Where to Stay in Shanghai: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

Wondering where to stay in Shanghai? Looking for the best areas and districts?

You’re at the right place!

As I know Shanghai very well, I have created this guide of:

• Shanghai’s best areas for your stay (with details about the places to visit and nearby attractions)
• For each area and district, the best hotels depending on your budget

Let’s find your dream hotel now!

My favorite hotels in Shanghai

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels in Shanghai, in case you don’t have time to read my detailed article.

Simply click on the hotel names in orange to access details and rates:

• Where to stay in Shanghai for the first time: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, located in the heart of the city near People’s Square.
• Best 5-star hotel in Shanghai: The Peninsula Shanghai or J Hotel Shanghai Tower
• Where to stay in Shanghai on a budget: Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel
• Where to stay in Shanghai with family: Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel
• My favorite hotel in Shanghai for a romantic stay: Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, in the Huangpu district

In Huangpu (The Bund and People’s Square)

The Huangpu district is the historic and geographic heart of Shanghai. It includes the famous Bund waterfront and People’s Square.

This area is where colonial-era architecture meets modern skyscrapers, offering a vibrant atmosphere that defines the city.

It’s the best area to stay for a first visit to discover Shanghai’s most iconic sights.

You should stay in this district:

• For a first time stay, as it offers easy access to all the main attractions.
• To explore Shanghai’s history and its most famous landmarks on foot.
• If you enjoy lively areas with endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

This is the perfect area to see:

• The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade with stunning views of the Pudong skyline and historic colonial buildings.
• Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, perfect for everything from luxury brands to local snacks.
• People’s Square, a massive public square surrounded by key institutions, including the Shanghai Museum.
• Yu Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
• Shanghai Museum, home to an incredible collection of ancient Chinese art.
• The former Shanghai International Settlement, with its unique blend of architectural styles.

Where to Stay in Huangpu?

• Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World: Right on People’s Square and connected to a mall. Modern double rooms starting at 120€, breakfast for 25€. Strong points: fantastic indoor pool, great location for sightseeing, direct metro access. A great choice for its excellent value and location for a first visit.
• SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund: A short walk from Yu Garden and The Bund. Stylish, comfortable rooms from 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent location, very friendly staff, great breakfast, rooftop.
• The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai: This 5-star hotel is just a few steps from The Bund. Modern and spacious rooms starting from 210€, breakfast at 28€. Strong points: large indoor swimming pool, award-winning spa, fantastic location for exploring the waterfront.
• Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund: This 5-star hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building on The Bund. Luxurious rooms with classic decor start at 400€, breakfast included. Strong points: incredible historic charm, impeccable service, indoor pool, and fantastic views. The best luxury hotel for a romantic stay in Shanghai.
• The Peninsula Shanghai: This 5-star hotel is located directly on The Bund with spectacular views of the Pudong skyline. Art Deco-inspired rooms from 450€, breakfast included. Strong points: iconic rooftop bar, beautiful indoor pool, exceptional service. My favorite luxury hotel for the best views of Shanghai!

In Pudong District

Pudong is Shanghai’s modern financial hub, famous for its futuristic skyline that rises across the Huangpu River from The Bund.

This district is a symbol of China’s rapid economic growth, filled with towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and major international hotels.

Staying in Pudong offers a completely different experience from the historic side of the city, placing you right in the heart of modern Shanghai.

You should stay in Pudong if you want:

• To experience modern Shanghai and be surrounded by incredible architecture.
• To enjoy breathtaking skyline views directly from your hotel room.
• For a family trip, with attractions like the aquarium and parks nearby.

This district is perfect for discovering:

• The Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building with the world’s highest observation deck.
• The Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the iconic symbol of Shanghai’s skyline.
• Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, two more landmark skyscrapers with observation decks.
• Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Asia.
• The Lujiazui Central Greenland, a large park surrounded by skyscrapers.
• Super Brand Mall, for an extensive shopping experience.

The Best Hotels to Stay in Pudong

• Novotel Shanghai Pudong: A short walk from the Oriental Pearl Tower. Spacious double rooms from 150€, breakfast for 18€. Strong points: excellent location for sightseeing, indoor pool, reliable service.
• Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai: This 5-star hotel sits in a prime location in Lujiazui, offering direct views of the Bund. It consists of two towers with elegant rooms starting from 180€, breakfast at 30€. Strong points: two indoor swimming pools, excellent restaurants, and spectacular river views.
• Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai: A 5-star hotel on the waterfront with a sleek, contemporary design. Luxurious rooms start from 320€, breakfast included. Strong points: spa, large indoor swimming pool with a jacuzzi, and fantastic service.
• The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong: A 5-star hotel in the IFC complex with direct views of The Bund. Elegant rooms start from 380€, breakfast included. Strong points: famous Flair rooftop bar, beautiful indoor pool with city views, impeccable service. My recommendation for a luxury stay with the best skyline views in Pudong!
• J Hotel Shanghai Tower: This 5-star hotel is located on the highest floors of the Shanghai Tower, making it one of the world’s highest hotels.Opulent rooms with panoramic views start at 600€, including breakfast. Strong points: unparalleled 360-degree city views, a stunning indoor pool on the 84th floor, and personal butler service.The ultimate luxury hotel for a once-in-a-lifetime stay in Shanghai!

In Jing’an District

Jing’an is a central district that perfectly blends modern Shanghai with traditional elements.

It’s a bustling commercial hub with high-end shopping malls and office towers.

The district is named after the historic Jing’an Temple, which creates a fascinating contrast with the surrounding modernity.

You should stay in Jing’an:

• If you love shopping, from luxury brands on West Nanjing Road to smaller boutiques.
• For a modern and convenient stay with excellent public transport connections.
• To be in a lively area with a great mix of restaurants, bars, and parks.

Best things to see and do around Jing’an:

• Jing’an Temple, a stunning golden-roofed Buddhist temple in the middle of the city.
• West Nanjing Road, a premier shopping street filled with flagship stores and luxury malls.
• Jing’an Park, a peaceful green space right next to the temple, popular with locals.
• Shanghai Natural History Museum, an architecturally impressive museum located within the Jing’an Sculpture Park.
• Trendy cafes and restaurants tucked away in the district’s many lanes.

The Best Hotels to Stay in Jing’an

• Paramount Gallery Hotel: Located near Jing’an Temple with a unique Art Deco design. Stylish double rooms from 110€. Strong points: great design, excellent location, friendly staff.
• The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai: A 5-star hotel on West Nanjing Road. Elegant double rooms from 250€, breakfast included. Strong points: both indoor and outdoor pools, superb service, prime shopping location. An excellent choice for a luxury stay in Jing’an.
• The PuLi Hotel and Spa: This 5-star urban resort is known for its serene atmosphere. Beautifully designed rooms from 350€, breakfast at 38€. Strong points: amazing spa, tranquil design, indoor infinity pool with views of Jing’an Park. The best luxury hotel for a relaxing, spa-focused trip.

Where to Stay in Shanghai on a Budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, here are a few great hotels for a stay in Shanghai without spending too much:

• Hi! Cozy International Youth Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund: Located right by the East Nanjing Road metro station. Offers beds in dormitories from 25€ and private rooms from 70€. Strong points: unbeatable location, great social atmosphere with a common area, and a rooftop terrace. A perfect choice for backpackers and solo travelers on a tight budget.
• Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel: Near Yu Garden and the Old City. Modern double rooms from 60€. Strong points: very clean, central location, comfortable beds.
• Green Court Residence City Center, Shanghai: Near People’s Square, offering serviced apartments. Studios with kitchenettes start at 95€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious rooms, great for longer stays, excellent central location. Another fantastic place to stay in central Shanghai on a budget.

Where to Stay in Shanghai with Family

• Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel: Overlooking Yu Garden. Family rooms available from 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: amazing views, indoor swimming pool, close to the metro and Old Town. You should really consider this place if you’re traveling to Shanghai as a family.
• Grand Central Hotel Shanghai: Located right by Nanjing Road. Offers spacious family rooms from 170€. Strong points: large indoor pool, perfect location for walking to major sights, comfortable bedding.

What is the best hotel in Shanghai?

If you are looking for the best hotel in Shanghai, I recommend you the The Peninsula Shanghai or J Hotel Shanghai Tower

And if you’re looking for something a little more affordable but still luxurious, you should book a night or more at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong

Where to stay in Shanghai: The best hotels

To give you a better overview of the best hotels in Shanghai, whether in the city center or elsewhere, I’ve prepared a table summarizing all the ones I talk about in this article.

You can sort them by price or by district!

Hotel	District	Price (from)
Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World	Huangpu	120€
SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund	Huangpu	135€
The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai	Huangpu	210€
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund	Huangpu	400€
The Peninsula Shanghai	Huangpu	450€
Novotel Shanghai Pudong	Pudong	150€
Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai	Pudong	180€
Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai	Pudong	320€
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong	Pudong	380€
J Hotel Shanghai Tower	Pudong	600€
Paramount Gallery Hotel	Jing'an	110€
The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai	Jing'an	250€
The PuLi Hotel and Spa	Jing'an	350€
Hi! Cozy International Youth Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund	Cheap Hotels	25€
Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel	Cheap Hotels	60€
Green Court Residence City Center, Shanghai	Cheap Hotels	95€
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel	Hotel for families	160€
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai	Hotel for families	170€