Shanghai, as a bustling metropolis, offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxurious five-star hotels to budget hostels, the city has it all.
Types of Accommodation in Shanghai
- Luxury Hotels: High-end international chains with top-notch amenities.
- Mid-range Hotels: Comfortable and affordable options with good facilities.
- Boutique Hotels: Unique, stylish hotels offering personalized experiences.
- Budget Hotels and Hostels: Economical choices for backpackers and budget travelers.
- Serviced Apartments: Ideal for longer stays with home-like amenities.
- Guesthouses and Inns: Traditional, often family-run, providing a local experience.

Best Hotels in Shanghai
The Peninsula Shanghai
Location: The Bund, Shanghai
The Peninsula Shanghai is renowned for its luxury, exceptional service, and prime location on the Bund, offering stunning views of the Huangpu River and the city’s skyline.
Facilities and Amenities:
- Rooms and Suites: Elegantly designed with modern amenities, offering comfort and sophistication.
- Spa and Fitness Center: World-class spa treatments, fitness facilities, and an indoor swimming pool.
- Meeting and Event Spaces: State-of-the-art facilities for business and social events.
- Transportation: Rolls-Royce limousines and a rooftop helipad.
Dining:
- Sir Elly’s Restaurant: Offers modern European cuisine with breathtaking views.
- Yi Long Court: Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant.
- The Lobby: Famous for its Peninsula Afternoon Tea.
- Salon de Ning: A chic lounge with a unique ambiance.
Prices:
- Room Rates: Generally range from $400 to $800 per night, varying by room type and season.
Special Features:
- Service: Renowned for impeccable and personalized service.
- Historical Elegance: Combines classic Art Deco style with modern comforts.
The Peninsula Shanghai offers an unparalleled luxury experience with its exceptional service, elegant design, and prime location.

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Location: The Bund, Shanghai
The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern amenities, offering a luxurious experience in a historic setting.
Facilities and Amenities:
- Rooms and Suites: Exquisitely designed with a blend of contemporary comforts and historic charm.
- Waldorf Astoria Spa: A full-service spa offering a variety of treatments and therapies.
- Fitness Center and Pool: State-of-the-art gym facilities and a temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool.
- Business and Event Spaces: Elegant venues for meetings, conferences, and social events.
Dining:
- Pelham’s: Contemporary French cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Wei Jing Ge: Authentic Chinese cuisine with a focus on Shanghainese and Cantonese dishes.
- The Grand Brasserie: All-day dining with a mix of international and Asian dishes.
- Long Bar: Historic bar offering a wide selection of cocktails and fine wines.
- Salon de Ville: Ideal for afternoon tea and light snacks in a refined atmosphere.
Prices:
- Room Rates: Typically range from $300 to $700 per night, depending on the room type and season.
Special Features:
- Service: Renowned for impeccable, personalized service and attention to detail.
- Historic Architecture: The hotel preserves its historic Art Deco architecture, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.

Park Hyatt Shanghai
Location: Shanghai World Financial Center, Lujiazui, Pudong
Park Hyatt Shanghai offers a blend of luxury and modernity, located in one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, providing spectacular views of the city.
Facilities and Amenities:
- Rooms and Suites: Elegant and spacious rooms with contemporary decor and floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Spa and Wellness: A tranquil spa with various treatments, a fitness center, and an indoor infinity pool.
- Meeting and Event Spaces: Versatile spaces for business meetings, conferences, and social events.
Dining:
- 100 Century Avenue Restaurant: Offers a variety of Western, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines with panoramic city views.
- Living Room: A cozy spot for light bites and afternoon tea.
- Pantry: Serves breakfast with a view.
- Music Room: An intimate lounge with live jazz performances and cocktails.
Prices:
- Room Rates: Typically range from $400 to $900 per night, depending on room type and season.
Special Features:
- Views: Stunning views of the Shanghai skyline and Huangpu River.
- Service: Known for exceptional, personalized service.
- Design: Modern design with luxurious finishes.

Budget Hotels in Shanghai
Shanghai Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel
- Location: Near the Bund and Nanjing Road.
- Overview: Offers dormitory and private rooms with clean, comfortable beds. The hostel features a common area, bar, and rooftop terrace.
- Price: From $15 per night.
- Specialties: Friendly atmosphere, excellent location for sightseeing.
Mingtown Nanjing Road Youth Hostel
- Location: Close to Nanjing Road and People’s Square.
- Overview: Provides a variety of room types, including dorms and private rooms. Facilities include a bar, common area, and laundry services.
- Price: From $12 per night.
- Specialties: Central location, budget-friendly, social environment.
- Location: Near the Bund.
- Overview: Nautically themed hostel offering dormitory and private rooms. It has a rooftop bar with great views of the Bund and the skyline.
- Price: From $18 per night.
- Specialties: Unique decor, prime location, and vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for Hotels in Shanghai
- Book in Advance: Secure the best deals and preferred accommodations.
- Check Location: Choose accommodations based on proximity to attractions and transportation.
- Read Reviews: Look for recent reviews to get updated feedback.
- Consider Amenities: Ensure the hotel offers necessary amenities like Wi-Fi, breakfast, and fitness facilities.
- Be Aware of Local Holidays: Prices may increase during festivals and holidays, so plan accordingly.
- Language: English may not be widely spoken in budget hotels; learning basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful.

Helen Wang
Travel Advisor & Guide Expert
I started my travel career in 2005 and have since become an expert in Tibet and China’s travel destinations and helping travelers plan unforgettable trips.
For expert travel advice to China or Tibet, feel free to contact me.