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Check availability on Shanghai Cheap Hotels

Tonight
21 Feb - 22 Feb
Tomorrow
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Next weekend
27 Feb - 1 Mar
In two weeks
6 Mar - 8 Mar

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
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (379 reviews)
"Convenient location, friendly service and excellent breakfast."
United States
Jing
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
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, (1,004 reviews)
"Clean and helpful staff"
United States
Troy
The price is £63
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Ramada Plaza Shanghai Pudong Airport
Daily buffet breakfast (CNY 78 per person)

Yu Garden Crystal Orange Hotel

Yu Garden Crystal Orange Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Shanghai
The price is £90
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
Yu Garden Crystal Orange Hotel
Restaurant

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG
3.0 star property
Pudong
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (530 reviews)
"Room was very nice and the staff very friendly & helpful"
Australia
Shaun
The price is £42
includes taxes & fees
26 Feb - 27 Feb
Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG
Exterior

Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel

Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel
3.5 star property
Pudong
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (604 reviews)
"Good place "
Canada
Yang
Shanghai JOYFUL YARD Hotel
Exterior

SHANGHAI-DECO Hotel

SHANGHAI-DECO Hotel
3.5 star property
Pudong
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (910 reviews)
"Our room was very clean and the staff was really nice."
United States
Clausey
The price is £32
includes taxes & fees
25 Feb - 26 Feb
SHANGHAI-DECO Hotel
Room, 1 King Bed, River View | Premium bedding, free minibar items, in-room safe, desk

Thompson Shanghai Expo

Thompson Shanghai Expo
4.0 star property
Pudong
The price is £145
includes taxes & fees
6 Mar - 7 Mar
Thompson Shanghai Expo
Terrace/patio

Blossom House Shanghai On The Bund

Blossom House Shanghai On The Bund
4.5 star property
Downtown Shanghai
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (118 reviews)
"Stayed in 3 hotels in Shanghai, this is the best hotel. Quiet luxe vibe"
Singapore
Lynn
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
Blossom House Shanghai On The Bund
Indoor pool

Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai

Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai
4.5 star property
Minhang
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (18 reviews)
"Great location, vey close to hongqiao railway station and hongqiao terminal 2. Very polite and warm staff. Will book it again next time."
United States
Wei
The price is £63
includes taxes & fees
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Traders Hongqiao Airport,Shanghai
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, (399 reviews)
"Service was great, including shuttle service and friendly front desk staff. Liked the breakfast selection also. "
United States
bei
Manli Hotel Shanghai Pudong Airport Branch-Free shuttle buses to Pudong Airport and Disneyland
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)

For budget-conscious travellers seeking to explore the vibrant city of Shanghai and its surrounding areas, a wealth of affordable experiences awaits. Start your journey at the iconic Yuyuan Garden, where you can stroll through classical Chinese landscapes filled with koi ponds and rockeries—entry is free, making it a perfect spot for families to enjoy. Don’t miss the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar nearby, where you can sample local street food like steamed buns and dumplings without breaking the bank. For a taste of history, visit the Shanghai Museum, which offers free admission to its extensive collection of ancient Chinese artefacts, ensuring a cultural enrichment for both adults and children. Adventure seekers can take a leisurely walk along the Huangpu River, enjoying stunning views of the Bund and the futuristic skyline—this picturesque experience costs nothing and provides fantastic photo opportunities. Staying in the former French Concession area offers a charming atmosphere with tree-lined streets and boutique shops, perfect for leisurely explorations. Here, you'll find budget-friendly hotels that provide a warm, personalised service, ensuring you feel pampered without spending a fortune. With convenient access to public transport, you can easily visit popular attractions without the worry of high travel costs.

Find the best cheap hotels in Shanghai (and vicinity)

For travellers seeking affordable yet comfortable stays in Shanghai, these budget-friendly hotels offer excellent value without compromising on quality. Each hotel provides essential amenities to ensure a pleasant experience while exploring the vibrant city.

Seventh Heaven Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget travellers looking to explore Downtown Shanghai, the Seventh Heaven Hotel offers an inviting atmosphere with a guest review rating of 7.2. It provides essential amenities such as free toiletries and WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features nearby parking options and a historic charm that adds character to the stay. Guests can enjoy onsite shopping for convenience, while concierge services are available for local insights. The hotel also offers daily housekeeping, ensuring rooms remain clean and tidy. Additional features include air conditioning for comfort, a grocery store nearby, and even in-room massage options for relaxation after a day of exploration.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Shanghai
  • Nearby attractions: People's Square - 0.9 km, Nanjing Road Shopping District - 0 km

How to get cheap hotels in Shanghai?

 

✅ The length of stay in Shanghai often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Shanghai's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Shanghai in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Shanghai, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Shanghai on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Shanghai.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Shanghai, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Shanghai. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £32*.

✅  Shanghai offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Shanghai on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Shanghai is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Shanghai Hotel Reviews

Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

10/10 Excellent
"Very good room, excellent staff. Highly recommend!"
Rolland D 1-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Shanghai as a budget traveler?
The best hotels to stay in Shanghai for a budget traveller include Urcove by HYATT shanghai Jing'an and several Holiday Inn Express locations.

The 3-star Urcove by HYATT Shanghai Jing'an, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers a modern design and is praised for its excellent staff and great location. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary minibar items, free WiFi, and free toiletries. The breakfast buffet also receives excellent reviews.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, also rated 9.4. This hotel stands out for its excellent location, great showers, and helpful staff. Guests benefit from free breakfast, free WiFi, free toiletries, and complimentary self-parking.

For those needing a hotel near the airport, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG, rated 8.6, is a strong contender. It provides free airport transportation, free breakfast, and free WiFi. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, clean and quiet rooms, and good breakfast buffet.

The Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Expo Centre by IHG, with a 9.4 rating, also offers great value with free breakfast and free wired internet in public areas.

Lastly, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, rated 9.0, provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and free breakfast.
How much does a budget hotel in Shanghai cost?
Budget hotel prices in Shanghai vary, but you can find a great deal from £32 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are 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 Bund and People's Square offer good value, placing you right in the heart of the city's vibrant attractions. These central locations provide excellent access to public transport, making it easy to explore Shanghai without breaking the bank.

The Bund, while famous for its historic waterfront, also features a surprising number of affordable guesthouses and hostels tucked away in its side streets. Solo travellers will appreciate the proximity to iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower across the river and the chance to enjoy a free stroll along the promenade, soaking in the city's atmosphere. Being centrally located also means less time and money spent on travel, with many sights within walking distance or a short subway ride.

People's Square is another excellent choice, particularly for those looking for a blend of cultural experiences and convenience. This area boasts a variety of budget hotels and hostels, often close to major metro lines. Solo travellers can easily access free attractions like People's Park, the Shanghai Museum (which has a free general admission), and the urban green space of the People's Square itself.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Shanghai?
For families seeking top-rated and affordable accommodation in Shanghai, excellent choices include Xiangyun Qinzi hotel, Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Gongkang by IHG, Tyms Residence (Original shama xujiahui), Magnificent International Hotel, and Shanghai Modu Yunlu Parent-Child Hotel.

The 3-star Xiangyun Qinzi hotel, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers exceptional value with complimentary breakfast, free grocery shopping service, and free airport transportation, making it very convenient for families. Free WiFi and nearby free parking are also included.

Another great option is the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Gongkang by IHG, rated 8.0. Guests frequently praise its good facilities and complimentary buffet breakfast. Free WiFi and self-parking further enhance its value for families.

Tyms Residence (Original shama xujiahui), a 3-star property with an outstanding 9.6 rating, provides excellent amenities for families, including free cots and toiletries. It also boasts fitness facilities with a rowing machine, treadmill, and stationary bike, along with free WiFi.

The 3-star Magnificent International Hotel, highly rated by customers, offers free cots, free WiFi, and free internet. Reviewers consistently highlight its excellent food, good breakfast, convenient location, and helpful staff.
What cheap hotels in Shanghai offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, all part of the Holiday Inn Express brand.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jing'an Temple by IHG, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast to start your day. Guests frequently highlight the excellent location, great showers, and helpful staff.

Another great choice is the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Expo Centre by IHG, also boasting a 9.4 rating, which includes a free self-serve breakfast.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, rated 9.0, also offers a complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Reviewers often mention the good service.

For travellers needing airport access, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG, with an 8.6 rating, provides a free buffet breakfast. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, clean and quiet rooms, and good breakfast buffet.
When is the most affordable time to visit Shanghai?
The most affordable time to visit Shanghai generally falls during the shoulder seasons, specifically spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), avoiding major public holidays. During these periods, you'll find a good balance of pleasant weather and more reasonable prices for flights and accommodation compared to the peak summer months or Chinese New Year.

For solo travellers, visiting just after the Golden Week holidays in early May and early October can yield significant savings. These weeks see a dip in domestic tourism, leading to lower hotel rates and fewer crowds at popular attractions. You can enjoy comfortable temperatures great for exploring the Bund or the historic alleys of the French Concession on foot without the high season surcharges.

Families might find late autumn particularly appealing. The weather is crisp, and while some attractions might have slightly reduced hours, the overall cost of a trip, including dining and entry fees, tends to be lower. Many parks and outdoor spaces, like Century Park, are beautiful with autumnal colours and offer free or low-cost activities for children.
What are the best cheap hotels in Shanghai with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Shanghai that feature a pool, consider the Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG and the Grand Metropark Hotel Pudong Shanghai.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Tangzhen by IHG, with an excellent 9.0 rating, offers an indoor pool, making it a great choice for year-round swimming. Guests also benefit from complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. The hotel is conveniently located near a shopping district.
Is Shanghai a budget-friendly destination?
While Shanghai is generally considered more expensive than other Chinese cities, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying in areas slightly removed from the Bund or the former French Concession, such as the neighbourhoods around People's Square or Xujiahui. These areas offer a good selection of competitively priced hotels and hostels and are well-connected by the extensive and inexpensive metro system. Solo travellers will find numerous hostel options throughout the city offering great value.

Couples can save on food by embracing local eateries and street food. Exploring areas like Tianzifang or the markets around Yu Garden offers a delicious and cheap way to sample authentic Shanghainese cuisine. Many of Shanghai's most captivating experiences are free, including strolling along the Bund to admire the futuristic skyline, wandering through the charming streets of the former French Concession, or visiting the serene Jing'an Temple grounds.
What cheap hotels in Shanghai offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For affordable hotels in Shanghai with cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider Tyms Residence (Original Shama Xujiahui), Fashion Home, Mayson Shanghai Zhongshan Park Serviced Apartment, Mayson Shanghai Bund Serviced Apartment, and MIJU HOUSE Gubei.

The 3-star Tyms Residence (Original Shama Xujiahui), with an outstanding 9.6 rating, provides full kitchens, making it ideal for guests who prefer to prepare their own meals. It also offers free WiFi and a fitness centre with various equipment.

Fashion Home, rated 9.6, features kitchenettes and free WiFi. Its location is highly praised by customers, and it is conveniently situated within a shopping centre, offering easy access to groceries and other necessities.

The 3-star Mayson Shanghai Zhongshan Park Serviced Apartment offers kitchens or kitchenettes and a complimentary grocery shopping service, which is a fantastic value-add. This property is also located in a shopping district, with a grocery or convenience store nearby.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Mayson Shanghai Bund Serviced Apartment, which also includes kitchens or kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and wired internet in public areas, and it is located within a shopping centre.

For those seeking a kitchenette, the 3-star MIJU HOUSE Gubei, with free WiFi and complimentary toiletries, is a good option.
Which cheap hotels in Shanghai have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Shanghai with great customer service, travellers often recommend Urcove by HYATT shanghai Jing'an, Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG, and Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch.

The 3-star Urcove by HYATT Shanghai Jing'an, with an impressive 9.4 rating, consistently receives praise for its great and helpful staff and excellent service. Guests also appreciate the complimentary minibar items, free WiFi, and free toiletries.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Pudong Airport by IHG, rated 8.6, is known for its friendly and helpful staff and excellent service, making your stay smooth, especially if you are flying in or out. It offers complimentary breakfast, including buffet options, and free airport transportation, which is a significant saving.

If you are visiting Disneyland, the 3-star Shanghai Vintage Hotel Disneyland Branch, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is highly praised for its super helpful staff. This hotel provides free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, including local options, and a free area shuttle.
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 accommodating for non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The 3-star Magnificent International Hotel is a great option for early check-in, and its staff are consistently described as helpful in reviews. Guests also appreciate the good food and breakfast available.

For those needing an early check-in, Fairfield by Marriott Shanghai Pudong Central, with a superb 9.2 rating, is another excellent choice. Reviewers frequently mention the spacious rooms and friendly staff, and the breakfast buffet receives high praise.

If you require a late check-out, the 3-star MIJU HOUSE Gubei-a small white building beside Shanghai oil painting sculpture institute is worth considering. This hotel offers free WiFi and is conveniently located near a shopping centre.
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 programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Shanghai?
Shanghai offers a wealth of free activities, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travellers seeking to experience its vibrant culture without spending a fortune.

For solo travellers, a stroll along The Bund is a must-do. This iconic waterfront promenade provides stunning views of the futuristic Pudong skyline on one side and the historic historic-era buildings on the other. It's particularly captivating at dusk when the city lights begin to twinkle. Afterwards, wander through the charming streets of the French Concession, admiring the tree-lined avenues and unique architecture; it's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Families can enjoy the serene beauty of People's Park, a large green space in the heart of the city where you can observe locals practising tai chi, dancing, and even participate in the famous 'marriage market' on weekends, a fascinating cultural experience. Another fantastic option is exploring the bustling Nanjing Road pedestrian street; while many shops are high-end, the sheer energy and street performances provide plenty of free entertainment for all ages.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Shanghai as a 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 travel 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.

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