Pudong skyline with the Oriental Pearl Tower across the Huangpu River

Cheap hotels in Shanghai

Shanghai is vast, but its metro is fast and cheap, so a hotel near a metro station matters more than being beside any one sight. Ocean cruise ships use the Wusongkou terminal in Baoshan, well north of downtown.

Want a hotel in Shanghai for less? Compare cheap hotels, discount rooms and last-minute hotel deals from the major booking sites in one place, then book directly at their price — we never add fees.

Shanghai is China’s busiest ocean-cruise port and a start or end point for some longer Yangtze River cruise itineraries.

Where to find cheap rooms in Shanghai

The Bund

Colonial-era waterfront with skyline views across the Huangpu River — iconic and central.

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People’s Square

The metro hub near Nanjing Road shopping and major museums.

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Former French Concession

Tree-lined streets, cafés and boutiques with a relaxed feel.

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Pudong & Lujiazui

Skyscraper hotels with Bund views and easy access to Pudong Airport.

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Baoshan (near the cruise terminal)

Closest area to the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal for an early embarkation.

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Famous hotels in Shanghai

The green-roofed Chateau Frontenac castle hotel

Fairmont Peace Hotel

The Art Deco landmark on the Bund, opened in 1929 as the Cathay Hotel.

Check rates at Fairmont Peace Hotel

Map of cheap hotels in Shanghai

Zoom and pan the map to compare hotel prices by neighborhood; rates come live from the booking sites.

Photos of Shanghai

When to book a cheap hotel in Shanghai

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–November) are the most comfortable; summer is hot and humid, and rates rise around Chinese New Year and the October Golden Week holiday.

See all Shanghai hotel deals

Frequently asked questions

Where should I stay in Shanghai before a cruise?

Stay downtown near the Bund or People’s Square to sightsee, then allow plenty of time to reach the Wusongkou terminal in Baoshan, or stay in Baoshan the night before.

What is the best area in Shanghai for first-timers?

The Bund and People’s Square are the most central and well connected by metro.

Do Yangtze cruises start in Shanghai?

Most Three Gorges cruises sail between Chongqing and Yichang; some longer itineraries include Shanghai, so check your cruise details.