Why choose a hostel in Shanghai?
Few cities balance the old and new as sharply as Shanghai. The Bund's historic waterfront architecture faces the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River, and that contrast defines the city's appeal. Yu Garden, a centuries-old classical garden in the Old City, gives you a quieter side of Shanghai worth exploring. With so much spread across the city, staying central matters, and hostels in Shanghai put you close to it all without the cost of a hotel.
Hostels here suit solo travellers, backpackers, and budget-conscious pairs alike. Shared dorms keep costs well below hotel rates, while private rooms offer more comfort without the price of hotel-style stays or private rentals. You also get communal spaces where local knowledge gets shared freely. That social value is something neither hotels nor private rentals can easily replicate.
How to find the best hostel deals in Shanghai
Our search engine is a pro at finding flight deals. The good news? It's equally talented at hunting down amazing rates on hostels. These tips are your shortcut to saving on your stay.
Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better. You're more likely to land a cheaper price on a hostel in Shanghai and have a wider range of choice.
…or bag a last-minute Shanghai hostel deal.
Things are often more expensive in the lead-up to your stay. But in low season, last-minute offers can still pop up when hostels have rooms left to book.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Cheap hostels can be easier to find if your dates are flexible. Experiment with different months or seasons, or go on a weekday instead of weekends to save on your trip.
Where to base yourself in Shanghai
The French Concession is worth considering if you're weighing hostels in Shanghai, since metro lines run through the area and keep the rest of the city easy to reach. Tree-lined streets hold independent cafes, small bars, and local restaurants where prices stay reasonable. The neighbourhood has a relaxed pace and feels comfortable to walk around day or night. For something more central, the Bund area puts you right along the waterfront promenade, with Lujiazui's skyline across the Huangpu River. Several metro stations nearby make getting around straightforward. Nanjing Road is a short walk, giving you access to museums, street food, and plenty of evening activity. This part of the city suits travellers who want major attractions close by without spending too much time in transit. Where you land depends on how you like to move through a city.
Best hostels in Shanghai
Hostels on Skyscanner include ratings from travellers based on real guest reviews. These scores usually cover core factors like cleanliness, service, location, facilities, and value for money. It makes it easier to discover a great stay for your trip, whether you're on a tight budget or happy to spend a little more.
Best all-rounder hostels
For a stay that checks every box, you can't go wrong with Meego Youth Hotel Shanghai Jingan. It gets glowing reviews for its value, rooms and service.
Meow Hero Youth Hostel is another solid all-rounder. Guests give it high ratings for its service, cleanliness and its facilities, so you can expect more than just a bed for the night.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
If a hostel that keeps things clean and tidy is a priority, Meow Hero Youth Hostel won't disappoint. Guests consistently rate it highly for cleanliness, with amenities like a 24-hour front desk and a games room.
Well-presented rooms and tidy shared areas are also part of the package at Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund. Along with strong ratings for cleanliness, it offers a laundry and heating.
Hostels with the best customer service
A warm welcome awaits at Meow Hero Youth Hostel. This hostel in Shanghai is highly rated for its customer service and comes with luggage storage and tour services.
Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund also stands out for its customer service, with travellers highlighting the staff for going the extra mile. A bar and air conditioning are among its amenities.
Centrally located hostels
Location is where Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund really earns its reputation, according to the guests who've stayed there before. It offers everything you need, including a 24-hour front desk and tour services.
Or begin your city break at Meow Hero Youth Hostel. Extras like a lounge and heating bring even more value to this well-located base.
Hostels near the best neighbourhoods in Shanghai
Hostels in West Zhijiang Road
With a score of around 4.8 out of 5, Meow Hero Youth Hostel is one for your list. This accommodation option in West Zhijiang Road comes with amenities like a games room and a 24-hour front desk.
Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'an Temple, Changping Road-24H Reception&English Service& Cafe& Bar& Luggage Storage& Large Public Area also comes highly recommended. This stay is rated around 4.8 out of 5 by travellers and has perks like tour services and air conditioning.
Hostels near the best attractions in Shanghai
Where to stay near Shanghai Museum
Visiting Shanghai Museum is simple when you stay at Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund. A cafe and Wi-Fi are part of what guests can expect at this hostel in Shanghai.
You can also stay close to this attraction at One Forest Youth Hostel (Shanghai Overseas). You'll find amenities such as a laundry and Wi-Fi here.
Hostels close to Shanghai Tower
One Forest Youth Hostel (Shanghai Overseas) makes a convenient base for exploring Shanghai Tower. You'll find a laundry and Wi-Fi at this hostel in Shanghai.
Another good choice a short distance from this attraction is Beehome Hostel. This hostel comes with amenities like air conditioning and a lounge.
The Bund Sightseeing Avenue hostels
Put yourself in a great spot for sightseeing at Dayin Youth Hostel - East Nanjing Road & People's Square & The Bund. This hostel in Shanghai comes with a coffee maker, Wi-Fi and much more.
Staying close to this popular sight is just as convenient at One Forest Youth Hostel (Shanghai Overseas). There are amenities like a laundry and Wi-Fi here.
