Hotels in Shanghai

Combining historic charm and modern luxury like no other hotel in Shanghai, this truly exceptional place, housed in a beautiful 1930s building, was originally the residence and office of a trio of Shanghai gangsters. The lobby, corridors and even the rooms are filled with 20th-century memorabilia, but there's exquisite luxury too with super-soft carpets, beautifully upholstered wood furniture, big-screen satellite TVs, Wi-Fi and even private Jacuzzis!

Originally the Richards Hotel, this distinguished old gentleman, perched close to the Bund, was built in the latter part of the Qing dynasty in 1846, and was Shanghai's first hotel. More than 160 years on, there remains a distinct air of elegance, with the hotel's original wooden flooring still covering some of the halls and corridors. Rooms are huge, and some on the higher floors have river views.

China's first carbon neutral hotel has open-plan rooms that are beautifully designed with low furniture and sunken living areas exuding space. Bathtubs in the bedroom rather than in the bathroom (and sometimes right next to the bed!) are an unusual feature, while grey slate tiling gives this excellent boutique hotel its urban vibe.

This 1930s red-brick building has been lovingly restored to create an exclusive, yet affordable place to stay in Shanghai. All 12 rooms are decorated with care and attention and come with wooden floorboards, traditional Chinese furniture, stylish artwork, a few antiques and Wi-Fi. Rates include breakfast at A Future Perfect, the funky bar-restaurant on the ground floor.