The Best Hotels in Shanghai: Luxury and Affordable Stays

Image of Shanghai Hotel

Shanghai is a city where modernity meets tradition, and its hotels reflect this dynamic perfectly. From soaring skyscrapers with sleek, mirrored facades to boutique properties infused with cultural charm, each stay offers a story as unique as the city itself. Inside, world-class amenities await: indulgent spas, rooftop pools with panoramic views, and restaurants serving everything from authentic Shanghai cuisine to international gourmet fare. Whether you’re drawn to the consistency and luxury of globally renowned chains or the quirky elegance of boutique retreats, Shanghai’s accommodations promise more than comfort—they offer experiences, blending design, service, and location into unforgettable stays.


More Affordable Stays 

Mia Hotel – Shanghai Shaanxi South Road

Average Price: From ~USD 150/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Located in Huangpu District, Mia Hotel offers a comfortable, convenient stay close to key attractions such as Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Yu Garden, and East Nanjing Road. Its modern design, quiet rooms, and attentive service make it a great choice for travelers who want central access without compromising comfort.

Highlights:
  • Comfortable Rooms: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, walk-in showers, balconies, minibars, and soundproofing.
  • Facilities & Services: Sun terrace, lounge, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, private check-in/out, room service, and meeting rooms. Electric vehicle charging is also available.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.4 for location, highlighting the hotel’s attentive staff, central convenience, and pleasant rooms.
Why It Stands Out:

Mia Hotel is a modern, practical option for travelers who want to explore Shanghai with ease, offering all the essentials for a comfortable city stay in a prime location.


EVEN Hotel Shanghai Jinqiao by IHG

Average Price: From ~USD 80/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Located in Shanghai’s Pudong district, EVEN Hotel Shanghai Jinqiao offers a comfortable and convenient stay for both business and leisure travelers. With modern, air-conditioned rooms, it provides easy access to the Shanghai New International Expo Centre and the Shanghai World Financial Centre, while also being just 25 km from Pudong Airport.

Highlights:
  • Comfortable Rooms: Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, work desks, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi.
  • Facilities & Leisure: Fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and family-friendly dining options.
  • Dining Options: Chinese, American, and local cuisines available; breakfast includes continental, American, buffet, and Asian selections.
  • Guest Praise: Guests value the convenient location, modern comforts, and attentive staff.
Why It Stands Out:

EVEN Hotel Shanghai Jinqiao combines modern amenities, wellness-focused facilities, and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort on a budget.


HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve At Hengshan

Average Price: From ~USD 130/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Situated along Hengshan Road in central Shanghai, HUALUXE Twelve at Hengshan blends Art Déco style with Oriental design, offering a boutique hotel experience in a quiet yet central location. Just a short walk from Hengshan Road Metro Station, it provides easy access to Xintiandi, People’s Square, and the city center, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

Highlights:
  • Stylish Rooms: Boutique rooms with minibars, iPod docking stations, coffee machines, and ample bathrooms with bathtubs and showers.
  • Wellness & Leisure: Gym, sauna, hot tub, beauty shop, and business centre for a balanced stay.
  • Dining Options: Enjoy Cantonese cuisine at the hotel’s 12 Hengshan restaurant, with room service available.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.2 for location, appreciating the central convenience, quiet atmosphere, and attentive staff.
Why It Stands Out:

HUALUXE Twelve at Hengshan offers a charming boutique experience, combining stylish design, central accessibility, and modern comforts for a pleasant Shanghai stay.


Ascott Huai Hai Road Shanghai, Xintiandi

Average Price: From ~USD 150/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Just a 10-minute walk from Xintiandi, Ascott Huai Hai Road places guests in the heart of Shanghai’s entertainment, business, and cultural district. The hotel’s spacious serviced apartments combine modern amenities with elegant designer furnishings, offering a stylish and comfortable base for exploring the city. With quick access to South Huangpi Road Metro Station, People’s Square, and the Bund, it’s ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

Highlights:
  • Spacious Apartments: Soundproofed units with living areas, kitchens, satellite TV, washing machines, and stylish bathrooms with baths and showers.
  • Facilities & Leisure: Indoor heated pool, gym, tennis court, business centre, and free Wi-Fi in public areas.
  • Dining Options: On-site restaurant serving meals with views of the Shanghai skyline.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.3 for location, highlighting the convenience, comfort, and well-equipped apartments.
Why It Stands Out:

Ascott Huai Hai Road offers a stylish, apartment-style stay with full amenities and central location, perfect for travelers seeking flexibility without sacrificing comfort.


Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport, an IHG Hotel

Average Price: From ~USD 110/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Located just steps from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, this Holiday Inn offers a convenient and comfortable stay for travelers in transit or visiting nearby attractions like Shanghai Disneyland, Yu Garden, and the Jewish Refugees Museum. Its modern rooms provide practical comforts, making it ideal for families and business travelers alike.

Highlights:
  • Comfortable Rooms: Air-conditioned family rooms with private bathrooms, work desks, minibars, and free WiFi.
  • Dining Options: On-site restaurant serving Chinese and American cuisine; breakfast includes continental, American, buffet, vegetarian, and Asian selections.
  • Guest Services: 24-hour front desk, room service, free parking, and accessibility features.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.7 for location, appreciating the ease of access, convenience, and comfortable rooms.
Why It Stands Out:

Holiday Inn Pudong Airport provides a practical, well-equipped base for travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and easy access to both the airport and nearby attractions.


Luxury Stays

J Hotel, Shanghai Tower

Average Price: From ~USD 421/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Occupying the 84th–105th and 120th floors of the Shanghai Tower, J Hotel is the highest hotel in the world and an icon of modern Shanghai. From its perch above the clouds, it delivers unmatched views of the Bund, Huangpu River, and city skyline. Inside, the hotel blends Chinese cultural artistry with sleek contemporary design, offering a stay that is both luxurious and deeply connected to Shanghai’s identity.

Highlights:
  • Exceptional Design & Service: 165 rooms and suites with bespoke décor, plus select suites offering 24-hour butler service.
  • World-Class Facilities: Indoor infinity pool, spa, fitness centre, executive lounge, and concierge support.
  • Dining in the Clouds: Seven venues, including Heavenly Jin, one of the world’s highest restaurants.
  • Guest Praise: Booking.com rating of 9.6, with guests praising the views, comfort, and attentive staff.
Why It Stands Out:

More than a hotel, J Hotel is a landmark experience—a fusion of art, culture, and hospitality set against the dramatic Shanghai skyline.


The Sukhothai Shanghai

Average Price: From ~USD 330/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Located in the vibrant Jing’an District, The Sukhothai Shanghai is a contemporary luxury hotel that balances modern design with warm Asian hospitality. Just a short walk from People’s Square, Nanjing Road, and trendy Xintiandi, it offers easy access to both cultural landmarks and shopping districts. Its elegant interiors feature clean lines, natural materials, and an understated sophistication that creates a calming retreat in the heart of the city.

Highlights:
  • Stylish Rooms: Spacious, light-filled rooms with modern amenities, free WiFi, Nespresso machines, and select suites offering city views and deep soaking tubs.
  • Wellness Facilities: A 24-hour gym, indoor pool, and full-service spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Dining Excellence: Two signature restaurants—URBAN Café & Lounge and La Scala Italian Restaurant—serve gourmet Asian and Italian cuisine, plus an exceptional breakfast spread.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.6 for location, with reviews noting the sleek design, attentive staff, and peaceful atmosphere despite the central setting.
Why It Stands Out:

With its thoughtful design, world-class dining, and prime location, The Sukhothai Shanghai offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and tranquil comfort, making it a favorite among discerning travelers.


The Shanghai EDITION

Average Price: From ~USD 350/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Set at the crossroads of Nanjing Road East and the Bund, The Shanghai EDITION reimagines luxury with a blend of heritage architecture and cutting-edge design. Housed in a complex of interlinked historic and modern structures, it creates an urban oasis of comfort, entertainment, and style in the heart of the city. With its understated elegance, lively social spaces, and seamless attention to detail, the hotel appeals to a new generation of luxury travelers seeking both sophistication and a vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights:
  • Elegant Rooms: Modern, minimalist rooms with warm tones, bespoke furnishings, and panoramic views of the city skyline or the Bund.
  • Wellness & Leisure: Indoor pool, spa, and fitness centre, complemented by chic lounges and curated social spaces.
  • Culinary Variety: Two standout restaurants—YONE, a signature Japanese dining experience on the 27th floor, and Shanghai Tavern, a brasserie-style eatery—plus 3 lounge bars and 2 rooftop bars with sweeping city views.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.9 for location, highlighting its design-forward atmosphere, vibrant energy, and unbeatable Bundside setting.
Why It Stands Out:

The Shanghai EDITION is more than a hotel—it’s a destination in itself, combining heritage, design, and dynamic lifestyle experiences for travelers who want the pulse of the city at their doorstep.


The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan

Average Price: From ~USD 420/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Located on West Beijing Road in the heart of Shanghai, The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan combines classic luxury with modern sophistication. Its prime location offers easy access to shopping hotspots like Plaza 66, Westgate Mall, and Nanjing West Road, while providing sweeping views of the city skyline. The hotel’s interiors exude elegance with spacious living areas, marble bathrooms, and refined furnishings.

Highlights:
  • Luxurious Rooms: 491 rooms and suites featuring high-speed WiFi, 48-inch flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms with rainforest showers, and city-view windows.
  • Wellness & Leisure: Indoor pool, Iridium Spa, sauna, fitness centre, and yoga classes for relaxation and wellness.
  • Gourmet Dining: Three signature restaurants—Seki-tei for Japanese cuisine, Yan Ting for Cantonese delicacies, and The St. Regis Bar with over 50 cocktails including the famous Bloody Mary.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.2 for location, with reviews highlighting the comfortable rooms, attentive service, and central position.
Why It Stands Out:

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan offers timeless luxury in a vibrant city setting, blending impeccable service, prime location, and refined design for an unforgettable Shanghai experience.


The Puli Hotel and Spa

Average Price: From ~USD 310/night  *(Subject to season and availability)

Situated in central Shanghai, The Puli Hotel and Spa offers a serene, modern retreat just steps from Jing’an Park, Park Place, and Kerry Centre. Combining contemporary luxury with tranquil design, the hotel provides easy access to Jing’an Temple Subway Station, West Nanjing Road, and People’s Square, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

Highlights:
  • Stylish Rooms: Modern décor with floor-to-ceiling windows, city views, flat-screen TVs, and well-equipped amenities for comfort and convenience.
  • Wellness & Leisure: 25-meter heated infinity pool, spa, sauna, steam room, hot spring pool, and state-of-the-art fitness centre.
  • Dining Excellence: On-site Michelin restaurant, international dishes with customizable options, and Long Bar for light snacks and drinks.
  • Guest Praise: Couples rate it 9.6 for location, appreciating the calm atmosphere, attentive service, and proximity to attractions.
Why It Stands Out:

The Puli blends urban convenience with a peaceful, spa-focused retreat, offering a refined, contemporary stay in the heart of Shanghai.


Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking high-altitude luxury with breathtaking views, stylish boutique sophistication, or practical comfort on a budget, Shanghai has something for every traveler. Its hotels are more than just a place to rest—they are gateways to the city’s culture, history, and vibrant energy. From indulging in fine dining to exploring hidden cultural gems nearby, each property offers a unique way to experience Shanghai, ensuring that your stay is as memorable as the city itself. Choosing the right hotel here is not just a decision—it’s the first step in an unforgettable Shanghai adventure.

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