Where to Stay in Shanghai: Best Areas & Hotels

Some cities take a while to reveal their charm—but Shanghai? It grabs you the moment you arrive. 🌆 From the neon-lit skyline of Pudong to the old-world allure of the French Concession, every corner offers a different slice of the city’s soul. As someone from Malaysia who’s explored Shanghai more than once, I’ve learned that choosing where to stay in Shanghai isn’t just about location—it’s about shaping your entire experience. 🧳

Each neighborhood has its own vibe: some are made for first-timers, some for late-night wanderers 🍜, and others for those who love culture and calm 🎨. Picking the right area can save you hours on transport and make your trip far more enjoyable.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods in Shanghai for tourists, with tips on what to expect, who it’s best for, and what makes each spot worth considering. 🗺️

The Bund Area: Where Old Shanghai Meets the Future

The first time I stood at The Bund just after sunset, I finally understood Shanghai’s magic—🌇 colonial-era facades glowing under amber lights, facing off against the futuristic skyline of Pudong 🌃 across the river. This is Shanghai’s postcard view, but staying here isn’t just about snapping photos—it’s about being in the city’s historic heart where every corner whispers a story. 🏛️✨

👤 Who Should Stay in The Bund Area?

✔ First-time visitors – You’re right in the center of it all: history, views, and major attractions are walkable. 👟📸
✔ Luxury travelers – This is where you’ll find some of the most iconic 5-star hotels in Shanghai. 🏨🌟
✔ Couples on a city getaway – Romantic riverside walks 💕, fine dining 🍷, and unforgettable views.
✔ Photography lovers – Early mornings and blue-hour evenings are visual gold here. 📷🌅
❌ Budget travelers – Prices tend to be high; head to Zhongshan Park or Changning if you’re watching your wallet. 💸
❌ Nightlife seekers – Nightclubs are limited here. For late-night energy, check out Xintiandi or Jing’an instead. 🎶🍸

🏨 Best Hotels in The Bund

💎 Luxury: The Peninsula Shanghai – Easily one of the best hotels in Shanghai, with unbeatable Bund views and colonial charm.
🎷 Luxury: Fairmont Peace Hotel – Historic art deco legend where jazz still plays and service is top-notch.
🌿 Mid-Range: Les Suites Orient – Boutique vibes with floor-to-ceiling river views at a friendlier price point.
🎒 Budget: Captain Hostel – Not many budget options here, but this one offers a rooftop bar and basic dorms right by the river.

🎯 What to Do in The Bund

Here are some of the best things to do in The Bund—whether it’s your first trip or your fifth:

• 🏞️ The Bund Promenade – Walk along the Huangpu River for iconic skyline views.
• 🚢 Huangpu River Cruise – A must for first-timers—especially the evening light show!
• 🖼️ Rockbund Art Museum – Hidden gem for modern art lovers.
• 🛍️ Nanjing East Road – Famous pedestrian shopping street just steps away.
• 🧱 Bund Finance Center & Fosun Foundation – Contemporary art + architecture mashup.

🍽️ Food & Dining in The Bund

This area isn’t street food central—but it’s a paradise for fine dining and rooftop cocktails. 🍸🍽️

• 🥂 Mr & Mrs Bund – French cuisine with panoramic river views.
• 🥢 Hakkasan Shanghai – Modern Cantonese in a chic setting.
• 🍰 Peninsula Afternoon Tea – Iconic and indulgent.
  If you’re craving local eats, take a short metro or Didi to Yuyuan Garden for xiao long bao, stir-fried noodles, and more. 🥟🍜

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Station: East Nanjing Road (Lines 2 & 10) – 5–10 minutes’ walk from most hotels.
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~45–60 mins by taxi (approx. ¥180–220)
🗺️ Well-connected to areas like People’s Square, Xintiandi, and Lujiazui.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in The Bund

✅ Stunning skyline views & rich history all in one place 🏙️📜
✅ Close to major landmarks & upscale experiences ✨
✅ Perfect for couples and luxury stays 💑
❌ Can be pricey for budget travelers 💸
❌ Gets crowded on weekends/holidays 🧍‍♂️🧍‍♀️

🥂 Xintiandi Area: Where Shanghai’s History Meets High-End Lifestyle

Xintiandi is where I go when I want to feel fancy without trying too hard. 💼🍸 Once a traditional Shikumen (stone-gated) neighborhood, it’s now one of the city’s most polished districts—revamped into a pedestrian-only zone with stylish boutiques, fine dining, and restored heritage lanes. Think cobblestone walkways, wine bars, and that quietly expensive atmosphere. It’s where old Shanghai architecture gets a sleek, modern twist.

👤 Who Should Stay in Xintiandi?

✔ Business travelers – Minutes from the CBD, plus great restaurants to entertain clients. 🏢🍷
✔ Luxury lovers – Boutique hotels, designer brands, and upscale everything. 💎🛍️
✔ Couples – Romantic, walkable, and perfect for classy nights out. 👫🌙
✔ History buffs – Close to the Site of the First National Congress of the CCP, housed in a preserved Shikumen house.
❌ Backpackers or budget travelers – This area leans upscale. 🤑
❌ Families with young kids – Limited parks or kid-friendly activities compared to other districts.

🏨 Best Hotels in Xintiandi

💎 Luxury: The Langham Shanghai, Xintiandi – Location is unbeatable, with elegant rooms and top-tier service.
🌆 Luxury: Andaz Xintiandi – Chic, artsy, and right in the heart of the action with skyline views.
🎯 Mid-Range: Fraser Residence Shanghai – Stylish serviced apartments ideal for longer stays or small families.
🛌 Boutique: Lanson Place – Quiet, modern, and super walkable—perfect for business or couples.

🎯 What to Do in Xintiandi

Looking for the best things to do in Xintiandi? Here’s what not to miss:

• 🏛️ Site of the First CCP Congress – Surprisingly engaging museum in a historic house.
• 🥂 Xintiandi Plaza – Designer brands, rooftop bars, and cafés.
• 📸 Stroll the Shikumen alleys – Perfect mix of photo ops and boutique browsing.
• 🎶 Live jazz & music lounges – Small but classy nightlife scene for a chill night out.
• 🧘‍♀️ Luxury spas and wellness studios – Great for a recharge between sightseeing.

🍽️ Food & Dining in Xintiandi

Food in Xintiandi is high-end, global, and seriously good. 🍷🍽️

• 🍕 Va Bene – Rustic Italian in a gorgeous restored building.
• 🥢 Din Tai Fung (Xintiandi branch) – You can’t go wrong with dumplings here.
• 🍣 Shintori Null II – Japanese fine dining hidden behind a dramatic sliding door.
• 🥂 Element Fresh – Brunch spot with healthy Western dishes and strong coffee.

Prices are a little steeper here, but the atmosphere and service usually match up. If you're after street food or hawker-style eats, check out Yuyuan Garden or People’s Square instead.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Station: South Huangpi Road (Line 1) – just steps from the main plaza.
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~50 mins by taxi (approx. ¥180–¥200)
📍 Also walkable to People's Square, Huaihai Road shopping, and even The Bund with a scenic 20–30 min stroll.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Xintiandi

✅ Sleek, safe, and upscale 🧼🌟
✅ Great location for business and shopping 👜💼
✅ Pedestrian-friendly with stylish hotels 🚶‍♂️🏨
❌ Not budget-friendly 💸
❌ Not much local street life or family activity 👶🛝

🧘‍♂️ Jing’an: Modern, Stylish & Surprisingly Chill

You know that one part of a city where locals, expats, and savvy travelers all seem to live? In Shanghai, that’s Jing’an. ✨📍 It blends glossy shopping malls, leafy streets, and peaceful temples into one effortlessly cool district. I’ve stayed here more times than I can count—there’s always something new to discover, yet it never feels overwhelming. It's the kind of place where you can sip espresso in the morning and eat hand-pulled noodles at night—all on the same street. ☕🍜

👤 Who Should Stay in Jing’an?

✔ First-time travelers – It’s central, safe, and easy to navigate. Great for sightseeing without the chaos. 🗺️
✔ Digital nomads & longer stays – Chill cafés, co-working spots, and a neighborhood feel. 💻
✔ Shopaholics – Nanjing West Road is a dream for luxury and high-street fashion. 🛍️
✔ Wellness-focused travelers – Tons of gyms, yoga studios, and juice bars. 🍃🧃
❌ Party animals – Nightlife here is more lounges than loud clubs. Head to Xintiandi or Found 158 if that’s your scene.
❌ Families with toddlers – Not many playgrounds or kid-specific activities in the area.

🏨 Best Hotels in Jing’an

💎 Luxury: The Puli Hotel & Spa – Urban zen at its finest—peaceful, luxurious, and right near Jing’an Temple.
🌆 Luxury: Jing An Shangri-La – Located inside the swanky Kerry Centre, it’s sleek and ideal for business or high-end leisure.
🧳 Mid-Range: URBN Boutique Hotel – Eco-conscious, minimalist, and just steps from great food.
💸 Budget: Campanile Shanghai Jing’an – Clean, modern, and well-located—great value for central Shanghai.

🎯 What to Do in Jing’an

Here’s what I recommend when friends ask for the best things to do in Jing’an:

• 🛕 Jing’an Temple – Golden, dramatic, and set against modern skyscrapers—only in Shanghai.
• 👣 Stroll Wuding Road – Coffee, cocktails, and low-key nightlife all on one strip.
• 🎨 Shanghai Natural History Museum – Surprisingly engaging and beautifully designed.
• 🧘‍♀️ Wellness Studios – Yoga, barre, and boutique fitness options all over the area.
• 🛍️ Kerry Centre & Reel Mall – For designer shopping and upscale dining.

🍜 Food & Dining in Jing’an

Food in Jing’an is where East meets West—and both win.

• 🥟 Yang’s Dumplings – Famous for crispy-bottom shengjian bao.
• 🥩 Highline – Rooftop spot with Western brunch and skyline views.
• 🌮 Tacolicious – Solid tacos and margaritas with a casual vibe.
• ☕ Seesaw Coffee – Local specialty coffee chain with beautiful interiors and fast Wi-Fi.

There’s also a ton of Korean, Japanese, and vegetarian food tucked into small side streets—just wander and discover.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: Jing’an Temple Station (Lines 2 & 7), Changping Road (Line 7)
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~50–60 mins by taxi (approx. ¥180–200)
🛴 Incredibly walkable + easy access to The Bund, People’s Square, and French Concession by metro or short ride.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Jing’an

✅ Trendy but not touristy 🕶️
✅ Walkable, well-connected, and full of hidden gems 🚶‍♀️✨
✅ Balance of comfort, food, and wellness 🧘‍♂️🍱
❌ Nightlife is more mellow than wild 🍷
❌ Not ideal for families with small kids 🧸

🏙️ Lujiazui: Shanghai’s Skyscraper Playground

Every time I stay in Lujiazui, I feel like I’ve stepped into a sci-fi movie. 🚀 This is where Shanghai shows off—a skyline packed with iconic towers like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower, all glowing over the Huangpu River. It’s sleek, high-powered, and perfect if you want a taste of the city’s ambitious modern energy. Whether you're here for business or views, Lujiazui is where future meets function.

👤 Who Should Stay in Lujiazui?

✔ Business travelers – You’re in the heart of Shanghai’s financial district. 🧑‍💼📈
✔ Skyline chasers & photographers – The view is insane, day or night. 📷🌃
✔ Luxury travelers – Top-tier hotels, rooftop bars, and designer malls. 💎🥂
✔ Families – Surprising kid-friendly spots like Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and riverside parks. 🐠👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
❌ Backpackers & budget travelers – This area is not wallet-friendly. 💸
❌ Culture seekers – Lujiazui is about steel and glass, not temples and teahouses.

🏨 Best Hotels in Lujiazui

💎 Luxury: Park Hyatt Shanghai – Stay above the clouds—literally. Located in the Shanghai World Financial Center.
🏙️ Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Pudong – Art deco meets modern opulence with breathtaking Bund views.
🌆 Mid-Range: Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai – Reliable comfort and great location near the river.
💸 Budget: Not many! Consider staying across the river in People’s Square or Changning if you’re watching your budget.

🎯 What to Do in Lujiazui

There’s more than just business here—some of the top attractions in Lujiazui include:

• 🗼 Oriental Pearl Tower – Go up for 360° city views and a glass-bottom skywalk.
• 🏢 Shanghai Tower – China’s tallest building with the world’s fastest elevators.
• 🐟 Shanghai Ocean Aquarium – One of Asia’s best, especially for kids.
• 🌉 Binjiang Riverside Promenade – Great for evening walks and Bund-facing photos.
• 🖼️ Aurora Museum – A small but classy stop for jade, pottery, and Chinese art lovers.

🍽️ Food & Dining in Lujiazui

Dining in Lujiazui is polished and international. Think steak, sushi, and skyline views.

• 🥩 CHAR Bar & Grill – Famous for premium cuts and rooftop drinks with Bund views.
• 🍣 Sen Ryo – Elegant sushi spot with set lunches that won’t wreck your wallet.
• 🥟 Din Tai Fung (Super Brand Mall) – Consistent dumplings and quick service.
• ☕ % Arabica – Trendy coffee chain with a riverside outpost perfect for a quiet breather.

Pro tip: For more variety and local eats, hop over the river to Yuyuan Garden or People’s Square.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: Lujiazui Station (Line 2), Dongchang Road (Line 2)
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~45 mins by taxi (approx. ¥170–¥200) or ride the Maglev train + Metro combo 🚄
🛳️ You can even take a short ferry across the river to The Bund for just ¥2—a fun, local trick!

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Lujiazui

✅ World-famous skyline views & iconic landmarks 🗼🏙️
✅ Excellent for business, families, and high-end travelers 👔👨‍👩‍👧
✅ Effortlessly modern with luxury everywhere ✨
❌ Limited cultural or street-level charm 🧱
❌ Pricey and feels more commercial than cozy 💳

🏮 Yuyuan Garden & Old City: Step Into Old Shanghai

Winding alleyways, Ming-style architecture, incense wafting from centuries-old temples—Yuyuan Garden and the Old City is where Shanghai slows down and shows you its roots. 🏯✨ I always recommend this area to friends who want to feel immersed in classic Chinese culture. Whether it’s sipping jasmine tea in a teahouse or bargaining at a street market, this is Old Shanghai in its most vivid form.

👤 Who Should Stay in Yuyuan Garden / Old City?

✔ Culture & history lovers – Temples, gardens, and old-world architecture all within walking distance. 📚🎎
✔ Foodies – This area is street food heaven. Think dumplings, noodles, and local snacks on every corner. 🍜🥟
✔ Budget travelers – More affordable than The Bund or Xintiandi, with solid guesthouse options. 💸
✔ Short-stay tourists – It’s compact and close to many top landmarks.
❌ Luxury travelers – Limited upscale hotels here. For luxury + culture, try the French Concession.
❌ Late-night partygoers – Quiet at night. Head to Jing’an or Xintiandi for nightlife.

🏨 Best Hotels in Yuyuan Garden / Old City

🛏️ Boutique: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund – Comfortable, central, and walkable to the garden and Bund.
💸 Budget: Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel – Laid-back vibe with local charm and helpful staff.
🕌 Mid-Range: Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel – Clean, modern rooms at fair prices—great for couples or solo travelers.
🚶‍♂️ Local Guesthouses – Plenty of traditional stays in the alleyways if you want an immersive experience (but book early).

🎯 What to Do in Yuyuan Garden / Old City

Here are the best things to do near Yuyuan Garden that I always return to:

• 🪴 Yuyuan Garden – Classical Chinese garden with koi ponds, pavilions, and centuries of history.
• 🍵 Huxinting Teahouse – Sit in this iconic teahouse on the lake and sip like a Qing-era scholar.
• 🛍️ Old Street (Fangbang Road) – Souvenirs, snacks, silk scarves, and old-school charm.
• 🙏 City God Temple – Active Taoist temple where locals come to pray and light incense.
• 🏺 Yuyuan Bazaar – Yes, it’s touristy—but also lively, photogenic, and full of snack vendors.

🍜 Food & Dining in Yuyuan Garden / Old City

This area is legendary for street eats—I never leave without grabbing:

• 🥟 Xiao Long Bao at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant – Juicy, historic, and usually worth the queue.
• 🍡 Tanghulu (candied hawthorn) – Classic Chinese snack on a stick.
• 🍜 Hand-pulled noodles from local stalls – Warm, comforting, and just a few yuan.
• 🥚 Tea eggs & tofu snacks – Grab a few to nibble while exploring.

For sit-down meals, try Lu Bo Lang—old-school decor, solid Shanghainese menu, and great views if you score a window seat.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Station: Yuyuan Garden (Line 10) – just a few minutes’ walk to all the action.
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~50–60 mins by taxi (approx. ¥160–¥200)
🚶‍♂️ Walkable to The Bund and a 10-minute ride to People’s Square or Xintiandi.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Yuyuan Garden / Old City

✅ Rich in culture, history, and traditional charm 🏯📜
✅ Tons of local food and cheap eats 🍢🍲
✅ Walkable to The Bund and other top sights 🚶‍♀️
❌ Can be crowded with tour groups during the day 🧍‍♂️🧍‍♀️
❌ Limited nightlife and few luxury hotel options 💤

🌳 Changning & Zhongshan Park: Comfort, Convenience, and Local Vibes

When I need a break from the tourist crowds and want to live more like a local, I head to Changning, especially around Zhongshan Park. 🏞️ This neighborhood offers a slower pace, leafy streets, and plenty of everyday Shanghai life—without sacrificing convenience. It’s where expats settle in, digital nomads find their groove, and budget-conscious travelers score surprisingly great deals. Plus, with a major mall, great food, and direct metro access, it’s one of the best-value areas to stay in Shanghai.

👤 Who Should Stay in Changning / Zhongshan Park?

✔ Budget travelers – Hotels and food here cost noticeably less than central districts. 💰
✔ Digital nomads & long-term stays – Peaceful, spacious, and full of co-working cafés. 💻☕
✔ Families – Quiet parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly malls nearby. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
✔ Local culture seekers – Less touristy, more authentic—perfect for slow travelers. 🚶‍♂️
❌ First-time visitors wanting iconic landmarks – You’ll need to ride the metro to hit major sights.
❌ Luxury travelers – High-end hotel options are limited compared to Pudong or Jing’an.

🏨 Best Hotels in Changning / Zhongshan Park

💰 Budget: Hanting Express Zhongshan Park – Reliable, clean, and close to transport.
🌿 Mid-Range: Pentahotel Shanghai – Stylish, fun, and right next to Zhongshan Park MRT.
🏨 Mid-Range: Metropark Service Apartment – Great for long stays or families—spacious rooms and a kitchen.
💻 Business-friendly: Mercure Shanghai Royalton – Affordable comfort with easy metro access.

🎯 What to Do in Changning / Zhongshan Park

This area isn’t about flashy attractions—it’s about relaxed local experiences. Still, here are some great things to do near Zhongshan Park:

• 🌳 Zhongshan Park – Peaceful green space with locals dancing, playing chess, or walking their dogs.
• 🛍️ Cloud Nine Shopping Mall – Giant mall with shops, a cinema, and an indoor playground.
• 📚 Hongqiao Library – Hidden gem for book lovers, peaceful and full of charm.
• 🧘‍♂️ Yoga and Wellness Studios – Lots of options for staying balanced while you travel.

Want more excitement? The Bund, Jing’an, and Xintiandi are just 20–30 minutes away by metro.

🍜 Food & Dining in Changning / Zhongshan Park

Food here is affordable, local, and diverse—and not overrun by chains or tourists.

• 🍜 Lanzhou Lamian shops – Hand-pulled beef noodles are everywhere, and always comforting.
• 🥟 Local dumpling stalls – Try fried or steamed versions for under ¥10.
• 🍛 Xibei Youmian Village – Northwestern Chinese cuisine with unique flavors.
• ☕ Little Bean Café – Cozy coffee shop popular with students and remote workers.

It’s not a food district per se, but that’s what makes the discoveries feel more rewarding.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: Zhongshan Park (Lines 2, 3, 4), Loushanguan Road (Line 2)
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~60–70 mins by taxi (approx. ¥180), or take the Maglev + Metro Line 2
🛣️ Easy metro access to key areas like Jing’an, People’s Square, and Lujiazui.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Changning / Zhongshan Park

✅ Affordable hotels & food, great for longer stays 🏨🍱
✅ Peaceful and local, away from tourist crowds 🌿
✅ Well-connected by metro, including Line 2 (main tourist line) 🚇
❌ Not close to Shanghai’s major sights or nightlife ⛔
❌ Fewer luxury or high-end options 👜

🏮 Qibao Ancient Town: Mini Water Town Full of Old-World Charm

Tucked away in Shanghai’s southwest, Qibao Ancient Town feels like a time capsule—think stone bridges, willow-lined canals, and traditional houses with curved rooftops. 🐉🪷 It’s the most accessible water town from central Shanghai, and while it can get busy on weekends, I’ve always found it a rewarding detour. Whether you're snacking on street food by the river or exploring quirky little museums, Qibao is a great pick for culture, calm, and Instagram-worthy views.

👤 Who Should Stay in Qibao Ancient Town?

✔ Families & casual explorers – It's relaxed, safe, and full of family-friendly sights. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
✔ Photographers & slow travelers – The architecture and canals are picture-perfect, especially at golden hour. 📷🌅
✔ Culture lovers – You get old-town vibes without leaving the metro zone. 🎎
✔ Day-trippers – Even if you don’t stay here, it’s an easy half-day trip from the city.
❌ Nightlife lovers – There’s little to do after dark here. 😴
❌ Travelers focused on business or modern attractions – This isn’t the place for skyscrapers or malls.

🏨 Best Hotels in Qibao Ancient Town

🏡 Boutique: Junlai Hotel Shanghai Qibao – Just outside the old town, peaceful with traditional decor touches.
🛏️ Budget: Hanting Hotel Qibao Branch – Reliable chain with basic comforts, ideal for short stays.
🧳 Mid-Range: Vienna International Hotel (Qibao) – Clean, comfortable, and a quick walk to the old town entrance.
💸 Guesthouses & Homestays – Inside Qibao, you’ll find cozy guesthouses with local character—book early!

🎯 What to Do in Qibao Ancient Town

Here’s what I always recommend when people ask about things to do in Qibao:

• 🛶 Walk the Canal Bridges – Classic views of boats, stone paths, and lantern-lit alleys.
• 🏛️ Qibao Shadow Puppet Museum – Small, quirky, and full of cultural charm.
• 🕯️ Cricket House – Yes, it’s a real thing—crickets were once prized pets here!
• 🍢 Sample the snack street – It’s like a mini food festival every day.
• 🖼️ Take photos at dusk – The old architecture glows beautifully at sunset.

🍜 Food & Dining in Qibao

If you love street food, this is your zone. Just follow your nose down the main alley and snack your way through:

• 🐙 Grilled octopus skewers – Spicy, smoky, and surprisingly addictive.
• 🥚 Tea eggs & tofu pudding – Local staples with rich flavors.
• 🍡 Tanghulu (candied fruit) – Sweet, crunchy, and fun to eat on the go.
• 🐸 Fried frog legs or stinky tofu – For the brave! 😂
  For sit-down meals, try Qibao Renjia Restaurant for local favorites in a traditional setting.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Station: Qibao Station (Line 9) – ~10 mins’ walk to the old town entrance.
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~60 mins by taxi (approx. ¥160–180)
🚌 From city center: ~30–40 mins by metro from Jing’an or People’s Square.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Qibao Ancient Town

✅ Great for cultural immersion & photo walks 🏮📸
✅ Unique charm without leaving Shanghai 🌉
✅ Affordable, quiet, and family-friendly 👨‍👩‍👧
❌ Not convenient for daily city sightseeing 🧭
❌ Limited hotel and dining options after dark 🌙

🛍️ People’s Square & Nanjing Road: Central, Lively & Perfect for First-Timers

If you want to stay where everything happens, this is it. 🗺️✨ People’s Square is the true center of Shanghai—home to museums, historic buildings, and major transport links—while Nanjing Road is one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, stretching from the square to The Bund. I always tell first-time visitors: stay here and you’re never far from anything—plus the energy is contagious, day or night.

👤 Who Should Stay in People’s Square / Nanjing Road?

✔ First-time travelers – You’re walking distance from The Bund, museums, and shopping. 🧳📍
✔ Shoppers – Nanjing Road has everything from Zara to Louis Vuitton. 🛍️
✔ Short-stay tourists – You can cover so much with little travel time.
✔ Public transport users – Major metro lines intersect here. 🚇
❌ Peace-seekers – Crowds and noise are real—this is Shanghai in high gear. 🔊
❌ Luxury-focused travelers – The area is central but doesn’t have as many high-end hotels as Pudong or Jing’an.

🏨 Best Hotels in People’s Square / Nanjing Road

🧳 Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World – Famous for its UFO-shaped rooftop and unbeatable location.
🌆 Luxury: Marriott Marquis City Centre – Great service and walking distance to the Bund.
💸 Budget: Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel – Simple, clean, and very well located.
🏨 Value: Central Hotel Shanghai – Often overlooked, but solid comfort near Nanjing East Road.

🎯 What to Do in People’s Square / Nanjing Road

This area is loaded with top attractions and things to do:

• 🖼️ Shanghai Museum – World-class exhibits on Chinese art, jade, calligraphy, and more.
• 🎭 Shanghai Grand Theatre – Catch a ballet, opera, or local performance.
• 🌳 People’s Park – Chill with locals, or visit on Sunday to witness the quirky marriage market.
• 🚶‍♂️ Stroll Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street – Perfect for people-watching and shopping.
• 🛍️ Visit Raffles City or New World City Mall – Great food courts and retail therapy options.

🍽️ Food & Dining in the Area

There’s no shortage of food, but you’ll need to dig a little to avoid the tourist traps:

• 🥟 Jia Jia Tang Bao – One of the best places in town for soup dumplings.
• 🐓 Xiao Shaoxing Chicken – Old-school spot known for cold poached chicken with soy sauce.
• 🍰 Wagas & Baker & Spice – Great for coffee, brunch, and a break from street crowds.
• 🍽️ Hearty local options hidden in alleys—just follow where the locals queue.

For a more upscale experience, hop a few stops to Xintiandi or The Bund for fine dining.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: People’s Square (Lines 1, 2, 8), East Nanjing Road (Lines 2, 10)
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): 50 mins by taxi (¥180) or Maglev + Metro Line 2
🛤️ A major interchange hub—you can get nearly anywhere from here fast.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in People’s Square / Nanjing Road

✅ Extremely central—easy access to top attractions 📍
✅ Tons of shopping, transport, and food nearby 🛍️🍴
✅ Perfect for short visits and first-time travelers 🎒
❌ Crowded, noisy, and very touristy 🔊🧍‍♂️🧍‍♀️
❌ Hotel quality varies—read reviews carefully 🧐

🚄 Hongqiao: Transit Hub Meets Business Convenience

If your trip to Shanghai includes a quick layover, business meetings, or you’re traveling in or out via the Hongqiao Railway Station, then staying in Hongqiao just makes sense. 🧳🕒 While it doesn’t have the historical charm or nightlife of downtown, it makes up for it with efficiency, comfort, and great access to transport. I’ve stayed here before early morning trains—and it made catching the high-speed rail stress-free.

👤 Who Should Stay in Hongqiao?

✔ Business travelers – Close to convention centers, offices, and high-end business hotels. 💼
✔ Transit travelers – Perfect if you're using Hongqiao Airport or Railway Station. ✈️🚄
✔ Short-stay guests or families with late/early flights – Save time and sleep. 😴
✔ Exhibition goers – Near the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC).
❌ First-time tourists – You’ll spend more time on the metro getting to the action.
❌ Nightlife seekers or culture buffs – It’s practical, not poetic.

🏨 Best Hotels in Hongqiao

💼 Luxury: InterContinental Shanghai NECC – Steps from the exhibition center with top-tier amenities.
🛬 Luxury: Cordis Shanghai Hongqiao – Stylish, quiet, and just minutes from both airport and station.
🏨 Mid-Range: Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao – Great value with a business-friendly vibe.
💰 Budget: Hanting Express Hongqiao Railway Station – Walkable to the station and surprisingly comfy.

🎯 What to Do in Hongqiao

This area is not a sightseeing hub, but there are a few gems and essentials nearby:

• 🛍️ Hongqiao Tiandi – New shopping, dining, and office complex with clean, modern design.
• 🌳 Zhongshan Park Hongqiao – A peaceful break if you want a bit of green space.
• 🍱 Local malls – Places like L’Avenue and The Place have high-end shops and restaurants.
• 🧒 Kid-friendly play zones – Family-friendly shopping centers often include indoor playgrounds.

But let’s be honest: if you're here, you're probably not sightseeing—you're getting somewhere fast.

🍽️ Food & Dining in Hongqiao

Dining here leans toward business and expat-friendly spots:

• 🍝 Element Fresh (L’Avenue) – Reliable Western food and healthy options.
• 🍜 Local noodle joints – Tucked behind the main streets, cheap and satisfying.
• 🥢 Jin Xuan at Ritz-Carlton – If you want upscale Cantonese with no compromises.
• ☕ Starbucks Reserve & Blue Bottle – Scattered around, perfect for digital nomads on the move.

There’s no shortage of international or comfort food, but for street eats and atmosphere, head downtown.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: Hongqiao Railway Station (Lines 2, 10, 17), East Xujing (Line 2)
🚕 From Hongqiao Airport (SHA): 5–15 mins depending on terminal
✈️ From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~70 mins by taxi or ~80 mins via Metro Line 2
🚄 Direct trains to Suzhou, Hangzhou, Beijing, and beyond—right at your doorstep.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in Hongqiao

✅ Best area for airport/train convenience ✈️🚄
✅ Well-connected and modern 🏢
✅ Solid hotels for business & early flights 🛏️
❌ Not ideal for sightseeing or nightlife 📸
❌ Feels more corporate than cultural 🏙️

🌳 French Concession: Shanghai’s Leafy, Laid-Back Side

If there's one place in Shanghai that makes you feel like you've stumbled into a European film set, it’s the French Concession. With its tree-lined boulevards 🌿, art deco buildings, and streets filled with cafés ☕, boutiques 👗, and quiet charm, this area feels a world away from the city’s skyscraper-studded skyline. I’ve stayed here multiple times, and it’s where I go when I want to experience the slower, stylish side of Shanghai.

👤 Who Should Stay in the French Concession?

✔ Culture lovers & design geeks – Old villas, indie galleries, and local crafts are everywhere. 🎨🏡
✔ Couples – It's romantic, walkable, and perfect for slow mornings and wine at dusk. 🍷💑
✔ Foodies – From modern fusion to traditional Shanghainese, the food scene here is top-tier. 🍽️🥢
✔ Longer-stay travelers & digital nomads – There’s a neighborhood feel, with co-working cafés and walkable shops.
❌ First-timers who want to be near top tourist sites – It’s slightly removed from The Bund and Lujiazui.
❌ Business travelers on a tight schedule – Traffic can be slow and metro stations are more spaced out.

🏨 Best Hotels in the French Concession

💎 Luxury: InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin – Grand heritage hotel with massive gardens and old-world charm.
🏡 Mid-Range: The Puli Hotel and Spa (border area) – Ultra-stylish and tranquil, perfect for wellness lovers.
🎒 Budget: Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel – Cozy vibe with a courtyard café, walkable to nearby spots.
🛏️ Boutique: Hotel Massenet at Sinan Mansions – Quiet, exclusive villas that feel like a secret.

🎯 What to Do in the French Concession

Looking for the best things to do in the French Concession? This area is all about ambiance and hidden gems:

• 🌸 Fuxing Park – Watch locals doing tai chi, dancing, or playing cards under shady trees.
• 🛍️ Tianzifang – Artsy maze of alleys filled with galleries, craft shops, and street snacks.
• 🖼️ Propaganda Poster Art Centre – A tiny but fascinating look into China’s visual history.
• 🚶‍♀️ Wukang Road – Instagrammable street known for its architecture and photogenic cafés.
• 🍷 Sinan Mansions – Upscale lifestyle hub for wine bars, brunch, and boutique stores.

🍜 Food & Dining in the French Concession

This area is a foodie’s playground. Whether you’re into street snacks or slow dining, you’re in for a treat:

• 🥟 Jesse Restaurant – Authentic Shanghainese flavors in a no-frills local institution.
• 🍳 Egg – All-day brunch and avocado toast done right.
• 🍝 La Saleya – French bistro with a loyal expat following.
• 🍶 Sober Company – Award-winning cocktails meet creative Japanese-Asian fusion.

You can eat something different every day for a week—and still want to come back.

🚆 Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro Stations: Hengshan Road (Line 1), South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1, 10, 12), Dapuqiao (Line 9)
🚕 From Pudong Airport (PVG): ~50 mins by taxi (approx. ¥180)
🧭 Walkable for short stays, but bring comfy shoes—streets are beautiful but not built for speed.

📊 Pros & Cons of Staying in the French Concession

✅ Stylish, leafy streets with a relaxed vibe 🌳🕊️
✅ Top-notch dining, cafés, and boutique shopping ☕👗
✅ Great for romantic trips, creatives, and long stays
❌ Not super close to The Bund or major tourist hotspots 🧭
❌ Limited skyscraper views or luxury hotel chains 🏙️

Go to Shanghai Now!

Shanghai has a neighborhood for every type of traveler—whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of the Old City 🏯, the chic cafés of the French Concession ☕🌳, or the skyline views in Lujiazui 🏙️. Each area offers a different vibe, and choosing the right one can truly elevate your trip. ✨

Now that you know where to stay in Shanghai, it’s time to book that perfect hotel 🏨 and start planning your adventure! 🎒🗺️

✈️ Compare your flight to Shanghai, check out the latest travel promotions, and grab an eSIM for China 📱 to stay connected.
📅 Not sure when to go? Our guide on the best time to visit Shanghai 🧳 breaks it down.
📍Need more ideas? Dive into our full Shanghai travel guide for must-see spots, eats, and hidden gems! 🍜🛍️✨

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