We paid ¥1,550 for a Pearl Tower View room at Hyatt on the Bund during our April 2026 trip to Shanghai. The view was spectacular, but this wasn’t a flawless hotel stay. Here’s what the room, location, facilities and slightly unusual booking process were actually like.
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Hyatt on the Bund Review: My Quick Verdict
What we booked: Pearl Tower View King Room
What we paid: ¥1,550 for one night using the Hyatt member rate
Best for: First-time Shanghai visitors, couples and short stays where the hotel view is part of the experience
Biggest highlight: Watching the Pudong skyline light up from bed
Worth the upgrade? Yes, but only if you book a room with a clearly specified Bund or Pearl Tower view
Would I stay again? Yes, particularly for one or two nights at a similar price
Planning your China trip? Read my guide, How to Plan a Trip to China: Everything You Need to Know About Visa Rules, Trains, Apps & Travel Tips
Which Hyatt on the Bund Room Has the Best View?
| Room view | What you can expect | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl Tower View Room | Views towards the Oriental Pearl Tower and the modern Pudong skyline | Neon skyline photographs and first-time visits |
| Bund View Room | Views towards the historic Bund architecture and Huangpu River | A more traditional Shanghai cityscape |
| Standard or unspecified view | The outlook will depend on the room and tower allocated | Travellers prioritising price over a guaranteed skyline view |
We chose a Pearl Tower View King Room because we wanted the modern Shanghai skyline directly outside the window. Whichever option you choose, check that the view is explicitly named in the room description before paying.
Hyatt on the Bund is not the cheapest place to stay in Shanghai, but the right room turns the hotel into one of the highlights of the trip. I would not book a standard room assuming it will have the same view.
If you’re looking for one of the best hotels with a view of the Bund in Shanghai, Hyatt on the Bund is hard to beat. Located at the northern end of the waterfront, the hotel offers spectacular views of both the historic Bund and the futuristic Pudong skyline, particularly from its iconic Vue Bar and river-facing rooms (just like the one we stayed in).
During my April 2026 stay, I found the views to be every bit as impressive as the photos suggest, especially after dark when the skyline lights up. Alongside its prime location, guests enjoy spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, swimming pool and incredibly easy access to many of Shanghai’s top attractions.
All pricing, room features and hotel amenities mentioned in this guide were checked against the hotel’s 2026 offerings at the time of writing. As hotels regularly update their rates and services, I always recommend confirming the latest details before booking.
After a full-on few days in Beijing, followed by a bullet train back down south, arriving into Shanghai felt like a bit of a reset.
And checking into Hyatt on the Bund at that point? It was exactly what we needed.
Because, when you’re deciding where to stay in Shanghai, you’re not just booking a room. You’re choosing how you experience the city.
We dropped our bags, walked straight to the window… and there it was. The skyline. The river. The city stretching as far as the eye can see.
If you’re looking for the best hotel with a view of the Bund, this is where you want to stay.
Wait! Before you book a hotel, have you planned your trip to China? Check out my post on How to Plan a Trip to China in 2026: Everything You Need to Know About Visa Rules, Trains, Apps & Travel Tips
My Hyatt on the Bund Review: The Quick Verdict
Worth it for: a one or two-night Shanghai splurge with a skyline view.
Room to book: Pearl Tower View or Bund View on a higher floor.
What we paid: ¥1,550 for one night.
Would I stay again? Yes, but only if the view-room price was reasonable.
If your main goal is finding the best hotel with a view of the Bund, location and positioning matter more than anything.
The Bund is where Shanghai really shows off. And the Hyatt on the Bund has a bit of an edge.
- Positioned slightly north of the main Bund strip
- Elevated views across the Huangpu River
- Less obstruction from surrounding buildings
Which means you’re not just near the skyline, you’ve got one of the best uninterrupted hotel views of the Bund in Shanghai.
How far is Hyatt on the Bund from tourist attractions in Shanghai?
| Place | Approximate distance |
|---|---|
| Waibaidu/Garden Bridge | 2 to 3 minutes’ walk |
| Suzhou Creek walkway | Beside the hotel |
| Main Bund promenade | 5 to 7 minutes’ walk |
| International Cruise Terminal Metro | Around 850 metres |
Above: The view from our Pearl Tower View King Room during our April 2026 stay.
Read Next: The Best Apps for Travelling China in 2026: The Complete Foreigner Survival Guide
The Rooms: Space, Comfort and That Bund View
After a long travel day, this was exactly the reset that we needed.
The rooms at the Hyatt on the Bund are exactly what you want after moving between cities or if you’ve just arrived in Shanghai after a long flight:
- Spacious and quiet
- Large, comfortable beds
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
But let’s be honest, you’re here for the best view of the Bund.
Book a Bund View Room or a Pearl Tower View Room and you’re waking up to what is easily one of the best hotel views of the Bund in Shanghai.
Morning haze, golden hour, full neon at night. It changes constantly and becomes part of the experience rather than just something you see once. I won’t lie, it was hard to tear ourselves away from our room – but Shanghai was calling and that’s a call you won’t want to miss.
How Much Does the Hyatt on the Bund Cost (And How to Book the Best Bund View Room)
If you’re researching where to stay in Shanghai and specifically looking for the best hotel with a view of the Bund, price is going to be part of the decision.
What We Paid for a Pearl Tower View at Hyatt on the Bund:
At the Hyatt on the Bund, we paid:
- ¥1550 per night (Member rate)
- King room
- Direct Oriental Pearl Tower view
This is one of the best rooms with a view of the Bund you can book at the hotel, and in our case, it was worth it.
You’re not just paying for a bed here. You’re paying for waking up to one of the most iconic skylines in the world. It just so happens to be an uber-comfortable room, filled with lovely amenities, and staffed by the most friendly people.
How to Book a Room with the Best View of the Bund
If you want to secure one of the best hotel rooms with a view of the Bund without blowing your budget, booking strategy matters.
I booked directly through the World of Hyatt app after researching across many sites:
- Signed up to the Hyatt Member programme
- Got access to a preferential member rate
- Super easy to use
- Flexible date changes
It’s one of the simplest ways to lock in a good rate, especially if you’re travelling on fixed annual leave or travelling over a busy festival season like we did.
I covered all the apps I used in China on my essential apps in China article, including the World of Hyatt app.
Which Room Should You Book?
If your goal is the best view of the Bund, this is important.
- Go for a Bund / skyline-facing room
- Prioritise Oriental Pearl Tower views
- Choose higher floors where possible
We opted against the club room and breakfast too.
Why?
Because it didn’t offer a better view. And honestly, the last thing we needed was another reason not to leave the hotel. The view alone made it hard enough. We found a little hole-in-the-wall spot not too far from Nanjing Road East that served us up the most delicious youtiao and doujiang (a traditional Shanghainese breakfast) – in addition to a few laughs. The lady working there was so interested in us, that she let her pot boil over which caused a little chaos! I almost jumped out of my skin when her husband shouted over to her!
Important Booking Tip (Read this before booking Hyatt on the Bund)
This is something I haven’t seen mentioned much, but it matters.
After booking the Hyatt on the Bund, I noticed a few days later that my card hadn’t been charged.
I emailed the hotel directly to confirm the booking was secure (no way I was risking losing that room).
Here’s what I learned:
- Payment is sometimes completed via Alipay
- Or you may need to fill in a payment authorisation PDF before arrival
If you don’t complete this step, you could risk your booking not being fully secured. I felt a little nervous doing this step, as it felt a little less than secure, but it worked, and I haven’t thought about that since.
Is the Hyatt on the Bund Worth the Price?
For a best view of the Bund experience, this sits in that “worth it for a short stay” category.
You’re getting:
- A prime location
- One of the best skyline views in Shanghai
- A hotel that actually adds to the trip
If you’re only in Shanghai for a couple of nights, this is the kind of place that makes those nights count.
As I mentioned on my Budget Travel post, budget travel isn’t always about hostels and ‘slumming it’. You can prioritise your budget and weave in some luxury moments too. We saved some money elsewhere by eating locally, and booking some cheaper accommodations in Beijing. Thankfully, Qingdao is a cheaper city in general, so we lucked out with a hotel there with another iconic view for a lot less money.
The Facilities: More Than Just a Hotel with a View of the Bund
A lot of hotels rely on the view and stop there. Hyatt on the Bund doesn’t.
The Pool & Spa
After travelling across China, having access to proper downtime makes a difference.
- Indoor pool with skyline views
- Spa facilities for recovery after long travel days
- Gym if you’re feeling motivated (we weren’t, but it’s there)
It’s the kind of setup that lets you slow things down for a few hours before heading back out into the city.
The VUE Bar: One of the Best Views in Shanghai
This is a big one.
The VUE Bar at the Hyatt on the Bund is one of the standout features of the hotel.
You’re up on the rooftop looking straight across at:
- Oriental Pearl Tower
- Shanghai Tower
- The full Pudong skyline
It’s easily one of the best rooftop views in Shanghai, and a big reason this is considered one of the best hotels with a view of the Bund.
Even if you’re not staying here, people come for this view alone.
The Room Details: Comfort That Matches the View
The views might be the headline, but the room itself more than holds its own.
At Hyatt on the Bund, everything feels properly thought through:
- Balmain Paris toiletries in the bathroom
- A coffee machine for slow mornings overlooking the skyline
- Electronic blinds (ideal when you don’t want to leave the bed just yet)
- Plush carpets and genuinely comfortable bedding
- Plenty of space to properly unpack and relax
It’s one of those rooms where you will actually want to spend time, which says a lot in a city like Shanghai.
And when you pair that level of comfort with one of the best hotel views of the Bund, it becomes more than just a place to sleep.
Location: Why This Area Works So Well
When figuring out where to stay in Shanghai, this is where things can make or break your trip.
The Hyatt on the Bund is based on the Puxi side, right by the Bund.
What this means for you:
- Walking distance to the waterfront
- Easy access to major sights
- Direct routes across to Pudong
Compared to staying in Pudong, this side feels:
- More atmospheric
- More walkable
- More aligned with what people picture when they think of Shanghai
If you want a hotel with the best view of the Bund, staying on this side is key.
Getting to the Hotel from Shanghai Airport
After a long journey, you want this part to be simple.
From Shanghai Pudong International Airport:
Maglev Train
- One of the fastest trains in the world
- Quick connection into the city and a short metro/Didi ride
Didi (Taxi App)
- Book via Alipay
- Direct to your hotel
We arrived early and opted for a nice walk. After that kind of travel day, it was the easiest option. Straight to the hotel, no thinking required.
If you’re arriving into Shanghai by train, don’t forget to read my guide on bullet trains in China. It covers everything from booking your tickets to the onboard experience, and more.
Read Next: The Best Apps for Travelling China in 2026: The Complete Foreigner Survival Guide
Who This Hotel Is Best For
If you’re searching where to stay in Shanghai and want something that genuinely adds to the trip, this is a strong option.
Best for:
- First-time visitors
- Short stays where location matters
- Anyone looking for the best view of the Bund
- Trips where comfort and convenience are worth it
Is the Hyatt on the Bund Worth It?
If your priority is experience, yes.
You’re paying for:
- One of the best hotel views of the Bund in Shanghai
- A location that makes exploring easy
- Facilities that let you recharge
After a long trip, your mind and body will thank you.
FAQs: Where to Stay in Shanghai
What is the best hotel with a view of the Bund in Shanghai?
The Hyatt on the Bund is one of the best hotels with a view of the Bund thanks to its location, skyline-facing rooms and rooftop VUE Bar.
Are hotels with a view of the Bund worth it?
Yes, especially for short stays. Booking a hotel with a great view of the Bund turns your hotel into part of the experience, not just somewhere to sleep.
What area is best to stay in Shanghai?
The Bund area (Puxi side) is ideal for first-time visitors due to its central location, walkability and skyline views.
Does the Hyatt on the Bund have a pool and spa?
Yes. The hotel offers:
- Indoor swimming pool
- Spa facilities
- Fitness centre
Ideal for relaxing after long travel days.
What is the VUE Bar in Shanghai?
The VUE Bar is the rooftop bar at the Hyatt on the Bund, and is known for having one of the best panoramic views of the Shanghai skyline and the Bund.
How do you get from Shanghai Airport to the Bund?
- Maglev train for speed
- Didi via Alipay for ease
A direct transfer is usually the simplest option after a long flight.
Where is the Best Hotel with a View of the Bund in Shanghai?
If you’re deciding where to stay in Shanghai and want something that actually adds to your trip, then Hyatt on the Bund is a strong choice.
The views, the location, the facilities… it all comes together.
And after a long journey across China, walking into one of the best hotels with a view of the Bund is exactly the kind of arrival you want.
Why You Can Trust This Shanghai Bund View Hotel Guide
Over the past few years, I’ve visited 45 countries, balancing it all around a full-time 9–5 job. That’s meant learning how to travel smarter, stretch budgets further, and prioritise experiences that are actually worth it.
I’ve explored 300 cities and regions, and most of my free time is spent planning, researching and finding the best spots for upcoming trips. Not just the obvious ones, the ones that make a trip stand out.
For this trip, I visited Shanghai, Qingdao and Beijing in April 2026 during Qingming Festival, navigating everything independently, self-funded and on a strict, real-world budget.
China wasn’t my first experience in Asia either. I previously spent 7 weeks travelling across the region, so arriving here felt like building on that, not starting from scratch.
Every recommendation in this Best Hotel with a View of the Bund guide comes from that experience. What worked, what didn’t, and what’s actually worth your time when you’re trying to make the most of a short trip.
Updated: 28 July 2026
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