Hello, I’m Alex Chen, a passionate solo traveler from China. I thrive on exploring hidden gems around the globe and enjoy sharing tips on how to travel on a budget throughout China. This guide highlights some of the best areas to stay in Shanghai for those who love to explore independently. Thanks to Shanghai’s extensive subway system, choosing a hotel near a metro station will make your trip both convenient and cost-effective.

Summary

What are the best areas to stay in Shanghai?

  • Nanjing West Road: This area offers excellent connectivity to various city parts including The Bund, Yu Garden, Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Tianzifang, and the site of the Korean Provisional Government. Easy access to both airports (Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport) and major railway stations (Hongqiao Railway Station, Shanghai Station) is available. The Nanjing West Road metro station, served by Line 2, provides direct access to most tourist attractions and key transport hubs, surrounded by popular restaurants and culinary delights.
  • Jiangsu Road: Just two metro stops away from Nanjing West Road, Jiangsu Road offers a more budget-friendly alternative while still providing excellent access. Served by Line 2 and also Line 11 which goes directly to Disneyland, this location is ideal if you plan to explore downtown attractions and Disneyland. Hotels near the Jiangsu Road metro station are more economical and convenient.
  • Yu Garden and The Bund Area: Close to Yu Garden, The Bund, and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, this area is the heart of Shanghai’s bustling activity. Night views and lighting in this district are spectacular, with upscale hotels predominantly found here. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the vibrant nightlife of Shanghai.
  • Luoshan Road: If your itinerary includes visits to Shanghai Disneyland, Shanghai Wild Animal Park, Shanghai Nanchang Park, and Shanghai Astronomy Museum, consider staying near the Luoshan Road metro station. This station is a junction for Lines 11 and 16, offering direct subway access to these attractions. Staying here saves significant time compared to the city center, provides a variety of accommodation options, and ensures easy returns to the city.

Shanghai Hotels: Recommendations on Nanjing West Road

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

CitiGO Hotel Jingan Shanghai

Very convenient, close to Nanjing West Road shopping district, easily accessible to other attractions. Be aware, there is another hotel with the same name nearby; double-check the address when taking a taxi.

Clean and well-equipped. Breakfast offers a wide variety, including fresh vegetables, fruits, delicious mousse, Swiss rolls, and freshly ground coffee. Free night snacks including dumplings available after 10 PM.

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People’s Square Nanjing Road)

Ji Hotel (Shanghai People's Square Nanjing Road)
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Huangpi South Road Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 487 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Laundry, robot room service, triple rooms

Located near People’s Square inside an old building, quiet, with easy access to transportation. Close to the Old Shanghai Museum, City God Temple, and local parks. Great value for money.

Excellent facilities, friendly and attentive staff. Rooms are clean, odor-free, and quiet. Varied breakfast options.

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Atour Hotel X Nanjing West Road Shanghai

Prime location near Shanghai’s central business district, just below Wujiang Road, convenient for dining and close to a subway entrance.

Well-equipped, clean, and quiet. Features soft-bristled toothbrushes, excellent Wi-Fi, and high-pressure showers in the bathrooms with upscale fixtures.

Shanghai Garden Hotel

Shanghai Garden Hotel
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Shaanxi South Road Metro Station, 12-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 885 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Triple rooms, family rooms, connecting rooms

Next to Shaanxi South Road Metro Station, close to Cathay Theatre and bustling streets, easy access. The hotel features a large and beautiful garden, a rarity in the city center. Note that the hotel is quite old, but well-maintained.

Large and clean rooms. Scenic elevators provide views of the Oriental Pearl Tower. Noteworthy is the rich and delicious breakfast buffet.

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Nanjing West Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1639 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, swimming pool

Excellently located in the city center, providing easy access to popular attractions and shopping centers.

A high-end chain, The St. Regis features top-notch facilities and modern luxury. Spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, with meticulous and personalized service. The butler service starts the moment you check in, warmly welcoming and assisting with various needs and recommendations.

Huamin Hotel (Shanghai Jiangsu Road Huashan Hospital Branch)

Huamin Hotel (Shanghai Jiangsu Road Huashan Hospital Branch)
  • Location: 11-minute walk from Jiangsu Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 276 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.6
  • Special Amenities: Triple rooms

Excellently located near local bus and metro stations with plenty of dining options nearby, offering great value for money. Note: the hotel is on the second floor, so guests may need to carry luggage up.

The hotel is well-maintained and service is prompt. Features a terrace for drying clothes, and staff at the front desk and in housekeeping are particularly accommodating.

Metropolo Dahua Hotel Shanghai

Metropolo Dahua Hotel Shanghai
  • Location: 12-minute walk from Jiangsu Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 379 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.6
  • Special Amenities: Gym, triple rooms

Near bus route 71 and close to Jiangsu Road Metro Station; convenient for reaching Hongqiao Airport via a short metro ride. Wuyi Road and Yuyuan Road are nearby, perfect for evening walks.

Despite facing the street, rooms are quiet. The hotel occupies a historic building and features a small Utrecht Memorial Hall at the entrance, which is worth a visit for those interested.

Merry Hotel Shanghai

Merry Hotel Shanghai
  • Location: 10-minute walk from Jiangsu Road Metro Station, 14-minute walk from Jing’an Temple Metro Station
  • Price Range: 398 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.5
  • Special Amenities: Gym

Exceptional value for staying in the city center with multiple nearby subway lines. Bus 71 from the hotel door goes directly to The Bund.

Although rooms are compact, they are well-equipped, tidy, and thoughtfully arranged.

Home Inn Business Hotel (Shanghai Jiangsu Road Metro Station)

Home Inn Business Hotel (Shanghai Jiangsu Road Metro Station)
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Jiangsu Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 449 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.6
  • Special Amenities: Single rooms

Ideal for exploring Yuyuan Road, conveniently located near the metro, making it an excellent stopover for trips to Disneyland. Great value for money.

Rooms are small but feature complete amenities, large windows for ventilation, ample lighting, and satisfying shower facilities.

Hilton Shanghai Downtown

Hilton Shanghai Downtown
  • Location: 12-minute walk from Jiangsu Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1052 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, swimming pool

Close to popular shopping districts and attractions, within 15 minutes walking distance from Wukang Road, Anfu Road, and Fuxing Road.

High-quality bedding and facilities, including a Dyson hair dryer, smart toilet, and unlimited capsule coffee. The hotel’s infrastructure is also top-notch, ensuring a luxurious stay.

Shanghai Hotels: Recommendations in the Yu Garden and The Bund Area

Mercure Shanghai Yu Garden

Mercure Shanghai Yu Garden
  • Location: 9-minute walk from Laoximen Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Yu Garden Station
  • Price Range: 555 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, laundry, family rooms

A short 5-10 minute walk to Yu Garden, with shuttle service to The Bund and metro stations, making it extremely convenient for exploring. Surrounded by shopping malls and restaurants, perfect for dining and shopping excursions.

Comfortable resting areas, complimentary tea, mineral water, cookies, and candy in the lobby. Rooms are spacious, clean, and offer free water and soft drinks.

Crystal Orange Hotel Shanghai The Bund Yu Garden

Crystal Orange Hotel Shanghai The Bund Yu Garden
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Yu Garden Metro Station
  • Price Range: 652 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, laundry, family rooms

Very close to The Bund, with Yu Garden and City God Temple just behind the hotel. Located near Yu Garden Commercial Street, offering a wide variety of dining options.

Impeccable hygiene and renovation, with a rich and delicious breakfast. Excellent overall service.

Blossom House Shanghai on the Bund

Blossom House Shanghai on the Bund
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Yu Garden Metro Station
  • Price Range: 949 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, family rooms, rooms with river views

Excellent location across from Yu Garden, a short walk to The Bund and Yu Garden Commercial Street. Offers complimentary sweet soup after 8 PM.

Elegantly furnished rooms with excellent soundproofing. River view rooms provide stunning views of the Huangpu River and iconic Shanghai skyline. Rich breakfast variety.

Maxx by Steigenberger Shanghai on the Bund

Maxx by Steigenberger Shanghai on the Bund
  • Location: 10-minute walk from Yu Garden Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1186 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, robot room service, laundry, rooms with river views

Prime position opposite the Huangpu River with stunning night views from the rooms, a short walk to The Bund and close to Yu Garden and City God Temple. Convenient for viewing the Bund lighting ceremony.

Cozy room decor, comfortable bedding, fully equipped with modern facilities. Excellent breakfast offering both Western and Chinese options.

Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai

Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai
  • Location: 6-minute walk from East Nanjing Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 2304 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Pool, gym, family rooms, connecting rooms, rooms with river views

A hotel with a rich history, having hosted numerous heads of state. Located ideally at the edge of Nanjing Pedestrian Street and The Bund, the hotel also houses a museum, adding to its allure.

Stepping into the lobby is like traveling back to the glamorous era of the past, with every detail exuding vintage charm. Rooms are decorated in a vintage style but maintain well-preserved facilities.

Boya Hotel (Shanghai Xiuyan Road Metro Station)

Boya Hotel (Shanghai Xiuyan Road Metro Station)
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Xiuyan Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 162 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.5
  • Special Amenities: Triple rooms

Directly accessible via Metro Line 11 to Disney, about an 8-minute walk to Xiuyan Road Station. Note: the route to the metro involves a bridge crossing without escalators or elevators, which may require carrying luggage.

The surrounding area is a commercial street rich in dining options. Although the facilities are not the newest, they are clean and fully equipped. Given the price, the value for money is very high.

Home Inn (Shanghai International Tourism and Resorts Zone Xiuyan Road Metro Station)

Home Inn (Shanghai International Tourism and Resorts Zone Xiuyan Road Metro Station)
  • Location: 6-minute walk from Xiuyan Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 257 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.5
  • Special Amenities: Family rooms
  • Disney Convenience: Very convenient for Disney, just two metro stops away. Close proximity to the metro allows for a relaxed morning preparation.

Plenty of dining options nearby, including a very affordable baozi shop right next door.

The hotel is slightly dated but maintains clean and tidy rooms. Some rooms do not have windows, so it’s best to confirm before booking.

Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai, Kangqiao

Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai, Kangqiao
  • Location: 12-minute walk from Xiuyan Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 556 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.6
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry

Easy access to Disney with shuttle service provided by the hotel. The nearest metro station is just a few minutes’ walk away, surrounded by a food street with a plethora of dining options.

Spacious, clean rooms with comfortable bedding. The breakfast offers a wide variety, including freshly cooked noodles and dumplings.

FAQ

Where should I stay in Shanghai to enjoy local cuisine?

Nanjing West Road and Jiangsu Road are excellent choices. You can find Shanghai specialties like scallion oil noodles, crab roe noodles, xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and pork rib rice cakes in these areas. For a more detailed guide, see Shanghai Food Guide.

Where should I stay to easily visit downtown attractions and Disney?

Near Jiangsu Road Metro Station is recommended. It’s a junction of Line 2 and Line 11, with Line 2 connecting to most Shanghai attractions and Line 11 providing direct access to Disney.

Do I need to stay near the airport the night before my flight?

No, it’s not necessary. Both Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao airports are quickly accessible by metro, which runs from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, covering most of the day. For early morning flights, taxis are readily available in Shanghai. Just be aware of peak traffic hours, as travel time can double.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources