The Best Cheap Hotels in Shanghai

With this roster of amenities, you’d expect the Mercure to be wallet-draining – but instead, it delivers top value. Set in the sleepy, residential Changning neighbourhood, this family-friendly pad counts a fitness centre, concierge, breakfast buffet and dry-cleaning service as part of its offering. The restaurant overlooks a prim garden, while the rooms are properly stylish – think cool tones of grey and white, moody lighting, marble bathrooms and Parisian-inspired furnishings.

The lobby space is a highlight at this hotel in southern Shanghai – with comfy sofas, cafe tables, rows of books and corners for coworking, it’s a perfect space for catching up with mates or colleagues. Cream and light wood-dressed rooms with seating areas and quirky touches – macramé hanging chairs, low Asian-style dining tables – feel both luxurious and contemporary. The onsite restaurant, complete with a living plant wall, is a handy spot if you’re not fussed about heading out for dinner.

Sightseers will love the location of Hao Du Hotel, which puts you within walking distance of the must-see Shanghai Museum, People’s Square, Yu Garden and the Yuyuan Bazaar. With so much to see in the vicinity, you probably won’t spend much time in your room; but when you do return, you’ll find a classic-styled space with golden woods and burgundy accents. A 24-hour front desk means you can easily head out to explore extra early on a whim.

The clue’s in the name: this affordable but cool pad is right by People’s Square – Shanghai’s sweeping open space fringed by museums, theatres and a pond-studded park. With loft-style suites, the Fishinn Hotel channels a New York urban vibe – cushy leather sofas, large art pieces and views out to skyscrapers all come as part of the deal. Even smaller rooms are stylish; padded leather headboards and colourful bathroom tiling will keep design mavens happy.

With both dormitory-style and spacious family rooms to choose from, the simple Shanghai Meego Yes Hotel is a natural pick for groups in Shanghai. Communal facilities let you hang out, whether or not you’re sharing a room: there’s a lounge area with a fridge, a fitness centre and even an outdoor pool in summer. All-hours front desk and room service mean your crew will want for nothing – especially handy if you’re travelling with demanding little ones.

The restaurant and shop-packed alleyways of Tianzifang are one of the French Concession’s – and in fact, all of Shanghai’s – must-sees. Whether you want to head for evening bites or afternoon beers, this hotel is an ideal jumping-off point. Book in and you’ll get cream-dressed rooms with big windows and modern bathrooms, as well as an airy dining area where you can curl up on a banquette with your morning coffee.

Set to the west of Shanghai’s city centre, the Atour Hotel Anting gives you a look into local Chinese life, beyond the skyscrapers of Pudong. The hotel interiors are just as glossy as you’d expect to find in the city centre, though: marble check-in desk, book-lined library space and polished wooden floors in bedrooms all included. You’ll also get premium-style hotel touche, like slippers, hairdryers, free toiletries and a kettle for making bedtime teas.

If you’re a family with Shanghai Disneyland on your to-do list, this is a safe bet – the park is under 10mi (16km) from Yunhe Yebo Hotel. An onsite kids’ club further increases the appeal for travellers with little ones in tow, while upmarket, glossy environs tick the boxes for parents craving a bit of sophistication. Be sure not to miss the onsite buffet, loaded with Chinese delights such as steamed buns and fried rice.