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Question

I am arriving into shanghai at the end of October for 5/6 days then flying back to Europe. Im totally overwhelmed by the choice of accommodation. I plan to take some day trips perhaps Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuzhen, Xitang. Also explore the Bund, People's Square and general City. Should I base in Bund Area and take metro to train station and airport?

Grateful for any suggestions. Thanks

Answer

For a 5–6 day stay in Shanghai with plans to explore the city and take day trips to Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuzhen, or Xitang, choosing the right base can make your trip much smoother. Shanghai’s metro network is excellent, so you can easily reach train stations and tourist spots from most central locations. Here’s a detailed guide.

1) Recommended Areas to Base Yourself

The Bund / Huangpu District: Iconic skyline views, close to Nanjing Road shopping, easy access to People's Square, museums, and river walks. Well-connected by metro lines 2, 10, and 14. Great for first-time visitors wanting the "classic Shanghai experience."
People’s Square / Nanjing Road area: Central location with excellent metro connections to major train stations (Shanghai Railway Station, Hongqiao Station) and Pudong Airport via Line 2. Plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options.
French Concession / Xintiandi area: Quieter, leafy streets, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Still central with metro access. Best if you prefer a less hectic urban environment but still close to central attractions.

2) Practical Considerations for Day Trips

For Hangzhou: High-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Station (about 1 hour). Line 2 or taxi from central areas like People’s Square or Bund is straightforward.
For Suzhou: High-speed trains from Shanghai Railway Station or Hongqiao Station (about 25–30 minutes). Both the Bund and People’s Square have easy metro access to these stations.
For Wuzhen / Xitang: Usually accessed via coach or private transfer from central Shanghai (1.5–2 hours). Bund or People’s Square are convenient departure points for tour buses or taxis.

3) Access to Airport and Train Stations

Pudong Airport: Take Metro Line 2 from People's Square or East Nanjing Road directly to the airport in around 1–1.5 hours.
Hongqiao Airport / Railway Station: Also reachable via Metro Line 2, about 30–40 minutes from central areas.

4) Hotel Recommendations by Area

Bund / Huangpu: Good for first-time visitors wanting river views, historic buildings, and central access. Examples include mid-range hotels around East Nanjing Road or Waitan area.
People’s Square: Excellent for metro connections, shopping, and museums. Hotels in this area often offer modern amenities and convenience for train and airport access.
French Concession: Boutique hotels, peaceful streets, cafes, and nightlife options. Ideal if you prioritize atmosphere over immediate proximity to the Bund.

5) Suggested Strategy

Base yourself in the Bund / People’s Square area for 4–5 nights. It gives iconic views, city attractions nearby, and easy metro access to both Hongqiao and Pudong stations for day trips and flights.
If you prefer a more relaxed, atmospheric neighborhood, consider 1–2 nights in the French Concession, then return to Bund/People’s Square before departure for easier access to metro lines for airport/train.
Book hotels near a metro station to minimize walking with luggage and maximize convenience for day trips and airport transfers.

In summary, for a first-time visitor with limited days, Bund or People’s Square provides the best combination of sightseeing, transport convenience, and access to day trips, while French Concession is ideal for a quieter, charming stay. Metro connectivity ensures you can comfortably reach airports, train stations, and attractions from any central area.

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