After travelling to Shanghai myself, I understand how difficult it can be to stay connected online in China. With a China eSIM card, you can enjoy stable internet and unlimited data with ease.
Our guide shares everything you need to know about using an eSIM card in China, especially in Shanghai, with a comparison of the best options for 2026. Avoid high roaming costs by ordering your eSIM online and getting connected within minutes.
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Best eSIM Packages for Shanghai
Shanghai 4G LTE VPN
- CoverageChina
- Package Option500MB/Day
- Number of Days1 Day
- Price£0.32
Shanghai 4G LTE VPN
- CoverageChina
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days7 Days
- Price£2.75
Shanghai 4G LTE VPN
- CoverageChina
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days15 Days
- Price£5.44
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What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM card that lets you connect to mobile networks without using a physical SIM. You can activate it by scanning a QR code online and start using mobile data in different countries.
How a Shanghai eSIM Works in China?
A Shanghai eSIM works just like a normal SIM card but in digital form. You set it up by scanning a QR code from your provider, and you can use the internet and make calls easily.
Shanghai eSIMs can hold several phone numbers and connect to more than one network, which is useful for travellers who want to save money and stay connected. Most new iPhones and Android phones support eSIMs, and they can be used in all cities across China.
Top Shanghai, China eSIM Providers
Provider | Data Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
500MB/Day | 1 day | £0.32 | |
1GB/Day | 3 days | £1.25 | |
1GB/Day | 5 days | £1.87 | |
1GB/Day | 7 days | £2.75 | |
1GB/Day | 10 days | £3.82 | |
1GB/Day | 15 days | £5.44 | |
Total 30GB | 5 days | £8.52 | |
Airalo | 1GB | 3 days | £3.50 |
3GB | 7 days | £8.50 | |
5GB | 30 days | £12.00 | |
10GB | 30 days | £20.50 | |
20GB | 30 days | £31.00 | |
SimOptions | 1GB | 7 days | £3.90 |
3GB | 30 days | £4.90 | |
5GB | 30 days | £7.90 | |
10GB | 30 days | £13.90 | |
Nomad | 1GB | 7 days | £3.01 |
3GB | 30 days | £5.26 | |
5GB | 30 days | £7.51 | |
20GB | 30 days | £15.03 |
Trip.com China eSIM
Package Details | Duration | Standard Price |
500MB/Day, High Speed Data | 1 day | £0.32 |
1GB/Day, High Speed Data | 3 days | £1.25 |
5 days | £1.87 | |
7 days | £2.75 | |
10 days | £3.82 | |
15 days | £5.44 | |
1GB/Day, High Speed Data | 30 days | £10.72 |
50 GB | 30 days | £18.82 |
Trip.com’s China eSIM offers a wide range of affordable and fast data plans for travellers in China, especially those visiting cities like Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. Each plan is designed to meet different travel needs while keeping prices low and service reliable.
Once you buy a China eSIM from Trip.com, you receive a QR code immediately, making it quick and easy to set up your connection in just a few minutes, even at the airport. Plans are available for 1 to 30 days, with data options from 500MB to unlimited. Prices start at just £0.32 for a one-day 500MB plan and go up to £43.08 for a 30-day (100GB/day).
Using a stable 4G/5G LTE network, Trip.com’s China eSIM provides fast and secure internet across the country, helping you stay connected easily throughout your trip.
Airalo China eSIM
Here are eSIM plans offered by Airalo for Shanghai China:
Data Plan | Duration | Price (GBP) |
1 GB | 3 days | £3.50 |
3 GB | 3 days | £7.50 |
5 GB | 7 days | £11.50 |
10 GB | 15 days | £20.00 |
10 GB | 30 days | £20.50 |
20 GB | 30 days | £31.00 |
50 GB | 30 days | £38.00 |
Airalo provides several eSIM plans for travellers in China. You can choose between 1GB for 3 days at £3.50 and 50GB for 30 days at £38.00. These plans work on China Unicom’s 4G/LTE network and are easy to activate for use in Shanghai and across China.
However, the smaller data options may not be enough for travellers who use social media or stream videos often. Plans such as 1GB for 3 days or 3GB for 7 days can run out quickly. Prices are also quite high compared with some other eSIM providers, meaning you might pay more for each gigabyte.
Airalo offers fixed plan lengths of 3, 7, 15, or 30 days, which may not suit all travellers. Those staying for shorter or unusual trip durations might find it less convenient.
Overall, Airalo eSIMs are reliable and easy to use but may not be the best choice for travellers who need larger data allowances or more flexible plan options.
SimOptions China eSIM
SimOptions is known for offering reliable eSIM cards for travellers. Here are SimOptions eSIM plans available for Shanghai, China:
Data Plan | Validity | Price (GBP) |
1 GB | 7 days | £3.90 |
10 GB | 30 days | £13.90 |
30 GB | 30 days | £35.90 |
50 GB | 30 days | £54.90 |
SimOptions provides several data options in China, starting from 1 GB up to 50 GB. The 1 GB plan, priced at around £3.90, is one of the most popular choices.
However, some plans have longer validity periods, usually between 7 and 30 days, which may be ideal for long-term stays. Data speed may vary as SimOptions does not specify the network operator or confirm 5G support.
These eSIMs offer data-only service, so calls and SMS are not available. Despite these limits, SimOptions remains a practical choice for travellers who need quick and easy mobile internet access in China.
Nomad China eSIM
Here are the eSIM plans offered by Nomad for Shanghai, China:
Data Plan | Duration | Price (GBP) |
1 GB | 7 days | £3.01 |
3 GB | 30 days | £5.26 |
5 GB | 30 days | £7.51 |
10 GB | 30 days | £9.02 |
30 GB | 30 days | £26.30 |
50 GB | 30 days | £36.82 |
Nomad offers several eSIM plans for travellers in China, with data options ranging from 1GB to 50GB. These eSIMs work on the China Unicom network and are 5G ready for fast connections.
Nomad’s China eSIMs are data only and must be installed within 30 days after purchase. The plan starts once you first connect to a network in China. Calls and SMS are not supported.
Although Nomad eSIMs are cheaper than some brands like Airalo or SimOptions, they are still more expensive than Trip.com’s eSIM plans. A validity period of 7 to 90 days may suit most people, but 1GB of data for 7 days is usually not enough for most travellers. It is best to compare your data needs before buying to choose the most suitable plan.
Which Works Better in Shanghai, China? eSIM, SIM card, or Wi-Fi router
Feature | Caution | |
eSIM | No risk of loss or damageEasy to set upCan be used immediately upon arrival | Limited number of smartphones can be usedPhone number cannot be used |
SIM card | No need to chargeNot bulkyMany plans available | Setup requiredNeed pinRequires SIM-free phone |
Wi-Fi router | Can be used immediately upon arrivalCan be shared by multiple peopleCan be connected to multiple devices | Worried about charge lifeDifficulty in receiving and delivering |
How to Use Shanghai, China eSIM?
Check Device eSIM compatibility
Please check if your phone can be used with eSIM before purchasing an eSIM product. Check eSIM Compatibility.
How to Download:
- Open the eSIM activation email.
- Find and display the eSIM activation QR code in the email.
- On your mobile phone, go to Settings.
- For iOS devices, open Cellular; for Android devices, open SIM Card Management.
- Click to add a Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- Agree to download the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- Use your mobile phone to scan the QR code to download.
How to Use Internet
- After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have one.
- Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- Look for the LTE logo displayed in the upper right corner to confirm successful activation.
- Turn on roaming to connect to the network and surf the internet normally.
- If there's no network after enabling, turn on airplane mode, then turn it off, or restart the phone.
How to Close
- Open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android).
- Click to turn off the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android). (The steps of enabling and disabling are the same.)
If you encounter any problems during use, please email us at crm@51tgt.com for consulting service.
Which Phones Support eSIM?
Please check if your phone can be used with eSIM before purchasing an eSIM product.
3 Benefits of Using a China eSIM in Shanghai
1. Instant connection when you arrive in China
With an eSIM, you can connect to the internet as soon as you land at the airport. There is no need to buy a SIM card at a shop or wait for delivery. Once the eSIM is downloaded in advance, you can go online straight away to book a taxi or find your hotel easily.
2. No risk of losing or damaging a SIM card
Traditional SIM cards are tiny and easy to lose or break, especially while travelling. An eSIM is digital, so you do not need to remove or insert anything. This makes it safer and more convenient during your trip.
3. Use dual SIM for more flexibility
An eSIM lets you use two mobile networks on one phone. You can keep your local number active while using data in China. This is useful for travellers visiting several countries as it avoids the need to change SIM cards each time.
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Shanghai Hotel Recommendations
5 star
Very Good12011 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.54km from city centre
This isn't my first business trip to Shanghai, but it's my first time staying at the Grand Park City Hotel. The hotel's location is excellent, making it convenient to get to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the Bund. Transportation is also very accessible. Manager Sunny at the front desk provided incredibly professional service, explaining everything we needed with great detail and patience. My friends and I stayed in rooms 1608 and 1616. The housekeeping staff on the 16th floor were very thorough and enthusiastic with their cleaning. I look forward to staying here again on my next visit.FromAU$126
Outstanding6096 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.47km from city centre
I booked a two-day stay at this 5-star hotel through Trip.com, and its quality certainly lives up to expectations. First, let's talk about the location. It's right across the street from Exit 8 of Metro Line 2, very close to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. The hotel is also directly connected to the New World Department Store, making it super convenient to get to Madame Tussauds. Next, the service. The attention to detail really showcases its high quality. Since Shanghai was quite cold in February, the hotel had already pre-heated the room, so it was wonderfully warm when I walked in. The housekeeping staff were very meticulous and responsible. From check-in to luggage storage and even the greeting at the entrance, everything was incredibly professional. In my free time, I browsed through the Radisson guide, and the content and details inside further highlighted the professionalism of the hotel's overall service. Regarding the facilities, some of them are a bit old, but it doesn't affect their functionality. The TV is indeed a bit small, which impacts the viewing experience. However, the bed was silent, and the toiletries, towels, dental kits, slippers, hairdryer, and mini-fridge were all brand new. My overall impression is that they don't cut corners on new items, and the older equipment doesn't detract from the overall experience. Because I mentioned wanting a quiet area in advance, the view from my room wasn't anything special. However, if you choose a room facing Nanjing Road or People's Park, I imagine the visual experience would be excellent. I didn't get a chance to try the bar or restaurant this trip, but I hope to experience and share them if I visit Shanghai again.FromAU$129
Outstanding10813 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.4km from city centre
🌟 **Prime Location!** 🌟
This hotel boasts an unbeatable location right in the heart of Jing'an. The subway station is literally right outside, and you can easily walk to Jing'an Temple and the West Nanjing Road shopping district. It's incredibly convenient for shopping, dining, and experiencing Shanghai's unique culture. The surrounding area is bustling but surprisingly quiet, making for a perfect travel experience.
🏨 **Comfortable & Elegant Rooms** 🏨
I stayed in a superior room, which was spacious and well-laid out. The modern decor paired with soft lighting created a warm and relaxing ambiance. The bedding deserves special mention – the mattress was just right, not too soft nor too firm, and the pillows offered excellent support, ensuring I slept soundly all night. The room had excellent soundproofing, and the city views from the window were charming. I truly enjoyed a high-quality rest during my stay.
💁 **Attentive & Thoughtful Service** 💁
From the warm welcome upon arrival to every staff member I encountered during my stay, the service was consistently friendly and professional. The front desk was very efficient, the concierge proactively offered travel advice, and housekeeping was quick to respond. It's the small details that really made me feel at home.
🍽️ **Delightful Dining Experience** 🍽️
The breakfast selection was extensive, offering a great variety of both Western and Chinese options, and the local specialty dim sum was particularly authentic. The restaurant environment was elegant, and the staff were prompt in refilling dishes and tidying tables. Additionally, the afternoon tea at the hotel's lobby lounge was excellent, perfect for a casual get-together with friends or a business discussion.
🏊 **Comprehensive & Convenient Facilities**
The fitness center is equipped with new and complete facilities, and the indoor heated pool has crystal clear water and wasn't crowded, making for a very pleasant experience. The business center is well-appointed, ideal for business travelers who need to get work done.
Whether for business or leisure, the Pullman Jing'an delivers an outstanding accommodation experience. The high-quality facilities, thoughtful service details, and convenient location all contributed to a truly memorable stay. I've already recommended it to friends and will definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Shanghai!FromAU$116
Very Good5680 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area Shanghai|1.78km from city centre
The hotel's exterior is grand and has a historic feel. The rooms are clean and tidy, though the facilities are a bit old, they are well-maintained. However, the hotel is currently undergoing renovations, which should have been noted on Trip.com or communicated to guests via phone, as noise can be heard in the rooms. Breakfast is decent, quite Japanese-style. Free parking is available for guests and they'll tell you it's valid until 3 PM the next day. I only stayed one night, so I didn't experience much of the service.FromAU$158
Good9113 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.5km from city centre
The location of the hotel is right next to Nanjing road which is easily accessible to everything you need.
One of the staff, Dylan, was amazing! Dylan was very helpful once we arrived at the hotel with our luggages an helped making sure our check in was done smoothly. He even helped me to make lunch and dinner reservations at a few places, which was very kind and helpful despite the difficulty in making phone reservations in Chinese. At check in, we were upgraded to a bund view room by a lovely receptionist, Kylie. Check in went very smooth and fast.
Our stay was very enjoyable, thanks Dylan, Kylie and the team at Conrad. Will definitely stay there again when I am back in Shanghai.FromAU$225
Excellent8961 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.73km from city centre
After a long search online and comparing various options, I finally settled on this designer hotel, and it turned out to be an excellent choice! The hotel's location is superb; right outside is the Old City Park, which connects to the Bund, Yu Garden, and City God Temple, all within easy reach. The subway is only about 200 meters away, making it convenient to get anywhere. You can enjoy the Bund night view from the hotel's rooftop, and some of the view is also visible from the room window. The room was well-stocked with beverages, and they even provided a humidifier as per our request. Both the hardware and software are top-notch! The breakfast spread was incredibly rich. The front desk staff was very welcoming, and all the front desk, security, and doormen were young, enthusiastic, proactive, and quite good-looking! They always greeted us first and helped with our luggage! We even received a small gift upon check-out, which was a lovely touch! What kind of manager can lead such an outstanding hotel service team? Five-star rating! Highly recommended!FromAU$163
Business travel
Outstanding10912 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.73km from city centre
The hotel was easy enough to find for a hotel the has a reception on the 4th floor and no signage out front. The location is prime for access to the pedestrian road. Lots of sightseeing and shopping in this area. Short drive to all the key tourist hotspots. Beds were comfortable, staff were great to foreigners like us, breakfast was fine. The only thing of notes was we had no luck using the dryers and resorted to hanging out our clothes in our room. But this is a minor issue and may be operator error. We would stay at the Yitel premium again.FromAU$88
8377 Reviews
The North Bund Area Shanghai|2.55km from city centre
The front desk staff seemed inexperienced. When I arrived to check in, no one noticed me right away. I had to wait in line for two minutes before actively asking for assistance. (Though they seemed quite enthusiastic with foreign guests.) I redeemed points for a welcome fruit platter, but it wasn't delivered even after 10:30 PM when I returned from dinner. When I inquired, they told me I had to request it again – that it wouldn't be sent automatically. What's the point of redeeming it on the platform then? It took almost an hour after calling for my child's slippers and toothbrush to be delivered, and I had to call again after 11:30 PM to finally get them. I was already exhausted from a long flight delay at the airport due to weather, so it's hard to understand why even these small things took so long. Furthermore, they didn't even know the general directions (left or right) to the nearby W Hotel on the Bund, which indicates a lack of experience. However, the service staff in the breakfast restaurant were friendly and experienced, and the food was good – definitely recommend!FromAU$133
Very Good5228 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.9km from city centre
My husband and I had a wonderful stay at Radisson. The hotel staff was very friendly and accommodating. A big thank you to Jason of the front desk, he assisted us with all our questions and went the extra mile in making our stay a beautiful experience. The location was perfect, near the major attractions in Shanghai, convenient for walking to the Metro or hailing a ride thru Didi. There were lots of food options near the hotel and the area was safe for tourists. Will definitely recommend staying here.FromAU$127
Good6974 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|2.97km from city centre
The hotel's location is very convenient, with easy access to transportation. The rooms are clean, and the lounge team provides excellent service. It was a very pleasant stay.
I booked this stay because my child had an exam and we needed a hotel close to the test center. I also specifically requested a quiet room, and the hotel was very accommodating. During our stay, the room was cleaned promptly, and the housekeeping staff were all very friendly and attentive to our needs.
The hotel's 38th-floor lounge is definitely worth a visit. It offers great views and timely, attentive service. The afternoon tea selection was also very good. The ambiance is elegant, making it perfect for a casual drink or a business meeting.FromAU$113
Very Good4292 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|2.6km from city centre
It's near to train station, hotel was grand, check in was smooth. Informed the hotel it's for our anniversary and they told us a complimentary cake will be given to us on the check in night but perhaps they forgot, nevertheless they gave a complimentary birthday slice of cake several days later.
The shower and toilet bowl pressure were low, informed the front desk and they fixed it the same day and was great after that.
Overall a good experience, but not an exceptional one.FromAU$145
Outstanding4593 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area Shanghai|0.97km from city centre
I was very satisfied with my stay. The platform offered a 300-yuan credit, which was just enough to cover breakfast for one person (delivered to my room!), and that instantly put me in a good mood. Nancy at the front desk helped me with check-in; she was very professional and spoke softly, making for a great experience!FromAU$235
Family friendly
Outstanding7460 Reviews
Dapuqiao Area Shanghai|2.92km from city centre
Overall, it's a great hotel. It's located in a bustling area, making it very convenient to go shopping and dining at SML Center. The hotel lobby is spacious and bright, and there's a high-end restaurant on the top floor. It's definitely a top choice for business travelers, and I also stay here every time I go to Ruijin Hospital for a check-up. The only downside is that hotel guests only get a 50% discount on parking, so it's 60 yuan/day. Still, it's highly recommended.FromAU$129
Good3834 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.27km from city centre
I chose to stay here again after several years for our company's annual meeting. I still really like the hotel's environment, and the transportation is convenient. The dining is also quite good. I hope to have the chance to stay at this hotel again.FromAU$174
Excellent6336 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.78km from city centre
Ever since watching the TV series 'Blossoms Shanghai,' I've wanted to stay at the Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and this experience truly exceeded my expectations. First off, I was amazed by how many famous people have stayed here – Qian Xuesen had his wedding here, Soong Ching-ling and Soong Mei-ling got engaged here, and even Queen Elizabeth II of the UK and former US President Obama have been guests, not to mention Charlie Chaplin.
On the first day, during check-in, a staff member named Alexander was incredibly detailed and passionate in his introduction. He exuded a strong sense of pride, as if he were part of something sacred and magnificent, and his confidence was truly infectious. After that, when I was shown to my room, unlike most hotels where they just lead you to the door and leave, he thoroughly explained all the features and even proactively helped me connect to the Wi-Fi, which was a very thoughtful touch.
Breakfast at the Jasmine Lounge was also exceptional. While the variety wasn't extensive, every single item was delicious and exquisitely presented. My wife even declared it the best meal she's had at a five-star hotel in China.
Our Ctrip package also included a performance at their renowned Jazz Bar. Normally, a single ticket with a minimum spend is 418 RMB, and for two people, it’s over 900 RMB. However, our room package on Ctrip included this, so my wife and I got to enjoy it, and it was fantastic. This is a Guinness World Record-holding jazz band, known as the oldest in the world. The performers last night had an average age of 75. My wife absolutely loved it.
On the second day, we took a guided tour of the Peace Museum at 10 AM. This tour provided so much insight, revealing the hotel's rich history and numerous stories. The staff member, Xiao Wei, gave a half-hour explanation, and we learned a great deal, making us feel that this was truly a memorable and worthwhile visit.FromAU$450
Outstanding15019 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.51km from city centre
This hotel is located in the heart of Lujiazui, making it incredibly convenient for shopping, dining out, and ordering takeout. The room facilities are complete and in excellent condition, and the cleaning service was meticulous and thoughtful. The cleaning staff even noticed I enjoy tea and asked about my preferred tea bags and if I needed extra bottled water. The breakfast offers a wide variety of both Western and Chinese options, truly exceptional. They even have both red and white fermented bean curd! There are also live cooking stations for congee, noodles, and eggs, putting it at a top-tier level both domestically and internationally.FromAU$162
Excellent7774 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.7km from city centre
The front desk staff were warm and helpful during check-in and check-out, making for a pleasant experience.
The room cards have a sleek design with a matte, non-slip backing that feels good to the touch. We were given two cards, which was convenient for separate entry and exit, and the power-saving card was already inserted in the room, so no extra steps were needed.
Breakfast offered a wide variety of options, with separate Chinese and Western sections that you could choose from freely. However, the two sections were a bit far apart, requiring a walk back and forth if you wanted to get items from both.
We booked an Executive Bund View King Room (on floors 25-30) and were assigned a corner room on the 26th floor. The room was spacious and very clean. The wardrobe had plenty of hangers, easily accommodating four outfits, and there was even space on the left for ironing.
However, there were a few drawbacks: a moth flew out from behind the headboard as I approached it, some facilities seemed a bit dated, and the indoor lighting was a bit dim.
Additionally, despite being called a “Bund View Room,” the window primarily faced the city, with only a small section near the TV wall offering a view of the Bund and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Furthermore, the curtain on the right side was fixed at the top and could only be pulled towards the corner, meaning the section by the TV wall couldn't be opened. To enjoy the Bund night view, I had to walk behind the curtain or manually pull it aside, which made the viewing experience somewhat inconvenient.FromAU$177
Outstanding10290 Reviews
She Shan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|35.83km from city centre
Spent two nights at the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland with my grandson, and the overall experience far exceeded my expectations; there were virtually no noticeable downsides.
The room facilities were relatively new with a well-designed oriental layout. Opening the balcony door immediately presented us with the unique deep quarry view, which was captivating whether it was the early morning mist or the evening lights. The breakfast was standard for a star-rated hotel, with a rich variety that catered to different tastes. However, the dishes at Cai Feng Lou (the Chinese restaurant) were an unexpected delight; both the exquisite local Shanghai cuisine and the inventive creative dishes left a deep impression.
What truly stood out was the attentive butler service. The butler, whom we communicated with via WeChat, was patient and meticulous. They not only responded promptly to our requests but also proactively anticipated our needs, making the entire stay feel incredibly reassuring. For families traveling with children, the hotel's 'Kids' Secret Realm' and children's pool were definite bonuses. The facilities were safe and filled with fun, keeping my grandson thoroughly entertained while allowing us to relax and enjoy our vacation.
Overall, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland achieved an excellent balance in its family-friendly experience, service details, and unique scenic features. It's a highly recommended high-quality vacation choice.FromAU$288
Breakfast
Outstanding2632 Reviews
Wujiaochang Commercial Area Shanghai|9.08km from city centre
[”The hotel's location is fantastic, just a 6-7 minute walk to the subway station! The room was clean and bright, and the bedding was incredibly soft, truly like sleeping on a cloud. The front desk staff were so thoughtful, even providing a guide to local eateries. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time!”,”The room was even more spacious than the photos indicated. The bathroom had excellent wet/dry separation and was impeccably clean. The breakfast selection was incredibly diverse, and the freshly prepared noodles were especially fragrant and tasty. We had an exceptionally comfortable stay!”]FromAU$96
Excellent516 Reviews
Hongqiao International Airport Area Shanghai|14.17km from city centre
Room are spacious and beautiful. Its clean. The location is far from main attraction area. But the hotel is worth the money.FromAU$25
Very Good1535 Reviews
Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center Shanghai|12.35km from city centre
This hotel is perfectly suited to my taste. The lobby is predominantly decorated in black and red, with even the glass panels featuring a red tint. The lobby area is incredibly spacious, boasting many distinct seating zones, which made me feel like I could spend an entire day just lounging there.
The hotel is conveniently located right next to a large shopping mall, MixC City, offering a wide array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Plus, it's just a few subway stops from either the train station or the airport. Getting to the hotel from Ziteng Road Metro Station: exit and enter the shopping mall through its main illuminated entrance. For the most straightforward path, *before* you reach the pedestrian street of the metro commercial area, follow the signs to take the elevator up to the second floor. From there, walk through the parking lot between Buildings A and B, and you'll arrive directly at the hotel, with no stairs to navigate.
Overall, I feel the hotel's marketing efforts are insufficient. This hidden gem truly deserves to be discovered by more people.FromAU$49
Good3286 Reviews
People's Square Shanghai|0.62km from city centre
The hotel is conveniently located near Nanjing Street, making it easy to get around and explore the area. There is a convenience store close by, which is very handy for quick purchases. For Muslim travelers, there is a halal restaurant nearby called Nizam, which is a big plus.
The room was quite small and really only suitable for sleeping. The walls are not soundproof, so noise can be an issue—light sleepers may find it uncomfortable. Overall, it’s an okay option for a short stay if location is your priorityFromAU$66
Excellent3508 Reviews
She Shan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|26.04km from city centre
During the off-peak May Day holiday, the first choice for an outing to Sheshan is Kaiyuan Mingting! The hotel lobby is spacious and bright, the front desk Xiaoqian is warm and thoughtful, the check-in procedure is efficient and convenient, and the business king room with a large terrace is upgraded for free.
The room is clean and comfortable. When I saw the children, I took the initiative to provide children's supplies. There are many plugs in the room, which is very convenient. The network speed is also very fast. It is suitable for business and parents.
The hotel is next to Qingpu Sam's Club, which is very convenient for shopping. It takes 20 minutes to drive to Sheshan Forest Park.
Overall, the overall experience exceeded expectations, and I will choose here next time!FromAU$82
Excellent630 Reviews
Hongqiao International Airport Area Shanghai|15.59km from city centre
This is our re-visit of the hotel. I don’t know why, but it just felt homey instantly (usually it will take me a night to get used to the room), it’s just comfortable with peaceful ambiance and soft lighting. The breakfast was amazing and it really helped to start our day in a pleasant way! We also had a pleasant interaction with the room-service robot who delivered bottle water to our room twice 😄 You just had to try it!!! too bad I couldn’t hug the robot 😄 I also like the Hotel’s good and combined use of technology and human service. I called from the room to ask for bottle water, and it was answered by a lady who said they will send a Robot to deliver. (In another hotel, I also made a call from the room with a small request, but it was an auto answer where you had to talk to a machine and dial the numbers when prompted, which often ended in frustration). Other than that, just one suggestion, I thought the quality of the toiletries and slippers provided could be better compared to the peer hotels, yea, especially for the slippers, they felt too synthetic compared to the slippers from the other two hotels I stayed at during this travel. Overall, great stay, pleasant experience and will revisit!FromAU$120
Gym
Outstanding3158 Reviews
Jing'an District Shanghai|2.12km from city centre
I stayed here for two nights. On the first morning, there was a bit of a snag during breakfast. I was having a breakfast meeting with a friend, and throughout the meal, staff kept asking us how many people were dining. It was quite embarrassing to be stopped at the entrance again. I had already informed them that I’d purchased executive lounge access and asked them to check with the lounge staff, but it seems there was still a communication breakdown. I also ordered room service, and the panini was cold, the bread was very dry, and the fries were also cold, so I only ate the filling. Whenever I'm in Shanghai, I always choose this hotel because it's a familiar place and everything is usually great. I hope in the future, communication with guests can be more detailed to avoid misunderstandings.FromAU$226
Very Good16472 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.12km from city centre
As a long-standing five-star hotel, I found it exceeded my expectations! My impression of older five-star hotels is usually that they have great views but outdated rooms. However, the Grand Hyatt's rooms are very modern, with integrated control panels on both sides of the bed. The rooms are incredibly spacious, and most importantly, they don't feel dirty despite their age; in fact, they feel exceptionally clean, especially the towels, which were very clean and new. The toiletries were my favorite, BALMAIN! The best part, though, was the excellent service. I was traveling with two children, and the friendly front desk lady generously gave me two complimentary kids' breakfasts, and you know how top-notch the Hyatt's breakfast is! The breakfast view is superb, directly facing the Oriental Pearl TV Tower – who could resist a breakfast like that? Coincidentally, it snowed while I was there, and I could even watch the snowflakes from my room, which was fantastic!FromAU$217
Excellent4760 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.69km from city centre
As a couple who has lived in Shanghai together for almost 10 years, with one of us also Shanghainese, we have been to a lot of the best places in Shanghai, and some of the more recommended places in about 20 cities in the broader nearby area. Nothing in the city or within several hours of high-speed rail compares to a stay at Ritz-Carlton Pudong. In Asia and indeed the planet, this impeccable hotel experience stands as an iconic example of old-world elegance and service. In addition, it also offers a unique view of both some of the most modern and tallest buildings and the city’s famed Bund riverside, home to a variety of art deco architectural masterpieces.
We had the incredible good fortune to start our honeymoon at the Ritz in Pudong, and this last stay was our last honeymoon treat. As always, it was a spectacular experience that we cannot recommend enough.
The most extraordinary part of the stay really is the staff, they are all world class people who go above and beyond to make the Ritz-Carlton Pudong such an exceptional institution in one of the world’s leading cities.
Sincere thanks to the whole team for making this happen, including Cherryl, who made reservation delightfully effortless, Chris who helped us to our room, and Joey and Ruby who helped in the evening.
Special and heartfelt thanks to the whole team who make the Club Lounge experience world beating:
Eddie and Junita, who both lead by example, have a deep passion for the details that create excellence, as well as being just the nicest people. They are both incredibly inspiring leaders and professionals.
Claire is generally excellent there but also was phenomenally helpful to get a bag back when it was left behind, we really apricated that.
Jeramy and Vivian also are amazing, as are Club Lounge’s chef’s Joe and Austin.
Sherry is a real star, attentive, sharp and so helpful.
Last but not least, Helen, who was the first person to greet us after we got married, and fittingly the last person to help us create personalised room key cards with our wedding photo on it, and most recently a special photo of family from our honeymoon. Those keycards are really cool keepsakes, but making them is not as simple as you might think: the image is etched into the key, not printed, so the original photo needs to be translated by AI into an image that the etching system is capable of delivering, which is really impressive. When I showed my mom who lives very far away, even she was impressed with Helen’s work.
Ordinarily we prioritise new experiences over more of the same, regardless of how comfortable and nice it is. But regardless of how hard we try, we have not been able to figure out a better way to celebrate our biggest moments than a stay at the Ritz in Pudong.FromAU$392
Very Good4382 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.58km from city centre
An absolutely superb hotel! The location is fantastic, directly facing the Bund, offering panoramic views from the upper floors – the scenery is just stunning. It's a historic old building with interiors that exude a cultured Shanghainese charm. The hotel stated it was redecorated in early 2025, so the facilities are relatively new. The rooms are incredibly spacious, with standard king rooms ranging from 50-60 square meters, very grand indeed. Around the hotel, you'll find a wide variety of charming Chinese and international restaurants. The subway isn't far either, making transport very convenient. The hotel service is also very attentive. There are many foreign guests staying here. If you're looking to experience an elegant taste of Old Shanghai, this high-end hotel comes highly recommended.FromAU$407
Outstanding10366 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.52km from city centre
Honestly, I was quite happy with the hotel itself. The room was spacious and the lobby was grand. The check-in process at the front desk was excellent; I was very satisfied with the service attitude of the front desk lady. I remember arriving late at night and was looking for a restaurant when I got there. The front desk staff proactively offered to take my luggage to my room, which I really appreciated. However, room cleanliness was an issue. There was a moth flying around during my two-day stay. On the second day, I called the front desk to resolve it. Although they sent two cleaning staff, the problem wasn't fixed. I ended up buying a spray myself, and I'm not even sure if that solved it. Everything else was fine. Without the moth, this stay would have been perfect, but the hotel's failure to detect the moth left me very disappointed.FromAU$151
Very Good4366 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|7.13km from city centre
I communicated with our account manager, Angela, in advance, and she arranged a room that satisfied our client. The client really liked the hotel. Since it's often fully booked, we placed our order on Trip.com a month in advance. There are many restaurants around the hotel, and it's very close to Hongqiao Airport, about a 20-minute drive. Right across the street is a large park, offering great views. Most importantly, the rooms are clean, and the hotel staff provide excellent service, especially Angela. We will definitely choose this hotel again.FromAU$88
3 Disadvantages of Shanghai, China eSIM
1. Limited device support
To use an eSIM, your phone or tablet must support it. Many new models do, but older or budget devices may not. You will need to check if your device works with eSIM, which can be a bit of trouble. If you need to buy a new device, that adds extra cost.
2. Not usable on multiple devices
A normal SIM card can be moved easily between phones, but eSIMs are built into one device. This means you cannot quickly switch it to another phone or tablet. For people using more than one device while travelling in China, this can be inconvenient.
3. No local phone number
Most eSIM data plans do not include a phone number, or you may have to pay extra for one. This can be a problem when making local calls, such as booking a restaurant or contacting your hotel. Regular SIM cards usually include both data and a phone number, which is more practical for some travellers.
Trip.com Shanghai eSIM Verified Traveller Reviews
4.7/5
13961 reviews
5/5
Excellent speed and availability all over Shanghai, but ChatGPT and TikTok didn't work as opposed to what was advertised. The other blocked websites and apps such as Google or Instagram worked perfectly
5/5
I've used this e-SIM three times in the past year, and it's never let me down. It works reliably, and the connection doesn't require a VPN for use in China.
5/5
I bought it in advance of my trip and immediately downloaded it to my phone to check, but I didn't notice the validity period was 60 days (without extensions). Then I realized I'd be traveling to China a little later than that and wanted to cancel the reservation (it says you can cancel before you start using it), but it turns out that downloading it to your phone already starts using it. I contacted the product's tech support, and they said, "No problem, we'll cancel it right away!" They canceled it themselves, refunded my money, and I bought it again! Excellent!
5/5
We took 5GB for the day. But at first, we were using 300 MB each time, since we used the hotel Wi-Fi in the evenings. But when I realized that the data usage was quite economical, I stopped using Wi-Fi and switched entirely to mobile data with this SIM card. The connection quality is perfect. No blocking, all websites work, unlike Wi-Fi. I sent a bunch of photos and videos to relatives and used up to 1.5 GB. I could easily have taken 1 GB per day)) but it's already much cheaper than our roaming, so I'm very happy with this data freedom. I activated the SIM cards from this app when I made my reservation at home. Upon arrival, I simply switched the eSIM to the "on" position and everything worked immediately. I configured my phone to avoid unnecessary charges and updates, disabled many home apps from using the cellular connection, and the data usage was very economical. If you use purely tourist apps and standard messaging, then 300 MB per day is enough🌸
5/5
I definitely recommend it. Instant installation and renewal. All messengers and video services work. The speed is excellent.
FAQ – Shanghai eSIM
Does an eSIM work in Shanghai?
Yes, an eSIM works in Shanghai as long as you download the plan before your arrival and your phone is unlocked for international use.
Can foreigners use eSIMs in China?
Yes, foreigners can use eSIMs in China with compatible devices and valid travel plans; just ensure the provider supports activation for international users.
Which eSIM is best in Shanghai, China?
The best eSIM depends on your needs, but look for a provider offering strong network coverage in Shanghai, zero hassle activation and good value data plans.
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