The Peninsula Shanghai

The Peninsula Shanghai is an iconic five-star hotel situated directly on the historic Bund, blending classic 1920s Art Deco elegance with sweeping views of the Huangpu River and the Pudong skyline. Reviewers consistently praise its legendary, highly personalized service and outstanding facilities, including a 25-metre indoor pool and Michelin-starred dining. However, the property is held back by recurring complaints regarding persistent cigarette smoke odors in some guestrooms and minor technical wear of room hardware.

Best for

• Devotees of premium service — The hotel's legendary concierge and guest-relations teams consistently deliver top-tier hospitality, going as far as organizing medical care and offering rides in the house Rolls-Royce.
• Art Deco and history enthusiasts — The property is beautifully designed to reference Shanghai's golden age of the 1920s and is situated in a prestigious location surrounded by historic buildings.
• Families with children — Spacious family suites are designed to resemble large apartments with separated zones, making them highly convenient for family stays.

Not ideal for

• Guests sensitive to tobacco smoke — A persistent cigarette smoke odor periodically crops up in non-smoking rooms, and management's ozone treatments cannot always fully eradicate it.
• Budget-conscious travellers — Room rates are very high, and extra services like the hotel's custom car transfers come at a premium.

Rating breakdown

• A+Location — An exceptional, highly walkable spot on the Bund, steps from the promenade and close to dining and metro stations.
• B-Rooms — Spacious with excellent ergonomics and high-tech controls, but affected by localized wear, plumbing leaks, and occasional cigarette odors.
• A+Service — World-class hospitality with staff who anticipate needs, handle emergencies flawlessly, and offer flexible check-in times.
• B+Dining — Features refined dining at Sir Elly's and a famous afternoon tea, though the breakfast buffet selection is somewhat limited.
• AFacilities — Superb amenities including a 25-metre indoor pool, a luxury shopping arcade, a world-class spa, and a panoramic rooftop bar.
• BValue — While the experience is highly prestigious, the room rates and transport extras are very expensive.

Verdict

Book this hotel if you want to experience classic Shanghai luxury, flawless personal service, and spectacular views of the Pudong skyline. Avoid this property if you are highly sensitive to tobacco odors or are looking for a brand-new, ultra-modern high-tech design.