Where to Stay in Shanghai, China: 7 Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Shanghai? You’re in the right place!

We’ve always found Shanghai to be one of those cities that dazzles you at every turn. One minute, you’re gazing up at futuristic skyscrapers, the next, you’re strolling past quiet temples and leafy streets. It’s exciting, overwhelming, and endlessly fun. The hardest part, honestly? Deciding where to stay. With so many different neighborhoods, each with its own personality, it can be tough to know which one will fit your trip best.

That’s exactly why we put this guide together. We’ll walk you through the top areas, highlight what makes them special, and share hotel picks for every budget, from luxe high-rises to charming, affordable stays.

Ready to find your perfect Shanghai base? Let’s dive in!

Where to stay in Shanghai Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Shanghai 

Choosing the right neighborhood in Shanghai can really shape your trip. The city is massive, and while it’s well-connected by an excellent metro system, staying in the right spot means you’ll spend less time commuting and more time soaking up the sights. Some areas are buzzing and central, others are leafy and laid-back, and each has its own distinct vibe.

We’ve rounded up the best neighborhoods for visitors, from first-timers who want to be close to the action, to returning travelers looking for something a little quieter or more local. No matter your travel style, there’s a corner of Shanghai that will feel just right, and we’ve included hotel suggestions in each, covering luxury splurges, comfy mid-range options, and budget-friendly stays.

Here’s a quick look at the best places to base yourself in Shanghai:

• The Bund – The postcard-perfect waterfront with historic buildings and skyline views, ideal for first-time visitors. The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai, is a comfortable mid-range stay right in the middle of it all.

• People’s Square – A super central area with shops, restaurants, and metro access at your doorstep. The Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai is a great mid-range choice here.

• Xuhui – Leafy streets, international flair, and a slightly calmer atmosphere make this a relaxed central pick. Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel is a welcoming mid-range stay.

• Jing’an – A lively mix of high-end hotels, cultural sites, and affordable finds. Kempinski The One Suites Hotel Shanghai Downtown strikes the perfect balance in the mid-range category.

• Former French Concession – Gorgeous European-style streets, chic cafés, and loads of history. Pullman Shanghai Central makes for a stylish mid-range option.

• Pudong – Modern and futuristic, with soaring towers and some of Shanghai’s most iconic views. Regent Shanghai Pudong is a sleek mid-range stay.

• Changning – Quieter and close to the airport, this area is ideal for a more relaxed base. Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao is a solid choice with a fitness center and sauna.

Where to Stay in Shanghai, China

The Bund

If you’ve seen a picture of Shanghai’s skyline, chances are it was taken from The Bund. This historic waterfront promenade is the city’s showstopper, with 19th- and 20th-century colonial buildings lining one side of the river and the futuristic towers of Pudong gleaming across the water. 

Staying here puts you right at the heart of the action, with easy access to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Huangpu Park, and countless luxury shopping and dining spots. The Bund is perfect for first-time visitors who want that “wow” factor every time they step outside. It’s wonderfully walkable, and evenings here feel especially magical as the skyline lights up. 

The only downsides? Hotels lean toward the pricier end, and it’s not the quietest part of town thanks to the constant flow of tourists. Still, if you’re after unforgettable views and a truly iconic base, The Bund is hard to beat.

Pros

• Unbeatable views of the Shanghai skyline and the Huangpu River
• Close to major attractions like Nanjing Road and Yu Garden

Cons

• Hotels are generally expensive compared to other areas
• Busy with tourists, especially in the evenings

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund – $$$

If elegance had an address in Shanghai, it would be the Waldorf Astoria on the Bund. Housed partly in the beautifully restored 1911 Shanghai Club, this neo-classical gem is seamlessly connected to a sleek modern tower, giving you the best of both worlds.

Rooms are spacious and glamorous, with marble bathrooms, Aesop amenities, Nespresso machines, and a personal concierge who goes above and beyond to make your stay special. Dining here is a highlight, from the legendary Waldorf brunch to Parisian-inspired cafés, regional Chinese flavors, and the award-winning Long Bar with sweeping river views.

When it’s time to unwind, there’s a heated indoor pool, a serene spa, and even a Library Lounge serving complimentary tea and snacks. With the Bund at your doorstep and top sights just minutes away, it’s a dreamy Shanghai base. Rooms here average between $300–$400 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay at Booking.com!

The Westin Bund Center – $$

The Westin Bund Center is right where you want to be, just a few steps from the Bund itself and an easy walk to Yuyuan Garden or Nanjing Road. Even the Lujiazui Financial District is only a short drive away, so it’s a really handy base if you’re trying to see as much of Shanghai as possible.

Rooms are big and comfy, with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and bathrooms that give you both a walk-in shower and a bathtub (always a nice bonus). What we love here is how easy it is to switch off after a day of sightseeing. The 24-hour fitness center and heated pool are great if you feel like moving, or you can grab one of the concierge’s jogging maps and head out for a run along the Bund.

When you’re hungry, you’ve got choices: a global buffet, Cantonese specialties, and a cozy Italian restaurant that focuses on fresh, simple flavors. Rooms here average around $200 USD per night.

You can check all room types and book your stay here!

Atour X Hotel The Bund East Nanjing Road – $

If you’re after comfort without the hefty Bund price tag, Atour X Hotel The Bund is a great pick! Rooms are simple but modern, with air-conditioning, soundproofing, and free Wi-Fi, plus little touches like a work desk and cozy bedding that make it easy to settle in. Bathrooms are private and practical, and everything feels clean and well-kept.

The location is another big plus. You’re right in the city center, with Yu Garden about a 15-minute walk away and easy metro access to the rest of Shanghai. We like that there’s a Chinese restaurant on-site serving local dishes, alongside a buffet breakfast with plenty of fresh options.

Service is friendly and efficient, making this a reliable choice for budget-conscious travelers. Rooms here average around $90 USD per night.

Book your stay now and enjoy being close to Shanghai’s best sights!

People’s Square

If convenience is at the top of your list, then People’s Square is hard to beat. Right in the heart of Shanghai, this is the city’s main hub where culture, shopping, and transport all come together.

It’s home to big-name attractions like the Shanghai Museum, the Urban Planning Exhibition Center, and People’s Park, which is lovely for a morning wander (and also where you’ll spot the famous “marriage market” on weekends). Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street starts here, too, so you’re never far from great shopping or a lively evening stroll.

One of the best things about basing yourself here is how easy it is to get around. With multiple metro lines crossing at People’s Square station, you can hop on a train and be in pretty much any neighborhood within minutes. We think it’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to cover a lot of ground without wasting time in transit. Hotels here run the gamut from luxury towers to more affordable picks, so there’s something for every budget.

The only downsides? It can feel pretty hectic, especially around Nanjing Road, and you won’t get the iconic skyline views you’d find on the Bund. Still, for sheer convenience, People’s Square is tough to top!

Pros

• Central location with excellent metro connections
• Close to museums, shopping, and cultural attractions

Cons

• Can feel busy and crowded, especially around Nanjing Road
• Lacks the river views of other neighborhoods

Conrad Shanghai – $$$

The Conrad Shanghai rises high at 66 stories above East Nanjing Road, so trust us when we say the views here are pretty special. The location makes life easy, you’re right across from People’s Square, just steps from the metro, and within walking distance of big hitters like the Bund, Yu Garden, and Xintiandi.

Inside, the rooms feel both sleek and inviting, with floor-to-ceiling windows (perfect for skyline gazing). Guests love that you can balance city exploring with proper downtime. Swim a few laps in the heated indoor pool, soak in the hot tub, or book yourself into the spa for a massage.

And when you’re ready to head back out, you’ve got shops, restaurants, and theaters practically on your doorstep. Rooms here average between $200–$250 USD per night.

Lock in those incredible views and book your stay here!

Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World – $$

The Radisson Blu New World puts you right where you want to be, across from People’s Square and just steps from East Nanjing Road. With the metro a minute away, getting to the Bund, Yu Garden, or even the airport couldn’t be easier.

Rooms are spacious and cozy, with warm lighting, wooden accents, and bathrooms that come with a bathtub (perfect for a post-sightseeing soak). What makes this place stand out is the food and views.

The 47th-floor revolving restaurant slowly spins to give you a full panorama of Shanghai while you eat, and the Sky Dome Bar is another spot we think you’ll love for evening drinks. Add in a spa, pool, and fitness room, and you’ve got plenty to enjoy between adventures. Rooms here average around $150 USD per night.

Book your stay and enjoy a meal with the best views in town!

Shanghai Park Hotel – $

If you like a stay with history, the Shanghai Park Hotel (also known as Jin Jiang Park Hotel) is a real gem. Built in 1934, it was once the tallest building in the Far East, and today it’s still one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The location couldn’t be better, right by People’s Square Metro Station, a short walk to Nanjing Road, and about 20 minutes on foot to the Bund.

Rooms have an elegant, old-world feel with big windows for plenty of natural light, soft carpeting, and all the modern basics like Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. We like that the hotel keeps a touch of its heritage alive, too, with an exhibition room showcasing its history.

Dining includes two restaurants serving authentic Beijing dishes, plus a cozy lobby bar for a nightcap. Rooms here average around $120 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay to experience a slice of Shanghai’s history!

Xuhui

Xuhui is one of those neighborhoods that feels central but never too overwhelming. The streets are wide and tree-lined, old villas sit next to modern shops, and there’s a steady mix of locals and expats that give the area an easygoing, international feel. You’ll find plenty of places to grab a coffee, browse a boutique, or wander through a museum, and when you need a breather, parks like Xujiahui are perfect for slowing down.

What we really like about staying here is the balance. You’re still right in the middle of Shanghai, with excellent metro connections that make it simple to zip over to the Bund or Pudong, but you get to come back to a neighborhood that feels calmer and more relaxed. It’s a great choice if you want to experience the city at a slightly slower pace without missing out on the action.

Hotels in Xuhui range from polished luxury stays to more affordable, comfortable options, many with a touch of international style. The trade-off is that you won’t get the dramatic skyline views you’ll find across the river, and nightlife is more subdued compared to spots like Jing’an. But honestly, that’s part of the appeal, Xuhui lets you enjoy Shanghai’s energy while still giving you space to breathe.

Pros

• Leafy streets and a more relaxed vibe than the Bund or People’s Square
• Still very central with excellent metro connections

Cons

• No iconic river or skyline views
• Nightlife is more limited compared to other districts

MGM Shanghai West Bund – $$$

If you’re after a stay that feels seriously stylish, MGM Shanghai West Bund has you covered. The rooms are modern and comfy, with all the must-haves like air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms are spacious too, with nice toiletries that make it easy to freshen up after a day out exploring.

Guests really like the extras here. You’ve got not one, but two pools, including a rooftop pool with fantastic views, plus a full-on wellness setup with a spa, sauna, steam room, and even yoga classes if you feel like stretching it out.

And when you’re hungry, the hotel’s restaurants mix it up with Chinese, Italian, and international dishes, whether you’re in the mood for brunch, dinner, or just a drink. Rooms here average around $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel – $$

The Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel makes a great base if you want modern comfort without being stuck in the busiest part of the city. It’s only a short walk to the metro and about 20 minutes to Hongqiao Airport, so getting around is easy.

Rooms are sleek and calming with neutral tones, minibars, and bathrooms that come with both a rain shower and a bathtub. What guests like most is the variety on-site. There’s an indoor pool, gym, and wellness center if you feel like moving, plus plenty of dining options.

You can go casual with the buffet café, try Japanese teppanyaki or Korean BBQ, or sit down to classic Cantonese at Wanli. It’s nice to have so many choices without leaving the hotel! Rooms here average around $250 USD per night.

Book your stay here today!

Courtyard By Marriott Shanghai Xujiahui – $

Right in the buzz of Xujiahui, the Courtyard by Marriott is a comfy spot with plenty of perks. Rooms have big floor-to-ceiling windows, 32-inch TVs, and marble bathrooms with both a tub and a shower. Guests especially like the little seating areas where you can kick back and enjoy skyline views, a nice reminder you’re in the middle of one of the world’s biggest cities.

The metro’s just a short stroll away, so zipping off to Disneyland or across town is super easy. Back at the hotel, you can swim in the Roman-style indoor pool, hit the gym, or grab a coffee from the lounge before heading out again.

For meals, MoMo Café keeps things simple with hearty buffets and plenty of international choices. Rooms here average around $150 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Jing’an

Jing’an is one of those neighborhoods that really shows off Shanghai’s mix of old and new. On one hand, you’ve got the beautiful Jing’an Temple, a golden, glittering landmark that’s been around in one form or another for centuries.

On the other hand, there are shiny skyscrapers, luxury malls, and some of the city’s coolest restaurants and bars. It’s a lively area that feels modern but still has plenty of history woven in.

We think Jing’an is a great pick if you like variety. During the day, you can wander through leafy side streets, pop into boutique shops, or explore cultural spots like the Shanghai Natural History Museum. By night, the energy shifts, the neighborhood has a fantastic dining scene, from high-end international cuisine to casual local bites, plus plenty of buzzing nightlife options.

Hotels here cover the whole spectrum too, so whether you’re after five-star luxury or a more budget-friendly stay, you’ll find it. Of course, being popular comes with a trade-off: it can get busy, and prices are generally higher than in quieter districts. But if you’re after a spot with character, convenience, and a bit of everything, Jing’an is worth looking at!

Pros

• Fantastic dining, shopping, and nightlife all in one place
• Mix of cultural sights and modern comforts

Cons

• Can be busy and more expensive than other areas
• Some streets feel very commercial and less local

The Sukhothai Shanghai – $$$

The Sukhothai Shanghai brings a dose of sleek, modern style right into the heart of Jing’an. Rooms are airy and elegant, with big windows, comfy seating areas, and extras like coffee machines, minibars, and marble bathrooms with tubs. Some even come with city views, which we think is a real treat when the skyline lights up at night.

The vibe here is upscale but not stuffy. You can squeeze in a workout at the 24-hour gym, then relax with a drink at the bar or sit down for a meal at one of the hotel’s chic restaurants. URBAN Café & Lounge and La Scala (serving Italian favorites) keep dining interesting, while the buffet breakfasts are a solid way to kick off the day.

And with People’s Square, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi all close by, exploring couldn’t be easier. Rooms here average around $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Kempinski The One Suites Hotel Shanghai Downtown – $$

Kempinski The One Suites is perfect if you like a little extra space while traveling. The studios and suites here feel more like chic city apartments, with living rooms, sleek bathrooms, and even a small kitchen stocked with imported cookware, handy if you want to whip up a snack.

Guests really like the Art Deco-inspired design, which gives the whole place a touch of elegance without being over the top. The location’s hard to beat, too. You’re just off West Nanjing Road, an easy stroll to the metro, and only a short ride from People’s Square.

With skyline views from your suite, plus thoughtful perks like a lobby lounge for casual bites and a solid daily breakfast, it’s a well-rounded choice for longer stays or anyone who wants a bit more independence. Rooms here average $160–$200 USD per night.

Book your suite and enjoy space with style!

The Kunlun Jing An – $ 

Staying at The Kunlun Jing An puts you right by one of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks, Jing’an Temple, and just a short walk from the metro. West Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road, two of the city’s premier shopping streets, are close by too, so you’ll have no shortage of places to browse and explore.

Rooms are spacious and practical, with marble bathrooms, bathtubs, and plenty of workspace, plus fast Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Guests really like that the hotel packs in a ton of extras for the price. There’s an indoor pool, a health club, and even squash and tennis courts if you’re feeling active.

Dining covers both international favorites and authentic local flavors, and the Executive Lounge offers skyline views that stretch all the way to the Oriental Pearl Tower. Rooms here average around $120 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Former French Concession

The Former French Concession is one of Shanghai’s most atmospheric neighborhoods, known for its leafy boulevards, colonial-era villas, and stylish cafés. Once the center of the French settlement in the early 1900s, it still carries that European flair today, with art deco mansions, hidden courtyards, and chic boutiques mixed with trendy bars and restaurants.

It’s easily one of the prettiest parts of the city and a favorite for both visitors and locals. What we love most here is the pace of life. You can spend hours exploring on foot, discovering tiny coffee shops, browsing designer stores, or just soaking up the charm of streets like Hengshan Road or Huaihai Road.

The area also has a thriving creative scene, with galleries, design studios, and cultural spaces scattered throughout. For food lovers, this is a dream—you’ll find everything from authentic Shanghai eateries to international hotspots.

The French Concession is perfect if you want a neighborhood with personality rather than postcard views. You won’t see the Pudong skyline from your window, and getting to some of the bigger attractions takes a quick metro ride. But if your idea of a good base is wandering tree-lined streets, stopping for long coffees, and uncovering hidden gems, this area will win you over fast.

Pros

• Gorgeous tree-lined streets and historic European architecture
• Fantastic cafés, boutiques, and restaurants around every corner

Cons

• No skyline or Bund views
• Less central to major tourist attractions

InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin – $$$

The InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin is the kind of place that makes you forget you’re in the middle of a huge city. Tucked away in the Former French Concession, the hotel sits on 100 acres of gardens dotted with Art Deco villas and historic mansions, one of which dates back to 1917.

It’s a gorgeous mix of Old Shanghai charm and modern comfort, with rooms that feel elegant but relaxed. The location is just as appealing. Huaihai Road, Tian Zi Fang, and Shanghai Culture Square are all within a short stroll, so you can easily wander from leafy streets into lively shopping or dining districts.

When you’re hungry, you’ve got options: classic Chinese dishes at Xin Yuan Lou or a global spread at La Rue, the all-day restaurant. Rooms here average $200–$300 USD per night.

Book your stay here and experience garden living in the heart of Shanghai!

Pullman Shanghai Central – In XinTianDi & Yu Garden Area – $$

Pullman Shanghai Central gives you a prime spot in the Former French Concession area, just a short walk from Tianzifang’s trendy shops and cafés. The rooms are big, modern, and come with city views, fast Wi-Fi, and all the little touches like minibars and safes that make travel easy.

Guests can enjoy the buzz of the city outside, then retreat to a space that feels calm and well-equipped. There’s plenty to do without leaving the hotel, too. Swim in the heated indoor pool, squeeze in a workout at the gym, or choose from three dining options ranging from Cantonese specialties to Western bites at the terrace garden restaurant.

The location makes exploring a breeze, whether you’re headed to Xintiandi, the Bund, or People’s Square. Rooms here average around $150 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Mia Hotel – Shanghai Shaanxi South Road – $

Mia Hotel is a great little find in Huangpu District, close enough to the action without being overwhelming. Big attractions like Jing’an Temple and People’s Square are just a short ride away, and you can reach Yu Garden or East Nanjing Road in under 15 minutes.

For a budget-friendly stay, the rooms pack in plenty of comfort, with air conditioning, walk-in showers, soundproofing, and even balconies or landmark views in select rooms. There’s a sun terrace if you feel like relaxing, a lounge for hanging out, and practical perks like 24-hour check-in, meeting rooms, and even EV charging.

Travelers rave about the location and friendly staff, so it’s an easy pick if you’re looking for value and convenience in one. Rooms here average around $100 USD per night.

Book your stay at Mia Hotel here today!

Pudong

Pudong is the Shanghai you’ve probably seen splashed across postcards and Instagram feeds. This is where the city’s futuristic skyline rises above the Huangpu River, with iconic towers like the Oriental Pearl, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao standing tall. Staying here means you’ll wake up surrounded by some of the most impressive architecture in the world, and at night, the lights are nothing short of spectacular.

We like Pudong because it’s more than just shiny skyscrapers. You’ll also find world-class shopping malls, fine dining, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is nearby, and Century Park gives you a big patch of green space when you want a breather from the glass and steel. Hotels here tend to be modern and luxurious, many with jaw-dropping views of the Bund across the river.

Of course, Pudong has its trade-offs. It’s mainly known for business and finance, so it doesn’t have quite the same cozy, lived-in feel as other neighborhoods. And while it’s well connected by metro, hopping over to the Bund or French Concession takes a bit more time. Still, if you’re after skyline views, sleek hotels, and a taste of Shanghai’s modern side, Pudong absolutely delivers.

Pros

• Home to Shanghai’s iconic skyline and modern towers
• Luxurious hotels with incredible views over the Bund

Cons

• Feels more business-like than local or cozy
• Slightly farther from historic attractions across the river

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong – $$$

If skyline views are at the top of your wish list, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai delivers in spades. Perched right by the Oriental Pearl Tower and just steps from Lujiazui Metro Station, this hotel puts you in the middle of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline.

Rooms are pure luxury, blending Art Deco style with modern touches like B&O sound systems, big windows, and spa-like bathrooms. What guests love here is the mix of indulgence and atmosphere. The Ritz-Carlton Spa comes with a 24-hour gym, sauna, and relaxing treatments, while the dining is seriously next-level.

Scena serves Italian classics, Jin Xuan dishes out fine Cantonese cuisine, and Flair, the highest rooftop bar in China, pairs drinks with jaw-dropping views of the Bund. Rooms here average $350–$500 USD per night.

Book your stay now and wake up to Shanghai’s most iconic views!

Regent Shanghai Pudong – $$

Regent Shanghai Pudong puts you right in the middle of Lujiazui’s futuristic skyline, and the views from here are nothing short of incredible. The location is hard to beat: you can walk to the World Financial Centre, IFC Mall, or the Oriental Pearl Tower in minutes, and the Bund is just across the river.

Rooms lean into a chic Art Deco style, with floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy seating areas, and bathrooms that make you feel like you’re checking into a spa. We love how the hotel balances sleek city energy with places to unwind. The infinity pool looks straight out at the skyline, the sauna and massage options are perfect for downtime, and the dining hits the mark, too.

Shàng-Xí serves up refined Chinese flavors, while Camelia keeps things casual with Italian bites and cocktails. Rooms here average $200–$250 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Novotel Atlantis Shanghai – $

Novotel Atlantis Shanghai gives you Pudong views without the Pudong price tag. Set in the Lujiazui financial district, it’s just a short walk from the metro, and you can reach the Bund or Nanjing Road in about 15 minutes by car.

Rooms are simple and modern, with everything you need for a comfy stay plus those all-important skyline views right from your window. One of the highlights here is the ART50 revolving restaurant on the 50th floor. You’ll get a full 360-degree sweep of the city while tucking into Chinese and Western dishes, a seriously fun way to do dinner or afternoon tea.

There’s also an indoor pool and fitness center (currently under renovation), along with parking and practical touches like 24-hour room service. Rooms here average around $100 USD per night.

Book your stay here and enjoy skyline views on a budget!

Changning

Changning sits just outside the very center of Shanghai, making it a quieter and more relaxed place to base yourself. It’s a great option if you’d prefer leafy streets, residential vibes, and a slower pace while still being well-connected to the rest of the city.

The district is home to Zhongshan Park, a huge green space where locals gather for tai chi, dancing, and evening strolls. We love wandering through here to get a glimpse of everyday Shanghai life. Another big plus is the convenience. Changning is close to Hongqiao Airport, so it’s especially handy if you’re flying in or out on a shorter trip.

There’s also a good mix of shopping malls, local markets, and international restaurants, plus some unique attractions like the Shanghai Zoo. Hotels here are generally more affordable than in the Bund or Pudong, and you’ll find a wide range of comfortable mid-range and luxury options.

Of course, being a little farther from the action means you won’t be right next to big-name sights like the Bund or Yu Garden, and nightlife is more low-key compared to Jing’an. But if you’re after a calmer base that still keeps you connected to the city, Changning is well worth considering.

Pros

• Quieter neighborhood with parks and local life
• Close to Hongqiao Airport and well connected by metro

Cons

• Farther from major tourist attractions
• Limited nightlife compared to the central districts

Renaissance Shanghai Zhongshan Park Hotel – $$$

The Renaissance Shanghai Zhongshan Park Hotel is a great choice if you want convenience without skimping on comfort. It’s directly connected to Zhongshan Park Metro Station, which means you can zip over to People’s Square in just a few stops or head straight to the airport without a hassle.

Plus, being right beside the Cloud Nine shopping center makes it easy to grab a meal, do some shopping, or just wander when you’ve got downtime. Rooms feel modern and bright, with big windows showing off panoramic city views, marble bathrooms, and all the little touches like flat-screen TVs and plenty of workspace.

We also like the extras here, a pool for cooling off, a gym and sauna for recharging, and multiple dining options covering both Asian and European flavors. Rooms here average $150–$200 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao – $$

The Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao makes a great base if you want a comfy stay with easy access to the rest of the city. You’re just a five-minute walk from Shuicheng Road Metro, so getting to spots like Yu Garden or Nanjing Road is a breeze. Plus, Hongqiao Airport and Railway Station are only a quick 15-minute drive away.

The rooms are big and cozy, with flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee makers, and bathrooms that give you both a bathtub and a rain shower, always a win. Guests love the variety here. You can swim in the indoor pool, hit the gym, relax in the sauna, or even stroll through the hotel’s garden when you need some quiet.

Food options keep things interesting too, from international buffets at O’Cafe to Cantonese favorites at Spectrum, with live music and drinks at Chatz Lounge to end the day. Rooms here average $100–$150 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Radisson Collection Hotel, Yangtze Shanghai – $

Right in the middle of lively Hongqiao, the Radisson Collection Yangtze Shanghai is all about convenience with a side of comfort. Hongqiao Airport and the high-speed rail station are just a short drive away, and with the metro across the park, you can be in Xintiandi in about 15 minutes.

Rooms keep things classic and cozy, with oversized windows for city views, armchairs you’ll actually want to sink into, and bathrooms that come with both a shower and a bathtub. What makes this place fun is the variety. Want to chill? Book a massage or sweat it out in the sauna. Need to move? The gym has you covered. Hungry?

You’ve got plenty of options, but we especially love the LiJinXuan Restaurant for its chic setting and top-notch Cantonese dishes, perfect for a long lunch or dinner with friends. Rooms here average $100–$130 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Top Activities to do in Shanghai, China

With your Shanghai base sorted, it’s time to get out and explore—and trust us, the options are endless. From slurping noodles on a food tour to cruising the Huangpu by night with a Xinjiang dinner, this city shines in every direction. To help you plan, we’ve rounded up the standout tours that made our trip unforgettable.

• Taste Shanghai’s flavors on a food tour – From slurping scallion oil noodles to dipping soup dumplings in black vinegar, this guided food tour dives deep into the city’s culinary soul. With hidden eateries, street snacks, and rich stories, this tour is a delicious way to experience daily life in Shanghai.

• Explore Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai highlights – Boat rides on ancient canals, narrow lanes, Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, and Shanghai Tower all fit into this full-day private tour. With seamless planning and a guide who brings history alive, this tour blends old-world charm with the city’s modern skyline.

• Discover Suzhou by bullet train and boat – Elegant gardens, lantern-lit canals, Tiger Hill, and a Grand Canal boat ride all await on this private full-day Suzhou adventure. With transport, lunch, and tickets arranged, this tour makes it effortless to soak up centuries of history in style.

• Cycle through Old Town and the French Concession – Pedal past leafy streets, temples, wet markets, and lively parks on this small-group bike tour. From tai chi in Fuxing Park to exploring narrow alleys, this tour reveals Shanghai’s hidden corners in a relaxed and personal way.

• Cruise the Huangpu and dine on Xinjiang flavors – See Shanghai’s skyline sparkle from the river before feasting on hearty Xinjiang dishes like lamb kebabs and Dapanji. With private transport and a guide to handle the details, this evening tour makes for an effortless and unforgettable night out.

Thanks for reading!

After days spent skyline-gazing on the Bund, nibbling your way through street stalls, and wandering leafy lanes in the Former French Concession, having the right home base makes all the difference. Whether you choose buzzy People’s Square, laid-back Xuhui, or futuristic Pudong, Shanghai has a neighborhood that fits your style—and this guide should help you land the one that turns a great trip into an unforgettable one.

If you’re still piecing together your itinerary, check out our other China blogs here for insider neighborhood tips, hotel picks, and easy day trips that pair perfectly with your stay. And if you’re hungry for even more ideas, keep the inspiration going with these related guides below:

Where to Stay in Hong Kong, China: 8 Areas & Hotels

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Beijing, China – 5-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Beijing, China: 8 Areas & Hotels