Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund

Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund is part of IHG's boutique Indigo brand, which draws design from the neighbourhood around it. The hotel lies on the Puxi side of the Huangpu River, giving guests easy access to the Bund area and the old city without the price of the historic luxury hotels. Rooms use local motifs and bold colour, and upper floors offer views of the river and the Pudong skyline. The hotel has a restaurant and bar and the usual comforts of a modern IHG property, with a friendly, lively atmosphere that appeals to younger travellers and first-time visitors who want character at a moderate price.

Location and getting around: the hotel is on the Bund side of the city in Huangpu district, so the river promenade and the old city are within easy reach by short taxi or a walk of varying length depending on your exact route. Check the map when booking and compare it with your plans, as the Bund is long. Several metro stations are nearby, and the metro is the cheapest and fastest way to reach Pudong, the French Concession and Yu Garden. Taxis and ride-hailing are cheap and plentiful.

The rooms: they are contemporary, with comfortable beds, good bathrooms and local design touches. Request a high floor and a river-view room if the skyline is important, as rooms at lower levels look onto city streets. Standard rooms are sized for couples and solo travellers, and some rooms can sleep a family, so check the occupancy before you book. Wi-Fi and the usual business amenities are provided.

Who it suits and what to know: it suits couples, friends, first-time visitors and travellers on a mid-range budget who want a Bund-side location without the luxury-hotel bill. IHG Rewards members can earn points. Breakfast may or may not be included, so confirm at booking, and note that noise levels depend on the room and the floor, so request a quiet room if you are a light sleeper. Rates move with the season and with major events.