WHERE TO STAY IN SHANGHAI

If you are interested in where to stay in Shanghai, you may also be interested in where to stay in Beijing, where to stay in Guangzhou, where to stay in Taipei and where to stay in Macau.

The Bund, the best area to stay in Shanghai

First time, Tourists, Nightlife

The Bund is the most visually striking area of the city to stay, epitomising Shanghai’s essential quality as a city of contrasts. It is also number one on most tourist lists of things to see in Shanghai. The Bund boasts a selection of Shanghai’s best hotels, offering top quality service and amenities. The views of the buildings lit up at night is truly an attraction in itself. And staying at The Bund will cinch you a front row seat.

Not only this, but if you cast your gaze in the opposite direction as you’re strolling along the riverside, you’ll find an array of historical buildings to admire. The Bund is home to many 19th and 20th century buildings, in architectural styles ranging from Neoclassical to Beaux-Arts to Gothic to Baroque.

When you tire of sightseeing, you can take a cruise along the Huangpu River or enjoy a stroll around neighbouring Huangpu Park.

Hotels in The Bund

Other areas to stay in Shanghai

Pudong

Business, Airport, Disney

Across the Huangpu River lies Shanghai’s business hub. More sparsely populated, the Pudong side of the river is lovely to walk along, taking in the views of The Bund on the other side. Pudong is rapidly growing, with buildings, hotels, restaurants and malls sprouting up constantly. It is also more conveniently located for those wishing to visit Shanghai Disneyland, fun for kids and grown-ups alike, and home to the largest Disney castle in the world.

Pudong is a great base for those wishing to visit its impressive skyscrapers. Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China at 632m tall and 128 floors, boasts one of the fastest elevators in the world. It is also full of attractions, incredible restaurants and a stunning bookstore. It’s also very easy to hop onto the metro and visit the rest of Shanghai in a matter of minutes.

Hotels in Pudong

Jing’an

Expats, nightlife, shopping

Located practically in the heart of Shanghai, Jing’an is a bustling hub of restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres and green spaces. With hotels to suit every budget, and very well connected metro stops, Jing’an is a great option for tourists looking to make the most of their stay in Shanghai.

Most notable in the area is the majestic Jing’an Temple, an ancient Chinese Buddhist Temple, sat right alongside a row of shopping malls and a main through-road. A truly unique sight to see. Other attractions include the Shanghai Natural History Museum and Jing’an Park.

People staying in this area also benefit from the plethora of eating options available. As a popular choice for expats, Jing’an also has a buzzing social scene. Though Chinese fare is readily available, for those craving more familiar foods, top-quality restaurants ranging from French to Mexican, Thai, Indian and Italian can all be found.

Hotels in Jing’an

People’s Square

Shopping, sightseeing, families

Within walking distance from The Bund and well-connected on metro lines 1, 2 and 8, People’s Square has something for everyone. Right in the centre of one of the busiest shopping streets in the world, Nanjing Road, staying at People’s Square allows visitors the chance to shop for traditional Chinese goods to the East and more modern items to the West. If all that shopping leaves you feeling peckish, there are many excellent restaurants, both local and international, to be found along this 3.5 mile-long shopping stretch.

There are numerous hotels and hostels surrounding the square, ideal for budget, mid-range and even luxury travellers. This makes People’s Square a suitable option for all. And, if all that shopping and sightseeing wears you out, staying in this area gives you fast access to People’s Park, a peaceful green area where large ponds are covered in lotus leaves and locals can be seen dancing or practising tai chi.

Hotels in People’s Square

French Concession

Shopping, sightseeing, families

This area is partly responsible for Shanghai’s moniker as the “Paris of the East”. Its narrow, tree-lined streets are littered with coffee shops, book stores and interesting, boutique shops selling everything from dainty teapots to expensive jewellery. Nowadays, young people flock to this area in search of the perfect Instagram pic or to sip on coffee while they tap away on their laptops. If the hustle and bustle of a big city isn’t for you, then the French Concession is a perfect choice as you can walk or cycle around it easily. There are several green spots where you can sit and watch the (very stylish) people go by.

This area also comprises several homes that once belonged to important politicians from the Communist revolution. Some of these are now free, informative museums housing the owner’s old belongings – great to visit if you choose to stay in this area.

Hotels in French Concession

Xintiandi

Restaurants, Shopping, Relaxation

An area set amongst beautifully restored, traditional shikumen buildings, Xintiandi is an excellent area for those wishing to sink their teeth into some truly delicious grub. As well as traditional Chinese, Shanghainese and Cantonese restaurants, tourists can easily find some of their European and international favourites. Covering just a small area, Xintiandi is also very manageable, and its welcoming atmosphere is attractive to foreign visitors.

Although known for being a little pricey, partly-pedestrianised Xintiandi offers a relaxed vibe with small, independent shops nestled quietly across from grand malls where shoppers can peruse a range of high-end products. Walking or cycling the area is a breeze and there are many picturesque spots for snapping the perfect photo. And Xintiandi is just a stone’s throw from the busier areas of People’s Square and Huangpu. With 2 metro stops within a 10-minute walking distance, it’s a great jumping-off point for exploring any other area of the city.

Hotels in Xintiandi