Finding a great place to stay in Shanghai doesn't have to break the bank. You're looking for more than just a low price; you want a clean, comfortable base with easy access to the metro, delicious local food, and top shopping districts. We've sifted through countless options to bring you a curated list of the top cheap hotels in Shanghai that stand out for their value and positive guest experiences. Here are the standouts worth your nights.
Shanghai's Best Budget Hotels at a Glance
Hotel | Estimated Price | Best For | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
From S$55 | Business Travellers | Modern, Near Shopping Centres | |
From S$51 | Shoppers & Sightseers | Central, Excellent Transport Links | |
From S$30 | Budget Business Trips | Clean, Simple, Near Subway | |
From S$42 | Transit Travellers | Next To Railway Station | |
Shanghai Meihao Premium Journey Hotel（Shanghai International Tourism Resort Store)） | From S$35 | Disney Visitors | Spacious Rooms, Friendly Service |
From S$43 | Urban Explorers | Stylish, Great Value | |
From S$52 | Airport Layovers | Pudong Airport Shuttle | |
From S$28 | Quiet Stays | Elegant Design, Comfortable | |
Homeinn Plus Hotel (Shanghai Lujiazui Mall Road Subway Station) | From S$53 | Modern Commuters | Near Lujiazui, Metro Access |
From S$54 | Relaxation Seekers | On-Site Hot Springs |
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1. JI Hotel (Shanghai Dahua Hucheng)
JI Hotel offers a reliable and modern stay at an affordable price point. The hotel is known for its clean, well-equipped rooms and business-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable base for work or leisure. Its location provides convenient access to local shopping centres, allowing you to easily explore the neighbourhood's offerings.
- ✨ Why we recommend: This hotel strikes a great balance between cost, comfort, and convenience, with modern facilities that cater to both business travellers and tourists.
- 👥 Best for: Business travellers, shoppers.
- 📍 Location: No.308 Dahua 2nd Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, 201900, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Zhenru Temple | historic Buddhist temple offering a peaceful escape. |
Shanghai Circus World | Home to spectacular acrobatic shows and world-class performances. |
Shanghai Chang Feng Ocean World | An aquarium and marine life park perfect for a family-friendly outing. |
2. Tianhua Hotel Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road Walkway
Perfectly positioned for urban explorers, Tianhua Hotel places you right in the heart of Shanghai's action. Its prime location near major shopping arteries like Nanjing Road and excellent public transport links make it incredibly easy to navigate the city. The rooms are comfortable and provide a welcome retreat after a busy day of sightseeing and shopping.
- ✨ Why we recommend: You can't beat the central location for this price. It's ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to everything.
- 👥 Best for: Shoppers, sightseers, first-time visitors.
- 📍 Location: No.159 Huanghe Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Madame Tussauds Shanghai | Get up close with incredibly lifelike wax figures of global and local celebrities. |
People's Park | A central green space where you can observe local life. |
Shanghai Van Gogh Star Sky Art Museum | Immersive art experience that brings Van Gogh's masterpieces to life. |
3. Ruiyixu Business Hotel
Ruiyixu Business Hotel is a no-frills, budget-friendly option that prioritises cleanliness and convenience. The rooms are simple but well-maintained, offering a comfortable place to rest. Its proximity to subway stations to spend most of time exploring different parts of Shanghai.
- ✨ Why we recommend: It delivers exceptional value for money, focusing on the essentials for a comfortable and practical stay.
- 👥 Best for: Budget business travellers, backpackers.
- 📍 Location: 2nd Floor, No. 533 Hutai Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
SUZHOU CREEK TOURISM | Enjoy a scenic walk or boat tour along this historic waterway. |
M50 Creative Park | A hub for contemporary Chinese art, featuring galleries and artist studios in a former factory complex. |
Shanghai Jade Buddha Temple | Buddhist temple, home to two precious jade Buddha statues. |
4. Xiting Hotel (Shanghai Jing'an Railway Station Branch)
Designed for convenience, Xiting Hotel is an excellent choice for those travelling by train. Located right near the Jing'an Railway Station, it's perfect for transit travellers or those planning day trips from Shanghai. The rooms are clean and provide all the necessary comforts for a short and efficient stay.
- ✨ Why we recommend: The strategic location next to the railway station saves you time and hassle, especially if you have an early train to catch.
- 👥 Best for: Transit travellers, backpackers.
- 📍 Location: Building 24, Handian Yilingbaba Commune, No. 1088 Chang'an Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Black Museum | Unique museum experience offering intriguing and unconventional exhibits. |
Hudiewan Park | Local park perfect for a relaxing stroll and a glimpse into neighbourhood life. |
FANCL Art Center | Art space showcasing works from emerging artists. |
5. Shanghai Meihao Premium Journey Hotel（Shanghai International Tourism Resort Store)
This hotel is a fantastic budget-friendly option for visitors heading to Shanghai's major tourist attractions, especially Disneyland. The rooms are surprisingly spacious for the price, and the friendly service adds to the welcoming atmosphere. It's a great choice for families or couples planning a longer stay to fully explore the resort area.
- ✨ Why we recommend: It offers great value and space near Shanghai's top theme park, making it a smart choice for a fun-filled holiday.
- 👥 Best for: Disney visitors, families, longer stays.
- 📍 Location: No. 109, 1st Floor, Building 4, No. 266 Jielong Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Chuansha Park | A charming local park with beautiful scenery and recreational facilities. |
Chuansha Ancient Town | Explore traditional architecture, local shops, and authentic street food. |
Shanghai Disneyland | The theme park for magical family adventures and thrilling rides. |
6. Yitel Collection (Shanghai train station)
Yitel Collection combines stylish interiors with excellent value. Its location within walking distance of the train station is a major plus for exploring Shanghai and beyond. The hotel provides a comfortable and chic base without the premium price tag.
- ✨ Why we recommend: It proves that budget hotels can be comfortable, offering a boutique feel for less.
- 👥 Best for: Urban explorers, design-conscious travellers.
- 📍 Location: No.511 Tianmu West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Shanghai Natural History Museum | Impressive dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits. |
Shanghai Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial | A historic site and museum commemorating a pivotal battle in Shanghai's history. |
Jingan Temple | Buddhist temple with a golden roof, located amidst skyscrapers. |
7. Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport Store)
Ideal for travellers with early flights or long layovers, this hotel offers modern comfort close to Pudong Airport. The convenient shuttle service takes the stress out of airport transfers. While perfect for short stays, its clean design and essential amenities ensure a restful experience before or after your flight.
- ✨ Why we recommend: Its proximity to the airport and included shuttle service provide unbeatable convenience for air travellers.
- 👥 Best for: Airport layovers, early-morning flights.
- 📍 Location: No.462 Ganghong Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201202, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Jiangzhenshimin Square Park | A local green space to relax and stretch your legs between flights. |
Shanghai Pudong Linyin Art Museum | local museum showcasing traditional Chinese art. |
Shanghai Museum of Popular Geological Science | Educational museum with exhibits on geology and natural history. |
8. Qilai Light Luxury Hotel
Qilai Light Luxury Hotel offers an experience that feels more premium than its price tag suggests. With an elegant design, spacious rooms, and a quiet atmosphere, it's a peaceful haven away from the city's hustle. The excellent service ensures a comfortable and relaxing stay.
- ✨ Why we recommend: It provides a touch of luxury and tranquility at a budget-friendly price, offering exceptional value.
- 👥 Best for: Quiet stays, couples, discerning budget travellers.
- 📍 Location: No.1169 Wuzhong Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Hanguo Street | Also known as "Korea Street," it's famous for its authentic Korean restaurants and shops. |
Shanghai Metro Museum | Discover the history and technology behind one of the world's largest metro systems. |
Shanghai Zoo | Home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas and South China tigers. |
9. Homeinn Plus Hotel (Shanghai Lujiazui Mall Road Subway Station)
This hotel is perfectly situated for those who want to be near the futuristic Lujiazui financial district without the high costs. Its location near a major mall and subway station provides excellent connectivity and convenience. The rooms are modern and equipped with all the necessary amenities.
- ✨ Why we recommend: It offers a prime location for exploring Pudong's iconic skyline and shopping malls at a fraction of the price of nearby luxury hotels.
- 👥 Best for: Modern commuters, business travellers, shoppers.
- 📍 Location: 5F, No.579 Zhangyang Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Century Avenue Cherry Orchard | A beautiful spot for a stroll, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring. |
Shanghai Tower | China's tallest building, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from its observation deck. |
Jin Mao Tower | Another iconic skyscraper with an impressive observation deck and unique architecture. |
10. Gokurakuyu Hot Spring Hotel Shanghai Chuansha
A unique find among budget hotels, this property features on-site hot springs, offering a perfect way to relax after a long day of sightseeing. The wellness-oriented services and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal choice for travellers looking to rejuvenate. It's especially convenient for those visiting nearby attractions like Disneyland.
- ✨ Why we recommend: The on-site hot springs provide a resort-like experience at an affordable price, offering a unique way to unwind.
- 👥 Best for: Relaxation seekers, wellness travellers.
- 📍 Location: .No.2 Lane 7076, Chuanzhou Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Attraction | Why Go |
|---|---|
Chuansha Park | A lovely local park for a peaceful walk before or after your hot spring soak. |
Shanghai Disneyland | Unwind in the hot springs after a thrilling day at the nearby theme park. |
Your Smart Shanghai Trip Starts Here
Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference, and saving on your hotel means more to spend on Shanghai's incredible food, shopping, and attractions. We believe that travelling on a budget shouldn't mean compromising on comfort or a great location. This list of Shanghai cheap hotels proves you can have a fantastic, well-located base to explore this dynamic city without overspending.
A few top picks from our list:
- Best for Disney: Shanghai Meihao Premium Journey Hotel
- Best for Shoppers: Tianhua Hotel Shanghai People's Square
- Best for Ultimate Value: Qilai Light Luxury Hotel
- Best for Relaxation: Gokurakuyu Hot Spring Hotel Shanghai Chuansha
FAQs About Shanghai Cheap Hotels
Are cheap hotels in Shanghai generally clean and safe?
Yes, the hotels on our list are selected for their positive reviews regarding cleanliness and safety. Reputable budget hotel chains and well-reviewed independent properties in Shanghai maintain high standards, offering a secure and comfortable stay.Is it better to book a cheap hotel near a metro station in Shanghai?
Absolutely. Shanghai is a massive city, and the metro is the most efficient way to get around. Booking a hotel near a subway station will save you significant time and money on transportation, making it much easier to explore different districts.Can I find good cheap hotels in central areas like Jing'an or Huangpu?
Yes, while these areas are known for luxury hotels, they also have excellent budget-friendly options. Hotels like Tianhua Hotel on our list offer prime locations near People's Square, proving you don't have to stay far from the action to find an affordable room.