When deciding where to stay in Shanghai, location plays a much bigger role than in other major cities – and it’s not just about star ratings. In Shanghai, you’re primarily paying for which side of the river you’re on. The city is divided both figuratively and physically by the wide Huangpu River, which creates two completely different worlds with entirely different atmospheres and travel styles.
While the western bank called Puxi offers historic colonial buildings and romantic plane tree-lined avenues, the eastern bank of Pudong will instantly dazzle you with hypermodern skyscrapers and the very best views from your window. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, the historic side is the clear choice because you can explore Shanghai on foot from here and you have all the action right on your doorstep. In contrast, the modern financial district will delight lovers of luxury and enormous rooms, even though its streets empty out fairly quickly after dark.
When choosing accommodation, you need to pay attention to one more crucial thing, and that’s Chinese legislation regarding foreigner registration. Traditional hotels will automatically register you with the police during check-in, but with private apartments you often have to handle this bureaucracy yourself, which isn’t worth the hassle. That’s why in this guide I recommend exclusively reliable hotels and hostels where you’ll have complete peace of mind from the very first moment.
TL;DR
- Best hotel overall: The legendary Fairmont Peace Hotel on the Bund promenade, which transports you to the art deco era and offers an absolutely iconic experience.
- Best for first-time visitors: The Peninsula Shanghai or The Shanghai EDITION, because both are within walking distance of the main landmarks on the western bank.
- Best for luxury and views: Mandarin Oriental Pudong or The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, from which you’ll have the glittering skyscrapers right before your eyes.
- Best value for money: Campanile Shanghai Bund for European standards, or the Ji Hotel and Atour chains for modern Chinese middle-class quality.
- Best for longer stays: THE ONE Executive Suites in the quieter Jing’an district, where you’ll find spacious apartments with your own kitchenette.
- Best for low budgets: Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel, which combines a great location close to the river with very friendly pricing.
💡 On this map you can compare what’s currently available — you’ll also see how much cheaper accommodation gets a few stops from the center.
The full destination guide: Asia — guide and what to see
Which Area to Choose
The city’s division determines how you’ll get around and what you’ll see right after waking up. The western bank of Puxi is the embodiment of old Shanghai, where European architecture from the early twentieth century blends with traditional Chinese bustle. This is where you’ll find the famous Bund promenade (Waitan), which is indeed the most expensive and noisiest area, but offers the most classic view of the city’s skyline. Right behind it begins the Huangpu district, which is the ideal starting point for the vast majority of tourists. From this area you can easily set out on foot to see the sights and soak up the atmosphere of the old plane tree avenues that give the streets a romantic touch.
If you’re looking for something a bit quieter, the Jing’an district represents the best compromise between price and location. You’ll find the famous Jing’an Temple here, excellent access to two metro lines, and countless great restaurants or cafes where locals go. A bit further lies the Former French Concession (Xuhui), which will charm you with shady avenues, old villas, and small boutiques – perfect for when you want to leisurely enjoy your journey without rushing. This is where you’ll find the best cafes in the entire city and plenty of small independent shops where you can buy original souvenirs.
On the other side of the river lies Pudong and its financial center Lujiazui, which operates quite differently. The hotels here are built for businesspeople and conferences, so for your money you’ll get enormous rooms, luxurious lobbies, and pools in the clouds. In the evening, however, life here stops and for entertainment or a good dinner you’ll have to take the metro back across the river. Other outlying areas like Hongqiao near the airport or North Bund (Hongkou) mainly make sense for transit travelers or those who already know the city well. North Bund is great in that it offers new hotels with fantastic views of both sides of the river, but it’s located a bit further from the main tourist routes.
When to Go and When to Book
Trip planning plays a huge role in how much you’ll pay for accommodation and what experience you’ll take away from Shanghai. The most expensive months in 2026 remain traditionally October and November, when the city enjoys the most pleasant autumn weather and hosts major international exhibitions. The sky is beautifully blue during these months, temperatures stay at very comfortable levels, and strolls through the city are an absolute joy. During this period, however, hotel capacities tend to be sold out well in advance and hoteliers can afford to push prices to the maximum.
In contrast, you’ll find the cheapest accommodation during January and February, when the city is gripped by clammy winter and tourists are at an absolute minimum. If you don’t mind bringing a warmer coat, you can snag a luxury room for a fraction of the usual price. There’s one huge exception you need to watch out for though, and that’s the Chinese New Year celebration period. The date changes every year according to the lunar calendar and usually falls right around the turn of January and February.
During these holiday days, the city is full of domestic tourists, hotel prices soar steeply upward, and many smaller businesses or restaurants in the area are uncompromisingly closed. I recommend sorting out your accommodation reservation at least three to four months before departure so you’ll have plenty to choose from. If you’re heading to Shanghai for the first time, it pays to also check the cancellation conditions, because plans can easily change on long trips to Asia and a flexible reservation will save you a lot of unnecessary stress.
Where to Stay in Shanghai: 18 Best Hotels
With Chinese hotels, you need to take one important thing into account regarding reviews. Platforms like Google Maps aren’t commonly used in China, so review counts are surprisingly low for many top-tier establishments (often just in the dozens). Don’t let this put you off – the numbers reflect the activity of foreign tourists with VPN connections rather than the actual quality or popularity of the hotel on the domestic market.
1. Fairmont Peace Hotel
Fairmont Peace Hotel is simply a piece of Shanghai history and immediately upon entering, its art deco interiors transport you to the golden era of the 1930s. The former Cathay Hotel from 1929 forms the heart of the entire Bund promenade on the western Puxi bank and deservedly ranks among the best-rated hotels in the city. Guests particularly praise the absolutely exceptional staff, who speak excellent English and are incredibly attentive, as well as the fantastic breakfasts. Rooms with heavy carpets and period furniture breathe old-world elegance, and from some you’ll get a stunning view directly of the skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Do expect, however, that in some places the ravages of time are slightly visible and the interior could probably use a gentle modernization. People occasionally mention that the car entrance is a bit confusing and it can happen that no one immediately helps you with your luggage upon arrival. The hotel’s location itself, however, is fantastic. You’ll find the famous Nanjing East Road shopping street just around the corner, so you won’t lack restaurants and shops at all. And after a day spent in the city streets, you can relax in the indoor pool or at the on-site spa.
💡 Tip: Even if you won’t be staying here, definitely stop by the ground floor for an evening drink. A legendary jazz band plays here whose older members have been performing since the eighties, and the music of these old masters will definitely captivate you.
2. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is an architectural gem located right on the famous Bund waterfront, housed in the meticulously restored former Shanghai Club building from 1910. Once frequented by influential British gentlemen, it’s now a sanctuary where neoclassical history blends masterfully with a modern extension. If you appreciate high ceilings and enormous windows overlooking the Huangpu River, choose the historic wing, while the new tower will appeal more to fans of contemporary design. Guests rave about the friendly staff who speak excellent English, massive marble bathrooms, and incredibly comfortable beds.
Keep in mind that while the breakfast buffet is magnificent, it focuses more on Western cuisine and according to reviews could use more Asian specialties. What really works perfectly here, though, is relaxation. After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll appreciate the renowned spa, indoor pool, or gym, which are open until late. The hotel is a short walk from the quieter section of the waterfront, where you can head for an early morning stroll before the streets fill with crowds. During the day, you can indulge in traditional afternoon tea.
💡 Tip: Be sure to visit the hotel’s Long Bar for a drink, which boasts having once had the longest bar counter in all of Asia. You’ll enjoy excellent cocktails in a setting straight out of an old movie.
3. The Peninsula Shanghai
The Peninsula Shanghai is probably the only new building right on the famous Bund promenade, but architects designed it in such perfect art deco style that it blends completely naturally with its century-old surroundings. Guests praise the incredibly spacious rooms, which are among the largest on the entire western Puxi shore. I was impressed that while they breathe a luxurious old-world atmosphere, they’re packed with modern technology and you can conveniently control everything through intuitive touch panels right from your bed. Add to that a beautiful indoor pool, top-notch Michelin-starred restaurants, and staff who speak excellent English and take care of you flawlessly.
Honestly, though, I must mention a few minor drawbacks. If you pay extra for a room with a Huangpu River view, be aware it may only be partial and partly blocked by a building, which has disappointed some guests. Also be careful not to head to breakfast in soft hotel slippers, as they can be quite strict about that. Otherwise, though, it’s an experience from another world, and if you want to arrive in real style, the hotel’s fleet of Rolls-Royce cars will happily pick you up at the airport.
💡 Tip: Be sure to head up to the rooftop bar Sir Elly’s Terrace. It offers one of the absolute best views of the opposite skyscrapers in the Pudong district, which is an absolutely fantastic sight, especially after dark.
4. The Shanghai EDITION
The Shanghai EDITION is perfect for those of you looking for more stylish and youthful accommodation in the heart of the action. You’ll find it just a few minutes’ walk from the Bund promenade in the historic building of a former telephone exchange. Inside, you’ll probably be surprised by the very cozy atmosphere, where raw industrial materials mix with warm wood and soft lighting. The rooms are rather minimalist, but thoughtfully designed down to the last detail, and if you get accommodation on an upper floor, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the famous Pearl Tower right from your bed.
The biggest advantage, however, is the location right on the Nanjing Road shopping artery, so you have stores, perfect metro access, modern cafés, and excellent restaurants literally around the corner. Guests rave about the outstanding breakfasts and incredibly meticulous housekeeping staff. The hotel has long been famous for its vibrant social spaces, which the local creative elite love to frequent. I must warn you, though, that arriving with luggage can be a bit tricky, as cars can’t stop directly in front of the entrance. Guests also occasionally mention weaker moments from the reception staff, but otherwise it’s a fantastic base for exploring the city.
💡 Tip: Be sure to head up to the rooftop bar, which offers a beautiful view of both the historic city and modern skyscrapers. It’s an absolutely great spot to start your evening, but don’t forget to make a reservation for the weekend, as it gets hopelessly packed.
5. Campanile Shanghai Bund
Campanile Shanghai Bund in the Huangpu district is a popular French chain that will save those of you who want to stay close to the center without spending a fortune. International guests highly praise the excellent breakfast, where Chinese dishes mix with Western ones, and thanks to the hotel’s European roots, they bake truly wonderful croissants here. People also frequently mention very comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and reliably working Wi-Fi, which is always a huge plus in China. It strikes me as a great base for travelers who head out into the city in the morning and are mainly looking for a clean and safe place to rest in the evening.
When packing, keep in mind that rooms are on the smaller side, so there won’t be much space for spreading out large suitcases, but that’s absolutely standard in this lucrative part of the metropolis. Not everyone at reception speaks fluent English, but the staff is very friendly and will happily help you with everything, even through a phone translator if needed. You can reach the famous Bund promenade, busy Nanjing Road shopping street, and historic Yu Gardens with a pleasant walk of about twenty minutes. The nearest metro station is just under a kilometer away, and right in the neighborhood you’ll discover plenty of small authentic bistros for a quick lunch.
💡 Tip: This is a great refuge for those of you who spend entire days discovering landmarks. Just check that your windows are fully closed in colder months, as they can be opened and apparently sometimes let in a bit of a draft.
6. Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai
Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai is a beautiful modern complex you’ll find in the somewhat quieter and more authentic Jing’an district, and it strikes me as a great base for exploring the city. It’s located right above a metro station and a large shopping mall, so you can easily get everywhere from here. Guests especially praise the huge floor-to-ceiling windows with fascinating views of the pulsing city, as well as the generous room sizes with extremely comfortable beds. What apparently works absolutely flawlessly here, though, is the incredibly helpful staff who take excellent care of you even in unexpected situations, and the fabulous breakfast.
After a full day of running around the city, you can relax in the extensive wellness center with a large glass-enclosed pool or in the stylish fourth-floor bar, where guests love to return for an evening drink. Be aware, though, that despite the luxury care, you’ll encounter a few drawbacks, such as the missing coffee maker in the room, slower service in the Chinese restaurant, or occasional cigarette smoke in the hallways. If you head outside, the area is full of charming cafés, and right by the nearby Jing’an Temple you’ll find excellent vegetarian restaurants and traditional bakeries worth trying.
💡 Tip: I warmly recommend this place to families with children. Thanks to the direct connection to the metro, you don’t have to deal at all with navigating busy Shanghai streets with a stroller or heavy luggage.
7. The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan
The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan is an elegant glass tower in the Jing’an district that breathes classic luxury the moment you step inside. The interiors are adorned with marble, crystal chandeliers, and rare wood, so the atmosphere here is truly grand. What works perfectly is the renowned personal butler service that comes with every room, meaning you’ll be treated like a VIP guest and they’ll even help you pack your suitcases if needed. Guests rave about the stunning views from the higher floors, spacious rooms, and absolutely perfect soundproofing. Thanks to double blackout curtains, you won’t hear a thing from the bustling Shanghai traffic and you’ll sleep beautifully on very comfortable beds.
The hotel’s location is excellent for shopping lovers, as Nanjing West Road stretches just a short walk away, full of boutiques and designer shops. After a full day of exploring the city, you’ll definitely appreciate the large wellness center with an indoor pool and sauna, or the superb breakfast where you can choose from a rich selection of Asian and Western dishes. Just be prepared that the reception can get quite busy at times and you might wait a bit during check-in, although the staff tries to process queues quickly. I think it’s a great base for anyone who wants to treat themselves to top-notch service right in the heart of the action.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the traditional evening champagne sabering ceremony. It’s a historic tradition for this hotel brand and believe me, it’s quite a spectacle and a great way to start a festive evening.
8. URBN Hotel Shanghai
URBN Hotel Shanghai stands among the glass skyscrapers like an absolute revelation, as it’s the first carbon-neutral hotel in China. You’ll find it on a quieter street in the Jing’an district, a short walk from the metro and the famous temple of the same name. It was created through a sensitive renovation of an old factory, and the builders cleverly used recycled materials, from old fired bricks to solid wood from demolished Shanghai houses. What guests praise most is the greenery everywhere and large glass surfaces that make the rooms beautifully bright. Visitors also highlight the helpful staff, excellent breakfast, and afternoon happy hour.
Just be prepared for the unconventional layout of some rooms. The bed sometimes sits on a raised platform and you have to go down a few steps to the bathroom, which probably isn’t entirely practical for travelers with mobility issues. It also sometimes happens that you’ll wait a bit for hot breakfast items during the morning rush. But everything is made up for by nice touches like address cards in both English and Chinese for easier communication with taxi drivers. If you’re not looking for uniform boredom but accommodation with real soul, you’ll definitely love it here.
💡 Tip: In the surrounding streets you’ll discover plenty of interesting dining options and very pleasant local cafés. They’re perfect for lazy weekend mornings with a good book.
9. Shanghai Pudi Boutique Hotel
Shanghai Pudi Boutique Hotel is a smaller property in the Huangpu area that will charm you right away with the atmosphere of the Former French Concession. Guests really appreciate that the originally decorated rooms feel more like a luxury private residence than a regular hotel. From your room, it’s just a short walk to the historic Xintiandi zone, where original brick houses called shikumen have been transformed into renowned restaurants, elegant bars, and fashion boutiques. I think it’s a beautiful retreat for those who want to experience Shanghai more through the eyes of locals.
You’ll fall in love mainly with the long romantic walks under the majestic plane trees, which cast very pleasant shade during the summer months. In the area you’ll also come across plenty of small bakeries and independent art shops. Just keep in mind that this is a more intimate boutique project, so don’t expect a giant resort with lots of entertainment, but you’ll enjoy the quiet and authentic face of the city all the more.
💡 Tip: The whole area invites aimless wandering. Try to get deliberately lost in the winding streets, peek into small hidden galleries, and soak up the incredibly calm contrast to the otherwise very busy center.
10. THE ONE Executive Suites managed by Kempinski
THE ONE Executive Suites managed by Kempinski is located in the Jing’an district, and if you’re looking for a place with your own space, this is probably the most practical option. People love the huge space with a separate living room and kitchenette, which comes with classic hotel services. The location near Nanjing West Road metro station means you can easily get to attractions and the airport from here, and in the area you’ll also discover the giant Starbucks Reserve. You’ll appreciate the rooms especially when traveling with children, lots of luggage, or if you’re staying longer and need some personal space in the evening.
Be prepared that not everything works flawlessly. The breakfasts are apparently rather ordinary, and although there’s an indoor pool here, it belongs to the local fitness center, so it’s not reserved exclusively for hotel guests. The gym itself, however, is absolutely excellent. Parents with toddlers sometimes struggle with very low cribs, and sometimes the staff’s willingness to help with package delivery is lacking. On the other hand, you’ll enjoy complimentary soft drinks in your room, and there’s a small convenience store right outside the entrance, just remember that it closes at ten in the evening.
💡 Tip: Even though it presents itself as accommodation for long weeks, thanks to the fully equipped kitchen and washing machine right in the room, this apartment will pay off enormously even if you’re only staying in Shanghai for five or six days.
11. Mandarin Oriental Pudong
Mandarin Oriental Pudong is located on the east bank in the ultra-modern Lujiazui district, but surprisingly it’s not just another cold glass tower. I think it’s absolutely great that it has its own garden right by the Huangpu River, so in the middle of this hectic financial center full of rushing businessmen, it feels like an unexpectedly peaceful place. People come back here mainly for the service, which is probably the very best on this side of the river, and the friendly staff will happily arrange even the impossible for you. The rooms are exceptionally large, richly finished with wood and marble, and from many of them you can watch passing cargo ships and the glowing city panorama from the comfort of your bed.
After a demanding day in the city, you’ll definitely appreciate the huge indoor pool with loungers or the local spa center, where they do excellent traditional Chinese and modern massages. Right on site you can also dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests praise the cleanliness and excellent sleep quality, which is also helped by the beautifully quiet air conditioning. Just keep in mind that even here something occasionally creaks. The breakfasts are perceived as rather average, and occasionally it may happen that your room won’t be ready in time on your arrival day.
💡 Tip: Definitely head to the wide riverside promenade early in the morning, before you go for breakfast. The views of the awakening historic Bund on the opposite bank in the morning sun simply have no flaws.
12. The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong occupies the upper floors of a skyscraper above the IFC shopping mall in the Lujiazui district and ranks among the best-rated hotels in the city. In the interiors, the golden art deco era of the thirties meets modern design, but the main thing that will probably amaze you most here are the views. From many rooms you look at the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower directly at eye level, which feels almost like a scene from a sci-fi movie. Guests highly praise the friendly staff, who speak perfect English and can arrange many thoughtful touches from welcome desserts to children’s tents in the room.
The excellent soundproofing and careful evening turndown service work perfectly here. If you pay extra for Club lounge access, according to guests you’ll find a huge selection of food in a beautifully quiet environment. Otherwise, there’s an indoor lap pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant where Shanghai’s elite often gather for important business lunches. Keep in mind that the local gym, while well organized, is quite small space-wise. Around the hotel, thanks to the connection to the shopping mall, you’ll find plenty of cafés and shops.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the rooftop bar Flair, which has one of the highest open terraces in all of Shanghai. The city views from here are absolutely legendary, but without an early table reservation, you unfortunately won’t get in.
13. Pudong Shangri-La
Pudong Shangri-La is a massive complex of two glass towers in the Lujiazui district that functions more like a small city. People praise most the amazing wide-angle views from rooms directly onto the historic Bund promenade on the opposite bank and the overall luxurious atmosphere, beautifully enhanced by the signature hotel scent wafting throughout the building. You have several swimming pools, a large fitness center, and a dozen restaurants with cuisines from around the world, so you really don’t need to leave at all. The rooms are very comfortable and clean, although some may find them slightly dated.
Keep in mind that although the staff is usually extremely helpful and will gladly store your luggage or receive deliveries for you, the doormen at the entrance sometimes pretend not to see you struggling with heavy suitcases. At the breakfast buffet, you can choose from plenty of Asian and European dishes, though some regular visitors mention that the selection is somewhat more limited since the pandemic. Parents of younger children probably won’t be thrilled with the playroom on the fourth floor. Adults aren’t allowed inside, and the hotel won’t even let you sit at the entrance to at least keep an eye on your kids.
💡 Tip: Make sure when booking that you get a room with a view of the river and the Bund promenade. That evening view of the illuminated historic part of Shanghai right from your bed is simply part of the overall experience.
14. Grand Hyatt Shanghai
Grand Hyatt Shanghai in the Lujiazui district is more of an architectural experience than just an ordinary hotel. It occupies an incredible 53rd to 87th floors of the famous Jin Mao Tower skyscraper, so the views of all of Shanghai far below you are absolutely fascinating. The biggest draw, however, is the stunning open atrium that runs through the very center of the building. People also highly praise the excellent breakfast and luxurious rooms, where classic Chinese decorative motifs blend beautifully with modern technology. From some floors you’ll feel like you’re sleeping right in the clouds, and after dark the illuminated city really looks like a miniature, meticulously built model.
Keep in mind, though, that this legendary building is already over twenty-five years old and you can see it a bit in the details. Visitors sometimes honestly mention that the room furnishings feel slightly dated and organization at reception occasionally lags a bit upon arrival. If you’re looking for a unique design piece and want to try living high above the ground, though, you’ll probably gladly forgive these minor flaws. The staff is also very friendly and will gladly help you with everything, even if you don’t speak fluent Chinese.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the Cloud 9 bar on the upper floors. The panoramic view in all directions from there is simply stunning, and it seems to me like an absolutely perfect spot for a romantic evening drink overlooking the glowing skyscrapers at night.
15. Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai
Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai stands right on the eastern bank of the wide Huangpu River in the modern Lujiazui district and feels like a very dignified refuge in the middle of Pudong’s bustling financial world. The interiors rely on refined European elegance with subtle Oriental details, but what everyone highlights most is the absolutely exemplary staff. People agree that the employees are incredibly friendly, speak excellent English, and will gladly help you with absolutely everything, even receiving packages from Chinese online shops. Another major draw is the beautiful indoor pool on the upper floors, where plenty of daylight streams in, and surprisingly spacious rooms for Shanghai standards.
If you’re looking for a slightly quieter place than what you’ll find on the much livelier Puxi bank, you’ll like it here. The location right by the perfectly manicured waterfront is perfect for long walks or morning jogging, and you can comfortably walk to the iconic Pearl Tower and surrounding shopping malls. The only minor downside is that people sometimes settle in the spacious lobby who behave somewhat like they’re in their own living room, but otherwise everything runs smoothly here.
💡 Tip: I definitely recommend considering paying extra for a River View room with a direct view of the river. You’ll have the entire historic city and all those passing boats constantly right at your fingertips, which is an amazing sight.
16. Ji Hotel (various locations)
Ji Hotel is a popular mid-range Chinese hotel chain where you’ll find reliable cleanliness at great prices. The rooms look brand new, are furnished in light wood, and are clearly inspired by calming Japanese minimalism. People praise most the comfortable mattresses, perfect bathrooms with flawless showers, and generous breakfast with a wide selection. A huge advantage for foreigners is that receptionists in the center usually speak English and the hotels are located right by major metro stations with underground floors full of restaurants. Near one of the branches you’ll even discover a cozy café called Drunk Baker, where you should head for coffee or evening jazz.
Keep in mind, though, that this brand primarily targets locals, which comes with a few quirks. Foreign guests often struggle with the Wi-Fi connection because the system requires a Chinese phone number, and they complain about thinner walls through which you’ll probably hear neighbors and noise from busy streets. Another peculiarity is that bathroom doors usually don’t have a lock and they usually only let you into the room from 4 PM. Fortunately, they’ll gladly store your luggage. I also warn sensitive noses about a very specific scent in the lobby and the occasional cigarette smell on lower floors.
💡 Tip: Look for branches of the Ji Hotel chain ideally in the Jing’an area or near the famous People’s Square. You’ll save a huge amount of precious time with daily getting around to the sights, and you’ll have endless options for a great dinner in the area.
17. Atour Hotel (Jing’an)
Atour Hotel (Jing’an) beautifully demonstrates how well-thought-out and affordable newer Chinese mid-range accommodation is today. It seems to me that the designers really went all out here—the interior is very artistic and you’ll even find a music theme with vinyl records. Guests agree that the biggest draw is the quiet rooms, where the hotel really focuses on quality sleep. A nice touch is also the traditional tea set that awaits you right by the bed. The location near the Natural History Museum and metro station is generally quieter, so you won’t be bothered by noisy traffic at night.
Head here if you’re among independent travelers who like to explore trendy cafés and local boutiques hidden beneath plane trees with camera in hand—there are plenty of them in the area. Expect the hotel breakfast to lean more toward Asian style. If you absolutely need fresh pastries and coffee in the morning, I recommend popping into one of the many bakeries in the surrounding streets. Staying here makes great financial sense because you get a clean and fresh-smelling modern room for just a fraction of the amount you would spend in large international five-star hotels.
💡 Tip: If it’s fully booked, near the Bund promenade you’ll find another branch simply called Atour Hotel, where people praise the friendly staff and wider selection of Western breakfast foods—you’ll just occasionally encounter slightly smaller rooms there.
18. Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel
The legendary Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel is an absolute Shanghai classic among backpackers and students, located in the Huangpu district. The biggest draw here is definitely the location, because you can walk to both the Bund promenade and Nanjing Road shopping street in just a few minutes. People love the relaxed international atmosphere and the staff, who speak excellent English. In the large common room you’ll easily find travel buddies to explore the city with. You can choose from simple private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, or much cheaper shared dormitories.
You need to be careful mainly when arriving, because the accommodation is hidden on the sixth floor of an ordinary building without any external signage, so definitely follow the street number. From Pudong airport you can get here easily by hopping on the Maglev express train to Longyang Road station and then transferring to metro line 2 to Nanjing Road station, from where it’s about a five-minute walk. I have to warn you honestly, though, that the shared bathrooms for the dormitories get quite a bit of criticism, so I’d recommend paying extra for a private room. Also prepare some cash at reception, as they collect a deposit.
💡 Tip: The area is full of small bistros where you can score a really cheap breakfast. In the evening, head up to the huge hostel rooftop terrace, where travel stories are wonderfully exchanged over a cold beer.
How to Choose the Right Hotel
If you’re still not sure how to pick the right place, stick to a few basic rules. For your first visit to Shanghai, always choose the western bank of Puxi, ideally the Bund, Huangpu or Jing’an districts. You’ll be able to head out on foot straight from your hotel into lively streets full of fascinating smells and old history, which is priceless. Save the eastern bank of Pudong for a business trip or for when you already know the city well and mainly want to enjoy a luxury hotel pool and phenomenal views of the skyscrapers without needing to wander the streets.
When reading the map, pay huge attention to the scale, because it can be very misleading. A distance of “500 meters to the metro” in Shanghai very often means a ten-minute walk along a massive four-lane highway, which you really don’t want to do twice a day in sticky summer heat or cold winter rain. A hotel located right next to a metro station is far more valuable here for convenience than a hotel in a “better” location on paper without direct transport links.
Don’t forget important technical preparation before the trip itself. You must install and pay for an app with a working VPN while still in Europe, otherwise you won’t be able to connect to Google, WhatsApp or your favorite maps on the hotel’s free wi-fi, which will seriously complicate your travels. Similarly, set up the payment apps Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance and link them with your European payment card, because while hotels routinely accept European cards, smaller shops in the area only accept QR code payments. And as a bonus – payments under 200 CNY are fee-free.
Where to Eat in Shanghai
If you’re wondering where to refuel after a full day of running around sights, Shanghai definitely won’t disappoint. The local gastronomy is incredibly diverse and even the most demanding will find something to enjoy. Of the typical dishes, you definitely shouldn’t miss the local specialty of xiaolongbao dumplings, which traditionally contain pork or delicious crab broth. You’ll find them on practically every corner and the sight of them steaming in bamboo baskets never gets old.
Interestingly, although Chinese cuisine is very meat-heavy, Shanghai is surprisingly great for vegetarians too. You can try the luxurious restaurant Fu He Hui, which boasts a Michelin star, or the popular and more affordable spots Vegetarian Lifestyle and Dashu Wujie. If you’re around the Jade Buddha or Longhua temples, I recommend stopping by their traditional eateries too, where excellent and cheap vegetarian lunches are cooked for locals and visitors alike.
Where Next
If you’ve already chosen your accommodation and know where you’ll lay your head, definitely check out our detailed article Shanghai: What to See and Do, where I’ll guide you to the best sights and practical routes for exploring the city. And if you’re planning to fly a bit further south as part of your long Asian journey, our other guide Where to Stay in Hong Kong might come in handy, so you have your preparations complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
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