08-07-2025
Our Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Shanghai of 2025
Shanghai is the third-largest city in the world, with a population of just over 40 million, and is one of the most vibrant metropolises in the country. There's a seemingly endless list of things to do here, from exploring the winding alleys of the former French Concession, where indie boutiques and restored historic houses abound, to touring the urban, neon wonderland of Pudong's skyline, anchored by the Shanghai Tower. Not to mention, there's also Shanghai's famous culinary scene, which arguably offers the best xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) in the world, along with standout international restaurants. Hotel options here also feel boundless—and it seems luxury brands and regional favorites have captured Travel + Leisure readers' attention.
How Voting Works Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.
Stunning views from a superior room at The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi.
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
What Readers Loved
While one hotel rose above the pack, two powerhouse properties tied for the runner-up spot on this year's list: the Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai and The Middle House.
Mandarin Oriental Pudong is located along the banks of the Huangpu River and positioned among the glittering skyscrapers of the Pudong neighborhood, the city's financial district. This hotel charmed guests with its 'very beautiful view' and 'exceptional hospitality.' Among its food and beverage outlets, there are two fine dining options: Fifty 8° Grill, specializing in French fusion in an Art Deco-inspired setting, and the Michelin-starred Yong Yi Ting, for authentic regional Chinese cuisine.
Across the river in the trendy Jing'an District, The Middle House embraces Shanghai's art and design scenes, blending Chinese craftsmanship with an Italian sensibility, thanks to Piero Lissoni, the property's interior architect and designer. The mood here feels like an artsy hangout spot, with plenty of places for congregating, including the Café Gray Deluxe, modeled after a European grand café, as well as Sui Tang Shang for creative craft cocktails.
The Winner
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
A view from the lobby at The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi.
The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
When it comes to location, it's hard to beat this year's winner, The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi, which occupies 28 stories of a towering skyscraper. The hotel is within walking distance of Huaihai Road, a famous shopping street that's replete with luxury boutiques, stylish restaurants and bars, and historical architecture. However, the property itself is a major draw: its 357 rooms (including 41 suites) epitomize the refined, sleek aesthetic for which the Langham brand is known, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Shanghai cityscape. There's also the Michelin-starred T'ang Court restaurant for Cantonese dishes, while the Lobby Lounge is where guests and locals partake in Langham's signature afternoon tea. The Chuan Spa, meanwhile, draws on traditional Chinese medicine, complemented by an indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center.
The Full List
1. The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi
Reader Score: 98.64
2. (tie) Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai
Reader Score: 98.00
2. (tie) The Middle House
Reader Score: 98.00