Here are our picks for budget accommodation in Shanghai, China. There are hundreds of hostels, guesthouses and BnB’s in the city, but these are our favourites from the best-reviewed hostels. You can spot where they are on the accommodation map below.
Mingtown Nanjing Road Youth Hostel
No.258 Tianjin Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China 200002
The fourth installment in the Mingtown chain is one of Shanghai’s most-popular hostels. It’s close to all the main things to do in Shanghai and close to metro line two. Consistently gets great reviews for its location, staff, safety and value for money. Discounts for people with HI cards.
The Phoenix Hostel
17 South Yunnan Road, Shanghai, China 200433
The Phoenix rises close to the People’s Square metro station, which puts it within walking distance to many museums and cultural attractions in central Shanghai. Each dorm and room has its own bathroom, and rooms are reasonably sized, if not large by Shanghai standards. In 2010, it was ranked in the top 3 hostels for ‘best located hostel in Asia’, and it also consistently ranks well for staff and safety — but cleanliness is average.
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Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel
55 Jiangyin road, Huangpu Dist, Shanghai, China 200003
Also close to the People’s Square metro, the hostel is build in a residential style with an interior courtyard, which is great. The hostel has a bar, laundry, internet access — and guests get a 20% discount at the coffee shop.
Rock&Wood International Youth Hostel
Rock&Wood hostel has a great vibe, but guests mark it down for location — even though it’s close to metro line two and three, it’s not right on the main drag. There’s a big screen for movies, bar and reading lounge and free, fast wifi throughout the whole place.
Mingtown People’s Square Youth Hostel
No.35 Yong Shou Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China 200021
Another popular offering in the Mingtown franchise, this hostel is close to main attractions, but off the main streets — meaning there’s heaps of street vendors and more ‘local’ restaurants nearby. Consistently liked for its security, location and location.
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