An Insider’s Review of Pullman Shanghai Central
For the first leg of my Shanghai trip this April, I checked into the Pullman Shanghai Central, one of Accor’s premium hotels. Formerly known as the Skyway, this hotel has a reputation for its exceptionally spacious rooms and a prime location that I can now personally vouch for. If you’re planning a visit to Shanghai, this is a fantastic option to consider. In this review, I’ll walk you through my experience, focusing primarily on the guest room.
A Look Inside Pullman Shanghai Central
After landing at Hongqiao Airport, a 30-minute Didi ride brought me right to the hotel’s doorstep. Soaring 52 stories high, the building is a striking landmark in the cityscape, making it easy to spot from a distance.
The Ground Floor Lobby
Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a grand, light-filled lobby with soaring ceilings that create a wonderful sense of openness. As a popular venue for banquets and conferences, the space is always a lively hub of activity, bustling with both guests and visitors. I was pleased with how seamless the check-in was; the staff spoke English fluently, which was a relief and not always a given when traveling in China.
On the ground floor, you’ll find a Lavazza café for your coffee fix and a flagship Maotai store, showcasing the famous high-end Chinese liquor. Just outside the entrance, there’s a Starbucks, a major shopping mall, and plenty of other shops. With a subway station just steps away, the hotel’s location is incredibly convenient for exploring the city.
One of the more unique features is a small delivery robot that quietly navigates the lobby, even sharing the elevator with guests. It was a charming and futuristic touch that was fun to watch.
After checking in, I headed to the elevators to find my room. With several elevators in operation, I never had to wait long, even during peak hours.
The Rooms at Pullman Shanghai Central
The first thing that strikes you upon entering is the sheer amount of space. The hotel offers 323 rooms and suites, and even the standard rooms, like the one I stayed in, are a generous 48 square meters. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the room with natural light and enhance the open, airy atmosphere while framing impressive city views. If you appreciate having room to spread out, you will love it here.
Room Furnishings
A large, plush king bed promised a restful night’s sleep, while a comfortable sofa and a dedicated work desk by the window created a versatile living area. It was the perfect setup for catching up on emails, enjoying some local takeout, or simply kicking back and relaxing.
Welcome Amenities
Awaiting me on the table was a welcome card next to an artful display of desserts and fresh fruit. I especially appreciated the inclusion of some traditional Chinese sweets, which was a thoughtful touch that added a sense of place to my arrival.
There was also a beautifully designed guide to the hotel’s restaurants. Filled with enticing photos, it made it easy to get excited about the dining options on-site.
In-Room Facilities & Amenities
The room was fully equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay. This included a capsule coffee machine, a minibar, cozy bathrobes, an in-room safe, a kettle, an iron, and even an umbrella for unexpected rain. Six bottles of complimentary water were provided, which was very generous. The soft slippers and high-quality robe were especially appreciated for unwinding in the evenings.
The Bathroom
Mirroring the bedroom, the bathroom was also generously sized and featured a separate bathtub, which was perfect for a long soak after a day of exploring the city. It’s worth noting that due to local environmental regulations, hotels no longer provide single-use items like toothbrushes and toothpaste. Be sure to pack your own or you can easily purchase them nearby.
Room with a View
The expansive windows offered a sweeping panorama of the city during the day and a dazzling tapestry of lights after dark. On my first night, I spent quite some time just gazing out at the vibrant Shanghai skyline.
[Visit the Official Hotel Website]
The Location of Pullman Shanghai Central
The hotel’s location is a huge asset. A large shopping mall filled with popular restaurant chains is literally right outside the door. You’re also just a short walk from Tianzifang, one of Shanghai’s most iconic and artistic neighborhoods. Other key attractions like the trendy Xintiandi district are also within easy reach, making this an ideal home base for sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Pullman Shanghai Central truly excels with its spacious accommodations and unbeatable location. I thoroughly enjoyed my two-night stay and would happily recommend it to anyone seeking a blend of comfort and convenience in the heart of Shanghai. Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll dive into the hotel’s breakfast, executive lounge, swimming pool, and other fantastic amenities.
