With a name evocative of its exotic mystique, Shanghai is a magnificent holiday destination. The city's incredible architectural heritage is plain for all to see from its soaring skyscrapers to its Jesuit cathedrals. Whether you're enjoying the city's sumptuous cuisine, taking in an acrobatic show or sampling the city's roaring nightlife, Shanghai is an immersive traveller experience. Our selection of the best places to stay in Shanghai offers a mix of luxury, charm and local culture.

Things not to miss:

• Shanghai's old town is home to atmospheric Yùyuán Gardens and Bazaar that brims with organic charm. The spring and summer blossoms bless the gardens with magnificent floral aromas.
• For art lovers, don't miss out on the contemporary M50 art complex. Showcasing a mix of leading lights and up-and-coming artists, it's perfect for an afternoon of browsing.
• The Jade Buddha Temple is one of the city's finest examples of Buddhist architecture.
• The Bund was China's answer to Wall Street and is home to a glorious selection of art-deco and neoclassical buildings. It's the perfect place for a morning stroll.
• For those not queasy about heights, a trip to the Shanghai tower is well worth a visit. It is China's tallest building and second tallest in the world, so a trip to the observation point on the 118th floor is not for the faint of heart.

Shanghai is a city that is continually moving and any trip there is going to be one full of energy. Our selection of the best places to stay in Shanghai harness the city's electric energy to great effect.

The best places to stay in Shanghai

For Luxury

• With a wonderfully central location and glorious levels of luxury, The PuLi Hotel & Spa is a superb hotel. Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Shanghai to this urban oasis. With one of the finest spa's in the city, it's the perfect place to relax after a busy day of exploring.

• Occupying the top 29 floors of the Jing An skyscraper, Jing An Shangri La is perfect for those looking for a room with a view. Boasting all the modern luxuries you could ask for, this hotel offers a superb blend of Chinese culture and western hospitality.
• Recalling the glory days of Shanghai, The Peninsula Shanghai is an imperious establishment. With everything from private yachts to a fleet of vintage cars, the hotel spares no expense for its guests. An unforgettable place to stay.
• The Amanyangyun is an Aman offering converted from villas originally built in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Decorated in a traditional style, and embellished with modern luxuries. The facilitates go beyond the normal, from private bathhouses to Italian restaurants.

For an Historic Stay

• The Fairmont Peace Hotel on the Bund is China's most iconic art-deco building. Offering a heavenly blend of imperial charm and artistic splendour, this hotel takes you back to halcyon days of 1930s Shanghai. Full of magnificent things, enjoy an evening at the hotel's famous piano bar and be spoilt for choice with the hotel's six superb restaurants.

For foodies

• The Langham with its central location and stylish interiors, is perfect for a weekend trip to Shanghai. But the real reason to visit this excellent hotel is for its divine Cantonese restaurant: T'ang Court. The recipient of three Michelin stars, it's one of the world's finest purveyors of Cantonese food.
• A luxury spot, Les Suites Orient boasts a fashionable setting, on-point design and guests are even provided with their own dining room for the ultimate in decadent service.

For modern chic

• The Waterhouse at South Bund embodies a stylish, contemporary aesthetic. Designed by the city's in vogue Neri and Hu, this former concrete dockhouse has been transformed into a boutique delight. Stunning rooms are adorned with artwork by Tracey Emin and Arne Jacobsen and its restaurant is amongst the finest you'll find in Shanghai. A stellar option.

For an apartment or flat

• For those looking for some additional privacy, we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Shanghai?

• For international travellers, Shanghai is largely serviced by Pudong International Airport.
• For those interested in hiring a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• Skip the hoards of summer crowds and visit Shanghai from October to November for comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn scenery.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of the best places to stay in Shanghai.
• Widen your search to our selection of the best places to stay in China.
• Or if you'd like some personal travel advice, contact one of our friendly gurus.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Shanghai