If you value proximity to the New Bund 31 state-of-the-art cultural hub, opt to stay at this neighbouring property. All 202 of the hotel’s pastel-hued, art-dotted rooms include bathtubs, 400-thread-count goose-down bedding, complimentary minibars and free services such as clothes pressing and shoe shining. The lightning-fast commute home from a night out with colleagues at the theatre? That’s a bonus.

At the 265-room Hyatt spinoff UrCove, in the central Jing’an neighbourhood, even the shortest of trips feels fuss-free thanks to functional guestrooms (comfy, window-adjacent workspaces, pod-powered coffee machines) and thoughtful amenities (light-flushed meeting rooms, a self-service laundry). The on-site restaurant, 24-hour gym and 12pm checkout don’t hurt, either.

Swap the city’s bustle for secluded bliss at the ecological and historical haven of Amanyangyun, south-west of downtown. Nestled in tranquil camphor woodlands, any of the 61 restored antique villas, pavilions and contemporary courtyard suites lend themselves to deep work as much as they do relaxation. Begin at your cedar desk, transition to a fireside lounge then clock off and explore almost 3000 square metres of space dedicated to wellness. If a face-to-face meeting calls, the city is only a 30-minute drive (via private limousine) away.

There are only 55 villas at the intimate Capella Shanghai, a boutique stunner set in a row of traditional, ivy-covered shikumen townhouses from the 1930s. With quiet courtyards, complimentary minibars of local snacks and an inviting library space, the stay has a residential feel that takes the sting out of even a flying visit. And the in-house French restaurant by famed chef Pierre Gagnaire is an excellent place for client introductions.