Deciding where to stay in Shanghai can be quite dizzying, as it is so vast and diverse. It all depends on whether you want to be surrounded by history, bars, culture, parks, or simply good transport links. Whatever your vibe – and budget – this 2,643 sqm city has the ideal location for you.
As the centre point of the city, People’s Square and The Bund waterfront is ideal for those who want to navigate their way around quickly and easily. The metro station is located in the square itself, along with unmissable attractions like People’s Park, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and the famous Nanjing Road shopping street.
Xujiahui is an excellent alternative to People’s Square, as it’s very central, slightly less hectic and touristy, and it has two giant shopping malls.
If you’d prefer to wake up next to Shanghai’s astronomically high skyscrapers, like the Shanghai Tower, then head to Pudong on the eastern side of the Huangpu River. As the city’s booming financial district, it’s filled with plenty of swanky hotels, shops, and restaurants. Or stay in Old City for a taste of traditional China.
The Former French Concession (FFC) is where all the cool kids hang out in Shanghai, as it’s a little more neighbourly, and offers quirky independent shops and bars, and historic European architecture.
Jing’an is a popular alternative to the FFC, as it’s slightly cheaper, and offers a similar East meets West culture. Plus, the neighbourhood is booming with bars and nightclubs, making it ideal for those who want to immerse in the best of Shanghai’s nightlife.
