Some cities overwhelm you. Shanghai enchants you. From its glittering skyline in Lujiazui to the charming alleys of the French Concession, this city blends old-world elegance with modern edge in a way few places can.
But here’s the thing—where you stay in Shanghai can totally shape your trip. Want to be steps away from The Bund’s iconic views? Prefer quiet mornings with artisan coffee in the French Concession? Or maybe you’re all about night markets, skyline selfies, or easy airport access. Each area offers a different vibe.
That’s why I put together this guide to the best neighborhoods in Shanghai for tourists, broken down by travel style—iconic sights, shopping, luxury, family stays, and more. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’ll find the perfect base for your adventure.
1. The Bund – Old Shanghai Meets Skyline Views
Once the financial hub of colonial-era Shanghai, The Bund today is where you’ll find the most jaw-dropping skyline views and timeless European architecture, all packed into one walkable stretch along the Huangpu River. At night, it’s magical—the city lights up and so do the selfie sticks.
Who Should Stay Near The Bund?
✔️ First-time visitors: It’s a Shanghai classic—great intro to the city.
✔️ Luxury lovers & couples: Romantic views, high-end hotels, fancy rooftop bars.
✔️ Architecture/history fans: Iconic buildings with fascinating stories.
❌ Budget travelers: Hotels here lean toward the upscale side.
❌ Night owls: It’s lively early evening, but nightlife’s better in places like Xintiandi.
Best Hotels Near The Bund
- Luxury: The Peninsula Shanghai – 5-star elegance with a rooftop bar that’s worth every cent.
- Mid-Range: Metropolo Xin Cheng Hotel, The Bund Shanghai – Boutique hotel inside a heritage building.
- Budget: Haojiang Hotel – Clean, comfy, and surprisingly affordable for the location.
What to Do Near The Bund?
- The Bund Promenade – Stroll for the city’s best skyline shots, especially at sunset.
- Huangpu River Cruise – A must-do for first-timers—amazing views from the water.
- Historical Buildings Walk – Check out HSBC Building, Customs House, Peace Hotel.
- Yu Garden – Just a short walk away for a dose of classic Chinese architecture.
- Nanjing East Road – One of China’s busiest shopping streets starts right here.
Food & Dining Near The Bund
This area is more about fine dining and rooftop cocktails than street food.
- Sir Elly’s (The Peninsula) – Incredible French food with river views.
- Lost Heaven – Yunnan cuisine in a moody, stylish space.
- Hakkasan – High-end modern Chinese with DJ vibes and cocktails.
👉 For local eats, walk 10-15 minutes into the Old City or Yu Garden.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: East Nanjing Road Station (Line 2 & 10) – fast links to Pudong, People’s Square, and airports.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (~RMB 180) or take Line 2 direct with 1 transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying Near The Bund
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Iconic views and Insta-worthy scenery.
- ✅ Historic charm meets luxury living.
- ✅ Easy access to key attractions and river cruises.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Hotels can be pricey.
- ❌ Not much nightlife after dark.
- ❌ Can get crowded with tour groups during the day.
2. People’s Square – The Beating Heart
You haven’t really felt the pace of Shanghai until you’ve stood in People’s Square—where grand museums, mega malls, and non-stop foot traffic collide. Once a horse racing track, it’s now the city’s central hub, where locals chill in the park while skyscrapers rise around them.
Who Should Stay Near People’s Square?
✔️ First-time visitors: Super central, walkable to top attractions and shopping streets.
✔️ Museum lovers & culture seekers: The best cultural spots are right here.
✔️ Shoppers: You're right next to Nanjing Road—Shanghai’s retail paradise.
✔️ Budget to mid-range travelers: More options here than The Bund or Lujiazui.
❌ Light sleepers: It’s always buzzing—think busy roads, crowds, and bright lights.
Best Hotels Near People’s Square
- Luxury: Marriott City Centre – Just steps from Nanjing Road, with skyline views and top-notch service.
- Mid-Range: Central Hotel Shanghai – Great value with a clean, modern vibe near the main street.
- Budget: Campanile Hotel – Clean, reliable, and right in the action.
What to Do Near People’s Square?
Top attractions near People’s Square:
- Shanghai Museum – Free entry and world-class exhibits.
- People’s Park – Chill with the locals or stumble upon the quirky “marriage market” on weekends.
- Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center – A giant model of the city’s future—super cool for city nerds.
- Nanjing Road – Perfect for shopaholics and night walkers.
- Madame Tussauds Shanghai – Fun stop for families and curious tourists.
Food & Dining Near People’s Square
You’ll find everything from fast food to fancy here.
- Jia Jia Tang Bao – Legendary for xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Go early!
- Yang’s Dumplings – Crispy-bottomed dumplings with juicy fillings—super addictive.
- Raffles City Food Court – Loads of local and international options.
👉 For a fancier meal, head up to one of the high-rise hotel restaurants nearby.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: People’s Square Station (Lines 1, 2, 8) – One of the busiest and most connected in the city.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (~RMB 180) or take Line 2 direct.
Pros & Cons of Staying Near People’s Square
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Ultra-central location—everything's nearby.
- ✅ Great food, shopping, and museum access.
- ✅ Tons of hotel options across all budgets.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Busy and noisy.
- ❌ Less charm or personality.
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3. Xintiandi – Perfect for First-Timers
Old Shanghai charm meets modern lifestyle in Xintiandi, where restored shikumen houses now host trendy cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s one of the city’s most walkable, photogenic, and expat-friendly spots.
Who Should Stay Near Xintiandi?
✔️ First-time visitors – Easy, beautiful, and close to attractions.
✔️ Couples – Romantic streets, rooftop bars, stylish vibes.
✔️ Foodies & shoppers – Tons of restaurants and designer stores.
❌ Budget travelers – It’s definitely on the pricier side.
❌ Party animals – More chic than wild—head to Hengshan Road for nightlife.
Best Hotels Near Xintiandi
- Luxury: The Langham Shanghai Xintiandi – Elegant, central, and overlooks the pedestrian street.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund – Trendy with amazing views and walkable to both Xintiandi and The Bund.
- Budget: SSAW Boutique Hotel Dapu Road – Affordable with good breakfast and close to Line 9.
What to Do Near Xintiandi?
- Explore the Shikumen Museum – Learn how locals lived 100 years ago.
- Stroll the car-free streets – Great for photos and people-watching.
- Tianzifang (10-min ride away) – Another artsy spot full of local crafts and snacks.
- Shanghai Culture Square – Live shows and musical performances.
Food & Dining Near Xintiandi
Perfect for brunch, date nights, and international cuisine.
- Din Tai Fung – Iconic Taiwanese dumplings in a polished setting.
- Element Fresh – Light and healthy, popular with expats.
- Paulaner Brauhaus – German beer, sausages, and a lively beer garden vibe.
👉 For street food, hop to nearby Huangpi South Road or Laoximen.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Xintiandi Station (Line 10 & 13) – Easy access to The Bund, Pudong & French Concession.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~50 mins (~RMB 180 / S$34).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Xintiandi
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Charming and clean.
- ✅ Great restaurants and cafés.
- ✅ Perfect for couples and first-time visitors.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than average.
- ❌ Can feel a bit touristy or polished.
4. Huaihai Road (French Concession side) – Elegant & Leafy
If you love strolling under plane trees, window-shopping at designer boutiques, and sipping coffee at hidden cafés, Huaihai Road’s French Concession side is your dream base. It’s old Shanghai meets modern style, minus the chaos.
Who Should Stay Near Huaihai Road?
✔️ Couples & solo travelers – Peaceful, stylish, and walkable.
✔️ Culture lovers – Near art museums, indie galleries, and historic mansions.
✔️ Foodies & shoppers – From luxe brands to local fashion and bakeries.
❌ Families with young kids – Less exciting for little ones.
❌ Clubbers – It’s more chill than wild after dark.
Best Hotels Near Huaihai Road
- Luxury: InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin – Classic charm with lush gardens and French Concession views.
- Mid-Range: Jin Jiang Tower – Artsy, quiet, and steps from boutiques.
- Budget: Home Inn Plus – Tucked in a lane, good for backpackers.
What to Do Near Huaihai Road?
- Stroll Fuxing Park – Great for people-watching, tai chi, or a picnic.
- Visit the Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen – A must for history lovers.
- Shop at IAPM Mall – Upscale brands and a sleek cinema.
- Explore small lanes (longtangs) – Charming and full of local life.
Food & Dining Near Huaihai Road
This area is a foodie playground—from brunch spots to heritage restaurants.
- Cha’s Diner – 1960s Hong Kong vibes with milk tea and baked rice.
- Alimentari – Cozy Italian deli with homemade pasta and wine.
- Lost Bakery – Insta-famous pastries in a chill setting.
👉 Craving street food? Hop to Yongkang Road or nearby South Shaanxi Road.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: South Shaanxi Road Station (Lines 1, 10, 12) – Super connected.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~50–60 mins (~RMB 180 / S$34).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Huaihai Road
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Peaceful, beautiful, and classy
- ✅ Tons of cool cafés, shops, and photo ops
- ✅ Feels more “local” than touristy
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Hotel prices can be high for older buildings
- ❌ Nightlife is quiet—better for early sleepers
5. Shanghai Railway Station – Convenient & Budget-Friendly
If your trip involves a lot of train travel, Shanghai Railway Station is the most practical place to stay. It’s not the prettiest part of town, but it connects you to almost everywhere—both within and outside the city.
Who Should Stay in Shanghai Railway Station?
✔️ Budget travelers & backpackers – Lots of cheap stays and local eats.
✔️ Train-hoppers – Perfect for catching early trains or late arrivals.
✔️ Business travelers on a quick stop – Fast access to transit hubs.
❌ Families – Not much to do for kids here.
❌ Luxury seekers – Few high-end options or views.
Best Hotels near Shanghai Railway Station
- Luxury: Holiday Inn Shanghai Jing’an – High-end option close to the station with great city views.
- Mid-Range: Pullman Shanghai Jing’an – Comfortable, convenient, and steps from the train.
- Budget: Hanting Shanghai Railway Station South Square Hotel – Clean, reliable, and wallet-friendly.
What to Do Near Shanghai Railway Station?
- Shanghai Natural History Museum (10-min ride) – A hit with science buffs.
- MOCA Shanghai (Museum of Contemporary Art) – Modern art in a park setting.
- Walk to People’s Square – Just 2 metro stops away for museums and Nanjing Road.
Food & Dining near Shanghai Railway Station
Don’t expect fancy restaurants, but you’ll find plenty of cheap, tasty, local food.
- Lanzhou Lamian Noodles – Fresh hand-pulled noodles for just a few dollars.
- Street skewers & dumpling shops – Perfect for late-night eats.
👉 For better dining, take the metro to Jing’an Temple or West Nanjing Road.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Shanghai Railway Station (Lines 1, 3, 4) – Super connected.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~1 hr by taxi (~RMB 180 / S$34)
🚌 Buses, long-haul coaches, and intercity trains all in one place.
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Shanghai Railway Station
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Best for catching trains
- ✅ Affordable stays with local vibes
- ✅ Metro lines and transit options galore
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Not very scenic or exciting
- ❌ Can be crowded and hectic
6. Lujiazui – Five-Star Everything
Ever seen those jaw-dropping photos of Shanghai’s skyline? That’s Lujiazui—a gleaming financial district packed with skyscrapers, luxury malls, and sky-high hotels. If you want the ultimate "wow" factor, this is the place to stay.
Who Should Stay in Lujiazui?
✔️ First-time visitors – Iconic views and must-see landmarks are all here.
✔️ Luxury travelers & business pros – World-class hotels and high-end dining.
✔️ Families – Close to the aquarium and Oriental Pearl Tower.
❌ Budget travelers – Not many affordable options around.
❌ Nightlife seekers – More finance than fun after dark (head to Xintiandi for that).
Best Hotels in Lujiazui
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Pudong – Unbeatable skyline views and top-tier service.
- Mid-Range: Grand Kempinski Hotel – Classic luxury without the sky-high price.
- Budget: Yitel Trend – A decent option if you're watching your wallet.
What to Do Near Lujiazui?
- Shanghai Tower – Ride up to one of the world’s highest observatories.
- Oriental Pearl Tower – A must for first-timers, with great views and a museum inside.
- Super Brand Mall & IFC Mall – Luxury shopping and top international restaurants.
- Shanghai Ocean Aquarium – Kid-friendly and fun for families.
- Riverside Promenade – Perfect for a sunset stroll facing The Bund.
Food & Dining in Lujiazui
- Upscale dining rules here—think rooftop bars and celeb chefs.
- CHAR at Hotel Indigo – A steakhouse with Bund views.
- Din Tai Fung (IFC Mall) – Famous Taiwanese dumplings in a posh setting.
- Da Vittorio – Michelin-starred Italian fine dining.
👉 Want something cheaper? Cross the river to Yuyuan or Nanjing Road.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Lujiazui Station (Line 2) – Fast ride to The Bund, Nanjing Road, and both airports.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~45 mins (~RMB 160 / S$30)
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Lujiazui
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Stunning skyline & luxury stays
- ✅ Perfect for sightseeing and photos
- ✅ Great for business and families
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Expensive, even for basics
- ❌ Can feel corporate and quiet at night
7. Jing’an Temple – Full of Local Flavor
Smack in the middle of modern Shanghai, Jing’an Temple blends ancient charm with urban chic. Picture a golden temple framed by luxury malls and skyscrapers—it’s a favorite spot for travelers who want convenience without the tourist overload.
Who Should Stay Near Jing’an Temple?
✔️ First-time visitors – Great intro to Shanghai without the crowds of The Bund.
✔️ Couples & solo travelers – Stylish cafés, boutique hotels, and walkable streets.
✔️ Business travelers – Near office towers and convention spaces.
❌ Budget travelers – Hotels lean mid- to high-end here.
❌ Party people – The nightlife is more laid-back than wild.
Best Hotels Near Jing’an Temple
- Luxury: The Puli Hotel & Spa – Serene, design-forward luxury tucked behind the temple.
- Mid-Range: URBN Boutique Hotel – Eco-friendly and super stylish, with a local vibe.
- Budget: Yan An Hotel – Basic but clean and close to the metro (~S$90/night).
What to Do Near Jing’an Temple?
- Jing’an Temple – A peaceful, photogenic escape right in the city center.
- Jing’an Park – Locals come here for tai chi, picnics, and koi-watching.
- Reel & Kerry Centre Malls – Upscale shops and designer labels.
- Jing’an Kerry Centre Art Space – Often has cool exhibitions.
- Walk to West Nanjing Road – For more shopping and eats.
Food & Dining Near Jing’an Temple
A foodie-friendly zone with everything from fancy dining to cool local joints.
- High Yaki – Japanese grill and rooftop views.
- Hunter Gatherer – Farm-to-table bowls and good coffee.
- Jia Jia Tang Bao (short walk) – Famous soup dumplings, go early!
👉 If you’re craving street food, hop over to People’s Square or South Shaanxi Road.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Jing’an Temple Station (Lines 2 & 7) – Great for getting around.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (~RMB 160 / S$30)
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Jing’an Temple
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Balanced mix of culture, shopping & calm
- ✅ Super central with easy metro access
- ✅ Trendy but not overhyped
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Hotel prices can be high
- ❌ Not much nightlife compared to Xintiandi
8. Yu Garden – Old Shanghai Charm
If you want a taste of traditional Shanghai, Yu Garden is the place. Cobbled lanes, Ming-style architecture, lantern-lit teahouses—it’s like stepping into a living postcard. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also seriously magical if you time it right.
Who Should Stay Near Yu Garden?
✔️ Culture lovers & history buffs – It’s Old Town Shanghai at its best.
✔️ First-time visitors – Near The Bund, City God Temple, and classic food spots.
✔️ Photographers – So many charming alleys and heritage buildings.
❌ Business travelers – Not close to offices or convention centers.
❌ Night owls – Things wind down early here.
Best Hotels Near Yu Garden
- Luxury: Renaissance Yu Garden Hotel – Steps from the garden, with skyline views and a rooftop bar.
- Mid-Range: Blossom House Shanghai On The Bund – Comfortable, stylish, and super close to key attractions.
- Budget: Rongju Hotel – Clean, basic rooms with great value.
What to Do Near Yu Garden?
- Yu Garden itself – Classical Chinese landscaping, koi ponds, and old-world charm.
- City God Temple – A historic Taoist temple surrounded by snack stalls.
- Yuyuan Bazaar – Perfect for souvenir shopping and street snacks.
- The Bund (10-min walk) – Iconic riverside skyline views.
- Old Street (Fangbang Road) – For a deep dive into traditional crafts and snacks.
Food & Dining Near Yu Garden
This area is legendary for classic Shanghai eats.
- Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant – Try their soup dumplings (shengjianbao).
- Lu Bo Lang – Famous for hosting world leaders.
- Snack street – Sample sticky rice balls, scallion pancakes, and stinky tofu.
👉 Serious foodies? Mix this with dinner in Xintiandi or Huaihai Road.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Yu Garden Station (Line 10) – Direct to Nanjing Road, Hongqiao, and more.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (~RMB 150 / S$28)
🚶 Easy walking to The Bund, Old Town, and ferry crossings.
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Yu Garden
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Cultural hotspot with old-school vibes
- ✅ Tons of shopping and food nearby
- ✅ Walkable to The Bund and river views
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Crowded during the day
- ❌ Not much nightlife or modern cafés
9. Shanghai Disneyland – Magic and Adventure
A world of fun, fantasy, and fairy tales, Shanghai Disneyland is a must for families and Disney fans. With its mix of classic rides, Chinese twists, and dazzling parades, it’s one of the most exciting places to stay near if you’re after a magical experience.
Who Should Stay Near Shanghai Disneyland?
✔️ Families with kids – Perfect for a family holiday filled with adventure.
✔️ Disney fans – A dream destination to immerse in all things Disney.
✔️ Theme park enthusiasts – A short hop from the park for multiple visits.
❌ Business travelers – Not close to major business districts.
❌ Nightlife seekers – This area focuses more on family fun than nightlife.
Best Hotels Near Shanghai Disneyland
- Luxury: Shanghai Disneyland Hotel – Stay inside the magic with beautiful rooms and a Disney-themed experience.
- Mid-Range: Novotel Shanghai Clover – Family-friendly with great facilities for kids.
- Budget: Shanghai Xiangyun Parent Child Hotel – Comfortable, modern, and just a short ride to the park.
What to Do near Shanghai Disneyland?
- Shanghai Disneyland Park – Don’t miss iconic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Tron Lightcycle Power Run.
- Disneytown – Shopping, dining, and entertainment for all ages.
- Shanghai Happy Valley – A nearby amusement park for more thrilling rides and family fun.
- Shanghai Science and Technology Museum – Perfect for curious minds.
Food & Dining in Shanghai Disneyland
The food options here are a mix of international flavors and Disney-themed treats.
- Mickey-shaped snacks – Grab a classic Mickey waffle or popcorn.
- Royal Banquet Hall – A fairy-tale dining experience with princesses and characters.
- The Cheesecake Factory – International flavors, just outside the park.
👉 For more authentic local eats, head towards Pudong New Area or Lujiazui.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Line 11, Disneyland Station – Direct to the park from the city center.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~30 mins (~RMB 100 / S$19)
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Shanghai Disneyland
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Perfect for Disney fans and families
- ✅ Convenient transport links to the city
- ✅ Fun, magical atmosphere with plenty to explore
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Can get crowded during peak seasons
- ❌ Far from business districts and city center
10. Hongqiao Airport – Practical & Well-Connected
Located just 13 kilometers from downtown, Hongqiao Airport is the perfect spot if you're looking for convenience and easy access to both the city and beyond. Whether you're in Shanghai for business, a quick stopover, or a seamless transfer to other destinations, staying near the airport has its perks.
Who Should Stay Near Hongqiao Airport?
✔️ Business travelers – Close to the Hongqiao business district and convention centers.
✔️ Transit passengers – Ideal if you’re catching an early flight or have a layover.
✔️ Families – Quiet, with family-friendly hotels and easy access to parks and attractions.
❌ Tourists looking for central attractions – It’s not the most exciting area for sightseeing.
❌ Nightlife seekers – No nightlife to speak of; head to the city center for that.
Best Hotels Near Hongqiao Airport
- Luxury: Crowne Plaza Shanghai – A luxurious, airport-adjacent stay with top amenities.
- Mid-Range: Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao – Stylish, well-located for both the airport and business hubs.
- Budget: GreenTree Inn – No-frills, budget-friendly option for quick stops.
What to Do Near Hongqiao Airport?
- Shanghai Zoo – A peaceful spot to explore nature and animals.
- Hongqiao Tiandi – Shopping and dining complex, perfect for a relaxed day.
- Guilin Park – Ideal for a calm stroll or picnic, located nearby.
- National Exhibition and Convention Center – A major venue for trade shows and events.
- Qibao Ancient Town – A charming, historic water town with traditional buildings and local eats.
Food & Dining Near Hongqiao Airport
The area is convenient but not a food lover’s paradise, so you might want to venture into the city for better options.
- The Square at Hongqiao – An international selection with a mix of Chinese and Western flavors.
- Pizza Hut – Convenient and familiar for those who want a quick meal.
- Qibao Old Street (short drive) – Traditional Shanghai snacks like dumplings and noodles.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Metro: Line 2 & Line 10 (Hongqiao Airport Station) – Direct connections to downtown and major attractions.
🚕 From Pudong Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (~RMB 150 / S$28)
🚗 Taxis are readily available; the area is also well-connected via highway.
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Hongqiao Airport
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Perfect for business travelers and quick stopovers
- ✅ Close to the airport, easy transportation access
- ✅ Affordable mid-range hotels
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Not much to see or do in the immediate area
- ❌ Lacks vibrant local dining or nightlife
Find Your Perfect Stay in Shanghai
Shanghai has a neighborhood to suit every kind of traveler—from the timeless charm of Yu Garden to the buzzing modernity of Lujiazui. Whether you’re here for business, culture, or adventure, the right district can shape your entire experience.
Ready to make the most of your Shanghai adventure? Start by booking your Shanghai hotel in the perfect area for your trip.
Planning your trip? Compare options for your flight to Shanghai and check out the latest travel promotions. For more tips, read our things to do in Shanghai guide and get ready to explore!