The Peninsula Shanghai opened in 2009 on the Bund and is one of the most elegant hotels in the city. Its Art Deco inspired architecture suits the historic waterfront, and the location, at the northern end of the Bund beside Suzhou Creek, is quieter than the busiest stretch while still being only a short walk or taxi ride from the main sights. Many rooms have views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline across the water, and the hotel is known for polished service, large rooms with advanced technology and a high standard of dining. The hotel's own site highlights Michelin-starred restaurants, and a spa and wellness facilities are part of the offer.
Location and getting around: the hotel stands on the Bund itself, so you can step out onto the promenade within a couple of minutes. The Peninsula is at the northern end, which is calmer in the evenings than the central Bund. East Nanjing Road metro station is roughly fifteen to twenty minutes away on foot, and taxis and ride-hailing are inexpensive and easy to find at the door. From here the Bund walk, the Huangpu River cruise piers and the pedestrian Nanjing Road are all close, and Yu Garden is a short taxi ride south.
The rooms: they are among the largest in the city, with deep bathtubs, bedside control panels and wide windows. Choose a river-view room or suite if the skyline is the point of the trip, as city-facing rooms look onto the older streets of the Puxi side. Higher categories include suites with separate living areas and club-style access. The staff are used to helping first-time visitors in China with transport, reservations and translation, which is a real plus.
Who it suits and what to know: it is best for couples, honeymooners, special occasions and travellers who want the Bund on their doorstep and a very high level of comfort. It is a splurge, with rates well above most hotels in the city and higher still in peak seasons and around holidays. Breakfast is often paid separately unless it is included in your rate, so check at booking, and dinner reservations at the restaurants are worth making ahead. Families are welcome, but the focus is elegant rather than child-oriented. Check current room rates, since they vary by season and demand.
Why stay here
- ✓River and skyline views
- ✓Michelin-starred dining
- ✓Spa and wellness centre
- ✓Indoor swimming pool
- ✓Large rooms with advanced technology
- ✓Concierge and car service
- ✓Walk to the Bund promenade
- ✓On-site bars and afternoon tea
Good questions
Where is The Peninsula Shanghai located?+
It is on the Bund at the northern end, beside Suzhou Creek. The promenade and river views are right outside, and the main sights are a short walk or taxi ride away.
Do the rooms have views?+
Many rooms face the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. Request a river-view room or suite when booking if the view is a priority.
Is The Peninsula good for a first visit to Shanghai?+
Yes, if budget allows. The location, concierge help and walkable Bund make a first trip easy, though it is a splurge compared with most hotels.
