Are you heading to Shanghai soon but not sure where to stay in Shanghai? Most people will tell you that Nanjing Road 南京路 is the best place to stay because it’s one of the liveliest areas in the city and is very close to The Bund. While that’s true, it’s definitely not the only great area to stay in.
Here are some best area to stay in Shanghai that Linardo and I have personally stayed in and would highly recommend if you’re looking for somewhere central, lively, and a little less mainstream than Nanjing Road.
1. Xintiandi
Xintiandi is one of my favorite shopping areas in Shanghai. It’s packed with international brands, trendy outdoor restaurants, and cute cafés. The neighborhood has a unique blend of modern luxury and historic architecture, giving it a charming and sophisticated atmosphere.
You’ll find popular stores such as Harmay, Gentle Monster, and 13DeMarzo here, making it a great area for shopping and people-watching.
Where We Stayed: Ascott Huai Hai Road Shanghai
Ascott properties offer a 5-star hotel experience with an apartment-style concept. Rooms are generally much larger than standard hotel rooms, and many come with a kitchen and laundry area. It truly feels like a home away from home, making it perfect for families or travelers who prefer a more residential feel during their trip.
2. Lujiazui
Lujiazui is Shanghai’s financial district and one of the most luxurious areas in the city. It’s filled with five-star hotels, premium shopping malls, and convenient transport connections to both the airport and Shanghai Disneyland.
If you’re planning to visit iconic attractions such as Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl Tower, or simply enjoy luxury shopping, this is an excellent place to stay.
Where We Stayed: Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai
One of the reasons we chose Pudong Shangri-La was the incredible view of the Oriental Pearl Tower from our room. We also have a soft spot for Shangri-La hotels because they consistently provide exceptional service and create memorable experiences wherever we stay.
3. Jing'an
Jing’an is such an underrated area to stay in Shanghai.
There are countless restaurants, shopping centers, cafés, and retail stores throughout the neighborhood. It’s also home to the famous Jing’an Temple, one of Shanghai’s most important landmarks and a beautiful place to visit right in the middle of the city.
Compared to areas like The Bund and Nanjing Road, Jing’an feels slightly less crowded while still offering plenty to see and do.
Where We Stayed: Swissôtel Grand Shanghai
Swissôtel Grand Shanghai is a fantastic 5-star hotel located in the heart of Jing’an. The property features a luxurious lobby, spacious rooms, and excellent facilities.
The highlight for us was definitely the hot and cold plunge pools, which were perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring the city.
Final Thoughts
These are our top recommended areas to stay in Shanghai. While Nanjing Road is a fantastic choice for first-time visitors, Xintiandi, Lujiazui, and Jing’an each offer a unique experience and are equally worth considering for your trip.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, Shanghai is an incredible city that Linardo and I keep coming back to—and it’s still our favorite city in China.
Explore Our E-Book
Check out our Shanghai vlog here
Explore More Hidden Gems in China
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out our other China travel blogs featuring Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, and Guangzhou — each offering its own unique blend of nature and culture.
For detailed routes and insider travel tips, download our China Travel eBook, which includes itineraries, hidden attractions, and local experiences curated from our own journeys.
- All Posts
- Back
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Taiwan
- China
- Singapore
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
If you’re planning your first trip to China, there’s one question you’ll hear again and again: Shanghai or Beijing? Both...
Are you heading to Shanghai soon but not sure where to stay in Shanghai? Most people will tell you that...
Planning a trip to Beijing and love theme park? Then Universal Studios Beijing is the perfect place for you and...
Planning a trip to Beijing? This Beijing travel guide will definitely help you! As the capital of China, Beijing is...
Planning a trip to China? One of the most important things to do before you go is find the right...
Located in the heart of China, Xi’an 西安 is a historic city is one of China’s oldest and most fascinating...
