Recommendations on where to stay in Shanghai

Question

Good morning. We are planning our first trip to China and looking to stay in Shanghai at the end of March for three days. Would appreciate any recommendations on where to stay. Many thanks.

Answer

Shanghai is a large, vibrant city with a variety of neighborhoods, each offering a different experience. For a first-time visitor staying three days, it is best to choose an area that is both convenient for sightseeing and safe. Here are some recommended areas to stay:

The Bund / Huangpu District: This is the most iconic area in Shanghai, famous for its waterfront views, colonial-era architecture, and proximity to major attractions like Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, and the historic Bund promenade. Staying here gives you a central location and easy access to river cruises and night views.
People’s Square / Nanjing Road: Central and bustling, this area offers a mix of shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions such as the Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Grand Theatre. It is ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city with easy metro connections.
French Concession / Xuhui District: Known for its tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and trendy cafés, the French Concession provides a quieter, charming neighborhood experience. It is perfect for those who enjoy boutique hotels, local dining, and exploring art galleries and parks.
Lujiazui / Pudong: This is Shanghai’s financial district, famous for modern skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. It is ideal if you want to experience the futuristic skyline, luxury hotels, and high-end shopping. It’s slightly less central for walking to historic sites, but the metro makes access easy.

When choosing accommodation, consider the following:

Proximity to a metro station – Shanghai has an extensive metro system, and staying near a line will make sightseeing much easier.
Hotel type – Shanghai offers a range from international chains to boutique hotels and serviced apartments. Decide if you prefer a modern, luxury stay or a smaller, characterful boutique option.
Budget – Prices can vary significantly depending on location and type of accommodation. The Bund and Lujiazui tend to be more expensive, while French Concession and People’s Square offer mid-range options.

For a three-day itinerary, staying in either the Bund/Huangpu area or the French Concession is often ideal, as it balances sightseeing convenience with local charm. You can easily reach major attractions like Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, the Bund, and museums without spending excessive time on transportation.

In summary, your choice depends on whether you prefer iconic city views and central convenience (Bund, People’s Square) or a more relaxed, stylish neighborhood experience (French Concession). Pudong is a great option if modern architecture and luxury hotels are a priority.

Recommendations on where to stay in Shanghai

More Shanghai Region Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions