6 nights in Shanghai - stay in 1 hotel or 2 different?

Question

Hi all

Will be in Shanghai for 6 nights (with a toddler and older parents).

We are thinking of either staying 3 nights at Conrad (Nanjing Road) and then the next 3 nights at IFC Residence (in Pudong), or just all 6 nights at Conrad.

Not 100% sure yet what we will do while in Shanghai, so was wondering if it will be worth the hassle to move to safe some transport time. Not sure if we will take public transport or just take a cab / didi around.

Also I know there are no fireworks, but just wondering if IFC / Pudong area will be better to spend NY Eve vs Nanjing Road

Thanks all

Answer

For a 6-night stay in Shanghai with a toddler and elderly parents, your decision to stay in one hotel or split between two locations depends mostly on convenience versus exploring different areas of the city.

If you stay all 6 nights at Conrad (Nanjing Road):

You will be centrally located for classic Shanghai sightseeing along The Bund, People's Square, Nanjing Road shopping, and nearby museums.
Minimizes the hassle of packing, checking out, and moving luggage, which is especially convenient with a toddler and older parents.
Easy access to taxis, Didi, and public transport. Even if you explore Pudong, cabs or Didi rides typically take 10–15 minutes across the river, so it’s manageable.
NYE atmosphere around Nanjing Road and The Bund is lively, although fireworks are not officially allowed, the area is still busy with festivities and lights.

If you split your stay (3 nights at Conrad, 3 nights at IFC Residence in Pudong):

Staying in Pudong offers quick access to Lujiazui attractions like Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and IFC shopping, reducing commuting time.
Could make it easier on the last night if you want to watch city views from your hotel or celebrate NYE near the financial district lights.
However, moving hotels with family members and luggage can be inconvenient and slightly stressful, especially with a toddler and older parents.
Pudong is quieter than Nanjing Road, so if you prefer a more relaxed New Year's Eve environment, this could be a plus.

Additional considerations:

Using Didi or taxis is generally straightforward in Shanghai, so staying in one location is practical.
If sightseeing is flexible and you’re fine with crossing the river for attractions, staying all 6 nights in one hotel (Conrad) reduces stress and packing hassles.
If you want to experience both sides of the river fully and enjoy city views from Pudong for NYE, splitting your stay can be justified.

Overall, for comfort and ease with family, staying all 6 nights at Conrad is likely simpler, with only minor extra travel to Pudong for sightseeing. Splitting the stay is mainly beneficial if you want to enjoy NYE specifically from Pudong or reduce commuting for attractions there.

6 nights in Shanghai - stay in 1 hotel or 2 different?

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