Top reasons to visit Shanghai
- Iconic Skyline: Witness the stunning skyline featuring the Shanghai Tower and the iconic Bund, offering breathtaking views of the city.
- Vibrant Shopping: Explore world-class boutiques and bustling malls for a unique shopping experience.
- Cultural Richness: Dive into Shanghai's cultural scene at the Shanghai Museum and local art galleries.
- Family Fun: Enjoy exciting attractions like Shanghai Disneyland for a memorable family outing.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from chic hotels to cozy guesthouses to suit every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in Shanghai
Discover the diverse hotel accommodations in Shanghai, ranging from chic hotels to cozy guesthouses, designed to meet the needs of every traveler. Whether you're seeking a luxurious getaway, a convenient base for business trips, or budget-friendly options, Shanghai offers it all. Explore top-rated hotels, read insightful reviews, and find the perfect place to stay while indulging in the city's vibrant shopping and cultural experiences.
- Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre: This luxurious 5-star hotel is situated in the heart of Shanghai, making it an ideal choice for families and spa enthusiasts. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, the Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre offers a blend of relaxation and city exploration. Guests can indulge in a full spa experience including an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. The hotel is also family-friendly, providing amenities such as cribs and children's slippers. Its central location allows easy access to the vibrant city life, ensuring a well-rounded vacation experience.
- Grand Central Hotel Shanghai: This elegant 4.5-star hotel, rated 9.2 out of 10 by guests, is perfectly positioned in Shanghai's bustling shopping district. Ideal for business travelers and luxury seekers alike, the Grand Central Hotel features sophisticated accommodations and a variety of amenities for a refined experience. Guests appreciate the hotel's proximity to high-end shops and business hubs, along with its luxurious rooms that promise comfort and style. The on-site dining options and attentive service enhance the overall luxurious experience, making it a preferred choice for those visiting Shanghai for business or leisure.
- Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund by Nanjing Road: With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this 4.5-star hotel is a luxurious getaway located in the shopping district of Shanghai. The Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel combines modern elegance with a focus on business and leisure travel. Guests enjoy stylish accommodations, exceptional dining, and convenient access to shopping and cultural attractions. Its prime location near Nanjing Road provides a vibrant atmosphere for travelers seeking a mix of business and pleasure, making it a standout choice for both shopping enthusiasts and corporate visitors.
Where to stay in Shanghai
Shanghai offers a vibrant mix of experiences, from its dazzling skyline to rich historical sites. Travelers can indulge in shopping at world-class boutiques, savor local cuisine, and enjoy breathtaking views along the Bund. For adventure seekers, nearby regions provide opportunities for cultural exploration and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly atmosphere or a luxurious getaway, Shanghai and its surroundings cater to every type of vacationer.
- Downtown Shanghai: The vibrant heart of Shanghai, Downtown Shanghai is filled with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. This area is bustling year-round, with peak tourist activity in April and from October to November. Visitors flock here for family-friendly attractions, shopping experiences, and business ventures. Explore the shopping malls and centers that line the streets, and don't miss the iconic esplanade and modern towers that define the skyline. Historic sites add to the neighborhood's charm, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and leisure.
- Pudong: Located across the Huangpu River from Downtown, Pudong is known for its futuristic skyline, including landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower. This district sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in March to April and September. Families, business travelers, and city explorers will find plenty to engage with, from expansive shopping centers to exciting theme parks. The area is also home to historic sites and beautiful esplanades, perfect for a leisurely stroll while taking in the stunning views of the cityscape.
- Jing'an: Jing'an is a lively district known for its blend of modernity and tradition. It attracts tourists year-round, especially during the summer months of July and fall in September to October. Families and business travelers enjoy the numerous shopping areas and centers. The local attractions include historic sites and charming streets that invite exploration. With a mix of vibrant nightlife and tranquil parks, Jing'an offers a unique urban experience, making it a must-visit destination in Shanghai.
Things to do in Shanghai
Shopping
In Shanghai, visit Nanjing Road, a bustling shopping street lined with international brands and local shops. For a unique experience, head to Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs amidst a charming ancient setting. Don't miss the luxury offerings at Plaza 66 for upscale shopping.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the Anantara Spa, where you can indulge in traditional Chinese therapies and rejuvenating massages. For a unique twist, visit the Yuyuan Garden for a serene stroll amidst classical architecture and lush landscapes, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Adventure
Shanghai International Circuit offers thrilling motor racing experiences in a dynamic environment. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races and explore the world of motorsports, surrounded by vibrant energy and excitement that the racing atmosphere brings.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Bund, where you can enjoy stunning views and upscale bars. For a more local vibe, check out the bars in the French Concession, offering craft cocktails and live music, creating a lively atmosphere to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shanghai
Shanghai provides numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like The Bund, People's Square, and the Former French Concession. For transportation, the Metro and buses are cost-effective options. Visit between December and February for lower accommodation rates, with Sundays being the cheapest days to stay. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals for flights and activities to maximize your savings. Look for sustainable hotel options to enhance your travel experience while keeping costs down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shanghai are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shanghai is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Shanghai is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Shanghai with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Shanghai
Shanghai is a fantastic destination for family, city, and business-themed vacations. With a plethora of attractions like the iconic Shanghai Tower, the enchanting Shanghai Disneyland, and the informative Shanghai Museum, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culture. Explore urban parks, bustling streets, and towering skyscrapers that cater to diverse interests, making Shanghai a dynamic place to experience both modernity and tradition.
- Shanghai Disneyland©: Experience a magical world at Shanghai Disneyland©, where you’ll find thrilling rides, captivating shows, and enchanting attractions. The park's unique blend of Disney charm and Chinese culture creates a delightful atmosphere for families and friends to bond over unforgettable adventures.
- The Bund: Stroll along The Bund, an iconic esplanade that showcases stunning views of the Huangpu River and the city skyline. With its romantic ambiance, this vibrant waterfront is perfect for leisurely walks and offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s rich history and modern architecture.
- People's Square: Explore People's Square, a bustling hub of culture and leisure in the heart of Shanghai. Surrounded by impressive museums and gardens, it’s a great spot to relax and soak in the dynamic city vibes while enjoying various cultural events and public performances.
Best time to go to Shanghai
The best time to visit Shanghai can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shanghai falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Shanghai falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.