Where to Stay in Shanghai: Best Hotels
Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis where tradition meets modernity, captivates travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the iconic skyline of Pudong to the charming lanes of the French Concession, this city offers an eclectic mix of experiences that cater to every type of adventurer, whether you're drawn to bustling markets or chic rooftop bars.
Choosing the right hotel is essential for making the most of your stay in Shanghai, especially if you’re seeking luxury amenities like a pool or convenient business facilities. This guide will help you navigate the best places to stay, explore nearby neighborhoods, discover top attractions, and provide helpful travel tips to ensure your visit is unforgettable.
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 5 star / luxury |
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre |
| 4 star hotels |
UrCove by HYATT Shanghai Jing'An Shanghai Bund Jinling East Road Light Residence Hotel |
Find Hotels, Resorts, and Rentals Nearby in these Cities & Neighborhoods
Recommended accommodation
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Gites, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels, All-inclusive
Superb
718 reviews
Luxury, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Gites, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
168 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Gites, Marriott , 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
1310 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Hilton , 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Very Good
362 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Gites, Marriott , 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Very Good
101 reviews
Things to do and Activities in Shanghai
🎫 Local Experiences & Attractions in Shanghai, China
✨ Things to Do
Shanghai River Cruise: Experience the city skyline and historic landmarks along the Huangpu River on a relaxing cruise. It's a great way to see Shanghai from a different perspective.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Food Tour in Old City: Discover authentic Shanghai cuisine through a guided food tour in the Old City area, tasting local dishes and exploring bustling markets.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Walking Tour of French Concession: Stroll through the charming streets of the French Concession, admiring its unique architecture while learning about its history and culture from a local guide.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
📍 Top Attractions
The Bund: This iconic waterfront area features colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline. Visitor Tip: Visit at sunset for beautiful lighting.
Yu Garden: Explore this classical Chinese garden in the heart of Shanghai, complete with rockeries, ponds, and pavilions, showcasing traditional landscaping techniques.
Shanghai Tower: Ascend the tallest building in China for panoramic views over Shanghai. The observation deck provides insights into the city's rapid development.
Travel Tips for Shanghai
💡 Essential Logistics & Insider Tips for Shanghai, China
🚆 Getting Around
The Core Tip: The primary way to navigate Shanghai is through its extensive metro system, which is efficient and covers most of the city.
The Pro Move: Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) to experience a more comfortable journey on the metro.
📅 Timing Your Trip
The Core Tip: Shanghai experiences its busiest tourist season from May to October, with warm weather and many outdoor activities.
The Pro Move: Visiting popular attractions like The Bund early in the morning can help you avoid large crowds.
🚶 Getting Around Safely
The Core Tip: Shanghai is generally walkable, particularly in areas like Xintiandi and the French Concession, where pedestrian-friendly streets abound.
The Pro Move: Stick to well-lit and crowded areas at night for added safety while exploring the city.
💳 Money & Payments
The Core Tip: Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions accept credit cards, but smaller vendors may prefer cash.
The Pro Move: Always carry some small cash, especially when visiting local markets or street food stalls.
✈️ Airport / Arrival Tips
The Core Tip: From Shanghai Pudong International Airport, travelers can take taxis, airport shuttles, or the Maglev train to reach the city center.
The Pro Move: For first-time visitors, downloading a translation app can facilitate communication with taxi drivers.
