Shanghai’s Best Luxury Hotels for Foreign Travelers

Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis where East meets West, is a dream destination for luxury-seeking travelers. From the iconic skyline of Pudong to the historic charm of the Bund, the city offers an unforgettable blend of culture, modernity, and opulence. For foreign travelers looking to indulge in the finest accommodations, Shanghai’s luxury hotels deliver world-class service, breathtaking views, and unparalleled experiences. Here’s a curated list of the best luxury hotels in Shanghai that cater to the discerning tastes of international guests.

The Bund: Timeless Elegance with a View

The Peninsula Shanghai

Overlooking the Huangpu River, The Peninsula Shanghai is a masterpiece of Art Deco design blended with cutting-edge technology. Foreign travelers will appreciate the hotel’s Rolls-Royce Phantom chauffeur service, rooftop bar with panoramic views, and an award-winning spa. The rooms feature touch-screen control panels, ensuring a seamless stay. Don’t miss the afternoon tea at The Lobby—a refined experience with live jazz music.

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

Steeped in history, the Waldorf Astoria occupies a heritage building and a modern tower, offering the best of both worlds. The Long Bar, a recreation of Shanghai’s legendary 1910s bar, is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. The hotel’s butler service and Michelin-starred dining options make it a favorite among luxury travelers.

Pudong: Sky-High Luxury

Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai

Located in the heart of Lujiazui, the Mandarin Oriental Pudong combines contemporary design with traditional Chinese elements. The hotel’s spa is one of the largest in the city, featuring holistic treatments inspired by ancient wellness practices. The 58th-floor rooftop pool offers stunning views of the Shanghai skyline, perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.

Park Hyatt Shanghai

Occupying floors 79 to 93 of the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Park Hyatt is one of the highest hotels in the world. The minimalist design and floor-to-ceiling windows create a serene atmosphere, while the 100 Century Avenue restaurant serves exquisite Cantonese cuisine. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to wake up above the clouds.

French Concession: Chic and Sophisticated

The PuLi Hotel and Spa

Tucked away in the leafy streets of the French Concession, The PuLi is an urban sanctuary. The hotel’s design blends Zen aesthetics with modern luxury, featuring a tranquil courtyard and an award-winning Anantara Spa. The Michelin-recommended PHÉNIX eatery offers French-inspired cuisine with a local twist, making it a hotspot for foodies.

Capella Shanghai

A collection of restored shikumen villas, Capella Shanghai offers an intimate, residential-style experience. Each villa comes with a private garden, and the hotel’s cultural concierge can arrange exclusive tours of the French Concession’s hidden gems. The Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire restaurant, led by a Michelin-starred chef, is a culinary highlight.

Jing’an: Where Tradition Meets Glamour

The Middle House

Designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, The Middle House is a sleek, avant-garde hotel in the bustling Jing’an district. The rooms feature oversized bathtubs and custom-made furniture, while the Café Gray Deluxe offers a globally inspired menu. The hotel’s proximity to high-end shopping and nightlife makes it a top pick for stylish travelers.

Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai at Jingan

The Four Seasons brand brings its signature elegance to Jing’an with this urban retreat. The hotel boasts a stunning indoor pool, a rooftop garden, and a Cantonese restaurant helmed by a master chef. The personalized service ensures that every guest feels like a VIP.

Xintiandi: Trendy and Vibrant

Andaz Xintiandi, Shanghai

Hyatt’s Andaz brand brings a playful, design-forward vibe to Xintiandi. The hotel’s eclectic decor reflects Shanghai’s creative energy, and the rooftop bar offers craft cocktails with a view. The Andaz Studio rooms are perfect for travelers who appreciate art and innovation.

The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi

Classic British luxury meets Shanghai chic at The Langham. The hotel’s Chuan Spa specializes in Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, while the Ming Court restaurant serves some of the best dim sum in the city. The location, just steps from Xintiandi’s lively dining and entertainment scene, is unbeatable.

Beyond the Stay: Exclusive Experiences

Private Huangpu River Cruises

Many luxury hotels, such as The Peninsula and Waldorf Astoria, can arrange private yacht cruises along the Huangpu River. It’s the perfect way to see the city’s skyline illuminated at night while sipping champagne.

Customized Shopping Tours

Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise, and hotels like The Middle House and Capella can organize personalized shopping excursions with personal stylists. From high-end boutiques on Nanjing Road to hidden vintage stores in the French Concession, the options are endless.

Culinary Journeys

Food is a highlight of any trip to Shanghai, and luxury hotels offer exclusive dining experiences. Think private cooking classes with Michelin chefs or bespoke tasting menus featuring local delicacies like xiaolongbao and hairy crab.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic grandeur of the Bund, the futuristic allure of Pudong, or the bohemian charm of the French Concession, Shanghai’s luxury hotels promise an extraordinary stay. Each property offers a unique slice of the city’s vibrant culture, ensuring that your visit is as unforgettable as Shanghai itself.