What affordable attractions should backpackers visit in Shanghai?

For budget-conscious travellers, the Yu Garden is a must-see. It's a classic Chinese garden with intricate architecture and serene ponds. You can also explore the bustling streets of the nearby Old Town and sample street food from local vendors. For a unique experience, head to the Shanghai Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of Chinese art and artefacts.

What are the best hostels in Shanghai?

Among the hostels in Shanghai, Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch , Iforest Hostel and Shanghai Blue Mountain International Youth Hostel are the most popular ones.

What nightlife options are popular among hostel guests in Shanghai?

The trendy Xintiandi district is a popular spot for backpackers, with its lively bars and clubs. For a more local experience, check out the bars and restaurants in the Fumin Road area, known for its eclectic mix of pubs, cafes and live music venues. If you're looking for something more laid-back, there are many rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city skyline.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Shanghai?

Meego Yes Hotel and Phoenix Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Shanghai.

What are the top social spots in Shanghai for hostel guests to meet other travelers?

The popular backpacker hostel, The Shelter, hosts regular social events and pub crawls. The nearby bar, The Irish Pub, is another great spot to mingle with fellow travellers. The hostel, The Urban Hub, also organises events like walking tours and cooking classes, offering a chance to connect with others.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Shanghai?

The best hostels for families and kids in Shanghai are Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch , Shanghai Meego Qingwen Hotel and Meego Yes Hotel .

What’s the best budget-friendly way to reach Shanghai?

Flying into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is generally the most affordable option, especially if you book your flights in advance. You can then take the metro line 2 to the city centre, which is a cheap and convenient way to get around.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Shanghai?

The best pet friendly hostels in Shanghai are Pu Chun International Hostel -Yugarden & Old Town , J Trip Youth Hostel and Shuyou Hostel .

What should you know before renting a hostel in Shanghai?

When booking a hostel in Shanghai, make sure to check the location and proximity to public transport. Also, read reviews from other travellers to get an idea of the hostel's cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall atmosphere. It's also important to consider the type of hostel you're looking for, whether it's a social hostel with common areas or a quieter option.

What are the best hostels with parking in Shanghai?

Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch , Shanghai Meego Qingwen Hotel and Meego Yes Hotel are the best hostels with parking in Shanghai.

What's the best time of the year to visit Shanghai?

The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be cold and wet, although you might catch some snow.

Where in Shanghai can you find the best areas to stay in a hostel?

The Xujiahui area is a popular choice for backpackers, with its mix of hostels, restaurants, and shops. The Jing'an district, known for its trendy bars and restaurants, also has a good selection of hostels. For a more local experience, consider staying in the Hongkou district, which is home to many historical sites and traditional markets.

Shanghai Hostels at the Best Price

9.4 3806 reviews

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town is situated in Shanghai's Jing'an district, within 2km of Huanghe Road and the Nanjing Road Shopping District.
This Shanghai lodging offers guests free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and bar, and is conveniently located near Zhongxing Road and Baoshan Road metro stations.

9.9 11 reviews

Jingmi Tianxiang Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Jingmi Tianxiang Hostel is situated just 23km from Shanghai Pudong International Airport and 35km from Shanghai Railway Station, making it a convenient choice for travellers exploring the city and its surrounding attractions. The hostel boasts excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
This family-friendly establishment offers a relaxing atmosphere and a range of amenities, including on-site parking, Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and easy access to public transport. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions like Xingyuan Park and Meet With Disney Friends, making it an ideal choice for families and Disney enthusiasts.

9.8 197 reviews

Manshu Garden Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Manshu Garden Hostel, a guesthouse in Shanghai, is conveniently located approximately 17km from Pudong International Airport and 34km from Shanghai Railway Station, near the Shanghai Youlong Stone Culture Museum and Shanghai Disney Resort.
This family-friendly establishment offers guests on-site parking, a restaurant, a garden, excellent internet access, and boasts an excellent user rating for cleanliness and location.

8.1 3688 reviews

Meego Qingwen Hotel Shanghai Jingan

hostel, Shanghai

The Shanghai Meego Qingwen Hotel is situated in the Jing'an district of Shanghai, just a short distance from the historic Jing'an Temple and the lively East Nanjing Rd Pedestrian Street. The hotel has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
This hotel offers a choice of comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a shared lounge, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and a fitness centre, as well as a restaurant and bar.

9.1 25 reviews

Q Sai Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Q Sai Hostel in Shanghai is located approximately 21 kilometres from the city centre, near Shanghai Disneyland, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and the Jin Mao Tower, offering a quieter alternative to city-centre accommodation.
This budget lodging features air conditioning, a TV, and one bathroom; further details regarding room size and capacity are unavailable.

9.4 2269 reviews

Jiting Hostel- Nanjing West Road Metro Station

hostel, Shanghai

Denpa Inn - Nanjing West Road Metro Station, a 2-star guesthouse in Shanghai, offers budget-friendly accommodation near Nanjing West Road, a major shopping street.
This social hostel features a café, lounge, and regularly scheduled events such as barbecue nights and film screenings, fostering a community atmosphere for young travellers.

8.7 8 reviews

Youle Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Youle Hostel in Shanghai offers convenient accommodation near Ying Garden, Gaodong Park, and Gaoqiao Ancient Town, approximately 25km from Shanghai Railway Station and 32km from Pudong International Airport.
This excellent-rated hostel provides guests with on-site parking, a restaurant, and internet access, ensuring a comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions.

9.0 14 reviews

Siyecao Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Siyecao Hostel is conveniently located in Shanghai's Songjiang District, offering easy access to Thames Town, Huating Lake, and Songjiang University Town, with Shanghai Songjiang Railway Station 10 kilometres away and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport 30 kilometres distant.
This accommodation provides on-site parking and air conditioning, with room service available for guests, making it a practical choice for travellers exploring Shanghai.

9.3 210 reviews

Bohai Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Bohai Hostel in Shanghai's Minhang District is conveniently located 9 kilometres from Xinzhuang Railway Station and 21 kilometres from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with Beiqiao Metro Station only minutes away.
This accommodation offers on-site parking, air conditioning, and room service, making it a practical choice for business travellers seeking a relaxing environment after a day of exploring attractions such as Minhang Science and Innovation Park and Jinta Park.

10 1 review

Yiyi Zhenxuan Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Yiyi Zhenxuan Hostel is located in Qianjin, approximately 69 kilometres from Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
This pet-friendly and family-friendly establishment offers rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms, complimentary WiFi, an on-site restaurant serving Asian breakfast, a casino, and a garden with a grill for guest use.

8.0 114 reviews

Third Floor Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Third Floor Youth Hostel is centrally located in Shanghai, a 9-minute walk from People's Square and 15 minutes from Yu Garden, offering excellent access to the city centre, 0.96 kilometres away.
This accommodation provides air conditioning and free WiFi throughout, with a 15 square meter floor area, one bedroom, and one bathroom, making it ideal for travellers seeking a quiet stay with a 24-hour front desk.

9.2 819 reviews

Hi Cozy Youth Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund

hostel, Shanghai

The Hi Cozy Youth Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund is situated in Shanghai's East Nanjing Road district, a prime commercial area, offering excellent access to The Bund, located just 700 meters away.
This youth hostel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site dining options including a restaurant and bar, a fitness centre, and kitchen facilities, with room service and concierge services also available for guest convenience.

Find Hostels in the City Centre of Shanghai

Walk effortlessly to popular bars and transit hubs from centrally located hostels in Shanghai.

8.7 974 reviews

Zhexi Changqiu Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Zhexi Changqiu Youth Hostel, situated in Shanghai's Huangpu District, offers easy access to attractions such as the Shanghai Great World (under 1km), the City God Temple (under 1km), and Yu Garden (under 1.5km), as well as the Bund and Nanjing Road (under 3km by bike).
This Shanghai guesthouse provides budget-friendly accommodation with shared bathroom facilities, 24-hour hot water, individual lockers, and a communal area hosting regular social events, including board games and themed activities.

9.7 2717 reviews

Iforest Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Iforest Hostel enjoys a convenient location near Siping Road Metro Station in Shanghai, approximately 7km from Shanghai Railway Station and 21km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, offering easy access to attractions such as the SNH48 Theatre and Shanghai Hongkou Football Stadium.
This excellent-rated guesthouse features air conditioning, a restaurant, room service, and readily available internet access, providing a comfortable base for exploring the city.

9.2 1291 reviews

Pujiang Star Inn Shanghai Xujiahui Branch

hostel, Shanghai

Pujiang Star Inn Shanghai Xujiahui Branch, located in Shanghai's Xujiahui district, offers excellent user ratings and very good location ratings, providing convenient access to local attractions.
This non-smoking hostel provides air conditioning in select rooms, on-site parking, and concierge services, with in-room entertainment and tea/coffee making facilities available.

8.7 2498 reviews

Hidden Garden Youth Hostel -Oriental Pearl &Lujiazui -Garden Social Area -Bar -Café -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk -English Service

hostel, Shanghai

The Shanghai Hidden Garden International Youth Hostel is located in the Lujiazui district of Shanghai, close to attractions like the Jin Mao Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. This hostel is rated very good for cleanliness and user experience, while the location is rated good.
The hostel has modern soundproofed rooms and a range of amenities, including a garden, a library, a games room, and barbecue facilities. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the restaurant and bar, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.

Best Shanghai hostels with air conditioning

9.2 32 reviews

Liuniange Boutique Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Liuniange Boutique Hostel offers convenient access to Shanghai's metro system via nearby Shuyuan Station, situated approximately 26km from Pudong International Airport and 58km from Shanghai Railway Station, though its specific district requires further clarification.
This Shanghai guesthouse boasts a garden, restaurant, bar, and valet parking, alongside excellent guest ratings for cleanliness, location, and service, ensuring a comfortable stay.

9.0 449 reviews

Dayin Youth Hostel - Old Town & People's Square& Rail Hub -Social Area -Bar -Café -Gym -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk -English Service

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town enjoys a convenient location near Shanghai's People's Square, approximately 2.4km from Shanghai Railway Station and within 3km of attractions such as the Jade Buddha Temple and Nanjing Road.
This Shanghai hostel offers rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and amenities including a fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi; select rooms boast city views.

8.0 161 reviews

Shenli Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Shenli Hostel in Shanghai is conveniently located approximately 4 kilometres from the city centre, near Taikang Road, Nanpu Bridge, and the Yuyuan Bazaar.
This Shanghai guesthouse offers guests free Wi-Fi, an on-site bar, a kitchen, air conditioning, laundry service, and accessibility features including a lift; pets are welcome at no extra charge.

10 6 reviews

Dayin Garden Hotel-hongqiao & North Xinjing Metro

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin Garden Hotel-hongqiao & North Xinjing Metro is located in Shanghai's Changning District on Jianhe Road, offering excellent connectivity between Hongqiao Airport and the city centre, just a 5-minute walk from North Xinjing Metro Station (Line 2).
This design hotel blends spatial aesthetics with smart technology, featuring 65-inch HD TVs, Xiaomi air purifiers, smart lighting, robot delivery services, meeting rooms, laundry facilities, a gym, and high-quality Kingkoil mattresses and L'Oréal bath amenities.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Shanghai

What affordable attractions should backpackers visit in Shanghai?
For budget-conscious travellers, the Yu Garden is a must-see. It's a classic Chinese garden with intricate architecture and serene ponds. You can also explore the bustling streets of the nearby Old Town and sample street food from local vendors. For a unique experience, head to the Shanghai Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of Chinese art and artefacts.
What are the best hostels in Shanghai?
Among the hostels in Shanghai, Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch, Iforest Hostel and Shanghai Blue Mountain International Youth Hostel are the most popular ones.
What nightlife options are popular among hostel guests in Shanghai?
The trendy Xintiandi district is a popular spot for backpackers, with its lively bars and clubs. For a more local experience, check out the bars and restaurants in the Fumin Road area, known for its eclectic mix of pubs, cafes and live music venues. If you're looking for something more laid-back, there are many rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city skyline.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Shanghai?
Meego Yes Hotel and Phoenix Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Shanghai.
What are the top social spots in Shanghai for hostel guests to meet other travelers?
The popular backpacker hostel, The Shelter, hosts regular social events and pub crawls. The nearby bar, The Irish Pub, is another great spot to mingle with fellow travellers. The hostel, The Urban Hub, also organises events like walking tours and cooking classes, offering a chance to connect with others.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Shanghai?
The best hostels for families and kids in Shanghai are Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch, Shanghai Meego Qingwen Hotel and Meego Yes Hotel.
What’s the best budget-friendly way to reach Shanghai?
Flying into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is generally the most affordable option, especially if you book your flights in advance. You can then take the metro line 2 to the city centre, which is a cheap and convenient way to get around.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Shanghai?
The best pet friendly hostels in Shanghai are Pu Chun International Hostel -Yugarden & Old Town, J Trip Youth Hostel and Shuyou Hostel.
What should you know before renting a hostel in Shanghai?
When booking a hostel in Shanghai, make sure to check the location and proximity to public transport. Also, read reviews from other travellers to get an idea of the hostel's cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall atmosphere. It's also important to consider the type of hostel you're looking for, whether it's a social hostel with common areas or a quieter option.
What are the best hostels with parking in Shanghai?
Dayin International Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund Branch, Shanghai Meego Qingwen Hotel and Meego Yes Hotel are the best hostels with parking in Shanghai.
What's the best time of the year to visit Shanghai?
The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be cold and wet, although you might catch some snow.
Where in Shanghai can you find the best areas to stay in a hostel?
The Xujiahui area is a popular choice for backpackers, with its mix of hostels, restaurants, and shops. The Jing'an district, known for its trendy bars and restaurants, also has a good selection of hostels. For a more local experience, consider staying in the Hongkou district, which is home to many historical sites and traditional markets.

Popular destinations

Compare Hostels with Breakfast Included in Shanghai

Begin your day well-fuelled for sightseeing, as these hostels in Shanghai include breakfast as standard.

No reviews

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town is located 2 kilometres from Shanghai's city centre, close to North Sichuan Shopping Road, Nanjing Road Shopping District, and the Shanghai Art Museum.
This youth hostel offers air conditioning, a restaurant, bar, room service, parking, and a shared kitchen, with a check-out time of 12:00.

9.4 632 reviews

Dishangju Theme Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Dishangju Theme Hostel, a guesthouse near Shanghai's Disney Resort, is conveniently located approximately 2 kilometres from the Disney Resort metro station, 18 kilometres from Pudong Airport, and 35 kilometres from Shanghai Railway Station, offering easy access to Shanghai Village, Bright Eco-Park, and JEGOPLAY TOO Family Park.
This family-friendly inn boasts excellent guest ratings for cleanliness, location, and service, including on-site parking, a restaurant, a garden, and internet access; check-out is between 8am and 12pm.

9.5 40 reviews

Hi Cozy Hostel Shanghai Bund

hostel, Shanghai

Hi Cozy Hostel Shanghai Bund is situated in Shanghai's Huangpu District, steps from the Bund and within easy walking distance of Nanjing Road and Yu Garden.
This budget-friendly guesthouse offers clean, modern dorms and private rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and secure storage, plus a stylish lounge and helpful multilingual staff.

No reviews

Yunik Hotel(shanghai New International Expo Center Expo Park Branch)

hostel, Shanghai

The Yunik Hotel (Shanghai New International Expo Center Expo Park Branch) is situated in Shanghai, approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre, offering convenient access to landmarks such as Nanpu Bridge, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and Yuyuan Bazaar.
This establishment provides on-site dining with a restaurant and bar, a fitness centre, a library, and laundry services, complemented by accessible facilities including an elevator and in-room amenities like a television and slippers.

Best Shanghai hostels with a locker

9.0 59 reviews

Jinqilin Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Jinqilin Hostel (Shanghai Waigaoqiao) is situated in Shanghai's Waigaoqiao district, approximately 18 kilometres from the city centre, near Jilong Road, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and the Jin Mao Tower.
This budget-friendly lodging offers guests a shared kitchen, laundry services, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms, providing a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Shanghai's less touristy areas.

9.0 3 reviews

Shanghai Unforeseen Encounter Cozy Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Shanghai Unforeseen Encounter Cozy Youth Hostel offers excellent transport links, being 700m from Shanghai Railway Station Metro Station, 1km from Shanghai Railway Station, and 16km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with attractions such as the Black Museum, Shanghai Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial, and Fotografiska Shanghai nearby.
This accommodation provides guests with internet, a kitchen, concierge services, and parking, creating a relaxing environment with first-rate facilities suitable for both business and leisure travellers.

No reviews

Hotel An Chao

hostel, Shanghai

Hotel An Chao is a hostel located 10 kilometres from Shanghai's city centre, offering convenient access to Jing An Temple, the Shanghai Art Museum and People's Square.
This accommodation provides air conditioning, parking, laundry services and rooms equipped with slippers, with a check-out time of 12:00.

No reviews

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi is located in Shanghai, 3 kilometres from the city centre, offering convenient access to Taikang Road, Huaihai Shopping Road, and the Shanghai Museum.
This youth hostel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, and parking, with rooms designed for two guests and featuring slippers and a safe-deposit box.

Best Shanghai hostels with laundry available

No reviews

Leke Hotel

hostel, Shanghai

9.4 10646 reviews

Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund

hostel, Shanghai

9.0 21 reviews

Hengwuyuan Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

9.5 111 reviews

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple

hostel, Shanghai

Handpicked Hostels with a Pool in Shanghai

A hostel in Shanghai with a swimming pool allows for a proper swim in the heart of the city whenever you fancy.

8.8 115 reviews

Huashuyi Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Discover Hostels with Parking in Shanghai

These hostels in Shanghai provide free on-site parking to make your urban visit entirely hassle-free.

9.8 312 reviews

Gu Lü City Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Hostels in Shanghai

1347 Hostels in Shanghai

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town

Jingmi Tianxiang Hostel

Manshu Garden Hostel

Meego Qingwen Hotel Shanghai Jingan

Q Sai Hostel

Jiting Hostel- Nanjing West Road Metro Station

Youle Hostel

Siyecao Hostel

Bohai Hostel

Yiyi Zhenxuan Hostel

Third Floor Youth Hostel

Hi Cozy Youth Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund

Zhexi Changqiu Youth Hostel

Iforest Hostel

Pujiang Star Inn Shanghai Xujiahui Branch

Hidden Garden Youth Hostel -Oriental Pearl &Lujiazui -Garden Social Area -Bar -Café -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk -English Service

Liuniange Boutique Hostel

Dayin Youth Hostel - Old Town & People's Square& Rail Hub -Social Area -Bar -Café -Gym -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk -English Service

Shenli Hostel

Dayin Garden Hotel-hongqiao & North Xinjing Metro

Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town

Dishangju Theme Hostel

Hi Cozy Hostel Shanghai Bund

Yunik Hotel(shanghai New International Expo Center Expo Park Branch)

Jinqilin Hostel

Shanghai Unforeseen Encounter Cozy Youth Hostel

Hotel An Chao

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi

Leke Hotel

Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund

Hengwuyuan Hostel

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple

Huashuyi Hostel

Gu Lü City Youth Hostel