Share this post:
If you are visiting Shanghai for the first time, stay somewhere central like Nanjing Road. While the pedestrian street is busy, it offers proximity and easy access to most tourist spots either on foot or by metro, with plenty of easy food options around.
We stayed in in Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai by Nanjing Road — the hotel offered really good value for money, unusual in such a central spot.
Best Areas for Families in Shanghai
1. The Bund & People's Square - Best for First-Time Families
- Perfect for: Families who want iconic Shanghai views and easy sightseeing
- Family advantages: Walking distance to major attractions, easy metro access, plenty of dining options
- Kid-friendly nearby: Shanghai Museum, People's Park, Nanjing Road pedestrian street
- Transport: Metro Lines 1, 2, 8 intersection
- Safety factor: Excellent - well-lit, busy, tourist police presence
- Average family room price: ¥800-¥1,500 per night
Personal Experience: We stayed in Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai and in our opinion it was good value for money — we had a studio room with separate bedroom, in a very central location directly at Nanjing Road.
🌟 Top Family Pick in The Bund Area:
- Atour X Hotel Shanghai The Bund Nanjing East Road Subway Station - From ¥900/night
- Why families love it: Central location and themed rooms!
- Best for: All age groups
- Family amenities: Themed family rooms
- Kid-friendly nearby: Nanjing Road, The Bund
2. Xintiandi - Best for Families Who Love Culture + Convenience
- Perfect for: Families interested in Shanghai's history and modern culture
- Family advantages: Pedestrian-friendly, cultural sites, international dining
- Kid-friendly nearby: Xintiandi Style mall, parks, cultural exhibitions
- Language learning opportunity: Great for practicing Mandarin with locals in cafes
- Average family room price: ¥700-¥1,200 per night
3. Pudong (Near Shanghai Tower) - Best for Future-Focused Families
- Perfect for: Families who want to experience "future Shanghai"
- Family advantages: Modern facilities, amazing skyline views, science museums nearby
- Kid-friendly nearby: Shanghai Science & Technology Museum, Oriental Pearl Tower
- Great for: Kids interested in technology and modern architecture
- Average family room price: ¥600-¥1,000 per night
4. Jing'an District - Best for Families on Extended Stays
- Perfect for: Families staying 5+ days who want a local neighborhood feel
- Family advantages: Parks, local markets, less touristy but still convenient
- Language immersion: Better opportunities for kids to practice Mandarin
- Average family room price: ¥500-¥900 per night
Best luxury hotels for families
🌟 Top Pick - W Shanghai
I honestly regret we didn‘t find this hotel before our trip — W hotel chain is known for their extravagant modern design. This one has an amazing view at The Bund, so you can enjoy evening views without the crowds — worth it if you have the money to spend!
Best hotels near Disneyland
🌟 Top Pick - Shanghai Disneyland Hotel
This hotel is perfect for families looking for a classic Disneyland experience to spoil their kids. Featuring Disney characters and looking almost like a palace, it is experience the whole family might enjoy.
Best hotels in Pudong New Area
If you plan to visit the Shanghai Planetarium or Haichang Ocean Park, I recommend booking a night in the area. The Pudong New Area requires a long 2h one way commute, even with a taxi it is over 1h, so the best thing to do if planning to visit those attractions is to book 1-2 nights in the area.
🌟 Top Pick - InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City
A beautiful and stylish resort, with indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a kids playground. For kids who are into astronomy and parents who want to spend extra, they even have cosmos themed rooms!
Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park Resort Hotel
A cheaper option that also features family rooms is Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park Resort Hotel.
FAQs
Q: Do Shanghai hotels provide cribs and high chairs?
A: Most international chains and upscale local hotels provide cribs, high chairs, and other baby equipment upon request. Always confirm when booking and arrive early to ensure availability.
Q: Are hotel pools in Shanghai suitable for children?
A: Many luxury and mid-range hotels have family-friendly pools with dedicated children's areas. Pool hours are typically 6 AM - 10 PM, with some having kids pools and floating aids for rent
Q: How safe are Shanghai hotels for families?
A: Shanghai hotels are generally very safe for families. Most upscale properties have 24-hour security, keycard access, and staff trained in assisting international guests with children.
Q: Do hotel staff speak English when traveling with kids?
A: Shanghai is the most English-speaking of all cities in China. At international chain hotels and upscale properties, English-speaking staff are common. This is also a great opportunity for children to practice basic Mandarin phrases with friendly hotel staff.
Q: What's the best area for families visiting Shanghai for the first time
A: The Bund area offers the best combination of iconic attractions, safety, transport connections, and family-friendly amenities. It's perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience classic Shanghai.
Q: Are serviced apartments better than hotels for families?
A: While in Europe we often opt-in for Airbnbs and other serviced properties, in China we always go for hotels. The reason for that is that the staff can help you if you have trouble with anything. The food is cheap and one of the main reasons we come back to China so often, so there is little incentive to cook. It is good to know that there are some hotel chains that offer a combination of both — they are a hotel but the room is a 1- or 2- bedroom apartment with a small kitchenette.
