Best neighborhoods in Shanghai

6 areas in Shanghai, China — what each one feels like, who it suits, and roughly what it costs.

• Lujiazui ($$) — Skyscrapers, river views Best for Business. Pudong's financial towers — dramatic views, quiet streets after 7pm. Efficient and modern, with less street life than the old city. Getting around: Line 2 at Lujiazui
• Jing'an ($$) — Malls, temples, offices Best for Convenience. Central, polished and well-connected — Jing'an Temple sits amid the towers. Business-district living with good food and short commutes. Getting around: Lines 2, 7 and 14 at Jing'an Temple
• Hongkou ($) — Old lanes, local markets Best for Budget stays. North of the creek, cheaper and much more everyday Shanghai. Real neighbourhood living at a fraction of Concession prices. Getting around: Lines 3, 4, 8 and 10
• French Concession ($$) — Plane trees, low villas Best for Cafes + walking. The prettiest streets in Shanghai, and the best place to stay if you like wandering. Leafy, low-rise and quietly expensive — the expat default for a reason. Getting around: Lines 1, 10 and 12 crisscross it
• The Bund ($$) — Colonial waterfront, grand facades Best for First-timers. Stone banking halls facing Pudong's skyline across the water. Spectacular to look at, expensive and touristy to actually live in. Getting around: Line 2 or 10 at Nanjing East Road
• Xintiandi ($$) — Restored shikumen, restaurant rows Best for Nightlife + dining. Old lane houses rebuilt as a dining and bar quarter — polished, not authentic. Lively and central, priced for people who don't ask the price. Getting around: Lines 10 and 13 at Xintiandi

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