Where to Stay in Shanghai Based on Your Travel Personality

Shanghai is a city of contrasts. Historic lanes brush up against soaring skyscrapers, traditional teahouses sit next to buzzing nightclubs, and every corner seems to tell a story. With so many unique neighbourhoods, picking the right area to stay can shape your entire trip. To make things easier, here’s a guide to Shanghai’s best districts based on your travel personality.

Also read: Ultimate Guide to Shanghai, China: What to See, Eat & Do

1. The Bund: For the glamorous city lover

The Bund is Shanghai’s postcard-perfect waterfront. Where colonial architecture meets the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the river. If you’re here for the iconic views and luxurious experiences, this is your spot.

Best for you if: You want to wake up to one of the most stunning cityscapes in the world and enjoy five-star hotels, fancy cocktails, and evening strolls along the Huangpu River.

Stay here if you love: Being surrounded by elegance, spectacular views, and easy access to major attractions. The Bund is perfect for travellers who enjoy glamorous city vibes, romantic sunsets, and the thrill of being in the heart of Shanghai’s most famous area.

2. French Concession: For the culture and cafe enthusiast

If you prefer leafy streets, art galleries, and charming cafes, the French Concession is ideal. With its tree-lined avenues, boutique shops, and historic villas, it’s the perfect blend of history and modern creativity.

Best for you if: You love wandering neighbourhoods filled with culture, photography spots, and quaint corners that feel like a step back in time.

Stay here if you love: Exploring hidden cafes, boutique shops, and art studios at a leisurely pace. The French Concession suits travellers who enjoy a relaxed vibe, cultural immersion, and picturesque streets to get lost in.

3. Jing’an: For the stylish urbanite

Jing’an is a chic, upscale district with luxury shopping, trendy bars, and high-end restaurants. It’s more modern than the French Concession but still retains a calm, polished feel.

Best for you if: You want comfort, style, and easy access to central Shanghai without the overwhelming crowds.

Stay here if you love: Trendy cafes, boutique hotels, and a neighbourhood where style and convenience collide. Jing’an is perfect if you enjoy sophisticated urban vibes and nightlife without sacrificing comfort.

4. Xintiandi: For the nightlife and dining lover

Xintiandi is the epicentre of Shanghai nightlife, with an abundance of restaurants, bars, and clubs. The pedestrian streets are built in preserved Shikumen style, giving you both history and modern entertainment in one place.

Best for you if: You enjoy evenings out, fine dining, and socialising is a big part of your travel plans.

Stay here if you love: Being within walking distance of some of the city’s best restaurants and lively bars. Xintiandi suits travellers who want a vibrant social scene and love mixing historic architecture with contemporary energy.

5. Pudong: For the futuristic explorer

Pudong is home to Shanghai’s skyline icons. The Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the Lujiazui financial district. It’s sleek, modern, and perfect for those who love towering cityscapes.

Best for you if: You’re fascinated by cutting-edge architecture and want to experience Shanghai’s financial hub up close.

Stay here if you love: Modern hotels, sky-high views, and being steps away from the city’s tallest buildings. Pudong is ideal if you enjoy a futuristic, metropolitan vibe and don’t mind being slightly removed from the city’s older neighbourhoods.

6. People’s Square & Nanjing Road: For the first-time tourist

This area is the beating heart of Shanghai, with iconic shopping streets, museums, and easy metro access. Nanjing Road is always buzzing, making it perfect if you want to be in the centre of everything.

Best for you if: You want to see Shanghai’s must-visit attractions, shop until you drop, and be in the thick of the action.

Stay here if you love: Being steps from historic landmarks, museums, and bustling shopping streets. People’s Square is perfect for first-time visitors who want a convenient base with everything nearby.

7. Tianzifang: For the creative and quirky traveller

Tianzifang is full of winding alleyways, artisan shops, and tiny cafés. It’s a creative enclave where you can discover handmade souvenirs, art studios, and street art around every corner.

Best for you if: You enjoy exploring offbeat streets, discovering hidden gems, and soaking in local creativity.

Stay here if you love: Wandering small alleys, finding unique handmade goods, and enjoying an artistic atmosphere. Tianzifang is perfect for free-spirited travellers who want a more intimate, colourful experience of Shanghai.

Also read: Best Places to Shop for Clothes in Shanghai and Guangzhou

Final thoughts

Shanghai is a city that can cater to every kind of traveller, from luxury waterfronts and trendy cafes to vibrant nightlife and futuristic skylines. Your neighbourhood can define your trip. No matter your personality, there’s a district that will make your Shanghai adventure unforgettable.