While the neoclassical building shows some age, rooms are clean and functional. The on-site Mediterranean and Chinese restaurants (try their “Buddha Jumps Over the Wall”) add convenience. Ideal for travelers prioritizing location over luxury.

Location: 150 meters from People’s Square Metro Station, Line 1 / Line 2
Style: Business Hotel
Stars: 3-star hotel
Price Range: 660 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Features: Easy to get around, close to metro
Nearby attractions: People’s Square, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Museum
Rating: 3.6 on tripadvisor

Hotels in Lujiazui for Best Views

Shanghai’s glittering financial district Lujiazui offers the city’s most spectacular skyline views from its cluster of supertall skyscrapers, including the iconic Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. Choosing a hotel here puts you at the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic vision, where just 30 years ago there were only rice fields. You’ll wake to breathtaking panoramas of the Huangpu River and Pudong’s neon-lit towers, with easy access to metro lines and top attractions. For business travelers and sightseers alike, Lujiazui delivers unmatched convenience alongside those unforgettable postcard views.

Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor

Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor is an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers. The property features 314 well-appointed rooms and 26 suites that combine contemporary design with subtle Chinese influences. Practical elements include direct access to Global Harbor Mall and Jinshajiang Road Metro Station, providing efficient connections throughout Shanghai.

Ideal for business travelers needing efficient transit, it’s equally suited for shoppers and sightseers. Guests enjoy direct mall access with diverse dining/shopping options, while the central location provides quick connections to major Shanghai attractions. The contemporary rooms provide a comfortable retreat after exploring the city.

Location: 150 meters from Jinshajiang Road Metro Station, Line 3 / Line 4 / Line 13
Style: Business Hotel
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 950 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Indoor swimming pool, bar etc
Nearby attractions: LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Rating: 4.2 on tripadvisor

Regent Shanghai Pudong

The Regent Shanghai Pudong enjoys a prime location in Lujiazui’s financial district, just 5 minutes from landmarks like the Shanghai World Financial Center and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Its elegantly appointed rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic city views.

The hotel’s contemporary design blends premium materials like marble with tasteful dark tones, enhanced by abundant natural light. Rooms are well-maintained with comfortable bedding and thoughtful layouts. Shang Xi’s tasting menu delivers exceptional quality that rivals Michelin-starred establishments, making it a standout culinary experience.

Location: 500 meters from Pudong South Road Metro Station, Line 2 / Line 14
Style: Luxury Hotel
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 1428 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Spa, Indoor swimming pool, etc
Nearby attractions: Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai Tower
Rating: 4.8 on tripadvisor

The Eton Hotel Shanghai

Located in Pudong’s Lujiazui financial hub, this business-focused hotel offers 460 spacious rooms with sweeping views of the Huangpu River and city skyline. While slightly farther from downtown, its adjacency to metro lines 4 & 14 ensures easy citywide access.

Rooms impress with generous layouts and deep-soak tubs, though some furnishings show age. Ideal for executives valuing comfort over cutting-edge luxury, with reliable business amenities and one of Shanghai’s best commute locations for financial district meetings.

Deluxe Family Room Bed — Deluxe Suite Bed

Location: 160 meters from Pudong Avenue Metro Station, Line 4 / Line 14
Style: Business Hotel
Stars: 4-star hotel
Price Range: 560 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Spa, Restaurant, Cafe, etc
Nearby attractions: Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai Tower
Rating: 4.2 on tripadvisor

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Xujiahui

Xujiahui is a convenient and family-friendly area in central Shanghai. It has excellent public transport with three metro lines connecting to major attractions. Families will appreciate:

Large shopping malls (Grand Gateway, Metro City) with kids’ facilities
Xujiahui Park for outdoor play space
Cultural sites like St. Ignatius Cathedral
Many international hotel options with family rooms

The area offers all the daily necessities while being less crowded than some tourist areas. It’s particularly good for families with younger children who need stroller access and nearby amenities.

Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Xujiahui

Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Xizang Area enjoys a prime location in Xujiahui’s commercial hub, steps from Grand Gateway Mall and St. Ignatius Cathedral. The 364-room hotel features well-equipped accommodations with modern amenities like LCD TVs and high-speed internet, while its distinctive golden palace-inspired rooftop adds traditional charm. Convenient metro access connects to Disney Resort and NECC.

While the decor shows some age, guests consistently praise the exceptional service and generous breakfast buffet offering both Continental and Asian options. Its unbeatable location provides easy access to upscale shopping and daily necessities, making it a practical choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Location: 400 meters from Xujiahui Metro Station, Line 1 / Line 9 / Line 11
Style: Business Hotel
Stars: 4-star hotel
Price Range: 726 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Indoor Swimming Pool, etc
Nearby attractions: St. Ignatius Cathedral, Xujiahuiyuan Sceneic Area
Rating: 4.2 on tripadvisor

Atour Hotel Xujiahui Meiying

Atour Hotel Xujiahui Meiying offers a uniquely nostalgic family experience in Shanghai’s bustling Xujiahui district. Located just 5 minutes from multiple metro lines and major venues like Shanghai Stadium, the hotel features themed rooms inspired by classic Chinese animations like Black Cat Detective and Havoc in Heaven. Its retro cinema screens evening children’s films, creating special bonding moments for families.

Despite the central location, soundproofed rooms ensure peaceful nights – guests recommend requesting quiet rooms when booking. The hotel’s reading lounge and thoughtful amenities cater perfectly to parents traveling with children, blending urban convenience with childhood nostalgia.

Location: 650 meters from Shanghai Indoor Stadium & Yishan Road Metro Station, Line 1 / Line 4 / Line 3 / Line 9
Style: Boutique Hotel
Price Range: 567 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Library, Nightclub, Kids’ club, etc
Nearby attractions: Shanghai Film Museum, St. Ignatius Cathedral
Rating: 4.2 on tripadvisor

Jing’an Hotels for Business Travelers

Jing’an District is Shanghai’s cosmopolitan business and luxury hub, home to premier office towers, upscale malls like Plaza 66, and historic landmarks including the iconic Jing’an Temple. The area perfectly blends work and leisure with Michelin-starred dining, cocktail bars, and tranquil parks. Though dominated by business hotels catering to the corporate crowd, discerning travelers will find charming boutique properties tucked between office towers. Excellent metro connections put the entire city within easy reach, from People’s Square to the French Concession.

The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai

The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai maintains its timeless elegance in the heart of Nanjing Road, though some facilities show signs of age. Its grand lobby with signature scent leads to plush-carpeted rooms with classic decor, while select accommodations offer lovely garden views of the exhibition center below. The convenient Shanghai Centre location provides excellent dining options like Steak Social just steps away.

While the health club’s beautiful pool remains a highlight, the property truly shines through its exceptional service. The attentive staff, particularly in the Executive Lounge, delivers the Ritz-Carlton’s renowned hospitality. Business travelers appreciate the walkable distance to Plaza 66, while leisure guests enjoy easy access to Jing’an Temple and the Bund.

outdoor swimming pool — Guest room, 2 Twin

Location: 550 meters from Jing’an Temple Metro Station, Line 2 / Line 7 / Line 14
Style: Business Hotel
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 1278 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Sauna, Spa, Indoor / Outdoor Swimming Pool, etc
Nearby attractions: Jingan Temple
Rating: 4.8 on tripadvisor

The PuLi Hotel and Spa

The PuLi Hotel and Spa pioneered Shanghai’s urban resort concept with its prime location between Nanjing West Road and Yan’an Road. This 26-floor sanctuary features 193 sophisticated rooms and 36 suites, complemented by PHÉNIX Michelin restaurant and direct access to Park Place’s luxury shopping. The property excels in discreet luxury, offering 24-hour personalized services and proximity to metro Lines 2/7 for citywide access.

Guests enjoy exceptional wellness facilities including China’s first UR SPA, a 25m infinity pool, and cutting-edge gym. Multiple event spaces cater to refined gatherings, while rooms impress with spacious layouts and meticulous design. Its harmonious blend of metropolitan convenience and resort-style tranquility makes it ideal for discerning travelers seeking both productivity and rejuvenation.

Location: 100 meters from Jing’an Temple Metro Station, Line 2 / Line 7 / Line 14
Style: Luxury Hotel
Stars: 5-star hotel
Price Range: 1880 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, UR Spa, Indoor Swimming Pool, etc
Nearby attractions: Jing’an Park, Zhang Ailing’s Former Residence, Jingan Temple
Rating: 4.9 on tripadvisor

Jinglai Hotel · Bushe (Cachet Boutique Shanghai)

This rebranded boutique hotel retains the artistic DNA of its predecessor (Cachet Boutique Shanghai) while upgrading amenities. Located in a renovated 1920s Shikumen building, it blends historic charm with modern comforts like smart room tech, just 2 minutes from Nanjing West Road Metro.

The intimate property features designer rooms with Italian tile bathrooms and an art-filled lobby. While compact, its prime location near shopping/dining and unique heritage-meets-contemporary style appeal to travelers seeking character over chain-hotel uniformity.

Location: 30 meters from West Nanjing Road Metro Station, Line 2 / Line 12 / Line 13
Style: Design Hotel
Stars: 4-star hotel
Price Range: 775 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Bar, etc
Nearby attractions: West Nanjing Road, Former Residence of Mao Zedong, Shanghai Natural History Museum
Rating: 4.5 on tripadvisor

Shanghai Hotels with Pudong Airport Shuttle

For travelers with early flights, long layovers, or late arrivals, staying at a Pudong airport hotel ensures stress-free connections. These properties offer free shuttles (15 – 20 minute rides to terminals), soundproofed rooms for quality rest between flights, and convenient transit visa services. Ideal for business travelers with tight schedules or families avoiding pre-dawn city transfers.

Yun He Ye Bo Hotel

This hotel provides free shuttle services to multiple destinations. The airport shuttle takes 15 minutes to reach Pudong International Airport. Additional shuttles serve many attractions such as Shanghai Disneyland and Wild Animal Park.

Guests enjoy clean, comfortable rooms with friendly staff offering excellent service. A complimentary breakfast features both local and Western cuisine, with evening snacks provided. The combination of reliable shuttle services and quality hospitality makes this a practical choice for travelers.

Location: far from the subway station, but there is a free shuttle bus
Style: Business Hotel
Price Range: 380 RMB. Booking on trip.com
Special Amenities: Gym, Free Airport shuttle pick-up
Nearby attractions: Nanhui Zhuqiaozhen Culture Center, Niuniuduorou Botanical Garden
Rating: 5.0 on tripadvisor

Summary

Shanghai offers diverse accommodations for every traveler, from luxury stays on The Bund to boutique hotels in the French Concession and budget-friendly hostels near People’s Square. Business travelers will appreciate Pudong’s skyline views, while families can enjoy Xujiahui’s convenience. With excellent metro access and airport shuttles, this guide helps you find the perfect hotel for an unforgettable Shanghai experience.

Where to Stay in Shanghai: A Complete Guide 2025