Where To Stay In Shanghai: 5 Best Areas & Neighborhoods

Shanghai is a massive, electric city that never really seems to rest. With over twenty-four million people packed into one metropolis, picking the right neighborhood to set up camp can make or break your trip.

If you love history blended with cool coffee shops, the former French Concession is hard to beat. Decades ago, this area operated as a separate foreign territory, leaving behind quiet, tree-lined streets and French-style villa architecture that looks nothing like the rest of the city. Walking around here feels completely different from standing among the giant glass skyscrapers across the river. It’s easily one of the best places to wander aimlessly with a camera.

Then you have the Bund, where you get those classic postcard views of the city skyline lit up at night. Where you choose to stay really depends on whether you want historic neighborhood charm or front-row seats to China’s mega-futuristic side.

Here are the best areas to stay in Shanghai, plus what makes each one worth considering.

In this travel guide:

Former French Concession

Best area for: hipster, upscale, trendy

If you are looking for the coolest part of Shanghai for accommodation, then look no further than the Former French Concession.

Although the name may sound weird for a neighborhood, the area was, at one time, a French colonial part of Shanghai. In fact, it was a French colonial area up until 1943 as World War II raged in the Far East.

Former French Concession feels worlds away from the glass skyscrapers of Lujiazui. You get quiet side streets, historic villa architecture, and incredible cafe culture in one walkable district.

Massive London plane trees line almost every avenue. They create a lush canopy that keeps the sidewalks shaded all summer long. The neighborhood holds a great blend of old architecture and modern urban energy.

We like starting our walk at the Wukang Mansion, an iconic 1920s Art Deco building shaped like a ship hull. History buffs can check out the former residence of Sun Yat-sen on Xiangyang Road to see preserved vintage interiors. You can also catch locals practicing tai chi or playing mahjong inside Fuxing Park on quiet mornings.

When we need caffeine, we stop by Metal Hands on Nanyang Road or grab a seat at RAC Alley. Their coffee is top-tier, and they serve delicious savory galettes on a hidden courtyard patio. Later on, Tianzifang offers a maze of narrow lane houses packed with artisan shops, craft bars, and street food stalls.

Best place to stay in Former French Concession

Capella Jian Ye Li. Address: No480 West Jianguo Road, Xuhui, 200031 Shanghai, China.

Cheaper alternative:

Intercontinental Ruijin. Address: 118 Ruijin 2nd Road, Huangpu, 200020 Shanghai, China.

Xujiahui

Best area for: first-time visit, shopping

First-time visitors to Shanghai should opt for accommodation in Xujiahui. The neighborhood is centrally located, making it easy to reach other parts of Shanghai.

The city is well-serviced by the metro system. Staying in Xujiahui means you can reach the other must-visit parts of Shanghai quickly and easily thanks to the metro.

Old and new Shanghai sit almost on top of each other here. You can go from giant shopping malls and busy intersections to quiet historic buildings within a few blocks. It is also one of the city’s main shopping and entertainment areas, so there is plenty going on after dark.

The area has a surprisingly deep history. Its name comes from Xu Guangqi, a Ming Dynasty scholar and scientist who lived here about 400 years ago. He worked with Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci and helped introduce Western science and culture to China. That history still shows up around the neighborhood.

Our first stop would be Xujiahui Cathedral. The huge Gothic church was built between 1906 and 1910 and has striking red-brick walls and twin spires. It even appeared in the opening scenes of Empire of the Sun.

For something quieter, we can head to Guangqi Park and the Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall. The Shanghai Meteorological Museum is another fun stop. It occupies the former Xujiahui Observatory, one of the earliest observatories in China.

Then there is the Shanghai Film Museum, which digs into the city’s long connection with Chinese cinema. Afterward, we can grab coffee or food around Metro City and the Grand Gateway malls. Xujiahui is especially convenient for travelers too, thanks to its excellent metro connections.

Best place to stay in Xujiahui

Courtyard by Marriott Xujiahui. Address: 100 HongQiao Road, Xuhui, 200030 Shanghai, China.

Jing’an

Best area for: budget-friendly, hipster

Travelers on a budget or backpacking around Asia should base their Shanghai stay in Jing’an. Although it is considered a budget-friendly neighborhood, Jing’an has its own cool, hipster vibe.

While the Former French Concession is the coolest place to stay, its prices are not hip. Jing’an’s accommodation prices are a nice compromise for travelers wanting a cool area to stay but also needing to stay within their budget.

Jing’an captures the best energy of the city. You get historic temples, cutting-edge art spaces, and amazing dining options in one walkable area.

It sits right in the center of Puxi and blends ancient heritage with intense modern energy. The whole district surrounds the famous Jing’an Temple, a golden-roofed Buddhist complex originally founded back in the Three Kingdoms period. Stepping from its peaceful courtyards directly onto the neon-lit West Nanjing Road feels totally wild.

The neighborhood balances massive skyscrapers with leafy side streets lined with plane trees. You can spend hours checking out local highlights.

We like visiting the Shanghai Natural History Museum or browsing current exhibits at Fotografiska. If you want to explore old Shanghai architecture, head over to Zhang Yuan to see restored historic Shikumen alleyways filled with pop-up galleries and designer stores. You can also walk down Yuyuan Road to check out cool independent boutiques and Art Deco buildings.

The food scene spans everything from quick local bites to hip international dining. For lunch or a midday coffee, we recommend Bistro 11 on Fumin Road. They serve incredible specialty lattes, sourdough dishes, and solid brunch plates on a cozy, tree-shaded patio.

Best place to stay in Jing’an

Hotel Kevin’s Old House. Address: No.4, Lane946, Changle Rd, Jingán, 200040 Shanghai, China.

People’s Square

Best area for: history, culture, sightseeing

Travelers seeking a neighborhood that is close in proximity to Shanghai’s main tourist attracts should book accommodation in People’s Square.

People’s Square is about as central as it gets in Shanghai. The neighborhood sits between Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road, with metro lines 1, 2, and 8 running underneath. Getting around the city is ridiculously easy.

The square itself has an unusual past. It was once part of the Shanghai Race Club’s horse-racing grounds, a playground for Shanghai’s wealthy elite. After 1949, the racecourse was transformed into public space. Today, the huge square is surrounded by museums, government buildings, theaters, and busy shopping streets.

There’s plenty to do nearby. We’d start at the Shanghai Museum, then head to the Shanghai History Museum to get a better feel for the city’s past. The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is another fun stop. Its huge models and exhibits show how Shanghai has changed and where it’s heading.

For a break, we’d grab coffee and something small at Baker & Spice at K11. If you want something more local for breakfast, try Jia Jia Tang Bao for xiaolongbao. Yes, dumplings for breakfast. It works.

People’s Square can feel busy and a little overwhelming. But that’s part of its appeal. Step into People’s Park and things slow down. You’ll see locals dancing, practicing tai chi, and hanging out by the lake. On weekends, you might even stumble across Shanghai’s famous marriage market.

Best place to stay in People’s Square

Waldorf Astoria on The Bund. Address: 2 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu Qu, Shanghai Shi, China, 200333.

Pudong

Best area for: families, business, modern

Pudong gives you high-energy city vibes and sheer architectural scale. You get a front-row seat to modern China right along the waterfront.

Just a few decades ago, this entire area was mostly farmland and quiet marshland. Today, it stands as one of the most futuristic financial centers on the planet. The transformation happened at absolute lightning speed.

The skyline along the Huangpu River dominates the district. You will find iconic landmarks everywhere you look, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the massive Shanghai Tower. We like taking the elevator up the Shanghai Tower to get panoramic views from the observation deck.

For a mix of culture and science, check out the China Art Museum, housed in the huge red former Expo pavilion, or the interactive Shanghai Science and Technology Museum. If you want a cool thrill, take a ride on the Maglev train. It glides at high speeds straight toward the airport.

The food scene spans from quick street snacks inside ultra-modern shopping malls to elevated skyline dining. For lunch, grab a casual table at Sunya Canting in the IFC Mall. It serves delicious, crispy Cantonese roast duck and steaming dim sum, making it a reliable mid-day stop after exploring the towers.

Pudong is also the home of Disneyland Shanghai. It was the first Disneyland park on China’s mainland and the sixth park built by the company. There is nothing more magical for families than a trip to Disneyland.

There are more great family activities in Pudong, making it perfect for families on a trip to the city.

Best place to stay in Pudong

Mandarin Oriental Pudong. Address: 111 Pudong S Rd, Pudong Xinqu, Shanghai Shi, China, 200120.

Cheaper alternative:

Hotel Fraser Suites Top Glory. Address: No.6, Lane 600 Central Yincheng Road, Lujiazui, Pudong, 200120 Shanghai, China.

Where travel critics stay in Shanghai

Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Shanghai? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Shanghai.

Budget

Pentahotel.

“All 250 rooms at Pentahotel are fitted out in a minimalistic style with views over downtown residential buildings. The hotel is near three metro lines.” — CNN.

Address: 1525 Dingxi Rd, Zhong Shan Gong Yuan, Changning Qu, Shanghai Shi, China, 200333.

Mid-range

URBN Boutique Hotel.

“Within a former post office, China’s first carbon-neutral hotel not only incorporates recyclable materials and low-energy products where possible, it also calculates its complete carbon footprint – including staff commutes and delivery journeys – and offsets it by donating money to environmentally friendly projects.” — Lonely Planet.

Address: 183 Jiaozhou Rd, Jingan Qu, Shanghai Shi, China, 200333.

Luxury

Bulgari Hotel.

“Bulgari stands out for its ability to channel the city vibe without losing a sense of the brand’s Italian DNA. An immaculately choreographed tussle between Italian and Chinese design is enacted in marble and bronze versus silk and lacquer.” — CN Traveler.

Address: No.33 North Henan Road, Jingán, 200085 Shanghai, China.

FAQ: Shanghai hotel recommendations

If you’re looking for a budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Shanghai, or maybe your travel plans require a splendid hostel? Want to know which hotel serves the best breakfast? Here are all those answers and more about where to stay in Shanghai.

Best time to visit Shanghai

The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

In spring, Shanghai is adorned with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, the average range being 15 °C – 22 °C (59 °F – 74 °F). This period also witnesses fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, making it an ideal time to comfortably explore the city’s many attractions.

Autumn, on the other hand, presents a picturesque landscape with crimson leaves and clear skies. The temperature in autumn averages 15°C – 28°C (59 °F – 82 °F), presenting a pleasant environment for sightseeing. Visiting Shanghai during these periods also offers the opportunity to partake in various festivals.

In spring, one can witness the colorful spectacle of the Peach Blossom Festival, while autumn hosts the Shanghai Tourism Festival which sees a grand display of parades and performances.

It is advisable to avoid visiting Shanghai in summer (June to September) due to the city’s high temperatures and humidity level, as well as the possibility of typhoons.

Best things to do in Shanghai

There are numerous things to do in Shanghai and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Shanghai:

Half-Day Old Shanghai Small-Group Bike Tour

In a small group, this bike tour (maximum 5 guests) takes you on a historical and cultural journey through the history of one of China’s most famous cities. See the Cite Bourgogne and Zhou Enlai’s residence and learn about the restored Shanghai Old Street. Price: $57. More info.

Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai

Make your way down the famous Yunnan Road, stopping at several restaurants that are local favorites. Try typical Shanghainese dishes such as scallion oil noodles, steamed buns, parched chicken, and soup dumplings with black vinegar. Price: $72. More info.

Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining Experience

Get the most out of your Shanghai trip by experiencing the combination of a Huangpu River cruise and a Xinjiang food experience. Price: $138. More info.

More things to do in Shanghai

Deciding where to stay in Shanghai

In conclusion, this travel guide has covered the best areas and hotels in Shanghai and how to get around. Now it is up to you to decide which area suits your needs the most.

Top 5 areas to stay in Shanghai

• Pudong
• Jing’an
• People’s Square
• Xujiahui
• Former French Concession

As you have seen in this travel guide, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Shanghai is important. Whether you stay in Pudong, Jing’an, People’s Square, Xujiahui or Former French Concession, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.

The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Shanghai.

Shanghai overview

More Shanghai tips

See our other guides about the best places to stay in Shanghai:

Hotels in Shanghai

Hostels in Shanghai

Boutique hotels in Shanghai

Luxury hotels in Shanghai

Cheap hotels in Shanghai