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

9.7 98 reviews

Zhang's Garden Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Zhang's Garden Hostel, a highly-rated guesthouse in Shanghai, enjoys a convenient location near Fantasyland, Bright Eco-Park, and Wishing Star Park, approximately 24km from Pudong International Airport and 33km from Shanghai Railway Station.
This excellent-value lodging offers guests a garden, restaurant, fitness centre, valet parking, and consistently clean rooms, making it a popular family-friendly choice with easy access to green spaces and recreational activities.

8.8 330 reviews

Qingcheng Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Qingcheng Theme Hostel is located in Shanghai, just 6 kilometres from the city centre, close to attractions like the Shanghai Natural Wild Insect Kingdom, Shanghai International Convention Centre, and the Oriental Pearl Tower, offering a convenient base for exploring the city. The hostel provides a shared kitchen and business centre for guests, and offers tour assistance to make sightseeing easy.
The Qingcheng Theme Hostel is a small, intimate guesthouse with a maximum capacity of two guests. It offers a range of amenities including air conditioning, a TV, slippers, and a safe-deposit box, as well as an elevator for accessibility.

9.1 28 reviews

Iforest Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Iforest Hostel is located in Shanghai's Bund district, near Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street, 4 kilometres from Shanghai Railway Station and 15 kilometres from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with People's Square Metro Station a short walk away.
This Iforest Hostel, renovated in 2026, offers excellent service and is family-friendly, providing a comfortable retreat with free internet and parking for holidaymakers and business travellers.

10 2 reviews

Dengba Hostel Hongqiao Airport

hostel, Shanghai

Dengba Hostel Hongqiao Airport is situated in Shanghai's Jiuting district, approximately 13km from Hongqiao International Airport and a short walk from Jiuting Metro Station (Line 9), offering easy access to central Shanghai's attractions such as Xujiahui and the Bund.
This budget-friendly lodging provides free high-speed Wi-Fi, a relaxing lounge, private rooms and dorm beds, and is surrounded by local eateries, making it ideal for backpackers exploring Shanghai.

No reviews

Mijia Youth Hostel (Caohejing)

hostel, Shanghai

Mijia Youth Hostel (Caohejing) is situated on Wuzhong Road in Shanghai's Minhang District, offering convenient transport links to the city.
This property provides stylish accommodation with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and internet access, making it a suitable base for solo travellers and groups exploring Shanghai's dining and shopping options.

9.5 84 reviews

Shanghai Tuwo Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Shanghai Tuwo Youth Hostel offers excellent accommodation in Shanghai, situated conveniently near the National Exhibition and Convention Centre, 6 kilometres from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with direct metro access. This youth hostel provides essential amenities including internet, a bar, and concierge services, alongside valet and on-site parking, and boasts excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings.

9.1 38 reviews

Dayin Youth Hostel -Near French Concession Tianzifang Xintiandi -Social Area -Bar -Café -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk - English Service

hostel, Shanghai

The 大隐国际青年旅舍-上海田子坊新天地店 is situated in Shanghai's Tianzifang/Xintiandi area, offering proximity to People's Square (3.4 kilometres), Yu Garden (3.9 kilometres), and Jing'an Temple (3.9 kilometres).
This hostel provides a single bedroom with one bathroom, accommodating one guest and featuring air conditioning, free WiFi, a garden, and a bar, with a floor area of 20 square metres.

8.3 1972 reviews

Mijia International Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Mijia International Youth Hostel is situated in Shanghai's Suhewan area, south of Zhabei District, adjacent to Suzhou River and People's Square, offering excellent connectivity to the Nanjing East Road Business District.
This modern establishment provides free Wi-Fi and parking, with a user rating of very good across location, cleanliness, and overall experience, and is conveniently located near Shanghai Joy City for shopping and entertainment.

8.3 247 reviews

Ling Homestay - Jing'an Temple Branch Shanghai

hostel, Shanghai

This Jing'an District apartment is a 9-minute walk from Jing'an Temple, and within 3.2km of People's Square, the Jade Buddha Temple, and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.
The self-catering studio features a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a private bathroom, air conditioning, a jacuzzi, a terrace, a garden, parking, and free Wi-Fi; pets are welcome.

8.8 1791 reviews

Jiting Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Jiting Youth Hostel, a welcoming establishment in Shanghai, is situated in a district offering easy access to popular attractions, with many within a short walk.
This affordable lodging provides free Wi-Fi and parking, boasting a very good user, location, and cleanliness rating, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's landmarks.

8.2 902 reviews

Weflow Hostel (Shanghai Xintiandi)

hostel, Shanghai

The WeFlow Hostel (Shanghai Xintiandi) is situated in the Xintiandi district, a short walk from popular attractions like People’s Square, the Pedestrian Street of East Nanjing Rd. and Jing’an Temple. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience, making it a great choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a variety of amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can enjoy room service and participate in organised tours to explore the city further.

9.1 588 reviews

Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

The Youth Hostel, located near Caoyang Road Metro Station in Shanghai's Putuo District, is 4km from Shanghai West Railway Station and 11km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, offering convenient access to major transport links and attractions such as Zhongshan Park.
This recently renovated lodging boasts modern facilities, including internet and parking, and is a popular choice for solo travellers seeking comfortable accommodation close to East China University of Political Science and Law and VAS Shanghai.

Find Hostels in the City Centre of Shanghai

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

9.4 141 reviews

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple, Changping Road-24h Reception&english Service& Cafe& Bar& Luggage Storage& Large Public Area

hostel, Shanghai

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel is conveniently located in Shanghai, a 13-minute walk from the Jade Buddha Temple, 1.7 km from Jing'an Temple, and 2.7 km from Shanghai Railway Station.
This Shanghai lodging offers 20 square metre rooms with a shared bathroom, a bar, and a sun terrace, plus concierge and room service; bachelor/hen parties are prohibited.

8.6 33 reviews

Dayin Hostel-people's Square & Nanjing Road

hostel, Shanghai

Dayin Hotel (People's Square & Suzhou River Branch) enjoys a prime location in Shanghai's People's Square area, within walking distance of Nanjing Road and the Bund, and close to subway lines 1, 2, 8, 12, and 13.
This Shanghai lodging offers guests a fitness centre, tennis court, restaurant, bar, and terrace, alongside luxurious bathrooms featuring L'Oréal toiletries and Kohler fixtures, and Xiaomi smart home air purifiers.

9.2 1169 reviews

Jiting Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Jiting Youth Hostel is located in Shanghai's Xuhui District, offering convenient access to popular areas and major tourist attractions.
This establishment provides internet, a bar, and room service, with parking available for guests.

9.1 184 reviews

Fuzhijia Business Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Fuzhijia Business Hostel is located in Shanghai, a 9km drive from Shanghai South Railway Station and 19km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with Yangsi Metro Station within walking distance for convenient city access.
This accommodation offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and parking, and is a popular choice for group travellers seeking a comfortable base near attractions such as the Bank of Communications Qiantan 31 Performing Arts Centre.

Best Shanghai hostels with air conditioning

No reviews

Silmicore Youth Hostel (Sichuan North Road & Duolun Road Branch)

hostel, Shanghai

The Silmicore Youth Hostel (Sichuan North Road & Duolun Road Branch) is located in Shanghai's Hongkou District, close to the intersection of Sichuan North Road and Duolun Road.
This accommodation offers guests air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and concierge services, with some rooms featuring laundry facilities and in-room coffee/tea making amenities.

9.4 109 reviews

Tizi Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Tizi Hostel is located in Shanghai, 27 km from the city centre, close to Nanjing Road, Jing An Temple, and the Shanghai Art Museum, offering easy access to some of the city's main attractions. The hostel is a budget-friendly option for travellers wanting to explore the city and its cultural and shopping hotspots.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen, restaurant and bar for guests to socialise and enjoy meals. Guests can also enjoy table tennis, laundry service, concierge assistance and transfer services.

9.5 36 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.

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.

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.

9.6 590 reviews

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi

hostel

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi offers accommodation in the Huangpu district, located approximately 2 kilometres from Tianzifang and Xintiandi Style, and about 5 kilometres from The Bund and People's Square.
This youth hostel provides complimentary WiFi in common areas, a restaurant, bar, and laundry services, with Ma Dang Road Station just a 5-minute walk away for convenient public transport access.

No reviews

Manqu Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Manqu Hostel, located 24 kilometres from Shanghai's city centre, is situated within walking distance of Shanghai Disneyland, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and the Jin Mao Tower.
This budget accommodation offers air conditioning, a terrace, a garden, and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, alongside a shared kitchen, karaoke facilities, and rooms equipped with a TV and slippers for a guest capacity of two.

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.

No reviews

Zen Spring Hot Spring Resort (Shanghai Chuansha Ancient Town)

hostel, Shanghai

The Zen Spring Hot Spring Resort (Shanghai Chuansha Ancient Town) is located in Shanghai, 23 kilometres from the city centre, offering proximity to Disneyland Shanghai, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, and Jin Mao Tower.
This establishment provides a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and room service, with one bathroom per unit and a 12:00 check-out time.

Best Shanghai hostels with a locker

8.4 211 reviews

Manxing Library Youth Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Manxing Library Youth Hostel in Shanghai offers budget-friendly accommodation, its precise location within the city and proximity to landmarks currently undetermined.
This guesthouse provides guests with internet access, a garden, and an on-site restaurant, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

No reviews

Yijia Theme Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Yijia Theme Hostel in Shanghai is situated approximately 17km from the city centre, conveniently located near East Xujing, Jing'an Temple, and the Shanghai Botanical Garden.
This budget-friendly lodging offers air conditioning, an elevator, and slippers; further details on room specifics and on-site amenities require additional information.

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.

9.7 987 reviews

Yinjiangnan Xujia Hostel

hostel, Kunshan

Yinjiangnan Xujia Hostel, a guest house in Kunshan, is conveniently located 13km from Suzhou South Railway Station and 62km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, offering easy access to the Mystery of Life Museum and Zhouzhuang.
This pet-friendly lodging boasts on-site parking, Wi-Fi, a bar, and excellent guest ratings for cleanliness, location, and service, providing a comfortable base for exploring Kunshan and its surrounding attractions including the Water Tour Around the Town.

Best Shanghai hostels with laundry available

9.1 3064 reviews

Hi Cozy International Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund & 24h English Services

hostel, Shanghai

No reviews

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple, Changping Road

hostel, Shanghai

8.9 156 reviews

Dayin Hostel-people's Square & Old Town

hostel, Shanghai

No reviews

Mijia International Youth Hostel (People's Square)

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.

9.3 1341 reviews

Hi Cozy International Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund & 24h English Services

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.

9.7 238 reviews

2nd-home Hostel

hostel, Shanghai

Hostels in Shanghai

1347 Hostels in Shanghai

Zhang's Garden Hostel

Qingcheng Hostel

Iforest Hostel

Dengba Hostel Hongqiao Airport

Mijia Youth Hostel (Caohejing)

Shanghai Tuwo Youth Hostel

Dayin Youth Hostel -Near French Concession Tianzifang Xintiandi -Social Area -Bar -Café -Free Laundry Luggage Storage -24h Front Desk - English Service

Mijia International Youth Hostel

Ling Homestay - Jing'an Temple Branch Shanghai

Jiting Youth Hostel

Weflow Hostel (Shanghai Xintiandi)

Youth Hostel

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple, Changping Road-24h Reception&english Service& Cafe& Bar& Luggage Storage& Large Public Area

Dayin Hostel-people's Square & Nanjing Road

Jiting Youth Hostel

Fuzhijia Business Hostel

Silmicore Youth Hostel (Sichuan North Road & Duolun Road Branch)

Tizi Hostel

Hi Cozy Hostel Shanghai Bund

Meego Qingwen Hotel Shanghai Jingan

Dayin International Youth Hostel - Tianzifang & Xintiandi

Manqu Hostel

Manshu Garden Hostel

Zen Spring Hot Spring Resort (Shanghai Chuansha Ancient Town)

Manxing Library Youth Hostel

Yijia Theme Hostel

Iforest Hostel

Yinjiangnan Xujia Hostel

Hi Cozy International Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund & 24h English Services

Shanghai Desti Youth Hostel - Jing 'An Temple, Changping Road

Dayin Hostel-people's Square & Old Town

Mijia International Youth Hostel (People's Square)

Hi Cozy International Hostel East Nanjing Road & The Bund & 24h English Services

2nd-home Hostel