The right way to leisurely explore Shanghai is to stay in this French-style old villa hidden under the plane trees

Want a getaway in the bustling city? Why not stay right in Shanghai— For a weekend with my bestie, I took her to experience my favorite hidden gem: URBN Boutique, a French-style old villa hotel tucked away near Jing'an Temple. A rare sense of seclusion in the city quietly unfolds here. Every wooden floorboard comes from the renovation of century-old houses, Every ceiling and brick wall holds clues to the passage of time. Stepping inside feels like wandering into a dream where old Shanghai and Paris intertwine. For just 400+ per person, you can stay in a 35㎡ light French-inspired space. Velvet, metal, floor-to-ceiling windows, vintage furniture, greenery… Every corner whispers, "Life is beautiful—slow down and savor it." The location rivals that of international five-star hotels: An 8-minute walk to Jing'an Temple, a 10-minute bike ride to Anfu Road, With Metro Lines 2, 7, and 14 nearby, getting anywhere is a breeze. Between ancient temples and cutting-edge fashion, This is the true scenery of a perfect Citywalk. The dining experience doesn’t disappoint either: Start your morning with a steaming bowl of beef noodles at LE COQ bistro, Enjoy a three-tiered afternoon tea in the courtyard at midday. Sunlight filters through carved windows, the air thick with leisure. From day to night, every shot is Instagram-worthy— Who says you can’t capture artistic portraits in a hotel? This time, I skipped the traditional tourist spots with my friend And made "staying in the scenery" the journey itself. Next time you’re in Shanghai, be sure to add this hotel to your list!