Waldorf Astoria Shanghai

Eschew the frenzied pace of Shanghai’s city centre for a more serene atmosphere at this beautifully preserved historic hideaway in the Xuhui District. Traditional shikumen-style townhouses, which were built in the 1930s by French settlers, now encompass 55 elegantly presented villas.

The interior of each one, two or three-bedroom villa is reflective of the city’s former French influence, and further enhanced with marble bathrooms, modern comforts and traditional Chinese touches. Positioned across several levels, the accommodation, some of which features living rooms and rooftop terraces, still retains its original red-wood framed windows that open up to reveal charming garden courtyards.

In-room dining is available, or you can feast on refined French innovations at the Michelin-starred Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire. You can also enjoy a taste of baked French goodness from Le Boulangerie, and sip your way through the cocktail menu on the expansive leafy terrace, or in the polished low-lit bar, serving up the ultimate post-dinner tipples.

An award-winning spa will have you breathing easy again, with its selection of holistic treatments, relaxation lounge, vitality pool and floatation tank. If you want to get more active, there is a 24-hour state-of-the-art gym, which also hosts private yoga sessions. Otherwise, the dedicated Capella team can arrange guided tours of the estate and the local area, cooking and painting classes, as well as rum-tasting.

Aptly found in the middle of Shanghai in a historic lane-house location, The Middle House offers guests a luxurious space which epitomises urban sophistication. It provides a much needed oasis, with its abundance of outdoor terraces, amidst the bustling backdrop of one of China’s largest city.

The design of the hotel was inspired by the city’s rich heritage of craftsmanship, and combines a minimalist style with various modern interpretations of traditional Chinese elements. Here you will find a varied collection of four studios, a Gallery Suite and a Penthouse Suite. All offer a complimentary Maxi Bar, as well as generous-sized windows with stunning views of the city, while some boast private outdoor spaces to allow you to immerse yourself in the Shanghai skyline.

Food lovers can delight in the vast range of restaurants, bars and international cuisine here. For contemporary Italian cuisine and a selection of fine wines there’s no better place than the casual yet sophisticated Frasca Italian Restaurant. However if you wish to explore China’s culinary highlights head to Sui Tang Li where you can indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine inspired by Cantonese, Sichuan and of course, Shanghainese delicacies. Meanwhile, Cafe Grey Deluxe showcases seasonal ingredients and is the perfect spot to grab breakfast or a cocktail at sunset on its beautiful terrace.

Set on the outskirts of downtown Shanghai, surrounded by verdant camphor trees in a pristine setting of ecological focus, Amanyangyun is the striking result of an ambitious architectural undertaking. Involving the restoration of 13 Ming and Qing dynasty villas, moved brick-by-brick from the southern city of Fuzhou, guests are offered a fascinating glimpse into China’s past, all amid comfort and luxury.

In addition to the 13 antique villas, there are also 24 contemporary suites, which include the likes of living areas with a fireplace, private courtyards and outdoor bathtubs. The villas range from one to five bedrooms and benefit from exclusive use of the villa area’s pool, Jacuzzi and garden. Throughout the villas and suites, guests will enjoy a refined contemporary design, alongside a nature-inspired aesthetic that achieves peaceful seclusion.

An extensive range of dining options are on offer at the hotel, with delicious Chinese dishes provided by Lazhu, sumptuous Italian fare served by ARVA and tasty Japanese cuisine the focus of NAMA. For refreshments and the likes of afternoon tea, The Bar is the ideal venue, while the Cigar Lounge presents premium drinks and light meals.

Amanyangyun’s huge spa and wellness complex can be found set around the central courtyard, complete with countless treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, pools, a fitness centre and a pilates and yoga studio. For something slightly different, Nanshufang is the hotel’s cultural hub, presenting a space for contemplation, as well as discovery of Chinese traditions such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons and brush painting.

As the only new building on Shanghai’s historic and famous street, The Bund, The Peninsula Shanghai stands out among the rest as a beacon of modern luxury.

A truly modern and luxurious Art Deco masterpiece, all rooms are thoroughly elegant in design with neutral tones, accent colours and luxurious fabrics. Some rooms offer unparalleled views of the Huangpu River and the ever-changing skyline of Pudong, while others offer soothing green vistas of trees, overlooking the historic Wai Bai Du iron bridge among other skyline highlights.

Wining and dining here are guarantee to delight, from dining on Modern European cuisine under chandeliers at the glamourous Michelin-starred Sir Elly’s Restaurant to all day international cuisine at The Lobby, as well as a range of sophisticated drinks to be enjoyed at the 1920’s inspired bar Salon De Ning.

Guests can wind away a day of sightseeing, by resting both the mind and body at the Art Deco-themed Peninsula Spa which offers a range of holistic healing treatments and modern therapies.

Wake up feeling refreshed with laps or a leisurely dip in the indoor heated swimming pool, which boasts an adjoining roof terrace with stunning views of the city.