A cultural fusion of ancient sites, traditional gardens and Buddhist temples, Shanghai is China’s most cosmopolitan city, dotted with luxury malls and contemporary art museums. This vibrant megacity and technological hub is full of unexpected juxtapositions, from its futuristic skyline and bustling streets to centuries-old delicacies and traditional teahouses.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve highlighted the top hotels and attractions in Shanghai’s best neighbourhoods, including Xintiandi, Jing’an, Pudong, The Bund, Gubei and Old Town Nanshi. Whether you want to explore historic sites, shopping districts or the city’s best restaurants, read on to discover more about the best areas to stay in Shanghai.
Why You Should Stay in Xintiandi
Located in central Huangpu District, Xintiandi is a fashion-forward neighbourhood dotted with luxury boutiques, international restaurants and well-preserved shikumen (stone gate houses). This area was the site of the first congress of the Communist Party of China, offering insight into some of China’s most significant history.
Must-Do Xintiandi Experiences
- Learn about the history of Shanghai at the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party museum.
- Explore a traditional shikumen-style home at Shikumen Open House Museum.
- Observe locals enjoying mahjong and tai chi in Fuxing Park.
Top Hotels in Xintiandi
The Langham Shanghai Xintiandi
An art-inspired hotel located at the gateway to the “Champs Elysees of the East”, The Langham Shanghai Xintiandi boasts a timeless style in Old Shanghai. The rooms and suites blend traditional Chinese elements with contemporary style, particularly in the Junior Suite with its handcrafted wood furniture, oversized bathroom and view of historic Shikumen buildings from floor-to-ceiling windows.
You’ll find a world of culinary options on site, from the interactive cooking stations at Cachet to traditional Chinese favourites at T’ang Court. For sunset views, head to the chic XTD outdoor lounge, while the 25-metre heated indoor pool and award-winning Chuan Spa are perfect for relaxation.
Nearby Attractions
- Shikumen Open House Museum (110 metres)
- Fuxing Park (950 metres)
- First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (350 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 211 USD – 455 USD
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: No.99 Madang Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Lanson Place Jinlin Tiandi Residences
Sitting just a five-minute walk from the shops and restaurants along Huaihai Road, Lanson Place Jinlin Tiandi Serviced Residences offer three-bedroom luxury serviced apartments in the heart of the city. Stay in the Executive Two Bedrooms & Study Residence for contemporary decor, a full kitchen and views of the Xintiandi entertainment area, while the Family 2-Bedroom plus Study Residence features lake views.
The apartments offer access to a fully-equipped gym, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Create the perfect travel itinerary with the hotel’s knowledgeable concierge or take advantage of the food delivery service and DVD library for a relaxed night in.
Nearby Attractions
- First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (300 metres)
- Fuxing Park (800 metres)
- Former residence of Sun Yat-sen (1.1 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 227 USD – 382 USD
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: No. 3, Line 168 Xingye Road, Luwan District, Luwan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Jing’an
Noted for its namesake Jing’an Temple, which houses a jade Buddha statue, Jing’an offers a blend of colonial architecture and historic sites. You’ll find many of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants here, including those at the glitzy Jing’an Kerry Center. Shop in upscale malls and dine in Shanghainese dim sum restaurants, then sip a glass of vino in a trendy wine bar.
Must-Do Jing’an Experiences
- Marvel at the imposing walls of the 3rd-century Jing’An Temple.
- Enjoy steak, lobster and craft beer at Bull & Claw.
- Stroll around green lawns, rock gardens and a lake in Jing’An Park.
Top Hotels in Jing’an
The Puli Hotel and Spa
Offering 5-star facilities and a Michelin-starred restaurant, The Puli Hotel and Spa is one of the first luxury urban resorts in Shanghai. Admire the glittering Shanghai skyline from the Deluxe Room or upgrade to the Jing’an Suite for butler services, two master bedrooms, walk-in closets, separate living rooms and a well-stocked mini bar.
Dine on seasonal ingredients and Michelin-starred dishes at The Phenix Eatery & Bar, which overlooks Jing’an Park. Enjoy pre or post-dinner cocktails at Long Bar or champagne on the Garden Terrace, then swim in the 25-metre pool or treat yourself to signature facials and massages at the spa.
Nearby Attractions
- Jing’An Temple (500 metres)
- Jing’An Park (350 metres)
- The Paramount (600 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 232 USD – 579 USD
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 1 Changde Road, Jing’an, Shanghai, China
The St Regis Shanghai Jingan
Step inside The St Regis Shanghai Jingan to discover elegant interiors with calligraphy, glass sculptures and handcrafted gold foil paintings. Soak up stunning city views from the Premier Corner Deluxe Room or experience the epitome of luxury in the Metropolitan Suite with two bedrooms, a washer and dryer, butler services and a separate dining area.
Pamper yourself at Iridium Spa or work out in the 24-hour fitness centre, which also boasts a sauna and yoga classes. When hunger strikes, sample Cantonese cuisine at Yan Ting or indulge in Japanese gastronomy at Seki-tei, then finish your day with aromatic tea and savoury bites in The Drawing Room.
Nearby Attractions
- Former Residence of Hotung (220 metres)
- Plaza 66 (450 metres)
- Wujang Road Leisure Street (1.1 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 255 USD – 291 USD
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 1008 West Beijing Road, Jing’an, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Pudong
Located across the Huangpu River, Pudong is one of the most famous districts in Shanghai with a collection of striking skyscrapers. This booming area was developed just over two decades ago and now lures visitors in with its prestigious financial centre, luxury shopping and Riverside Promenade lined with hip international restaurants and bars.
Must-Do Pudong Experiences
- Meander down the magnolia-shaped path in Lujiazui Central Green.
- See Pudong from 474 metres high at SWFC Observatory, the glass-panelled observation deck at the Shanghai World Financial Center.
- Admire Chinese antiquities at the Aurora Museum.
Top Hotels in Pudong
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai Pudong
Sitting on the upper floors of a 58-floor tower, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai Pudong is a beacon of luxury. The Studio offers a king-size bed, flat-screen TV and panoramic vistas of Huangpu River. Saving your budget for Michelin-starred cuisine? The Premier Bund View Suite provides five complimentary culinary presentations each day.
Sample local and global flavours at the on-site restaurants, including Michelin-starred cuisine at Jin Xuan Chinese and Italian fare at Scena. Head to the 52nd-floor Aura Lounge & Jazz Bar for a nightcap and city views or unwind with a Hot Stone Massage at the spa.
Nearby Attractions
- Pudong Riverside Promenade (500 metres)
- Super Brand Mall (650 metres)
- Waitan Sightseeing Tunnel (700 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 254 USD – 606 USD
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: Shanghai ifc, 8 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Mandarin Oriental Pudong Shanghai
The 5-star Mandarin Oriental Pudong Shanghai is nestled on the Huangpu River. Gaze at the river from floor-to-ceiling windows in the Club River View Room, stretch out in the two-bedroom Oriental Suite or enjoy butler services and a private roof garden in the Presidential Suite.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offers holistic treatments and educational workshops in Chinese astrology, palm and face reading, while the 25-metre swimming pool is a tranquil oasis. Satisfy your taste buds with sweet treats from Mandarin Cake Shop or dine on French cuisine at Fifty 8° Grill.
Nearby Attractions
- Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (600 metres)
- Lujiazui Central Green (700 metres)
- Pudong Riverside Promenade (1.1 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 251 USD – 420 USD
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 111 Pudong Road (S), Pudong, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in The Bund (Waitan)
A perfect neighbourhood to get lost and appreciate the historic buildings, The Bund (Waitan) stretches one kilometre along the Huangpu River. You’ll find some of the hottest nightclubs, restaurants and 5-star hotels in this area in addition to Classical Chinese gardens, art museums and historic monuments.
Must-Do Experiences in The Bund
- Pay your respects at the Monument to the People’s Heroes.
- See the exquisite Jade Rock at Yu Garden.
- Sip cocktails at Library Distillery Lounge, a 1920s speakeasy-style bar.
Top Hotels in The Bund
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Offering the legendary service you’d expect from its brand name, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is housed within a two-building complex. The Luxury River Suite has panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline, a king-size bed, separate living area and walk-in closet. If you enjoy history, stay in the Bund Heritage River Suite, housed in a 100-year-old building.
Dine on Sino-French comfort dishes at The Grand Brasserie, Chinese regional cuisine at Wei Jing Ge or tasty afternoon tea in Salon De Ville. At night, unwind in the Library Lounge, enjoy in-room dining or book tours with the concierge.
Nearby Attractions
- Monument to the People’s Heroes (900 metres)
- Huangpu Park (850 metres)
- Shanghai Brush & Ink Museum (1.1 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 242 USD – 666 USD
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: No.2 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Les Suites Orient Bund Shanghai
Les Suites Orient Bund Shanghai is a boutique hotel sitting on the city’s most famous boulevard. Stay in the Shanghai Suite with Bund View to gaze at the Pudong skyline from its oversized windows and enjoy a cosy living room and complimentary snacks and fruit in the Lounge.
Start your morning off right with the Chinese and Western-style hot dishes at the hotel’s breakfast buffet or enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea. After a day of sightseeing, feast on Italian-style a la carte options at Cafe Dongxi, then visit the intimate cigar bar to enjoy its collection of books.
Nearby Attractions
- Yu Garden (700 metres)
- Gucheng Park (450 metres)
- Jiuqu Bridge (900 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 122 USD – 344 USD
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 1 Jinling East Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Gubei
A popular neighbourhood west of Shanghai’s city centre, Gubei has a notable expat community housing some of the best Japanese and Korean restaurants and markets in the city. Only seven kilometres from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, this area is a foodie hotspot where you can sample authentic Korean BBQ and Japanese sushi.
Must-Do Gubei Experiences
- Admire the colourful flora at Hongqiao Flower and Bird Market.
- Explore the restaurants and bars lining Hongmei Entertainment Street.
- Soak up the natural landscapes and serene atmosphere at New Hongqiao Center Garden.
Top Hotels in Gubei
Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel
Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel offers a retreat from the bustling city streets while being centrally located. Its spa has a range of body treatments, from body scrubs and body wraps to eye treatments and foot baths, while the indoor swimming pool is perfect for cooling off.
There are four types of rooms to choose from, including the budget-friendly Deluxe Room with a mini fridge, writing desk and marble bathroom. Want to treat yourself? Stay in the One-Bedroom Suite to enjoy city views, a separate living room and complimentary food and cocktails in the Club Lounge.
Nearby Attractions
- Laowai Street 101 (1.8 kilometres)
- Shanghai Qingchun Film City (2.5 kilometres)
- Hongqiao Friendship Shopping Center (3.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 120 USD – 359 USD
Guest Rating: 9
Address: No.397 Tianlin Road, Caohejing High-Tech Park, Minhang, Shanghai, China
Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao
Only a 15-minute drive from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao is an excellent choice for business travellers. In addition to its striking Yuan Yi Grand Ballroom and six function rooms, the hotel boasts a luxurious spa, modern fitness centre and sauna and steam room.
The Deluxe Room features a separate working and seating area with an ergonomic chair in addition to a comfy sofa and flat-screen TV, while the suites feature rain showers, dining tables and buffet breakfast. For exclusive check-in and check-out services and access to the Executive Lounge with separate meeting rooms, stay in the Executive Rooms.
Nearby Attractions
- Hongqiao Golf Course (290 metres)
- Hongqiao Pearl Market (1.7 kilometres)
- Shanghai Zoo (3.4 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 82 USD – 297 USD
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: No.1116 Hongsong East Road, Minhang, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Old Town/Nanshi
Shanghai’s Old Town area, called Nanshi, is south-west of the Bund. This unique neighbourhood is the old, walled Shanghai where you can meander through a maze of streets and imagine what life was like centuries ago in the Ming dynasty. Visit ancient temples, browse through bustling bazaars and admire traditional architecture.
Must-Do Old Town/Nanshi Experiences
- Sip tea at Huxingting Teahouse, which sits on stilts in the middle of a pond.
- Explore the 600-year-old City God Temple of Shanghai.
- Pick up unique souvenirs in the Old Town Bazaar.
Top Hotels in Old Town/Nanshi
Fraser Residence Shanghai
Within walking distance of Huaihai Road, Fraser Residence Shanghai is home to 324 luxury serviced apartments. Couples and solo travellers will find the cosy Studios ideal with 57 square metres of space, while families and larger groups can enjoy the one, two and three-bedroom apartments with well-equipped kitchens, washer and dryers and air and water purifiers.
Recharge at the indoor swimming pool or modern fitness centre, then head to the on-site spa and saunas for some pampering. Sample regional delicacies at Element Fresh Xi Zang Nan Lu or indulge in home-style Mexican cuisine at Mayita Mexican Restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
- Shanghai Times Square (230 metres)
- Huaihai Road (800 metres)
- People’s Square (1.1 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 103 USD – 297 USD
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 98 Shou Ning Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel
Located downtown near the famed Yu Garden, Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel boasts contemporary rooms and suites. The Deluxe Room offers one king or two double-size beds, while the Club Room has Club Lounge access, a private access floor, midday snack and city skyline views.
Dine on organic cuisine in the charming Yu Garden Cafe or Japanese dishes at Yu Sushi or pick up snacks to go in the on-site convenience store. Enjoy cocktails and stunning views over Shanghai’s Old Town at Yu Bar or satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade cakes, chocolate and ice cream at Yu Gourmet.
Nearby Attractions
- Yu Garden (500 metres)
- Shanghai Concert Hall (960 metres)
- Shanghai Museum (1.4 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: 106 USD – 271 USD
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 159 South He Nan Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Hotel Location
Discover the Best of China’s Most Cosmopolitan City
Shanghai is rich in culture and history with its ancient temples, traditional gardens and bustling shopping streets. Shanghai’s most popular neighbourhoods offer access to the city’s most notable attractions while also showcasing local life in China. Stay in one of these 5-star hotels to enjoy heated pools, Michelin-starred restaurants, city skyline views and pampering day spas.
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