In Beijing or Shanghai, choosing the wrong district can add an hour of commuting to every day of your trip. These guides explain what each neighbourhood is actually like — transport links, food, noise, and who it suits — so you can pick an area before you book.
We describe areas and trade-offs rather than pushing specific hotels, and we say when a recommendation is subjective.
- Best area to stay in Beijing — first visit
Updated 14 September 2026 · Pick an area by airport, sights and metro — six neighbourhoods compared and what to check before you book
- Best area to stay in Shanghai — first visit
Updated 18 September 2026 · Six areas compared by metro access, walkability and trip type — the Bund, People's Square, Jing'an, the former French Concession, Lujiazui, Hongqiao and Disney