Where to Stay in Shanghai
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Shanghai
Pudong (Lujiazui)
LuxuryThe futuristic financial district with towering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and modern attractions.
- +Iconic modern architecture
- +Impressive observation decks
- +Clean and well-organized
- -Lacks the historic charm of other areas
- -Can feel sterile and less authentic
🛡️ Extremely safe due to heavy security and business focus; minimal petty crime.
French Concession
Mid-rangeCharming tree-lined streets with European-style architecture, boutiques, cafes, and bars.
- +Picturesque and romantic atmosphere
- +Excellent dining and shopping
- +Lively nightlife
- -Can feel touristy in certain areas
- -Accommodation can be pricey
🛡️ Very safe during the day and evening; well-lit streets and active nightlife areas deter most issues.
Jing'an
Mid-rangeA bustling commercial and residential hub with modern skyscrapers, temples, and upscale shopping.
- +Excellent transport links
- +Wide range of dining and shopping
- +Convenient for business and leisure
- -Can feel very commercial and less charming
- -Can be noisy
🛡️ Very safe, with a strong police presence and well-maintained public spaces.
The Bund
LuxuryHistoric waterfront promenade with iconic skyline views and grand colonial architecture.
- +Spectacular skyline views
- +Easy access to major sights
- +Elegant atmosphere
- -Can be very crowded
- -Expensive
🛡️ Generally very safe due to high tourist traffic and police presence; be aware of pickpockets in crowds, especially at night.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
CNY 900/day
Hidden Gems in Shanghai
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Propaganda Poster Art Centre
Hidden in a basement apartment building, this unique museum houses an incredible collection of Chinese propaganda posters from the Mao era. It offers a fascinating glimpse into China's political and social history.
Laoximen Market
FREEExperience the authentic hustle and bustle of a traditional Shanghai wet market, where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and everyday goods. It's a sensory overload in the best way possible.
Safety in Shanghai
SafeSolo Female Travel
Shanghai is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas late at night are sufficient.
At Night
Most tourist areas are well-lit and busy. Exercise normal caution, especially if consuming alcohol. Stick to main roads and well-populated areas.
Emergency
110
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Tea Ceremony scam (often targeting foreigners, involves inflated prices)
- 2Art student scam (luring tourists to galleries with high-pressure sales)
- 3Fake goods street vendors (quality is poor, and haggling can be aggressive)
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Shanghai