Where to Stay in Shanghai
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Shanghai
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
French Concession
Charming tree-lined streets with European-style architecture, boutiques, cafes, and bars.
Our top picks in French Concession
Jing'an
A bustling commercial and residential hub with modern skyscrapers, temples, and upscale shopping.
Our top picks in Jing'an
Offers elegant suites, fine dining, and exceptional butler service.
Book NowDirectly connected to the Jingan Kerry Centre, offering stunning city views.
Book NowKnown for its sophisticated design and serene atmosphere inspired by Thai culture.
Book Now
The Bund
Historic waterfront promenade with iconic skyline views and grand colonial architecture.
Our top picks in The Bund
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1The Bund | Luxury | Historic waterfront promenade with iconic skyline views and grand colonial architecture. | first-timerscouples |
French Concession | Mid-range | Charming tree-lined streets with European-style architecture, boutiques, cafes, and bars. | couplesfoodies |
Jing'an | Mid-range | A bustling commercial and residential hub with modern skyscrapers, temples, and upscale shopping. | digital nomadsluxury |
Pudong (Lujiazui) | Luxury | The futuristic financial district with towering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and modern attractions. | first-timersbusiness travelers |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Shanghai
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Shanghai
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Shanghai. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Shanghai
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Shanghai
The Bund
LuxuryHistoric waterfront promenade with iconic skyline views and grand colonial architecture.
- +Spectacular skyline views
- +Easy access to major sights
- +Elegant atmosphere
- -Can be very crowded
- -Expensive
French Concession
Mid-rangeCharming tree-lined streets with European-style architecture, boutiques, cafes, and bars.
- +Picturesque and romantic atmosphere
- +Excellent dining and shopping
- +Lively nightlife
- -Can feel touristy in certain areas
- -Accommodation can be pricey
Jing'an
Mid-rangeA bustling commercial and residential hub with modern skyscrapers, temples, and upscale shopping.
- +Excellent transport links
- +Wide range of dining and shopping
- +Convenient for business and leisure
- -Can feel very commercial and less charming
- -Can be noisy
Pudong (Lujiazui)
LuxuryThe futuristic financial district with towering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and modern attractions.
- +Iconic modern architecture
- +Impressive observation decks
- +Clean and well-organized
- -Lacks the historic charm of other areas
- -Can feel sterile and less authentic
Daily Budget (Budget)
CNY 400/day
Hidden Gems in Shanghai
Lesser-known spots the locals love
M50 Creative Park (Moganshan Road)
FREEThis former industrial area is now a vibrant hub for contemporary art galleries and studios, showcasing cutting-edge Chinese art. Wander through the former textile mills transformed into creative spaces.
Tianzifang
FREEA charming labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with boutique shops, quirky cafes, and artisan workshops. It's a delightful place to get lost and discover unique crafts and local flavors.
Wukang Road
FREEKnown for its beautiful old villas and tree-lined avenues, this street offers a glimpse into Shanghai's colonial past and architectural charm. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and admiring the historic buildings.
Laoximen Market
FREEExperience the authentic hustle and bustle of a traditional Shanghai wet market, where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and everyday goods. It's a sensory overload in the best way possible.
Lost Heaven
This atmospheric restaurant offers a unique culinary journey through Yunnan cuisine, a region known for its diverse ethnic groups and distinct flavors. The decor transports you to a different world.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Shanghai
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Shanghai Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Shanghai on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Shanghai Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Shanghai with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Shanghai: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Shanghai's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Shanghai: Scenic Excursion
Escape Shanghai for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Shanghai Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Shanghai's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Shanghai
Backpackers in Shanghai: FAQ
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