Welcome to the ultimate guide to Shanghai's finest hotels, meticulously curated by City News Service.

Shanghai is bursting with options, and with this, our selection represents the crème de la crème – those rare gems that capture the essence of Shanghai's unique position as China's modern, historical, bellwether city. Whether you're here for luxury, culture, family fun, or simply a budget-friendly stay, these hotels stand out not just for their superior offerings but for their ability to make your Shanghai experience truly unforgettable. We've combed through the city's myriad choices to bring you this handpicked collection, ensuring that no matter your preference, you'll find a perfect place to rest your head in style and comfort.

1. Historic Hotels: Fairmont Peace Hotel

Historic hotels in Shanghai offer more than just a place to stay – they provide a glimpse into the city's rich past. These hotels are often located in heritage buildings and have preserved their original architecture and charm, allowing guests to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

Why...Fairmont Peace Hotel?

Shanghai is an old city, and there are many historic options. However, the Fairmont Peace Hotel takes the cake with it's iconic views of the Bund, and truly outstanding art deco design. It underwent a significant transformation in 2010. The Fairmont Peace Hotel is not just a hotel – it's a Shanghai legend. Situated on the iconic Bund, this Art Deco masterpiece has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since the 1920s. The hotel's storied past is felt in every corner, from the opulent lobby to the Jazz Bar, where live performances evoke the glamour of old Shanghai. Staying here is like stepping into a bygone era, but with all the modern amenities you'd expect from a world-class hotel. The Fairmont Peace Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience that embodies the very soul of Shanghai's history and culture.

Address: 20 Nanjing Rd E. 南京东路20号

Tel: 6138-6888

Web: www.fairmont.com/peace-hotel-shanghai/

Luxury Hotels: Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai

Luxury hotels in Shanghai are the epitome of opulence, where extravagance meets impeccable service. These hotels offer a blend of world-class amenities, breathtaking views, and refined elegance, catering to the most discerning travelers. Expect lavish interiors, fine dining, and a level of comfort that borders on the sublime.

Why ...Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai?

When the hotel first opened in Shanghai, many were apprehensive about the concept of a luxury hotel done by a jewelry brand. However, Bvlgari have crafted a hotel that takes it's place as the city's Empress.

Nestled in a prime spot overlooking the Suzhou Creek and the iconic Bund, the Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai is not just a place to stay – it's an experience of pure, unadulterated luxury. This is an Italian-designed masterpiece that combines the essence of the Bvlgari brand with the rich cultural heritage of Shanghai. What sets it apart from other luxury hotels is its stunning fusion of East and West, embodied in every detail from the opulent interiors to the Michelin-starred dining options. The Bvlgari premises has two modern towers, one for the hotel and the other for residences, as well as occupying a century old hall and restaurant where modernity juxtaposes with the historical, both elegant and sophisticated.The Bvlgari is curated for those who appreciate the finer things in life and expect nothing less than perfection. It's stunning views are noteworthy, and to truely appreciate them, head out onto La Terrazza (their terrace), and enjoy a drink. You'll be impressed with the complimentary Aperitivo that it comes with. We won't spoil the surprise, but it really elevates drink service above and beyond what you'd get anywhere else in the city (as far as we know!)

Address: Lane 108, Shanxi Rd N. 山西北路108弄

Tel: 3606-7788

Web: www.bulgarihotels.com/en_US/shanghai

Boutique Hotels: Capella Shanghai

Boutique hotels are where style meets substance. These intimate, design-forward spaces are perfect for travelers looking for something unique – a place with character and charm that reflects the local culture while offering personalized service. In Shanghai, boutique hotels are often hidden gems that provide a more intimate and bespoke experience.

Why ...Capella Shanghai?

Capella has for many years been known as "the most expensive digs in town." However, this might not necessarily be true, as this honor may veritably rotate between the Bvlgari Hotel and further down the list, the Amanyangyun. What's different about Capella is that it is one of the few low-rise hotels on this list, meaning it doesn't occupy high-floors overlooking the city, It's a masterful ode to historic Shanghai. Capella is the quintessence of refined boutique luxury, located in the heart of the city's historical Xuhui District. Set within the stunningly restored shikumen townhouses, this hotel is a love letter to Shanghai's rich history and cultural heritage. Each suite is a sanctuary of elegance, blending traditional Chinese elements with modern comforts. What makes Capella stand out is its dedication to storytelling – every corner, every detail, whispers a narrative of old Shanghai, making it more than just a place to sleep, but a journey into the city's soul.

Address: 480 Jianguo Rd W. 建国西路480号

Tel: 5466-6688

Web: http://www.capellashanghai.com/

Family-Friendly Hotels: The Kerry Hotel Pudong

Family-friendly hotels in Shanghai are designed with both kids and adults in mind, offering spacious accommodations, kid-friendly amenities, and activities that keep everyone entertained. These hotels provide the perfect balance between fun for the kids and relaxation for the parents, making them ideal for family vacations.

Why ... The Kerry Hotel Pudong?

If you're traveling with the family, The Kerry Hotel Pudong is your go-to destination. This hotel doesn't just accommodate children – it has ameneties built specifically for them in mind. The massive Adventure Zone indoor playground is a child's paradise, while the wide range of dining options ensures that even the pickiest eater will find something to love. But it's not just about the kids; the adults will appreciate the sleek, modern rooms, the state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and the prime location next to Century Park where you can take your kids out on the lake in motor boats. Being Pudong side, this hotel gets you easy access to several kid-friendly activities including the Shanghai Aquarium, the Science and Technology Museum, and of course, Shanghai's very own magic kingdom, Disneyland.

Address: 1388 Huamu Rd 花木路1388号

Tel: 6169-8888

Web: www.shangri-la.com/en/shanghai/kerryhotelpudong/

Budget Hotels: Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel

Budget hotels in Shanghai are proof that you don't need to break the bank to enjoy comfort and convenience. These hotels offer clean, simple, and modern accommodations, often with a few extra perks, all at an affordable price. Perfect for travelers who want to explore the city without overspending.

Why...Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel?

Campanile, despite being budget, is a global budget brand imported from France. The Campanile Shanghai Bund in particular is a budget traveler's dream come true. Located just a short walk from the historic Bund and Yuyuan Garden, this hotel offers unbeatable value for money. The rooms are compact but cleverly designed to maximize comfort, with all the essentials you need for a pleasant stay. The minimalist decor is modern and functional, and the staff are friendly and accommodating, ensuring you feel welcome from the moment you step in. What makes Campanile noteworthy is its location – you're in the heart of the action, without paying the premium prices typically associated with such prime real estate.

Address: 33 Fujian Rd S. 福建南路33号

Tel: 6326-0505

Web: www.campanile.com

Business Hotels: JW Marriott Hotel at Tomorrow Square

Business hotels in Shanghai are tailored for the modern professional, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and state-of-the-art facilities. These hotels are strategically located, often in or near business districts, and come equipped with meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and other amenities that make business travel seamless.

Why...JW Marriott Hotel at Tomorrow Square?

This hotel looks like it has come straight out of the Jetsons. Futuristic looking, downtown, with stunning views of central Puxi area including an overhead view of People's Park stretching all the way to Nanjing Road E. Pedestrian Mall. It towers above the city from its perch in Tomorrow Square, the JW Marriott Hotel is the definitive choice for business travelers who don't want to sacrifice luxury for practicality. With its prime location in the heart of Shanghai's commercial district, it offers easy access to key business centers while providing a haven of comfort and style. The hotel's extensive conference facilities, executive lounge, and high-speed internet make it ideal for getting work done, but it's the little touches – the impeccable service, the panoramic city views, and the luxurious spa – that make staying here a pleasure, not just a necessity. Pro-Tip... enjoy the hotel's gorgeous lobby and grab a seat right by the floor to ceiling windows. If ever you wanted a place to have a cup of tea and observe a far below empire, this is the spot.

Address: 399 Nanjing Rd W. 南京西路399号

Tel: 5359-4969

Web: www.jwmarriottshanghai.com/

Home-Grown Chinese Branded Hotels: J Hotel Shanghai Tower

In this category, we pay special attention to home-grown Chinese-branded hotels. There are many options in this category, but we're going with the "national flagship" hotel of China. It is a testament to the country's growing influence in the global hospitality industry. Chinese hotels, as expected blend traditional Chinese hospitality and design with cutting-edge amenities, offering a distinctly local experience with world-class standards.

Why the …J Hotel Shanghai Tower

Perched at the pinnacle of the world's second-tallest building, J Hotel Shanghai Tower is more than just a hotel – it's a symbol of China's ascent in luxury hospitality. But more than this, born from a state-owned brand (Jinjiang Hotels), this hotel is a masterpiece meant as a global, not local, flagship hotel. Now, you can't just waltz in and have a look around, you have to either be a guest, or have a valid reservation for the spa, or any F&B outlet. As the highest hotel globally, J Hotel offers a unique vantage point of Shanghai's sprawling skyline, unmatched by any other. What sets it apart is not just the altitude, but its deep roots in Chinese culture, elegantly woven into many aspects of its design. From the artfully curated interiors that reflect traditional Chinese aesthetics to the personalized, attentive service, J Hotel provides an experience that is both luxurious and authentically Chinese. It's the epitome of modern elegance, offering guests a stay that soars above the rest – quite literally.

Address: 126 Dongtai Rd 东泰路126号

Tel: 3886-8888

Web: www.jhotel-shanghai.com/en/

Romantic Hotels: Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund

Romantic hotels in Shanghai are designed to provide an intimate and enchanting experience, perfect for couples. These hotels often feature romantic settings, luxurious accommodations, and special amenities like private balconies, spa treatments, and fine dining, making them ideal for honeymooners or anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion.

Why...Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund

This one was a difficult category. And we'll mention now as an honorable mention, the Hotel Indigo on the Bund, primarily for its large bathtubs and bathrooms with floor to ceiling windows. But what made us select the Banyan Tree Shanghai as THE PLACE of romance are the limited number of their signature "Bund Oasis" rooms with come with large private dipping pools that are situated right up against the room's Bund side windows.

The hotel's award-winning spa is the perfect place for couples to unwind, while the rooftop bar offers a breathtaking setting for a sunset cocktail. Being on the north side of the Bund, the hotel is a short drive from many illustrious dining venues including Mr&Mrs Bund, Jean Jorges and Hakkasan.

Address: 19 Gongping Rd 公平路19号

Tel: 2509-1188

Web: www.banyantree.com/en/china/shanghai-on-the-bund

Design Hotels: The Middle House

Design Hotels: The Middle House

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Design hotels in Shanghai are all about aesthetics and innovation. These hotels place a strong emphasis on architecture, interior design and artistic expression, offering guests a visually stimulating environment that often reflects the cutting-edge creativity of the city itself.

Why...The Middle House?

This isn't just another hotel with a few art pieces on the walls. The Middle House is a seamless blend of modern minimalism and traditional Chinese elegance, where every corner tells a story. In terms of design, this hotel could be considered the rival of Bvlgari Hotel. It's muted, subdued, subtle, yet forcefully chic. We are big fans of holding virtually all of our afternoon business meetings at their gorgeous Cafe Gray Deluxe lobby lounge, which, when the whether permits, allows you the option of terrace wining and dining. Located in the lively Jing'an District, it's a serene retreat in the midst of the chaos, offering an oasis of calm with just the right touch of chic. The rooms are not just places to crash; they're carefully curated spaces that make you rethink what it means to stay in a hotel. And let's not forget Frasca, their Italian eatery that's as much about the vibe as it is the food. Somehow, they manage to find Italian chef's who have world class pallets in their execution and menu planning. An excellent place to eat.

Address: 366 Shimen Rd No.1 石门一路366号

Tel: 3216-8199

Web: www.themiddlehousehotel.com/en/

Spa & Wellness Hotels: The PuLi Hotel and Spa

Spa & wellness hotels in Shanghai offer more than just a room – they offer a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These hotels focus on relaxation and well-being, featuring luxurious spa services, wellness programs, and serene environments designed to restore mind, body and spirit.

Why ...The PuLi Hotel and Spa?

The PuLi isn't your typical hotel; it's where you go when you need to hit the reset button on life. The hotel has a striking entrance, with tall doors and deep wood accents. During it's history, it has also been known to house renown F&B establishments, with outstanding weekend brunch fairs, not to be missed. The Anantara Spa is the crown jewel here – think of it as a temple for the weary soul, offering treatments that draw from centuries-old Chinese medicine traditions. The design is sleek, understated and whispers Zen, encouraging you to slow down and take a breath.

Honorable Mention: The Water's Edge Spa inside of the Park Hyatt. A more exclusive option, where your spa treatments happen on the hotel's 85th floor. Spa packages include access to the hotel's unique pool, which acts as a counter-weight to prevent the super-tall from swaying.

Address: 1 Changde Rd 常德路1号

Tel: 3203-9999

Web: www.thepuli.com/

Resort Hotels: Amanyangyun

Resort hotels in Shanghai offer an escape from the urban jungle, providing a serene environment where guests can relax and unwind. These hotels often feature expansive grounds, luxurious accommodations, and a range of recreational activities, making them perfect for a leisurely retreat.

And for this category... we couldn't resist naming two, both vastly different, but so unique that they each put Shanghai "on the map."

Why...Amanyangyun?

A certain echelon of society are quite familiar with the Aman Resorts. A brand that is renowned for its exclusivity, privacy and exceptional service. But Amanyanyun? This is a Shanghai marvel, a 16-year conservation project that involved the relocation of an ENTIRE FOREST of 10,000 ancient camphor trees (including the Emperor tree, an 80-tonne tree) and 26 Ming and Qing Dynasty (1368-1911) villas from an entirely different province (Jiangxi Province to be exact). These historic structures have been meticulously restored, stone by stone, offering a unique blend of heritage and modern luxury. The resort's heart is Nan Shufang, a cultural pavilion where guests can immerse themselves in traditional Chinese arts. With its expansive Aman Spa, serene forest setting, and five exceptional restaurants (including Arva, which draws inspiration from Italy's farm-to-table gastronomic traditions), Amanyangyun offers a retreat that honors the past while providing a luxurious escape from the city.

Address: 6161 Yuanjiang Rd 元江路6161号

Tel: 8011-9999

Web: www.aman.com/resorts/amanyangyun

Resort Hotels: InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland

Resort Hotels: InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland

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Why...InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland?

If you are reading this far, you probably noticed, that we only included one hotel for each category. However, to truely honor Shanghai, we really had to sneak one more hotel into the resort space, because this is truly a unique hotel. You have probably seen photos of this iconic hotel on your social media feeds at some point or another. Imagine a hotel that's built inside a quarry, and you've got the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland.

This place isn't just about luxury – it's about redefining what a resort can be. Located in a disused quarry, the hotel's architecture is nothing short of breathtaking, with rooms options that are on "high floors" with views descending into the quarry and rooms that descend into the earth and offer views you won't find anywhere else...the underwater suites. They're the kind of thing you usually only see in movies. Add to that a range of activities like rock climbing and water sports, and you've got a place that's as much about adventure as it is about relaxation. We can't forget to mention, the incredible water and light shows that happen insight the quarry at night.

Address: 5888 Chenhua Rd 辰花路5888号

Tel: 6766-1888 ext 7919

Web: www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/shanghai/shghe/hoteldetail