Shanghai is a massive city with distinct neighborhoods, but rest assured that every area listed here offers an excellent stay. The city is split by the Huangpu River into historic Puxi (west side) and modern Pudong (east side). Luckily, Shanghai’s sprawling metro network – the largest on the planet – makes getting around straightforward, so even if you’re not in the exact center you can reach attractions easily. Still, choosing the right neighborhood can make your trip much smoother. Below we break down Shanghai’s best areas, all unique and highly recommended.

People’s Square & Nanjing Road (Huangpu Central)

This is Shanghai’s downtown core, centered around People’s Square and the bustling Nanjing Road pedestrian street. Right in the heart of Shanghai, People’s Square puts you within walking distance of the city’s major sights, including the Shanghai Museum and Urban Planning Exhibition Center on your doorstep. Several key metro lines intersect here, making it one of the most convenient places in Shanghai to stay. The area offers a dynamic mix of towering skyscrapers and colonial-era buildings, plus endless shopping and dining along Nanjing Road. It’s especially popular with first-time visitors for its central location and easy access to the Bund, Yu Garden, People’s Park, and other famous spots.

Best Suited For:

• First-time visitors and sightseeing travelers
• Shoppers and food lovers (Nanjing Road’s malls and eateries)
• Travelers who want a well-connected base (multiple metro lines)

Best areas to stay in:

• Around People’s Square/People’s Park for museums and quick metro access.
• Along East Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street for shopping and an energetic atmosphere.
• Between People’s Square and the Bund (e.g. near East Nanjing Rd metro) to be within walking distance of riverfront sights.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Directly on Nanjing Road if you prefer quiet at night (the main pedestrian street can be noisy late).
• Very far west of People’s Square (beyond the immediate downtown), as you’ll quickly be away from the action and conveniences.
• The back alleys south of Nanjing Road after dark – while generally safe, they are dim and less lively.

Pros:

• Unbeatable central location – walk to many top attractions and landmarks.
• Excellent transport hub – multiple subway lines and bus routes converge here.
• Abundant shopping and dining – from street food to high-end restaurants and malls.
• Wide range of hotels, from budget hostels to luxury international chains.

Cons:

• Crowded and busy at almost all hours (the area’s hustle and bustle can be overwhelming).
• Higher hotel prices on average due to the prime location.
• Noise and neon lights at night, especially near the pedestrian street (light sleepers take note).
• Limited residential charm – it feels very commercial and touristy.

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$45–90/night (simple guesthouses or hostels)
• Mid-range: ~US$70–115/night (3–4 star hotels)
• Luxury: ~US$115–270/night (4–5 star hotels and upmarket brands)

The Bund (Waterfront, Huangpu)

The Bund (Waitan) is Shanghai’s iconic waterfront strip along the Huangpu River, famed for its historic European-style buildings and stunning skyline views of Pudong. The Bund is undoubtedly one of the best neighborhoods in Shanghai and the best place to enjoy the splendid night views of the skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture across the river. Staying here means you can stroll the riverside promenade in the early morning or enjoy the glittering skyline light show every evening right outside your hotel. This area is adjacent to Nanjing Road and People’s Square, so it’s also convenient for shopping and city sightseeing. The Bund features many of Shanghai’s grandest hotels, chic rooftop bars, and fine dining restaurants, making it ideal if you’re looking for a bit of luxury and romance.

Best Suited For:

• Travelers seeking iconic skyline views and photography opportunities
• Luxury travelers – many top-end hotels and historic grand hotels are here
• Couples and romantic trips (the promenade and night lights are very romantic)
• Architecture and history buffs (the preserved 1920s buildings along the Bund)

Best areas to stay in:

• Directly along the Bund (Zhongshan East 1st Road) for unparalleled river and skyline views.
• One block inland from the Bund (e.g. Sichuan Rd or East Beijing Rd area) for a quieter stay that’s still steps from the waterfront.
• North Bund (near Suzhou Creek) if you want slightly less touristy surroundings but easy access to the main Bund strip.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Far north of Suzhou Creek (beyond the main Bund stretch) – you’ll be drifting into Hongkou District, away from most tourist sights.
• Far south of the Bund (beyond Yuyuan Garden), where it becomes less tourist-friendly and more of a shipping area.
• Hotels advertised as “Bund area” but actually across the river in Pudong – you’d lose the old-town atmosphere (double-check the address).

Pros:

• Spectacular views of Pudong’s skyscrapers and the Huangpu River, especially at night.
• Historic charm – gorgeous colonial architecture, giving a sense of old Shanghai glamour.
• Close to major sights and easy access to Nanjing Road and central attractions.
• Upscale dining and nightlife (rooftop bars, fine restaurants with view).

Cons:

• Hotels are expensive on average (you pay a premium for the location and view).
• The area can be extremely crowded with tourists, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Limited local neighborhood feel – it’s heavily focused on tourism and business, with fewer everyday local shops.
• Few budget accommodations right on the Bund (most cheaper options are a short walk inland).

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$40–90/night (a few hostels or older 2-star hotels just off the Bund)
• Mid-range: ~US$65–120/night (3–4 star hotels a block or two from the river)
• Luxury: ~US$95–370/night (5-star historic and high-end hotels on the waterfront)

Former French Concession (Xuhui/Luwan)

Shanghai’s Former French Concession (FFC) offers a completely different vibe from the high-rise city center. This leafy neighborhood is packed with tree-lined streets, quirky cafés, boutique shops, and beautiful old lane houses, showcasing a blend of Chinese and colonial French charm. The old French Concession reveals a relaxed, sophisticated side of Shanghai, feeling worlds away from the skyscrapers and chaos elsewhere. Here you can wander down streets like Wukang Road or Hengshan Road, admiring historic villas and trendy galleries. The area includes popular enclaves like Xintiandi – a redeveloped zone of traditional shikumen alley houses turned into stylish restaurants and shops – and Tianzifang, an artsy maze of lanes full of craft stores and cafes. It’s a favorite for travelers who want to experience Shanghai’s culture, cafe scene, and nightlife in an intimate setting.

Best Suited For:

• Culture and history enthusiasts (colonial-era architecture, museums, old lane neighborhoods)
• Foodies and café-hoppers – countless hip cafes, bakeries, and international eateries
• Nightlife seekers – trendy cocktail bars, breweries, jazz clubs, and live music in a laid-back setting
• Travelers who enjoy walking and exploring local neighborhoods rather than just big tourist sites

Best areas to stay in:

• Xintiandi area – for upscale dining, shopping and a polished atmosphere in renovated shikumen houses.
• Tianzifang (Dapuqiao) area – for artsy boutiques and cozy cafés in a charming alleyway network.
• Along Anfu Road, Wukang Road or Changle Road – scenic streets with boutique hotels, bakeries, and neighborhood charm in the heart of the FFC.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Too far west or south in Xuhui (outside the inner French Concession) – you might end up in more residential zones far from sights and metro stops.
• Locations far from a metro station – the FFC is large and not every corner is well-served by subway, so stay near Line 1, 10 or 12 stops for convenience.
• Expect some older buildings – avoid accommodations in aging lane houses if you prefer modern facilities (charming but may lack elevators or heating).

Pros:

• Charming, low-rise atmosphere – a peaceful escape with tree-lined avenues and historic architecture.
• Boutique shopping and dining – unique designer shops, art galleries, and a huge variety of international restaurants and local eateries.
• Lively but not hectic nightlife – popular bars, breweries and clubs amid the neighborhood (with a more relaxed vibe than downtown).
• More of a local feel – popular with expats and locals, so you’ll experience everyday Shanghai life (markets, parks, etc.).

Cons:

• Distance from some major tourist sites – you’ll likely take a short metro or taxi to places like the Bund or Pudong.
• Traffic can be slow on small streets, and navigation can be confusing due to zigzagging lanes.
• Fewer big luxury hotels (the area mostly has boutique hotels or smaller chains), so high-end travelers have slightly fewer choices.
• Metro trains and main spots can be crowded during rush hour as locals also flock to this area.

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$45–105/night (guesthouses, local 2-3 star hotels in older buildings)
• Mid-range: ~US$55–150/night (modern boutique hotels and 4-star properties)
• Luxury: ~US$135–310/night (a few high-end historic hotels or serviced residences)

Jing’an District (Modern Center)

Jing’an is Shanghai’s buzzing modern heart, a district that blends traditional charm with a sleek urban lifestyle. Centered around the Jing’an Temple (a beautiful golden-roofed Buddhist temple amid skyscrapers) and West Nanjing Road, this area is known for glitzy malls, luxury boutiques, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. By day, Jing’an is a retail paradise with high-end shopping centers and department stores. By night, its stylish bars and restaurants draw in crowds, offering everything from craft cocktails to late-night street food. Accommodation here ranges from five-star hotels to quirky boutique inns, including business hotels catering to the many offices in the area. Jing’an is also well-connected (Line 2 and Line 7 subways run through it), and it’s slightly less tourist-heavy than the Bund/Huangpu, which can be a plus for those who want a blend of local city life and convenience.

Best Suited For:

• Shoppers and fashion enthusiasts (West Nanjing Road’s malls and designer stores)
• Young travelers and expats – a trendy social scene with cafes, gyms, co-working spaces
• Business travelers who want to be central (many corporate offices and upscale hotels here)
• Foodies – from fine dining to authentic local eateries (including a famous street food strip on Wujiang Road)

Best areas to stay in:

• Near Jing’an Temple and Jing’an Park – for a balance of cultural sight (the temple), green space, and access to Metro Line 2/7.
• Along West Nanjing Road – around Jing’an Kerry Centre or Plaza 66, to be right in the shopping/dining hub of the district.
• By Beijing West Road or Weihai Road – slightly quieter streets on the fringe of the commercial area, but still an easy walk to the action.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Around Shanghai Railway Station (north of Jing’an) – the station vicinity is hectic and less pleasant for tourists (better to visit only for transit).
• Far north in Jing’an (former Zhabei) beyond the immediate downtown – you could end up in a less convenient, more residential zone away from attractions.
• Rooms facing main arteries like Yan’an Elevated Road – this highway runs through Jing’an and can be noisy; ask for higher floors or quieter side if possible.

Pros:

• Centrally located with easy metro access, yet slightly more local feel than tourist hotspots.
• Fantastic shopping and dining options concentrated in one district (you can walk between malls, boutiques, and restaurants easily).
• Dynamic nightlife from rooftop lounges to casual brewpubs, popular with Shanghai’s expat community.
• Mix of modern and traditional: you can visit the historic Jing’an Temple in the morning and a chic rooftop bar in the evening, all nearby.

Cons:

• Hotel prices can be high (Jing’an is a prime downtown area, similar to Huangpu in cost).
• Not many traditional tourist sights besides the temple – you’ll travel to the Bund, etc., for major landmarks (though it’s a short ride).
• Traffic congestion on main roads (like West Nanjing and Huashan Rd) can be intense, especially during rush hour.
• Some parts are very modern and could feel commercial or impersonal if you’re seeking old-world charm.

Average prices: (approximate)

• Budget: ~US$50–100/night (hostels and local 2–3 star hotels can be found, though limited)
• Mid-range: ~US$80–160/night (quality 4-star business hotels and stylish boutiques)
• Luxury: ~US$150–300/night (5-star hotels like international chains and high-end boutique hotels)

Pudong (Lujiazui Financial District)

Pudong’s Lujiazui area is the shiny modern skyline you see across the river from the Bund, home to Shanghai’s tallest skyscrapers and mega-malls. Staying in Lujiazui offers a totally different experience: you’ll be amid futuristic architecture like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and World Financial Center. This area gathers the city’s tallest skyscrapers... it is surely one of the best places to stay in Shanghai, especially for business travelers. Many luxury hotels with panoramic views are located here, often occupying upper floors of high-rises. It’s very clean and safe, with polished shopping complexes (if you’re into high-end shopping or dining in fancy malls, you’ll love it). While primarily a business district, Lujiazui also has tourist attractions (e.g. Shanghai Aquarium, skyscraper observation decks) and convenient Metro Line 2 to reach Puxi in minutes. Even though it’s across the river, the area is well-connected and you can get to People’s Square or Nanjing Road in ~15 minutes by metro or taxi. Pudong is ideal if you prefer modern comforts and open spaces, or if you’ve been to Shanghai before and now want a new perspective.

Best Suited For:

• Business travelers (major finance and conference centers are here)
• Travelers who prioritize modern comforts and luxury hotels (many 5-stars with pools, spas, and Western amenities)
• Families who want big hotels with family facilities and easy access to attractions like the aquarium and Science & Tech Museum
• Visitors who love city skylines and photography – amazing vantage points for cityscapes

Best areas to stay in:

• Near Lujiazui Metro Station/Oriental Pearl Tower – the heart of the finance zone, walking distance to malls and landmarks.
• Along the riverside (Binjiang Avenue) – many hotels here have spectacular views of the Bund across the water.
• Century Avenue/Century Park area – a bit farther inland but greener and close to Shanghai’s largest park, still only a short metro ride to Lujiazui (good for a quieter base in Pudong).

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Outside the Lujiazui core (e.g. far east Pudong or suburbs like Zhangjiang) – you’ll be very far from tourist sights and spend lots of time commuting.
• Near Pudong Airport for a city visit – Pudong New Area is huge; unless you have a layover, don’t stay by the airport as it’s ~1 hour from downtown.
• If sightseeing, avoid hotels that are isolated in office complexes with no nearby metro – Pudong’s blocks are big, so ensure you’re close to a station or be ready to taxi.

Pros:

• Spectacular modern skyline at your doorstep – unparalleled views of skyscrapers and the Bund (if your room faces west).
• Top-notch hotels and amenities – plenty of high-end choices, often newer than those in Puxi.
• Less crowded at street level – wide roads, spacious plazas and fewer pedestrians than old downtown, making it calmer to walk around.
• Good metro connectivity (Line 2 and others) and easy access to Shanghai Disneyland (a direct Metro line from Pudong).

Cons:

• Lacks historic atmosphere – this area is all modern; not ideal if you want “old Shanghai” charm.
• Nightlife and street life are quieter – after office hours, Pudong can feel a bit sterile; far fewer small eateries or bars at street level compared to Puxi.
• Can feel spread out – things aren’t as walkable; often you’ll be going by taxi or metro to get across the river or even within Pudong.
• Limited budget options – accommodation here leans upscale, so backpacker hostels or cheap inns are scarce.

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$45–105/night (a few chain hotels or apartments in Pudong offer lower rates)
• Mid-range: ~US$65–135/night (business hotels and 4-star properties in the area)
• Luxury: ~US$90–360/night (plenty of 5-star skyscraper hotels, often with club lounges and views)

Old Town / Yu Garden (Huangpu Old City)

Shanghai’s Old City (Chenghuangmiao area) around Yu Garden (Yuyuan) is the place to stay if you want a taste of traditional Chinese charm in the metropolis. For a glimpse into the city’s traditional charm, Shanghai’s Old City is an intriguing option – this was the walled Chinese town before the modern city expanded. Today, it’s famous for the classical Yu Garden, the lively City God Temple Bazaar with its zigzag bridge and teahouse, and lots of street food and souvenir shops in historic-style buildings. Hotels here are often more affordable and tucked in quaint lanes. Hotels near Yu Garden are more cost-effective compared with those in the Bund and Nanjing Road area, making it a good choice for budget travelers, and it’s not far from the Bund or People’s Square either. Staying in the Old Town means you can wander ancient lanes and sample xiaolongbao dumplings for breakfast, all while being a short walk from the Bund’s south end. This area gives you a feel of “old Shanghai” that you won’t get in the glass-and-steel districts.

Best Suited For:

• Budget travelers and backpackers (cheaper guesthouses here while still central)
• History and culture lovers – temples, traditional architecture, and museums (like the Old City God Temple)
• Photographers – picturesque old Chinese buildings, lanterns, and classical gardens make for great photos
• Travelers who want a more authentic Chinese atmosphere, especially if you’ve seen enough of the modern side

Best areas to stay in:

• Near Yu Garden/Yuyuan Garden Metro Station – for immediate access to the Garden and bazaar, plus easy metro rides elsewhere (Line 10).
• Old Street (Fangbang Road) area – a street in Old Town with traditional architecture, close to the bazaar and small museums.
• South of the Bund (Yuyuan) – on the fringe of Old Town and Bund, giving a mix of historic and colonial sights within walking distance.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Inside the busiest tourist market streets – if you stay within the bazaar, it can be very noisy and crowded during the day (consider a place on a side street instead).
• Old alley houses without renovation – some traditional lane houses operate as inns but might have very basic facilities; check reviews so you’re not surprised by lack of heating or private bathrooms.
• West of Henan Road – go too far west and you’re leaving the Old City area; aim to stay east of Henan Rd to remain in the historic quarter.

Pros:

• Rich traditional atmosphere – pagoda-style roofs, red lanterns, and classical gardens at your doorstep. It feels like a step back in time.
• Budget-friendly – you can find comfortable stays for much less than in the Bund area, and plenty of cheap eats in street food stalls.
• Close to major attractions – the Bund is a 10-15 minute walk; People’s Square is a quick metro or a longer stroll, so you still access big sights easily.
• Great for souvenir shopping and local snacks – the Old Town Bazaar is known for handicrafts and famous eats (like Nanxiang steamed buns).

Cons:

• Tourist crowds flood the area by day, which can be chaotic (the contrast before/after tour group hours is big).
• Limited nightlife – at night, the bazaar closes and the area can get pretty quiet with few bars or evening venues (you’d head to other districts for nightlife).
• Some hotels are older or smaller with fewer amenities – you won’t find many big luxury hotels here (aside from a couple of modern ones on the edges).
• Traffic restrictions – parts of Old Town are pedestrian-only, which means taxis might have to drop you a short walk from your hotel.

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$30–80/night (hostels, no-frills hotels in older buildings)
• Mid-range: ~US$65–105/night (3–4 star hotels, including some new chain hotels nearby)
• Luxury: ~US$150–220/night (a few upscale options like international hotels near Yu Garden)

Xujiahui (Xuhui Modern Commercial Area)

Xujiahui is a busy commercial and shopping district in southwestern downtown (part of Xuhui District) known for its malls, electronics markets, and the large Xujiahui junction where several avenues and metro lines meet. It’s one of Shanghai’s major shopping hubs – Xujiahui is one of the most famous business centers of the city, a good place for shoppers to stay in Shanghai. The area has a mix of high-rise office towers, shopping centers like Grand Gateway 66 and Metro City, and even a historic cathedral (St. Ignatius Cathedral, the largest church in Shanghai). Xujiahui offers a convenient, modern environment with plenty of dining (many international chain restaurants and local eateries in the malls). Hotels here tend to be cheaper than in the very center, and it’s a transit hub with metro Lines 1, 9, and 11, so you can get to People’s Square or the Bund in about 15-20 minutes. This area is great if you want a comfortable, less-touristy base with lots of amenities. It offers affordable accommodation, ideal for first-timers to Shanghai who still want a central location, and it’s popular for visitors attending events at the nearby Shanghai Stadium or those who prefer to be near the Hongqiao side of town.

Best Suited For:

• Avid shoppers – surrounded by malls (fashion, electronics, department stores) and boutiques
• Families and expats – family-friendly conveniences, international food options, and parks (plus easy metro to the zoo or aquarium)
• Repeat visitors who have seen the main tourist spots and want to stay in a local commercial area with fewer tourists
• Budget or mid-range travelers seeking good value hotels that are still in the city center (but not paying Bund prices)

Best areas to stay in:

• Around Xujiahui Metro Station – for immediate access to shopping centers (like Grand Gateway) and easy subway rides.
• Near Hengshan Road (the eastern edge of Xujiahui) – a leafy avenue with cafes and bars, connecting towards the French Concession area.
• Tianyaoqiao Road (by Shanghai Stadium) – an area with many restaurants and hotels, also close to line 1 & the stadium events.

Areas to avoid staying in:

• Too far south of Xujiahui – beyond the commercial core (toward Caohejing), it becomes more residential and less convenient for tourists.
• Near the Elevated Highway junctions – Xujiahui has some overpasses; avoid hotels right next to these busy roads if you want a quieter environment.
• Small alleys behind malls – safe, but they might be very dark or empty at night with little around, so try to stay on or near main streets.

Pros:

• Excellent for shopping and eating – you have endless choices (malls with food courts, supermarkets for convenience, and local eateries in side streets).
• Value for money – accommodations here are typically more affordable than in the Bund or Jing’an, while still being high quality.
• Major transport hub – multiple metro lines converge, and it’s easy to reach both downtown and Hongqiao airport/train station from here.
• Good mix of modern city life with some local flavor – not overly touristy, so you see everyday life (students, office workers, etc.) around. Also, sights like the Xujiahui Cathedral and nearby parks add interest.

Cons:

• Not within walking distance of the main tourist attractions – you will need to take transit to the Bund, Old Town, etc., every time (though it’s not far).
• Lacks the historical charm of areas like the Bund or FFC – it’s mostly modern malls and offices.
• Can be very crowded and hectic during rush hours (a key subway interchange, plus lots of shoppers on weekends).
• Nightlife is present but modest – a few bars and KTVs, but it’s not a nightlife hotspot compared to downtown or the French Concession.

Average prices:

• Budget: ~US$35–90/night (many 2-3 star business hotels and some hostels)
• Mid-range: ~US$45–135/night (solid 3-4 star hotels, often new or recently renovated)
• Luxury: ~US$110–180/night (a handful of 5-star hotels and high-end serviced apartments)

Comparison Table of Top Shanghai Areas:

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Each of these neighborhoods offers a distinct experience of Shanghai, and none will disappoint. Whether you prefer the historic riverfront views of the Bund, the lively streets of the city center, or the charming ambiance of the French Concession, you’ll find an ideal area to call home during your Shanghai adventure. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant city!