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.
  • Pudong Airport: Arriving late at night or catching an early morning flight from Shanghai Pudong Airport? We’ve selected a few hotels near the airport that offer free shuttle service. Some of them even provide complimentary transfers to Shanghai Disneyland.
  • Shanghai Disneyland: Planning to fully enjoy Shanghai Disneyland? Staying nearby is your best bet. There are two official Disney hotels, and we’ll introduce both along with several great nearby options.
  • Luxury Hotels: Coming to Shanghai for your honeymoon or looking to experience the city’s finest accommodations? From 56 high-end hotels, we’ve handpicked a few that best represent the charm and luxury of Shanghai.

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.

Da Zhong Airport Hotel

Da Zhong Airport Hotel
  • Location: Inside Pudong Airport, about a 5-minute walk to Terminal 2
  • Price per night: 504 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 8.4
  • Special Amenities: Gym, restaurant

The location is excellent—once you exit the metro gate, the hotel is right in front of you. It’s super easy to find, so don’t worry about getting lost after leaving the train.

It’s an older hotel, so some facilities like the hairdryer and Wi-Fi may feel outdated or slow. Ideal for travelers who just need a quick overnight stay before their next flight.

Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport

Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport
  • Location: Between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, about a 10 to 15-minute walk to either check-in area
  • Price per night: 640 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.5
  • Special Amenities: Restaurant, luggage storage

Great location. It’s less than 10 minutes to Terminal 1 and about 20 minutes to Terminal 2. Despite being near the airport, the rooms are quiet and come with earplugs for added peace.

A newly built hotel with modern features and no strange odors. The hardware details are impressive—beds with soft and firm pillow options, a remote-controlled toilet, one-touch fogged bathroom glass, a compact steamer, and even a robot delivery service for takeout.

Atour Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)

Atour Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)
  • Location: 20-minute drive from Pudong Airport
  • Price per night: 418 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room

Great location with free airport shuttle service running hourly. The hotel also offers a Disneyland shuttle—just check with the front desk to book it.

Clean, comfortable rooms with great amenities. Breakfast is delicious and diverse—don’t miss the scallion oil noodles. There’s a convenience store right next door, which makes grabbing essentials super easy.

Shanghai Hotels: Where to Stay Near Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel
  • Location: 10-minute shuttle ride from Shanghai Disneyland Park
  • Price per night: from CNY 4006
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Children’s playground, kids’ pool, fitness center

Conveniently located near the park, this hotel offers direct shuttle and boat access to both Shanghai Disneyland and Disneytown. The transportation takes about 10 minutes and is especially helpful after the fireworks show.

Some rooms come with charming fireplace-style beds and offer distant views of the castle. The decor blends American country-style warmth with playful Disney touches. Guests also enjoy early park access, allowing more time for rides with fewer crowds.

Toy Story Hotel

Toy Story Hotel
  • Location: 10-minute shuttle ride from Shanghai Disneyland Park
  • Price per night: from CNY 2506
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Children’s playground

Located within the Disney resort area, the hotel provides shuttle access to the theme park and Disneytown. Travel time is about 10 minutes and is available both in the morning and after the fireworks show.

The hotel’s design immerses guests in the Toy Story universe, from giant gift box decor in the lobby to custom Mickey toiletries in the rooms. Early park access is also included with every stay.

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai International Tourism Resort

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai International Tourism Resort
  • Location: 15-minute shuttle ride from Shanghai Disneyland Park
  • Price per night: from CNY 452
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Free shuttle to Disneyland, self-service laundry

It takes about 11–15 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes via hotel shuttle to reach Disneyland. There are two morning shuttles and one in the evening.

Rooms are clean and well-kept with soft linens and full smart features. The bathroom has a separate shower and premium toiletries. Breakfast is rich in variety, offering both Chinese and Western food, including freshly made eggs and noodles. Conveniently located near Metro Line 11 Kangxin Highway Station and shopping districts.

Shanghai Hotels: Top Luxury Hotels for a High-End Stay

Capella Shanghai Jian Ye Li

Capella Shanghai Jian Ye Li
  • Location: Located in Xuhui District, Shanghai, this area offers strong local character and convenient nearby amenities. For business, the hotel is around 1 km from Huaihai Road commercial area. For sightseeing, it’s approximately 2 km from Wukang Mansion and 3 km from Jing’an Temple.
  • Price per night: 5,225 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.8

Situated in a historic compound of shikumen buildings first appearing in 1860, the hotel is a showcase of East-meets-West architecture. It includes 55 villas and is the only all-villa urban resort in Shanghai. Concierge and front desk service are impeccable—warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. During check-in, I was offered welcome tea while the staff introduced the hotel’s features, amenities, and rich history in detail.

All rooms are villa-style, converted from classic shikumen buildings with five floors. My favorite configuration includes the first-floor living room and third-floor bedroom. Designed by Jaya, the décor is unique—elegant, serene, and refined. The hotel features the Michelin-starred French restaurant Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, and even breakfast is crafted by their team. Capella’s service is truly memorable—best described by the phrase “a home away from home.”

Amanyangyun

Amanyangyun
  • Location: Located in Minhang District, connected to Maqiao Forest Park as part of a conservation project for ancient buildings and trees.
  • Price per night: 6,900 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.7

Amanyangyun is the largest Aman property in the world by land area. Interior design is by Kerry Hill, with landscape work by Dan Pearson. My favorite area is the lawn in front of the lobby—where ancient camphor trees meet modern architecture for a truly stunning contrast. The service is deeply impressive; every team member is highly professional, thoughtful, and full of pleasant surprises, consistently meeting guest needs.

All rooms are suites based on the courtyard design of traditional Jiangxi houses. Each space aligns symmetrically along a central corridor, with warm-toned wood finishes creating a cozy and homelike environment full of Chinese elements. The hotel is also rich in facilities and experiences, including exhibitions, cycling, woodblock printing, calligraphy, morning rituals, and lighting ceremonies. Every day feels rewarding and full.

Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai

Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai

This is the second Bvlgari hotel in China. Its interiors are designed by Italian firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The lobby uses black granite and bronze screens, while rooms mix teak wood and silk with subtle Bvlgari star details. Bathrooms feature custom Vicenza stone bathtubs and offer panoramic 180° views of Suzhou Creek and Lujiazui.

The color palette of the room is black, white, and gray. The bedroom offers a 270-degree view, perfect for watching The Bund from bed. Rooms include Master & Dynamic headphones from the U.S. for full music immersion. Butler-style service is a highlight—besides a detailed check-in, evening service includes lavender tea and a tower of macarons.

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