How much is a Hostel in Shanghai?

Dorm beds in Shanghai usually start from around €6.70 a night. Shanghai tends to be pricier than other Chinese cities, but street food, local noodle shops and the metro are often cheap. Observation decks and day trips may be the main extra costs.

What's the best area to stay in Shanghai?

Most travellers stay near People's Square, the Bund or Jing'an, where several metro lines meet and the main sights are close by. The Former French Concession is usually good for cafés and bars. Pudong may be less handy for exploring the old city.

What's the most social Hostel in Shanghai?

Travellers often rate Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'an Temple – Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'an Temple for its social vibe. Many hostels in Shanghai have bars, rooftop terraces or events such as dumpling-making nights. Hostel staff can usually help with apps and tickets, and common areas tend to be good for meeting people.

Is Shanghai safe for solo travellers?

Shanghai is generally considered very safe for solo travellers, including at night. Take normal care with your phone and bag in crowded places. You should watch out for friendly strangers inviting you to a tea ceremony or art show, as this is a known scam.

Do Hostels in Shanghai have private rooms or women-only dorms?

Yes. Most hostels in Shanghai offer private rooms as well as dorms, and some have female-only dorms. Hostels need to be able to register foreign guests, so book on a site that confirms this. Rooms may sell out over Chinese national holidays, so book ahead.

How do I get from the airport to my Hostel in Shanghai?

From Pudong Airport, you can take the Maglev train to Longyang Road and change to the metro, or take the metro directly. Hongqiao Airport sits next to the main high-speed railway station and is on the metro too. Taxis and DiDi are often easy options if you have heavy bags.

What is there to do in Shanghai?

Walk along the Bund at night, take in the Pudong skyline, and visit Yu Garden and the Shanghai Museum. You might explore the lanes of Tianzifang, the Former French Concession and Jing'an Temple. Nightlife is usually busy, with rooftop bars, live music and clubs.

When is the best time to visit Shanghai?

Spring and autumn are usually a good time to visit, with mild weather and clearer skies. Summer tends to be hot and humid, with heavy rain in early summer. Winter may be cold and damp. Avoid national holidays if you can, as trains and sights can get very crowded.

Can I cook in the Hostel or is breakfast included?

Many hostels in Shanghai have shared kitchens, and some sell breakfast, so check each listing. You should try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns) and scallion oil noodles. Breakfast stalls and small noodle shops are usually cheap and quick. Food courts in malls may be a simple way to try many dishes.

Do I need cash or apps to pay in Shanghai?

Cash is still accepted, but most places prefer mobile payments. Many foreign travellers can now link an international card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, so it is worth setting this up before you arrive. Carry some cash as a backup, and check which apps may need a VPN.