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Where to stay in Shanghai: Top hotel picks near The Bund, Nanjing Road and more
Some of the best hotels in Shanghai, from five-star hotels to boutique brands
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Depending on your travel objective, choosing the right area to stay in Shanghai is essential to get the best experience. From luxury hotels along the waterfront near the Bund to boutique stays in the Former French Concession, here are some of the best places to stay in Shanghai.
In this article
What to consider when you’re picking where to stay in Shanghai
Where to stay in Shanghai: The Bund
Where to stay in Shanghai: People’s Square and Nanjing Road
Where to stay in Shanghai: The Former French Concession
Where to stay in Shanghai: Near Shanghai Disneyland
Where to stay in Shanghai: Lujiazui in Pudong
Where to stay in Shanghai: Jing’an
What to consider when choosing where to stay in Shanghai
Shanghai is a massive city that spans about 6,340 sq km. In comparison, Singapore only covers around 728 sq km and is about 8.7 times smaller. When choosing where to stay in Shanghai, you want to consider the following factors.
Proximity to tourist areas
If it’s your first time visiting Shanghai, it’s likely you will want to hit up the tourist spots. In Shanghai, they are mostly concentrated in and near the Huangpu district.
Setting up your base in a more central location will minimise your travel time to major attractions such as The Bund, Xintiandi, Nanjing Road and Yuyuan Garden.
From the Huangpu area, other landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower (in Pudong), Jing’an Temple (in Jing’an) and the Former French Concession are a short metro ride away.
Connectivity to the Shanghai Metro
Metro map of Shanghai Metro Line 2
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Unless you are planning on taking a cab everywhere, staying close to a metro station is crucial if you value convenience.
Staying in a hotel along Line 2 gives you direct access to both Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.
The stations for Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, East Nanjing Road and Lujiazui are also on Line 2.
However, do note that it can get extremely crowded on the trains during rush hour. If you are travelling with children and using a stroller, you might want to avoid commuting then.
Navigating potential language barriers
If you’re not fluent in Mandarin or are travelling with elderly or young children, it might be more convenient to stay with an international hotel chain.
Staff are likely to speak English and are more equipped to help you with tasks like booking taxis.
Note: Download WeChat before you holiday in Shanghai. From the app, you can use the built-in language translator, book DiDi rides (DiDi is China’s main ride-hailing service), make payments (WeChat Pay is arguably the easiest and most widely accepted mode of payment in China), and order food delivery.
Considering Shanghai’s size, there are a plethora of hotels to pick from. This list features more unique, boutique-style hotels for all budgets in the best areas to stay in Shanghai, as well as a handful of renowned hotel chains.
Disclaimer: Hotel rates are evaluated and compared three months in advance across hotel booking platforms, as of Dec 8 2025.
Where to stay in Shanghai: The Bund
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Overview of The Bund
Best for those seeking luxury and iconic views of Shanghai’s skyscrapers; hotels are facing Pudong’s skyline.
Hotels in this area tend to be more expensive.
There are plenty of high-end restaurants and bars in The Bund and it can get crowded and noisy by the promenade.
Straddling the Huangpu River, the Bund is Shanghai’s tourist hotspot. Famed for its views of the Pudong skyline, its mix of Art Deco, Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical buildings (which date back to the 19th and 20th centuries) attracts history buffs and architecture appreciators.
The iconic waterfront is very popular for strolls or river cruises. Admire the Huangpu River when you stroll down Huangpu Park or ride the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
If you are wondering where to stay in Shanghai for nightlife, choose the area for its rooftop bars and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Those who love eating out at fancy restaurants or ending the evening with a nightcap will appreciate the buzz of this neighbourhood.
Luxury-seekers will enjoy staying at these hotels which offer iconic river views: SAVHE Hotel, Banyan Tree Shanghai and Regent on the Bund.
SAVHE Hotel on the Bund Nanjing Road, from $184 per night
Original price: from $204 per night (10 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: 522, Sichuan North Road, Hongkou District, 200080 Shanghai, China
If the SAVHE Hotel appears familiar, you might have seen it on Instagram. Its defined Japanese-esque style is evident in everything from the architecture to the interior design. Recently opened in 2025, guests love the extremely comfortable beds, cleanliness and overall guest service.
All rooms come equipped with AC, soundproof walls for a peaceful sleep, an en suite, windows, a flatscreen and a seating area.
Other on-site amenities include a fitness centre, laundry services, an international restaurant and concierge. A breakfast buffet is available.
Banyan Tree Shanghai On the Bund, from $307 per night
Original price: from $660 per night (53 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: AGODA
Address: 19 Gongping Road, Hongkou District, 200086 Shanghai, China
The Banyan Tree is a hotel for those seeking relaxation and incredible views over the Huangpu River. The on-site spa is award-winning.
Every room and suite option overlooks the water, but guests especially love the Deluxe Riverside Retreat for its riverside panoramas.
Enjoy free Wi-Fi and on-site facilities such as an indoor pool, fitness centre and two restaurants. The hotel offers a free shuttle service to the Bund.
Regent Shanghai on the Bund, from $497 per night
Original price: from $659 per night (25 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: AGODA
Address: 60 Huangpu Road, Hongkou District, 200082 Shanghai, China
Marble finishes, a Nespresso machine and beds so comfortable you’ll fall asleep in moments - these finer details make staying at Regent Shanghai on the Bund worth every penny.
Singaporean travellers who typically opt for upmarket, premium hotels will enjoy this option. Every room in this posh hotel is tastefully appointed and the well-trained staff provides impeccable service.
Treat yourself to a high tea at the restaurant or a drink at the bar during cocktail hour while admiring the amazing views. Other on-site facilities include an indoor pool, fitness centre and terrace.
Where to stay in Shanghai: People’s Square and Nanjing Road
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Overview of People’s Square and Nanjing Road
Best for first-time visitors and those who enjoy sightseeing and don’t mind being in a loud and busy area.
From People’s Square and Nanjing Road, you enjoy excellent connectivity to the Shanghai Metro.
You also have easy walking access to The Bund and major museums and shopping streets.
If you’re considering where to stay in Shanghai for shopping, bustling Nanjing Road or People’s Square are your best bets.
Both areas are pedestrian-friendly zones, connected to the waterfront and run adjacent to each other.
The 5.5-kilometre strip that is East Nanjing Road is a renowned shopper’s paradise and has tons of restaurants. You can find famous landmarks and attractions at People’s Square, including the Shanghai Museum, Madame Tussauds Shanghai, the Shanghai Grand Theatre and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Centre.
This part of Shanghai draws a diverse crowd and is suitable for everyone from families to first-time visitors. Here is a range of budget-friendly to high-end centrally-located hotels: URSIDE Hotel Shanghai South Bund, The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai and The Shanghai EDITION.
URSIDE Hotel Shanghai The Bund, from $51 per night
Original price: from $55 per night (7 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: Unit A, Bldg B4-3, #60, Huayuangang Road, Huangpu, 200011 Shanghai, China
If you’re wondering where to stay in Shanghai for one night, try the URSIDE hotel. The URSIDE hotel has a distinct industrial-meets-urban charm. Its loft design translates to a larger-than-most hotel room in Shanghai for its price point, making it ideal for couples.
Only certain rooms come with garden views, but all rooms have strong, reliable WiFi, good soundproofing and a large seating area. Bathrobes, free toiletries and a mini bar are also provided.
The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai, from $169 per night
Original price: from $177 per night (4 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: AGODA
Address: 740 Hankou Road, Huangpu, 200001 Shanghai, China
Imagine life in Shanghai during the early 20th century as you relax and unwind in The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai. You can expect marble bath tubs, bold geometric patterns and bright red jewel tones.
PHOTO: THE YANGTZE BOUTIQUE SHANGHAI
The hotel is often featured on social media platforms, thanks to the building’s unique wedge-shaped exterior and beautifully designed Art Deco rooms. Some rooms have balconies adorned with picturesque red flowers; these popular rooms book out fast.
You can choose from the twin, king and Art Deco executive room options.
The Shanghai EDITION, from $356 per night
Original price: from $654 per night (46 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: AGODA
Address: 199 Nanjing Road East, People Square and South Bund Huangpu, 200002 Shanghai, China
Exuding a stylish and cosy vibe, the Shanghai EDITION features warm woods and crisp white linens. Rooms are exceptionally big and have large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
Guests can enjoy all the niceties typical of a luxury hotel: Complimentary toiletries, plush robes, an in-room spa bath, a hairdryer, a flatscreen TV, a minibar, a coffee machine and well-soundproofed walls.
If you want to stay indoors, you could swim in the indoor pool or work out at the wellness centre. When you get hungry, dine at the hotel’s two restaurants or relax with a drink at any of the three lounge bars and two rooftop bars.
Where to stay in Shanghai: The Former French Concession
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Overview of The Former French Concession
Best for those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, cafe hopping and art.
The neighbourhood is famed for its charming tree-lined streets and historic Art Deco architecture.
There are many boutique shops to browse, but fewer attractions to check out here.
The Former French Concession borders the Jing’an District in downtown Shanghai. The neighbourhood has an old-meets-new charm. Sidewalks are lined with historic buildings, street lamps and tall trees.
It is a fantastic area to meander on foot. Make a coffee pit stop along Anfu Road or for a light bite at one of the many trendy cafes. Explore colonial buildings such as the iconic Wukang Mansion and the Blackstone Mansion. Discover more inspiring architecture along Fuxing West Road or within the artsy, lantern-lined Tianzifang neighbourhood.
If you are figuring out where to stay in Shanghai but have decided on the Former French Concession, try A.T. HOUSE Xujiahui Shanghai or HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve at Hengshan.
A.T. HOUSE Xujiahui Shanghai Hotel, from $117 per night
Original price: from $163 per night (28 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: 15 Nandan Road, Xuhui District, 200000 Shanghai, China
At the A.T. HOUSE, every corner of the hotel offers a pop of colour, a piece of art or a funky design element to admire.
All bedrooms offer guests something unique, whether it is baths with floor-to-ceiling glass window views or cute teepees for kids. There is even a real telescope to use in the Starry Suite.
Apart from the thoughtful attention to detail, hotel rooms at A.T. HOUSE have modern technologies such as automated curtains and a remote-controlled toilet.
HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve at Hengshan, from $154 per night
Original price: from $205 per night (25 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: TRIP.COM
Address: 12 Hengshan Road, Xuhui and Minhang, 200031 Shanghai, China
If you have your heart set on staying in the Former French Concession but desire a touch of classic Shanghai elegance, HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve at Hengshan blends both.
The architecturally striking building has a swept design with a zen outdoor courtyard at its centre.
PHOTO: TRIP.COM
Relax and unwind in the sauna after a busy day of exploring Shanghai. Other hotel facilities include a business centre, beauty salon and gym.
The hotel is located on Hengshan Road and is right by the metro; many Western restaurants surround the building.
Where to stay in Shanghai: Near Disneyland
PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES
Overview of the area near Shanghai Disneyland
Best for families with young children who mainly intend to visit Shanghai Disneyland.
While it is far from downtown Shanghai and other main attractions, the reduced commute to the theme park can make visiting it more efficient and enjoyable.
The immediate area surrounding the famous theme park is known as Disneytown. The area is separate from the park and its multiple shopping, dining and entertainment options are free to explore.
Downtown Shanghai is located 30 kilometres from Disneyland and is conveniently accessible by taking the Shanghai Metro Line 11 for about an hour.
But if you plan on spending most of your time at Disneyland Shanghai, choose nearby accommodations such as Shanghai Mars Island Leisure Resort, Chuxin Moshe Hotel and 上海半窗酒店-上海迪士尼店 (Shanghai Ban Chuang Hotel - Shanghai Disneyland Branch).
Most hotels close to Disneyland Shanghai offer free shuttle services to the theme park.
Shanghai Mars Island Leisure Resort, from $52 per night
Original price: from $80 per night (35 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: TRIP.COM
Address: No. 10, Lingqi Road, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, 201322 Shanghai, China
This resort caters to both families with children and adult guests who appreciate whimsical design. Each room has unique elements like skylights and cleverly utilises space.
For example, the Muxing Family Pool View Twin Room (Tub + Projector) has a bunkbed setup, as does the Muxing Twin Room With Slide.
Free shuttle services to Disneyland are provided and children under 17 years old check in for free if no extra beds are required. The hotel also has a large outdoor swimming pool.
Chuxin Moshe Hotel, from $45 per night
Original price: from $53 per night (15 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: No. 5, Lane 2316 Zhouzhu Road, Pudong New Area, 201322 Shanghai, China
Chuxin Moshe Hotel offers themed rooms which feature characters ranging from Marvel superheroes to Disney princesses.
Their family rooms come equipped with dress-up stations, built-in slides, little teepees, soft toys and colourful cartoon murals to keep your little ones entertained for hours. Children will also have lots of fun at the on-site facilities, which include a children’s pool, mini waterpark and indoor and outdoor play areas.
Complimentary Disneyland Shanghai shuttle service and breakfast are included at Chuxin Moshe Hotel.
上海半窗酒店-上海迪士尼店 (Shanghai Ban Chuang Hotel - Shanghai Disneyland Branch), from $45 per night
Original price: $53 (15 per cent off) Book here
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: No. 551, Qicheng Village, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, 201300 Shanghai, China
Personifying the magic of Disneyland, this property dazzles with colourful lights. Rooms pop with cutesy decor and patterned tiles. Each room has its own standing bathtub and shower.
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
The tropical outdoor area has a large swimming pool and a smaller heated one. Mums and dads can relax on sun loungers while the kids splash about or ride a transparent boat on the water.
Disneyland Shanghai is a ten-minute drive from the hotel.
Where to stay in Shanghai: Pudong
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Overview of Pudong
Best for those on a business trip and need to be close to Shanghai’s financial district.
Staying in Pudong is good for those who want river views facing The Bund.
However, it may not be ideal as a base for those visiting Shanghai for the first time because the neighbourhood is further from the main tourist attractions.
Shanghai’s official financial district, Lujiazui Financial City, is situated in the Pudong New Area. It is home to the most skyscrapers in Shanghai and sits directly opposite The Bund.
Famous landmarks in Pudong are the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai Tower, which is the city’s tallest building at 632 metres.
Drink in the city views from these buildings’ observation decks. Other sites of interest are the Aurora Art Museum and the IFC Mall. Business travellers seeking a good night’s rest can consider staying at The Eton Hotel or The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai.
The Eton Hotel, from $83 per night
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: 535 Pudong Avenue, Pudong, 200120 Shanghai, China
Affordable for the area and in an excellent location for business travellers, the Eton Hotel is an ideal base. It offers easy access to the Shanghai World Financial Center and the New International Expo Centre. Additionally, a supermarket is less than 300 metres away.
All rooms are equipped with a generous desk that makes for a comfortable workstation.
The dedicated hotel staff is known to provide exceptional service. You can rely on them to arrange an early morning wake-up call or get you breakfast to go.
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, from $311 per night
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Address: 8 Shiji Boulevard, Lujiazui, Pudong, 200120 Shanghai, China
For business travellers who appreciate the finer things in life, check into the iconic Ritz-Carlton Hotel. The views from your hotel room are among the most spectacular in the city.
While the rooms at the Ritz-Carlton command a price premium, this is justified given its luxury status and location in the financial district. Furthermore, waking up to the famous Oriental Pearl Tower directly outside your window is an unparalleled experience.
Where to stay in Shanghai: Jing’an
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Overview of Jing’an
Best for foodies and shoppers and those visiting Shanghai for work.
Jinag’an is further away from the main tourist attractions in the Huangpu area but it is a slightly quieter neighbourhood.
The central location is well-connected to the Shanghai Metro and has a mix of luxury malls and food options.
Modern Jing’an is considered one of Shanghai’s finance and business hubs and is part of Shanghai’s main downtown area. From Jing’an, the Former French Concession area is a 20-minute walk away.
Jing’an is home to many of Shanghai’s Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as a plethora of cafes and bars. Apart from its fantastic dining scene, you can discover upscale retail malls and boutique shops, including Jing An Kerry Centre, Plaza 66 and HKRI Taikoo Hui.
In the heart of this cosmopolitan area is Jing’an Temple. Other notable attractions are the Jing’an Sculpture Park, Shanghai Natural History Museum and the Shanghai Circus World.
If you are wondering where to stay in Shanghai’s Jing’an district, consider these affordable mid-range options: NOA Hotel Shanghai, URBN Boutique Shanghai and The Sukhothai Shanghai.
NOA Hotel Shanghai, from $93 per night
PHOTO: AGODA
Address: 969 Wuding Road, Jing An, 200042 Shanghai, China
The modern NOA Hotel is a stylish option to spend a night or two. This newly built stay, which opened in 2025, is clean and comfortable.
Guests appreciate the small, thoughtful touches in every room, including a fashionable gooseneck kettle, marble tables and a separate seating area. Jing’an Temple is a 12-minute walk from the hotel.
URBN Boutique Shanghai, from $133 per night
PHOTO: TRIP.COM
Address: 183 Jiaozhou Road, Jing’an, 200040 Shanghai, China
If you’re searching for a break from Shanghai’s tall-rise buildings, consider the URBN Boutique Hotel that has a facade shrouded in greenery.
Bedrooms, suites and studios are extremely spacious and open. The well-appointed rooms feature decorative pieces such as lantern pendant lights, a chaise lounge and open stone baths.
Jing’an Temple Metro Station is 500 metres away.
The Sukhothai Shanghai, from $261 per night
PHOTO: TRIP.COM
Address: 380 Weihai Road, Jing’an, 20004 Shanghai, China
Fall into relaxation at the peaceful Sukhothai Shanghai. Hotel-goers appreciate the spacious rooms, comfortable beds and how every room, suite and studio is designed with a hot tub.
Top hotel facilities here include the indoor swimming pool, sauna and the 24/7 gym. Breakfast and other meals are served at the outdoor terrace.
All prices and deals are correct at time of publication
FAQs: Where to stay in Shanghai
Where should I stay in Shanghai for the first time?
The People’s Square and Nanjing Road area has affordable hotel options and is centrally located.
It is also close to many of the main Shanghai tourist spots and connected to multiple metro lines.
What area is best to stay in Shanghai?
You should pick an area to stay in depending on what you’re looking to get out of your Shanghai experience.
For example, stay around The Bund if you want to get the best Shanghai riverside views and do not mind splurging on hotels. There are excellent dining options and drinking spots in this lively neighbourhood.
Where do most tourists stay in Shanghai?
Most tourists stay around or close to Nanjing Road. The eastern half of Nanjing (Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street or Nanjing Lu) is especially popular as it is a car-free zone.
Which hotel in Shanghai has the best view?
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel
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