Accommodation for holiday makers and travelers can find a diverse range of accommodation options in Shanghai, including low-end hotels right through to 5-star hotels and penthouses. There are loads of budget options too, but a tip about that later.
For the most part, choosing your accommodation in Shanghai is about considering your plans in the city, choosing a location that makes transport easy, choosing a place with the amenities you desire and of course, language considerations. Most starred hotels will have someone that speaks at least some English, while your western chain hotels you’ll find that most staff will speak at least some level of English. Many of the backpacker hostels have English speakers.
Tip: first-time visitors are recommended to choose four-star hotels and above. On contacting the Shanghai Tourism Complaint line about poor service and dodgy facilities the response was that they will only assist foreign guests with accommodation complaints if they are staying in four-star and above hotels
These lists are based on shared local knowledge, suitability for foreign guests, and past visitor reviews:
My picks for the best places to stay in Shanghai (based on visitor reviews, amenities, star-rating and overall value)
Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai
5-star hotel
Located in the heart of Jing’an District, it features a spa and wellness centre, an indoor pool and several stylish restaurants and bars. The location is a big plus, near to the Jing’an Temple Station you’ll have easy access to line 2 and line 7 of the metro system. The breakfast is superb as is the gym and pool.
The Puli Hotel And Spa
5-star hotel
Located near to Jing’an Temple Station, the hotel offers easy access to line 2 and line 7 of the metro system. The hotel is stunning, featuring an impressive pool and spa, and rooms featuring Bose audio systems.
THE ONE Executive Suites Managed by Kempinski – Shanghai
5-star hotel
Located next to West Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road. It’s the perfect base for those taking advantage of Shanghai’s vast shopping opportunities. The hotel rooms are wonderfully quiet and equipped with washing machines and personal wifi routers for a fast connection.
Le Royal Meridien Shanghai
5-star hotel
Superb location set back from Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and a short walk from People’s Square Station which connects you to line 2 and line 8 of the metro system. It features a heated indoor pool, hot tub, gym and sauna. You’ll also enjoy amazing views of the Shanghai skyline.
Paramount Gallery Hotel
5-star hotel
Another luxury hotel in the prime location near Jing’an Temple and the metro station of the same name that connects to line 2 and 7.
Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai
5-star hotel
Located in The Bund. The luxuriously appointed rooms offer views over the river and across to Pudong.
Hilton Shanghai
5-star hotel
The hotel features a staggering 8 dining options, swimming pool, tennis court, squash court, gym, sauna, and a world-class spa. You may need a really good reason to feel like venturing out!
Swissotel Grand Shanghai
5-star hotel
Located near Jing’an Temple Station (lines 2 and 7), the hotel features an impressive pool and spa, sauna and fitness centre.
Hotel Indigo Shanghai On The Bund
5-star hotel
Area: Downtown Shanghai, Shanghai
Located along the Huangpu River, with spectacular views of Pudong. The hotel has a popular roof-top bar along with 3 restaurants, swimming pool, and fitness centre.
