Cheap Hotels in Shanghai from $43

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Our top choices for Shanghai cheap hotels

Exterior

Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG
3.5 star property
Pudong
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (453 reviews)
"Very convenient for a short break between flights"
Australia
Jamie
$112 nightly
The price is $118
May 7 - May 8
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG
Lobby lounge

Ramada Plaza Shanghai Pudong Airport

Ramada Plaza Shanghai Pudong Airport
4.0 star property
Pudong
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,007 reviews)
"Arrived early was not a problem checked in early "
Australia
Julie
$73 nightly
The price is $78
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Ramada Plaza Shanghai Pudong Airport
Free daily buffet breakfast

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai PVG Zhuqiao by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai PVG Zhuqiao by IHG
4.0 star property
Pudong
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (146 reviews)
"Hotel clean, front desk nice service."
United States
Carolyn
$42 nightly
The price is $45
May 5 - May 6
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Express Shanghai PVG Zhuqiao by IHG
Exterior

Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel

Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel
3.5 star property
Pudong
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (625 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, close to the airport with shuttle bus arranged for pickup…also arranged shuttle bus to Disney land and outlet…"
Canada
Deresa
$40 nightly
The price is $43
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel
Free WiFi

Jinglai Zhenxuan Jiudian

Jinglai Zhenxuan Jiudian
3.0 star property
Jing'an
$48 nightly
The price is $50
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Total with taxes and fees
Jinglai Zhenxuan Jiudian
Secret Cave Room | Premium bedding, memory foam beds, in-room safe, desk

Manli Hotel Shanghai Pudong Airport Branch-Free shuttle buses to Pudong Airport and Disneyland

Manli Hotel Shanghai Pudong Airport Branch-Free shuttle buses to Pudong Airport and Disneyland
4.0 star property
Pudong
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (418 reviews)
"Great room and very helpful staff."
Canada
Maël
$49 nightly
The price is $52
May 14 - May 15
Total with taxes and fees
Manli Hotel Shanghai Pudong Airport Branch-Free shuttle buses to Pudong Airport and Disneyland
Executive lounge

Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
4.5 star property
Minhang
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (50 reviews)
"Convenient to airport "
Hong Kong SAR China
Samuel
$83 nightly
The price is $88
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
Terrace/patio

Captain 5 Youth Hotel

Captain 5 Youth Hotel
2.5 star property
Changning
$73 nightly
The price is $78
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Total with taxes and fees
Captain 5 Youth Hotel
Family Twin Room, City View | Premium bedding, minibar, desk, blackout drapes

Shanghai Joy International Resort Hotel (Wild Animal Park)

Shanghai Joy International Resort Hotel (Wild Animal Park)
3.0 star property
Pudong
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Very large family room with modern, large TVs in the room. The pool wasn’t the best and only half full so, although is was one of the reasons we booked here, we didn’t use the pool. Breakfast was great with a lot of selection for food. The biggest drawback was, although they have a no smoking policy, the staff do not police the rooms, even when informed that people are smoking in the rooms. "
Canada
Joe
$72 nightly
The price is $76
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Total with taxes and fees
Shanghai Joy International Resort Hotel (Wild Animal Park)
Indoor pool

Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai

Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai
4.5 star property
Minhang
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (26 reviews)
"Clean and tidy hotel with good location if u r traveling in and outta SH, staff are quite helpful and friendly too I should add "
China
QIUSHI
$85 nightly
The price is $90
Apr 27 - Apr 28
Total with taxes and fees
Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Shanghai

Discover cheap things to do in Shanghai (and vicinity)

In greater Shanghai, budget-conscious travelers can indulge in a variety of affordable attractions and experiences without skimping on excitement. Start your journey at the iconic Yuyuan Garden, a serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle, where entry is just a small fee, and wandering its classical Chinese architecture is utterly free. Next, stroll along the historic Bund for stunning views of the skyline and the Huangpu River, an ideal spot for a picturesque picnic or a leisurely evening walk. For a taste of local culture, explore the bustling streets of the Old City, where street food vendors offer delicious dumplings and scallion pancakes at a fraction of restaurant prices. Don't miss the Shanghai Museum, which offers free entry and houses an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, perfect for those looking to delve into the rich history of the region. Finally, consider staying in the vibrant neighborhood of Jing'an, where affordable hotels are nestled among trendy cafes and boutique shops, providing a perfect base to explore. Here, you can enjoy a mix of modern and traditional experiences, from sipping coffee in stylish settings to visiting local markets, all while being just a short metro ride from popular attractions.

Find the best cheap hotels in Shanghai (and vicinity)

Travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodation in Shanghai will find these hotels to be excellent choices. Each offers essential amenities while ensuring a pleasant stay.

Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget-conscious travelers, Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel is an exceptional choice a guest review rating of 8.8. This hotel offers complimentary toiletries and WiFi, ensuring guests have the essentials covered without breaking the bank. Located in the vibrant Downtown Shanghai, guests enjoy convenient access to local attractions and shopping options.
  • Other amenities: In addition to budget-friendly amenities, the hotel features daily housekeeping, early check-in, and premium bedding for a restful night’s sleep. With designer toiletries, air conditioning, and a child-friendly window design, it caters to both comfort and family needs. The inviting atmosphere and accessible amenities make it a top pick for those exploring the city on a budget.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Shanghai
  • Nearby attractions: Former French Concession - 0.0 miles, Yuyuan Garden - 0.52 miles

Seventh Heaven Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Seventh Heaven Hotel is an appealing choice for budget travelers, with a guest review rating of 7.2. This hotel provides complimentary toiletries and WiFi, ensuring guests have the necessities for an enjoyable stay. Situated in Downtown Shanghai, it offers nearby shopping centers and historic sites, perfect for exploring the vibrant local culture.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, the hotel also features nearby parking options, daily housekeeping, and a concierge service to assist with local recommendations. Guests can enjoy shopping onsite, a grocery convenience store, and even in-room massage services for a touch of relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Shanghai
  • Nearby attractions: People's Square - 0.59 miles, Nanjing Road Shopping District - 0.0 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Shanghai?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Shanghai

  1. If you're looking to travel to Shanghai on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $43. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $118. Staying a short amount of time in Shanghai is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Shanghai, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Shanghai, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Shanghai, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Shanghai Hotel Reviews

Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

8/10 Good
"Prime location, but other than that there's no more"
Bayu 5-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Shanghai as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent value in Shanghai, consider the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Expo Centre by IHG, Dayin International Youth Hostel (Shanghai Nanjing East Road;People's Square;The Bund Branch), Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, and Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, with an impressive 9.4 review rating, offers fantastic value with complimentary buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests frequently praise its excellent location, great showers, and helpful staff. It is conveniently situated near the Sun Yatsen Residence, Cai Yuanpei Former Residence, and the Shanghai Acrobatic Theatre.

Another great choice is the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Expo Centre by IHG, boasting a 9.4 review rating. This hotel provides free breakfast on weekends and free self-serve breakfast, along with complimentary wired internet in public areas and free self-parking. It's located close to the Silk Museum, Nanpu Square Park, and the Huangpu River.

For those who enjoy a hostel environment, the Dayin International Youth Hostel (Shanghai Nanjing East Road;People's Square;The Bund Branch), with a 9.2 rating, offers free WiFi, free wired internet in public areas, and free grocery shopping service, plus free parking at a nearby location. Reviewers often highlight its nice, clean rooms and great location near Old Town God Temple Snack Street and Pudong Riverside Promenade and Park.

The 3-star Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, with an outstanding 9.8 review rating, provides exceptional value with complimentary local breakfast, free WiFi, free grocery shopping service, and free area shuttle, as well as free self-parking and extended duration parking. Guests consistently praise its comfortable, spacious rooms and super helpful staff.

Finally, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, rated 9.0, offers free WiFi, free breakfast, and free self-parking. It also features an indoor pool and is located in a shopping district. Guests often note the good service received at this hotel.
How much does a budget hotel in Shanghai cost?
Budget hotel prices in Shanghai vary, but you can find a great deal from $43 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—off-peak and mid-week stays are typically cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Shanghai is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Shanghai, areas like the French Concession (especially its western parts) and the neighbourhoods around Jing'an Temple offer a good blend of affordability and accessibility. These districts provide a more local experience while still being well-connected to major attractions via Shanghai's extensive metro system.

The French Concession, particularly its quieter, tree-lined streets, is home to numerous guesthouses and smaller boutique hotels that often come at a lower price point than those in more central business districts. Solo travellers will appreciate the area's charming cafes, independent shops, and art deco architecture, which are superb for leisurely exploration on foot. Many historical sites and cultural venues are within walking distance or a short metro ride, offering free or low-cost activities.

Alternatively, the areas surrounding Jing'an Temple also present affordable hotel options, including business hotels and hostels. This district provides excellent metro access to virtually all parts of the city. Solo travellers can enjoy the temple itself, a peaceful oasis in the bustling city, and explore the nearby parks and shopping streets without breaking the bank.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Shanghai?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai that are great for families, consider Xiangyun Qinzi hotel, Tyms Residence (Original Shama Xujiahui), and Magnificent International Hotel.

Xiangyun Qinzi Hotel is a 3-star property with an impressive 9.4 rating, offering exceptional value with free airport transportation, free WiFi, free nearby parking, and a complimentary buffet breakfast. They also provide a free grocery shopping service and free toiletries, making family stays more convenient and affordable.

Tyms Residence (Original Shama Xujiahui), another 3-star option with a superb 9.6 rating, is highly praised by travellers. It provides free WiFi, free cribs for the little ones, and free toiletries. Families can also take advantage of the fitness facilities, including workout equipment like rowing machines, stationary bikes, and treadmills. This residence is conveniently located near Shanghai Mass Art Gallery and Xujiahui Catholic Church.

Magnificent International Hotel, a 3-star hotel with a 7.7 rating, is lauded by customers for its excellent food, good breakfast, and helpful staff. It offers free WiFi, free cribs, and free internet access.
What cheap hotels in Shanghai offer complimentary breakfast?
Several budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai offer complimentary breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day without added costs.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Guests consistently praise its excellent location, great showers, and helpful staff. It's conveniently close to Sun Yatsen Residence and MOCA Shanghai.

Another excellent option is the Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, a 3-star property with an outstanding 9.8 rating. This hotel offers a free local breakfast, free WiFi, and a complimentary area shuttle. Reviewers frequently mention its comfortable and spacious rooms, as well as its super helpful staff.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, rated 9.0, also includes a free breakfast and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the good service provided here.

For travellers needing airport convenience, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG, rated 8.6, features a free buffet breakfast and complimentary airport transportation. Reviews highlight the friendly and helpful staff, clean and quiet rooms, and a good breakfast buffet.

Lastly, the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Expo Centre by IHG, with a 9.4 rating, offers free breakfast on weekends, free wired internet in public areas, and free self-parking. It is located near the Silk Museum and Huangpu River.
When is the most affordable time to visit Shanghai?
The most affordable time to visit Shanghai generally falls during the shoulder seasons, specifically late autumn (October to early December) and early spring (March to April), when flight and accommodation prices are typically lower than peak tourist times. During these periods, you can enjoy pleasant weather without the intense heat and humidity of summer or the biting cold of winter.

For solo travellers, visiting in late autumn offers a comfortable experience with fewer crowds at popular attractions. You can leisurely explore areas like the Bund and the French Concession, often finding better deals on guesthouses or smaller hotels. Many free activities, such as strolling through Fuxing Park or people-watching in People's Square, are more enjoyable in the mild climate.

Early spring also presents an excellent opportunity for solo travellers to experience Shanghai's vibrant culture on a budget. The city's numerous museums, many with free or low-cost admission, are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate exploration.
What are the best cheap hotels in Shanghai with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai that also offer a pool, consider the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, the Grand Metropark Hotel Pudong Shanghai, and the Shanghai Meego Yes Hotel.

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG is a 3-star hotel with a 9.0 rating, providing great value with its free buffet breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests often praise the good service from the staff. This hotel features a convenient indoor pool and is located in a shopping district.

The 3-star Grand Metropark Hotel Pudong Shanghai, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers an indoor pool, free WiFi, and off-street parking. Reviewers frequently highlight its good location, making it convenient for exploring nearby attractions like Ziwei Park.

Shanghai Meego Yes Hotel, rated 7.8, provides an outdoor seasonal pool, free WiFi, and 24-hour room service.
Is Shanghai a budget-friendly destination?
While Shanghai offers incredible experiences, it's generally not considered as budget-friendly as some other international destinations; however, with strategic planning, you can certainly enjoy much of what the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

For solo travellers and couples, a major way to save is on accommodation. Look for hotels or guesthouses in areas slightly outside the immediate city centre but still well-connected by public transport, such as Changning or Xuhui. These neighbourhoods often provide better value and a more local atmosphere. The Shanghai Metro is extensive, efficient, and very affordable, making it easy to navigate the city.

Many of Shanghai's most captivating attractions are free or low-cost. Couples can enjoy romantic strolls along The Bund to admire the futuristic skyline and historic architecture, or explore the serene Fuxing Park. Solo travellers might find peace wandering through the charming streets of the French Concession, visiting the Propagand Art Poster Museum for a small fee, or people-watching in People's Square. Dining can also be very inexpensive if you opt for local street food, noodle shops, and 'xiaolongbao' (soup dumpling) eateries, which offer delicious meals for just a few dollars.
What cheap hotels in Shanghai offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For travellers seeking budget-friendly accommodations in Shanghai with cooking facilities or kitchenettes, Tyms Residence（Original shama xujiahui）, Mayson Shanghai Zhongshan Park Serviced Apartment, MIJU HOUSE Gubei-a small white building beside Shanghai oil painting sculpture institute, Fashion Home, and Shanghai Jiarong Apartment Hotel are excellent choices.

Tyms Residence（Original shama xujiahui） is a 3-star property with an impressive 9.6 review rating. It offers convenient amenities like free WiFi, free cribs, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can also enjoy fitness facilities, including workout equipment, a rowing machine, a stationary bike, and a treadmill. It is located near popular attractions such as the Shanghai Mass Art Gallery and Xujiahui Catholic Church.

Mayson Shanghai Zhongshan Park Serviced Apartment, a 3-star hotel, provides free WiFi and a complimentary grocery shopping service to enhance your stay. It is conveniently situated near shopping centres and districts, making it easy to access amenities. Nearby points of interest include Changfeng Ocean Park and Parkson Shopping Centre.

MIJU HOUSE Gubei-a small white building beside Shanghai oil painting sculpture institute is a 3-star option that includes free toiletries and free WiFi. Its location offers easy access to outlets and shopping centres, with nearby attractions like Hongqiao Int'l Pearl City and Parkson Shopping Centre.

Fashion Home, with a 7.4 review rating, offers free WiFi and air conditioning, along with a kitchen or kitchenette. Guests frequently highlight its great location. It is conveniently close to attractions such as Sun Yatsen Residence and Wujiang Road Food Street.

Shanghai Jiarong Apartment Hotel is a 3-star establishment that provides free toiletries and free WiFi. It also offers self-parking for added convenience. The hotel is located near Changfeng Ocean Park and Changning Science & Technology Museum.
Which cheap hotels in Shanghai have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Shanghai with great customer service, travellers often praise Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, and Shanghai Fish Inn Bund.

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG is a 3-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, where guests consistently highlight the helpfulness of the staff. It offers valuable amenities like free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Conveniently located, it's just 0.2 miles from the Sun Yatsen Residence and 0.4 miles from MOCA Shanghai.

The 3-star Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, boasting an impressive 9.8 review score, is known for its super helpful staff. This hotel provides excellent value with free local breakfast, a complimentary area shuttle, and free self-parking.

Shanghai Fish Inn Bund, a 3-star property rated 8.0, is frequently commended for its friendly and super helpful staff. Guests benefit from free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. Its location is ideal for exploring, being 0.4 miles from the Old Town God Temple Snack Street and 0.6 miles from Pudong Riverside Promenade and Park.
Are there any cheap hotels in Shanghai that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The 3-star Magnificent International Hotel is a good choice, with customers often praising its helpful staff. They can accommodate early check-in requests, making your arrival more convenient. This hotel also offers free WiFi and free cribs, and is well-located near attractions like Old Town God Temple Snack Street and Pudong Riverside Promenade and Park.

Fairfield by Marriott Shanghai Pudong Central, with an excellent 9.0 review rating, is another option that can often arrange for early check-in. Guests frequently highlight the super breakfast and spacious rooms. It also provides free WiFi and free self-parking, and is close to Nanpu Square Park and the Huangpu River.

For those needing a later departure, MIJU HOUSE Gubei-a small white building beside Shanghai oil painting sculpture institute, a 3-star property, can often accommodate late check-out requests. This hotel features free WiFi and free toiletries, and is conveniently located near shopping centres like Hongqiao Int'l Pearl City and Parkson Shopping Centre.

A good tip for any hotel is to contact them directly after booking.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Shanghai with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Shanghai. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock discounted Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Shanghai?
Shanghai offers numerous free activities, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Many of the city's most iconic sights can be enjoyed without spending a penny.

For solo travellers, a stroll along The Bund is a must, offering breathtaking views of Shanghai's futuristic skyline on one side and historical historic architecture on the other. This promenade is particularly captivating at sunset as the city lights begin to twinkle. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the former French Concession, admiring its tree-lined avenues and distinctive European-style buildings; it's a pleasant area for a leisurely walk and offers a glimpse into a different side of Shanghai's past.

Exploring Shanghai's parks provides a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. Fuxing Park, for example, is a wonderful place to observe local life, with residents practicing Tai Chi, dancing, or playing traditional Chinese games in the mornings and evenings. Another engaging option is to simply get lost in the bustling pedestrian areas, like Nanjing Road East, which is packed with shops and street performers, offering a vibrant setting without requiring any purchases.
Is it cheaper to book a Shanghai hotel and flight package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect vacation package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Shanghai for you.