Best Hotels in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, the vibrant and bustling metropolis of China, offers a wide array of luxurious accommodations that cater to both business and leisure travelers. From towering skyscrapers that boast panoramic views of the city’s skyline to historical buildings transformed into modern havens, Shanghai’s hotel scene is as diverse as the city itself. This article explores some of the best hotels in Shanghai, providing insights into their unique features, services, and what makes them stand out.

The Peninsula Shanghai

Overview: Located on the historic Bund, The Peninsula Shanghai is a symbol of elegance and sophistication. The hotel seamlessly blends 1920s Art Deco design with modern amenities, offering guests a taste of old Shanghai with all the comforts of today.

Accommodation: The Peninsula offers 235 rooms, including 44 suites, all exquisitely designed with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The rooms are spacious, with the smallest starting at 55 square meters. Each room is equipped with modern technology, such as complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine, and a state-of-the-art entertainment system.

Dining: The hotel features several dining options, including Sir Elly’s Restaurant, which offers a Michelin-starred dining experience with views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. The Lobby is known for its traditional Peninsula Afternoon Tea, while Yi Long Court serves Cantonese delicacies in an elegant setting.

Facilities: The Peninsula is also home to a luxurious spa, a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel’s Peninsula Academy offers unique cultural experiences, such as a private tour of the Bund or a Chinese tea ceremony.

Why It Stands Out: The Peninsula Shanghai is renowned for its impeccable service, attention to detail, and prime location. It is the only hotel in mainland China to receive a Forbes Five-Star rating for both its hotel and spa.

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong

Overview: Situated in the heart of Lujiazui, Shanghai’s financial district, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong offers luxury with a modern twist. The hotel occupies the top 18 floors of the IFC Tower, providing guests with stunning views of the city’s skyline.

Accommodation: The hotel boasts 285 rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of contemporary and 1930s Shanghai Art Deco styles. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering breathtaking views of the Bund and the Huangpu River.

Dining: Guests can indulge in a variety of dining experiences, from Italian cuisine at Scena to Cantonese dishes at Jin Xuan, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Flair, the hotel’s rooftop bar, is one of the highest in Shanghai and offers a chic setting to enjoy cocktails with panoramic views of the city.

Facilities: The Ritz-Carlton’s spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering treatments that combine traditional Chinese techniques with modern therapies. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center, a heated indoor pool, and extensive meeting and event spaces.

Why It Stands Out: The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong is known for its exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and its prime location in the heart of the financial district. It is the perfect choice for business travelers and those looking to experience Shanghai’s modern side.

The Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai

Overview: Nestled along the banks of the Huangpu River, The Mandarin Oriental Pudong offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The hotel combines traditional Chinese elements with contemporary design, providing a tranquil and luxurious environment for guests.

Accommodation: The Mandarin Oriental offers 318 rooms and 44 suites, all featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the river or the city. The rooms are elegantly designed with plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology.

Dining: The hotel’s dining options include Yong Yi Ting, which serves Michelin-starred Shanghainese cuisine, and Fifty 8° Grill, offering modern French cuisine. The Riviera Lounge provides a perfect setting for afternoon tea, while the Qi Bar offers a wide selection of cocktails in a stylish environment.

Facilities: The Mandarin Oriental’s spa is a highlight, offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. The hotel also features a 25-meter indoor pool, a fitness center, and extensive meeting and event facilities.

Why It Stands Out: The Mandarin Oriental Pudong is celebrated for its peaceful riverside location, exceptional service, and luxurious accommodations. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing and refined stay in Shanghai.

The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

Overview: The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Located in a century-old building that was once the Shanghai Club, the hotel offers a unique experience that combines the grandeur of the past with contemporary comforts.

Accommodation: The hotel features 260 rooms and suites, each designed to reflect the elegance of the early 20th century. The rooms are spacious, with high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and views of the Huangpu River or the city.

Dining: The Waldorf Astoria offers a range of dining options, including the iconic Long Bar, which dates back to the 1910s and is known for its classic cocktails. Pelham’s serves contemporary Western cuisine, while Wei Jing Ge offers authentic Chinese dishes in a sophisticated setting.

Facilities: The hotel’s spa offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and elegant event spaces, which are perfect for weddings and conferences.

Why It Stands Out: The Waldorf Astoria is renowned for its historic architecture, luxurious accommodations, and prime location on the Bund. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a standout choice for travelers to Shanghai.

The Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

Overview: The Bulgari Hotel Shanghai is a stunning blend of Italian luxury and Chinese culture. Located in the Suhe Creek area, the hotel offers a serene and luxurious retreat just minutes from the city’s top attractions.

Accommodation: The hotel features 82 rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of Italian elegance and Chinese elements. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Bund, the Huangpu River, or the city skyline.

Dining: The hotel’s dining options include Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, which offers contemporary Italian cuisine, and Bao Li Xuan, a Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant. The rooftop bar, La Terrazza, provides a chic setting to enjoy cocktails with panoramic views of the city.

Facilities: The Bulgari Spa offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, while the hotel’s indoor swimming pool and fitness center provide guests with the perfect place to unwind. The hotel also features a ballroom and several meeting rooms, making it an ideal choice for events.

Why It Stands Out: The Bulgari Hotel Shanghai is known for its unique blend of Italian and Chinese design, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. It is the perfect choice for those looking for a stylish and sophisticated stay in Shanghai.

The Edition Shanghai

Overview: Located in the heart of Nanjing Road East, The Edition Shanghai is a chic and modern hotel that offers a vibrant and dynamic experience. The hotel occupies a historic building that has been transformed into a contemporary masterpiece, with stylish interiors and cutting-edge amenities.

Accommodation: The Edition features 145 rooms and suites, all designed with a minimalist aesthetic and luxurious finishes. The rooms offer stunning views of the city and are equipped with the latest technology, including high-speed Wi-Fi and a state-of-the-art entertainment system.

Dining: The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including Canton Disco, which serves contemporary Cantonese cuisine, and Hiya, a Japanese restaurant with a modern twist. The hotel’s rooftop bar, Roof, is a popular spot for cocktails with panoramic views of the city.

Facilities: The Edition’s spa offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, while the hotel’s fitness center and indoor swimming pool provide guests with the perfect place to unwind. The hotel also features several event spaces, including a ballroom and meeting rooms.

Why It Stands Out: The Edition Shanghai is known for its modern design, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service. It is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a contemporary and stylish stay in Shanghai.

Conclusion

Shanghai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious and unique hotels, each offering a different experience that caters to the diverse needs of travelers. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, modern luxury, or a blend of both, Shanghai’s hotel scene has something to offer. From the elegance of The Peninsula to the modern sophistication of The Edition, these hotels represent the best that Shanghai has to offer.