Where to Stay in Shanghai: The City’s Most Exceptional Hotels

Shanghai is a city of contrasts—historic lanes meet futuristic skyscrapers, tradition blends seamlessly with innovation, and understated elegance coexists with bold modernity. This dynamic character is reflected in its hotel scene, which ranks among the most impressive in the world. From legendary properties on the Bund to sky-high sanctuaries in Pudong and intimate boutique retreats hidden behind historic façades, Shanghai offers accommodations that are destinations in their own right.

Along the iconic Bund, some of the city’s most celebrated hotels continue to define classic luxury.

The Peninsula Shanghai stands as a symbol of timeless elegance, combining Art Deco–inspired design with impeccable service and sweeping views of the Huangpu River.

Just steps away, the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund offers refined sophistication in a historic building, where heritage architecture meets contemporary comfort. Nearby, the Fairmont Peace Hotel remains a Shanghai institution, famed for its Jazz Bar, storied past, and unmistakable glamour that transports guests to another era.

Across the river in Pudong, Shanghai reaches for the sky—literally. The J Hotel, located in the Shanghai Tower, offers one of the highest hotel experiences in the world, with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the city. Equally dramatic is the Park Hyatt Shanghai, occupying the upper floors of the Shanghai World Financial Center, where minimalist design and floor-to-ceiling windows create a serene retreat above the urban rush. These hotels are ideal for travelers seeking cutting-edge luxury and unforgettable vistas.

For those who prefer contemporary urban style, Shanghai delivers with confidence. The Shanghai EDITION brings a sleek, fashion-forward sensibility to the Huangpu district, blending nightlife energy with refined comfort. W Shanghai – The Bund adds bold design and a vibrant social scene, appealing to travelers who enjoy modern luxury with personality. In Pudong, the Mandarin Oriental offers a more tranquil take on five-star living, known for its polished service, elegant interiors, and peaceful riverfront setting.

Shanghai also excels in boutique and experiential luxury. Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li is widely regarded as one of the city’s most exclusive stays, set within restored Shikumen townhouses that evoke old Shanghai charm while delivering discreet, ultra-luxury service. For those willing to venture slightly beyond the city center, Amanyangyun provides a rare sense of calm, combining ancient architecture, expansive grounds, and Aman’s signature philosophy of quiet sophistication.

In central neighborhoods such as Jing’an and Xintiandi, hotels like The Sukhothai Shanghai and The St. Regis Shanghai Jing’an offer refined elegance in lively districts filled with dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. These areas strike a perfect balance between convenience and atmosphere, making them favorites for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Ultimately, choosing the best hotel in Shanghai depends on the experience you seek. Whether it’s waking up to the historic skyline of the Bund, gazing down from one of the world’s tallest towers, or retreating into a peaceful enclave that feels worlds away from the city, Shanghai’s hotels mirror the city itself—ambitious, diverse, and unforgettable.