Introduction
Where to Stay in China: Best Hotels for Every Budget – Beijing, Shanghai & Xi’an
China is one of the world’s most fascinating travel destinations, offering a blend of ancient history, futuristic skylines, world-famous landmarks and unforgettable cuisine. From exploring the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Terracotta Army in Xi’an to admiring Shanghai’s dazzling skyline along The Bund, choosing the right hotel can make your trip more comfortable and convenient.
For first-time visitors, Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai are the classic destinations to include in any China itinerary. Each city offers excellent accommodation for every budget, from iconic luxury hotels and stylish boutique properties to affordable business hotels and hostels.
This guide highlights the best areas to stay and recommends hotels for luxury, mid-range and budget travelers.
Quick Tip – Book hotels close to a metro station. China’s subway systems are fast, affordable and the easiest way to explore major cities.
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Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Why Stay in Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai?
These three cities showcase China’s diversity:
- Beijing – Imperial palaces, the Great Wall and historic landmarks.
- Xi’an – Ancient city walls, Muslim Quarter and the Terracotta Army.
- Shanghai – Modern skyscrapers, luxury shopping and vibrant nightlife.
China Hotel Price Guide
| Hotel Category | Average Price Per Night |
|---|---|
| Budget | $30–70 |
| Mid-Range | $70–160 |
| Luxury | $180–500+ |
Where to Stay in Beijing
Beijing is ideal for travelers interested in history, museums and cultural attractions.
Best Area: Wangfujing
Perfect for:
- First-time visitors
- Shopping
- Walking to major attractions
- Easy metro access
Luxury Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Budget Hotels
Compare hotels in Beijing.
Where to Stay in Xi’an
Xi’an combines ancient history with modern conveniences and is best explored from the city center.
Best Area: Near the Bell Tower
Ideal for:
- Walking tours
- Restaurants
- Historic sites
- Public transportation
Luxury Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Budget Hotels
Find the best hotels in Xi’an.
Where to Stay in Shanghai
Shanghai offers a mix of luxury, shopping, dining and spectacular skyline views.
Best Area: The Bund
Best for:
- First-time visitors
- Luxury stays
- Night photography
- River views
Luxury Hotels
- Fairmont Peace Hotel
- The Peninsula Shanghai
- Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
- Mandarin Oriental Pudong
Mid-Range Hotels
Budget Hotels
Compare hotels in Shanghai.
Best Luxury Hotels in China
The Peninsula Beijing
One of Beijing’s finest luxury hotels, offering spacious suites, exceptional service and a prime location near Wangfujing.
Best for:
- Luxury travelers
- Couples
- Business travelers
Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an
A historic five-star property blending French elegance with Chinese heritage.
Best for:
- History lovers
- Luxury stays
- Honeymoons
Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai
An iconic Art Deco landmark overlooking The Bund and the Huangpu River.
Best for:
- First-time visitors
- Luxury experiences
- Historic charm
Best Mid-Range Hotels
Excellent value options include:
Beijing
Xi’an
Shanghai
Average nightly rate:
$70–160
Best Budget Hotels
Travelers can find affordable accommodation throughout China.
Recommended options:
Xi’an
Shanghai
Typical prices:
$30–70 per night
Best Hotels in Beijing
Luxury ($250+)
Perfect for:
Luxury vacations, honeymoon trips, business travelers.
Mid-Range ($90–200)
Excellent value with central locations and modern amenities.
Budget (Under $80)
Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
Best Hotels in Xi’an
Luxury
Mid-Range
Budget
Best Hotels in Shanghai
Luxury
Mid-Range
Budget
Hotel Comparison Table
| City | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | P.Loft Youth Hostel | Novotel Beijing Peace | Grand Hyatt Beijing |
| Xi’an | Hantang House Hostel | Somerset Xindicheng Xi’an | Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel |
| Shanghai | Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel | Central Hotel Shanghai | The Peninsula Shanghai |
Best Hotels by Travel Style
First-Time Visitors
Couples
Families
Business Travelers
China Hotel Booking Tips
Stay Near Metro Stations
The metro systems in Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai are affordable, reliable and the easiest way to explore each city.
Book Early During Holidays
Hotels fill quickly during:
- Chinese New Year
- National Day Golden Week
- Summer holidays
Reserve several months ahead if traveling during peak periods.
Consider Breakfast Included
Many hotels offer excellent breakfast buffets, which can save both time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should first-time visitors stay in China?
A combination of Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai offers the best introduction to China’s history, culture and modern attractions.
Is China expensive for hotels?
China offers accommodation for every budget. Comfortable budget hotels are widely available, while luxury hotels often provide excellent value compared with other major international cities.
How many days should I spend in China?
A classic itinerary is 8–10 days, with:
- 3 days in Beijing
- 2 days in Xi’an
- 3–4 days in Shanghai
Which city has the best luxury hotels?
Shanghai is known for its world-class luxury hotels, especially along The Bund and in Pudong.
Conclusion
China offers an incredible range of accommodations, from world-renowned luxury hotels overlooking Shanghai’s skyline to charming boutique stays in Xi’an and elegant historic properties in Beijing. For first-time visitors, combining these three cities provides an unforgettable journey through China’s imperial history, cultural heritage and modern innovation.
By staying near major attractions and metro stations, you’ll save time and make exploring each destination much easier. Whether you’re traveling on a backpacker’s budget or planning a luxury vacation, China has accommodation options to match every travel style.
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