Best boutique and luxury hotels in Shanghai

Shanghai, a city that seamlessly blends the East with the West, offers travelers a rich tapestry of experiences, epitomized by its boutique hotels. These establishments fuse modern luxury with traditional Chinese elements, creating unique havens of style and comfort. Positioned in bustling districts or tranquil enclaves, each hotel provides a personalized experience that mirrors Shanghai’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li

Location: 480 West Jianguo Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200031, China

Overview: Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li is a luxurious urban resort nestled within the heritage conservation estate of Xuhui District. This unique all-villa hotel preserves the historic shikumen architecture while infusing it with modern luxury and French design flair. As part of the Capella Hotels & Resorts group, it offers a refined experience deeply rooted in local culture and history.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Situated in the charming former French Concession, the hotel provides easy access to Shanghai’s cultural and historic attractions. Guests can explore nearby sites such as Tianzifang, with its bustling laneways filled with cafes and boutiques, and the picturesque Hengshan Road area, known for its European and art deco architecture.

Luxurious Accommodations: Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li features 55 elegantly designed shikumen villas, each blending traditional Chinese elements with contemporary luxury:

• Shikumen Villas: These villas reflect the historic essence of the 1930s shikumen houses with modern interiors. They feature Chinoiserie accents, high ceilings, and silk wallpapers.
• Shikumen Garden Villas: Facing the Secret Garden, these villas offer a serene retreat with classic Chinese and French design elements.
• Two-Bedroom Deluxe Villas: These spacious villas overlook lush greenery and feature a blend of historical and modern design details.
• Three-Bedroom Grand Villas: Designed to recreate an exclusive communal living experience of the 1930s, these villas boast intricate Chinoiserie and French-inspired furniture.

Exceptional Amenities:

Dining:

• Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire: A sophisticated French restaurant by renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire, offering exquisite cuisine in an elegant setting.

Wellness and Activities:

• Auriga Spa: This award-winning spa offers treatments based on the phases of the moon and traditional Chinese therapies, providing a holistic wellness experience.
• Fitness Center and Indoor Pool: Modern facilities for maintaining fitness routines and relaxing swims.

Events and Meetings:

• The hotel features intimate indoor and outdoor event spaces, ideal for business meetings, social gatherings, and cultural events.

Why It’s a Top Choice: Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li stands out for its meticulous preservation of Shanghai’s shikumen heritage combined with luxurious modern amenities. Its prime location in the historic Xuhui District, exceptional dining experiences, and comprehensive wellness offerings ensure an unforgettable stay. The hotel’s personalized service, provided by Capella Culturists, enhances the experience with bespoke cultural and local insights.

The Middle House

Location: No. 366 Shi Men Yi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200041, China

Overview: The Middle House is a luxurious and contemporary hotel situated in the bustling Jing’an District of Shanghai. Part of Swire Hotels’ The House Collective, the hotel combines modern design with traditional Chinese elements to create a unique and sophisticated atmosphere. The hotel features an impressive art collection and stunning architectural details by Italian architect Piero Lissoni.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Located in the vibrant Dazhongli neighborhood, The Middle House offers easy access to Shanghai’s top attractions, including Nanjing West Road, People’s Park, and the Bund. The area is known for its thriving arts and fashion scene, providing a perfect base for both leisure and business travelers.

Luxurious Accommodations: The Middle House offers a range of stylish and spacious rooms, suites, and serviced residences:

• Studio 50: Minimalist design with Chinese accents, featuring down bedding and a deep soaking bathtub.
• Studio 60: Includes floor-to-ceiling windows, European furniture, and a spa-like bathroom.
• Studio 70: Offers sweeping city views, a king-size bed, and a walk-in wardrobe.
• Studio 90: Spacious with a separate living area and panoramic city views.
• Gallery Suite: Features an open-plan layout, outdoor terrace, and luxurious bathroom.
• Penthouse: A top-floor suite with two bedrooms, living space, and terraces overlooking Shanghai.
• Residences: Options ranging from Residence 55 to Residence 110, each fully furnished with modern amenities and city views.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • Café Gray Deluxe: Offers continental cuisine with local influences, open all day with a menu of seasonal dishes.
  • Frasca: An Italian eatery serving traditional dishes in a casual setting.
  • Sui Tang Li: A modern Chinese restaurant blending Cantonese, Sichuanese, and Shanghainese cuisines.
  • Sui Tang Shang: A cocktail lounge inspired by the Five Chinese Elements.
• Wellness:
  • Mi Xun Spa: Provides a range of treatments, including CHA LING and Gemology therapies.
  • Fitness Center and Pool: Features a heated indoor pool, a 24-hour gym, and a yoga studio.
• Events: Stylish spaces for private events, including art shows, photo shoots, and social gatherings.

Why It’s a Top Choice: The Middle House stands out for its elegant blend of modern design and traditional Chinese elements, luxurious accommodations, and prime location in the heart of Shanghai. Its exceptional dining options and comprehensive wellness facilities make it an ideal choice for a memorable stay.

The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai

Location: 740 Hankou Road, People’s Square, Shanghai, 200001, China

Overview: The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai is a historic 5-star hotel located near People’s Square Metro Station, offering a luxurious blend of Art Deco elegance and modern amenities. Originally opened in 1933, the hotel has been a prominent fixture in Shanghai’s social scene and retains its classic charm while providing contemporary comforts.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: The hotel is situated just 50 meters from the People’s Square Metro Station, providing convenient access to Shanghai’s major attractions, including Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, the Bund, and the Shanghai Museum. This central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural, architectural, and culinary highlights.

Luxurious Accommodations: The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai offers 93 elegantly designed guestrooms and 10 luxurious suites, each reflecting the hotel’s rich history and Art Deco design. Room categories include:

• Art Deco Rooms: Spacious rooms (31-37 sqm) with king-sized or twin beds, marble bathrooms, and city views.
• Shanghai Grand Rooms: Larger rooms (38-47 sqm) with added amenities and beautiful city views.
• Boutique Balcony Rooms: Featuring private balconies with views of Yunnan Road or the Orient Pearl TV Tower.
• NiHong Balcony Rooms: Offering two private balconies with views of Hankou Road.
• Art Deco Executive Rooms: Spacious (50-55 sqm) with two private balconies and luxurious amenities.
• Suites: Including the Yangtze Suite, Rose Suite, and the expansive Presidential Suite (185 sqm) with separate living and dining areas and panoramic city views.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • Tang Pavilion: The hotel’s signature restaurant, offering a range of Cantonese delicacies and traditional dishes in an elegant setting.
  • Ciao Dining Room: Serves a fusion of Western and Asian cuisines, perfect for a sophisticated dining experience.
  • The Lounge: A cozy spot for afternoon tea, cocktails, and light snacks.
• Wellness and Activities:
  • Fitness Center: Equipped with modern exercise equipment to help guests maintain their fitness routines.
  • Spa: Offering a variety of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.
• Business and Event Facilities: The hotel provides comprehensive business services, including meeting rooms and event spaces suitable for conferences, seminars, and social gatherings.

Why It’s a Top Choice: The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai is celebrated for its historic charm, luxurious accommodations, and prime location. The combination of Art Deco elegance, modern amenities, and exceptional service ensures a memorable and indulgent stay in Shanghai.

Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund

Location: 585 Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200010, China

Overview: Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund is a luxurious boutique hotel situated in one of Shanghai’s most vibrant and historic districts. The hotel offers stunning views of both the Bund and the Pudong skyline, blending contemporary design with traditional Chinese elements. It is part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts group and provides an upscale, unique experience for both leisure and business travelers.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Located on the south end of the Bund, the hotel offers easy access to Shanghai’s major attractions, including Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. The People’s Square Metro Station is also nearby, making it convenient for exploring the city.

Luxurious Accommodations: Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund offers a variety of rooms and suites, each uniquely designed to reflect the local culture and history:

• River View Rooms: Featuring stunning views of the Huangpu River, these rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, spa-inspired bathrooms, and murals of Yu Garden.
• Bund View Rooms: These rooms offer panoramic views of the historic Bund area and are designed with a blend of modern comfort and traditional Chinese decor.
• Suites: Spacious suites with separate living areas, luxurious bathrooms, and private terraces offering breathtaking city views.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • CHAR Bar & Grill: This signature restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu featuring premium steaks and seafood. Guests can enjoy their meals with stunning city panoramas.
  • Quay: A neighborhood café with river views, serving a range of light bites and drinks in a relaxed setting.
• Wellness and Activities:
  • Indoor Pool: A heated indoor pool with views of the city, perfect for relaxation and exercise.
  • Fitness Center: Equipped with modern workout facilities to help guests maintain their fitness routines.
• Events and Meetings:
  • The hotel features several meeting rooms and event spaces that can accommodate up to 100 guests, ideal for business meetings, product launches, and social gatherings.

Why It’s a Top Choice: Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund stands out for its unique blend of modern design and local cultural elements, luxurious accommodations, and prime location. The hotel’s exceptional dining options and comprehensive amenities ensure a memorable and indulgent stay.

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund

Location: 839 Renmin Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200001, China

Overview: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund is a luxury boutique hotel strategically located in the bustling heart of Shanghai, near Yu Garden and The Bund. The hotel offers a blend of modern comforts and traditional Chinese elegance, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Situated in the central Huangpu District, the hotel is a short walk from the People’s Square Metro Station and Yu Garden Subway Station, providing easy access to major attractions like Nanjing Road, People’s Square, and Xintiandi. This prime location allows guests to explore Shanghai’s rich cultural and commercial districts effortlessly.

Luxurious Accommodations: The hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms designed to cater to different preferences:

• Deluxe Double Room: Features a king-sized bed, modern amenities, and city views.
• Executive Suite Package: Includes a spacious layout with a king-sized bed, separate living area, and additional amenities.
• Deluxe Twin Room: Offers two twin beds, ideal for friends or family.
• SSAW Room: A comfortable room with a king-sized bed and elegant decor.
• Family Room: Equipped with a full bed and a sofa bed, perfect for families.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining: The hotel’s restaurant serves a variety of dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals on the outdoor patio with stunning skyline views.
• Wellness and Activities:
  • Fitness Center: Equipped with modern workout facilities to help guests maintain their fitness routines.
  • Spa: Offers a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.
  • Children’s Playground: Provides a fun and safe environment for younger guests.
• Additional Services: Complimentary Wi-Fi, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, and a bar.

Why It’s a Top Choice: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund is known for its excellent location, luxurious accommodations, and comprehensive amenities. The combination of modern comfort and traditional charm, along with its proximity to major attractions, ensures a memorable stay in Shanghai.

The Shanghai EDITION

Location: 199 Nanjing Road East, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200002, China

Overview: The Shanghai EDITION is a luxurious boutique hotel located at the heart of Shanghai, just a short walk from the Bund and Nanjing East Road. Combining modern design with historical elements, the hotel offers a unique and sophisticated experience. It features two towers with 145 guest rooms and extensive public spaces, making it a standout destination in Shanghai.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: The hotel is conveniently located near major attractions such as the Bund, Yu Garden, and People’s Square. The Nanjing East Road Subway Station (Lines 2 and 10) is just a 2-minute walk away, providing easy access to other parts of the city.

Luxurious Accommodations:

• Deluxe Room: Available with one king bed or two queen beds, featuring modern amenities and stylish decor.
• Premium City View Room: Offers panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline.
• Bund View Loft: Spacious rooms with stunning views of the Bund.
• Pearl Tower View Room: Available with king or queen beds, these rooms offer impressive views of the iconic Pearl Tower.
• Suites: Includes the Bund View Suite, Terrace Suite, and the expansive Penthouse Suite with luxurious amenities and breathtaking views.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • HIYA: A signature Japanese restaurant located on the 27th floor.
  • Canton Disco: A Cantonese restaurant featuring five private dining rooms.
  • Shanghai Tavern: An all-day dining brasserie offering a variety of international dishes.
  • Bars and Lounges: The hotel features three lounge bars and two rooftop bars, providing a range of cocktails and spectacular views.
• Wellness and Activities:
  • Spa: Offers a variety of treatments in six treatment rooms, along with a sauna and relaxation area.
  • Fitness Center: Equipped with modern exercise facilities.
  • Indoor Swimming Pool: A heated pool with views of the city.
• Events and Meetings: The hotel includes flexible meeting and event spaces, ideal for business and social gatherings.

Why It’s a Top Choice: The Shanghai EDITION stands out for its blend of modern luxury and historical charm. Its prime location, exceptional dining options, and comprehensive wellness facilities make it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers looking to experience the best of Shanghai.

The Sukhothai Shanghai

Location: 380 Weihai Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, 200041, China

Overview: The Sukhothai Shanghai is a contemporary luxury hotel located in the heart of Shanghai’s vibrant Jing’an District. Known for its sophisticated design by renowned architects Neri & Hu, the hotel offers an urban oasis with a blend of modern aesthetics and natural elements. The hotel is part of the prestigious Sukhothai Hotels & Resorts collection, providing guests with an exceptional blend of comfort, style, and personalized service.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Situated in the bustling Jing’an District, The Sukhothai Shanghai is close to major attractions such as the Jing’an Temple, Nanjing West Road, and People’s Square. The hotel is also conveniently connected to three primary Shanghai Metro stations, making it easy to explore the city.

Luxurious Accommodations: The Sukhothai Shanghai offers a variety of rooms and suites designed to provide maximum comfort and elegance:

• Executive Room: Featuring elegant interiors and advanced in-room control technology.
• Premier Room: Blends modern residential touches with intuitive functionality.
• Studio Room: Offers a spacious and airy ambiance.
• Executive Suite: Includes a separate living space with striking details.
• Premier Suite: Combines fine design and hospitality, suitable for both work and leisure.
• Signature Suite (The Loft / The Attic): Provides an ultimate luxurious living experience.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • La Scala: An award-winning Italian restaurant, listed in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, offering innovative cuisine with local ingredients.
  • URBAN Café: Serves a mix of Southeast Asian and Western dishes in a vibrant setting.
  • ZUK Bar: Known for its extensive selection of artisanal cocktails and over 300 labels of gin.
• Wellness and Activities:
  • Spa and Wellness: Includes a range of treatments, a sauna, and a relaxation area.
  • Fitness Center: Equipped with modern exercise facilities.
  • Indoor Pool: A 25-meter infinity-edged pool for relaxation and fitness.
• Events and Meetings: The hotel features multiple event spaces suitable for business meetings, conferences, and social gatherings.

Why It’s a Top Choice: The Sukhothai Shanghai stands out for its unique blend of contemporary design and traditional elements, luxurious accommodations, and excellent location in the heart of Shanghai. The hotel’s exceptional dining options and comprehensive wellness facilities make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both comfort and sophistication.

InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin

Location: 118 Ruijin Er Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200020, China

Overview: The InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin is a historic luxury hotel set in a beautifully restored 1920s estate. Surrounded by lush gardens, the hotel offers a serene retreat in the heart of Shanghai. Combining classic elegance with modern comforts, the InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin provides an exceptional stay experience.

Why Stay Here:

Prime Location: Located in the heart of Shanghai, the hotel is close to popular attractions like Xintiandi, the French Concession, and the Bund. It offers easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural sites.

Luxurious Accommodations:

• Deluxe Rooms: Elegant and spacious, featuring modern amenities and garden views.
• Club Rooms: Provide access to the Club InterContinental Lounge, offering exclusive services and amenities.
• Suites: Luxurious and expansive, with separate living areas and premium amenities.

Exceptional Amenities:

• Dining:
  • La Rue: Serves French cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
  • Xian Yan: Offers a variety of international dishes.
  • Lobby Lounge: Ideal for afternoon tea and cocktails.
• Wellness: Features a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a spa offering various treatments.
• Events: Multiple event spaces are available, including grand ballrooms and intimate meeting rooms.

Why It’s a Top Choice: InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin is renowned for its historical charm, luxurious accommodations, and excellent service. The beautiful gardens and central location make it an ideal choice for a memorable stay in Shanghai.

The boutique hotels in Shanghai are perfect for those seeking an intimate and luxurious stay in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. These hotels not only provide exceptional service and stylish accommodations but also serve as gateways to explore Shanghai’s rich history, cutting-edge architecture, and culinary delights. Each hotel offers a distinct flavor of the city, ensuring that every guest’s stay is both memorable and deeply personal.