5 Foreigner-Friendly Hotels In Shanghai (2025)

1. The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund 🏛️

Why Choose: Historic luxury in a 1911 heritage building with Art Deco interiors and butler service.
Location: 2 Zhongshan East Road (direct Bund access).
Best For: Culture seekers who value old-world charm.
Unique Perk: “Long Bar” serving 33m-long cocktails inspired by 1920s Shanghai.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong 🌃

Why Choose: Floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed views of the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Location: 50/F, IFC Mall (connected to metro Line 2).
Best For: Business travelers and shoppers (luxury brands onsite).
Unique Perk: Rooftop Flair Bar’s 58th-floor infinity pool.

3. Bulgari Hotel Shanghai 🖤

Why Choose: Italian designer luxury with private gardens and bespoke jewelry workshops.
Location: Suhe Creek (artsy district near North Bund).
Best For: Fashionistas and couples.
Unique Perk: Free Bulgari Dolce treats at turndown service.

4. The Middle House (镛舍) 🎋

Why Choose: Minimalist-chic rooms with Chinese ceramic art and silent check-in via app.
Location: Taikoo Hui Mall (Nanjing West Road metro).
Best For: Design lovers and digital nomads.
Unique Perk: Free Nespresso machines in all rooms.

5. Fairmont Peace Hotel 🎺

Why Choose: Iconic 1929 landmark with live jazz and “Nine Nations” themed suites.
Location: 20 Nanjing East Road (next to the Bund).
Best For: Music enthusiasts and history buffs.
Unique Perk: Vintage elevator rides with a historian guide.

Comparison Chart

Hotel	Price/Night (USD)	English Staff	Airport Transfer	Family-Friendly
Waldorf Astoria	$450-$800	Yes	Paid ($50)	Limited
Ritz-Carlton Pudong	$500-$900	Yes	Free (to PVG)	Yes (kids’ club)
Bulgari	$600-$1,200	Yes	Paid ($80)	No
The Middle House	$350-$700	Yes	Paid ($40)	No
Fairmont Peace	$400-$750	Yes	Paid ($60)	Yes (suites)

Key Notes:

Best value: The Middle House (design + location).
Best views: Ritz-Carlton (Pudong skyline).
Most Instagrammable: Bulgari (garden terraces).

Shanghai Travel Transportation (2025)

Navigating Shanghai is surprisingly smooth! Zip around efficiently on its massive, clean Metro system - easily the fastest way between top sights. Taxis (use apps like Didi or hail them) are affordable for shorter hops when your feet tire; just have your destination address in Chinese characters ready. Buses cover every corner but can be tricky for non-Mandarin speakers. From Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) airports, the Maglev train (to Pudong) or Metro links get you downtown fast. Don't stress: with integrated payment via apps like Alipay or cards, getting around this buzzing city is a breeze, freeing you up to explore!

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More Transportation and Accommodation Guide

Which Area Is Best For Tourists To Stay In Shanghai?

For visiting Shanghai, you'll find awesome spots depending on your vibe: * **The Bund & Nanjing Road:** Right in the action! You're steps from those famous river views, iconic buildings, and endless shopping on crazy-busy Nanjing Road East. Super central and convenient. * **Jing'an:** Stylish and sophisticated. Think sleek hotels, cool cafes, art galleries, and the beautiful Jing'an Temple. Perfect mix of modern buzz and calm. * **Former French Concession:** Charming tree-lined streets, boutiques, cozy cafes in old villas. Feels more relaxed, village-like, and super picturesque. Great for wandering. * **Xintiandi:** Upscale, lively, and full of atmosphere. Restored traditional houses now housing trendy bars, international restaurants, and shops. Fantastic for dining and nightlife. Choose Jing'an or French Concession for a cooler, more local feel, or the Bund/Nanjing Road for pure tourist central excitement. Read More ➡

How Does The Shanghai Metro System Work?

Getting around Shanghai? The Metro is your absolute best friend! It's crazy efficient, affordable, and connects almost everywhere you'll want to go. Forget complicated maps! It's easy to figure out: clear color-coded lines and English signs everywhere. Grab a rechargeable Public Transportation Card or use the official Metro app (like "Metro Man") for super simple tap-and-go payment. Just load it up with cash and you're set. Trains come super frequently, especially during rush hours. Stations are clean and modern, most even have WiFi! Remember to mind the platform screen doors and let people off before boarding – it gets crowded. Keep an eye on the display signs inside the train showing the next stop. Bonus tip: grab an etiquette card at major stations for handy reminders! Read More ➡

Can I Use Uber/Didi To Get Around Shanghai?

Traveling around Shanghai? Absolutely! While Uber merged with Didi here, Didi Chuxing is your go-to ride-hailing app. Download the Didi app (available in English!) – it's super practical. * **Easy Booking:** Just plug in your destination. Cars arrive quickly, even during rush hour. * **No Hassle:** Fixed fares on the app, so no haggling with drivers. Payment is cashless via linked card or AliPay/WeChat Pay. * **Coverage:** Works city-wide, great for avoiding complex public transport or tricky taxi routes. Pro Tip: Use the cheaper "Didi Express" option for most affordable fares. Definitely recommend it for efficient Shanghai travel! Read More ➡

Do Taxi Drivers In Shanghai Speak English?

Planning a trip to Shanghai and worried about chatting with taxi drivers? Generally, many don't speak much English, especially the older crowd, so it's a bit hit or miss. Younger drivers near airports or tourist spots might understand basic phrases like "airport" or addresses. To keep things smooth, always have a translation app handy, like Google Translate, or learn key Chinese words beforehand ("nǎlǐ" for where, "duōshǎo" for cost). Don't stress—just be prepared, and you'll get around just fine with a friendly approach! Read More ➡

How Do I Visit A Traditional Water Town Near Shanghai?

To visit a traditional water town near Shanghai, hop on a bus or train for a quick 1-2 hour trip—popular spots like Zhujiajiao or Wuzhen are easy picks. Once there, stroll scenic canals, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and snack on local treats like sticky rice dumplings. Catch historic bridges and old houses along the way. Aim for a day trip to keep it simple: arrive early to avoid crowds and soak up the charming atmosphere. Pack light, comfy shoes are a must, and you're set for a relaxing cultural escape! Read More ➡