Established in 1846, the Astor House played a significant role in Shanghai's early modern history-notable moments include the city's first electric lights (1882) and first telephone call (1901). However, though it was cutting edge back in the days of trolleys and steamships, some guests would tell you that the Astor hasn't quite made it out of the twentieth century. Rooms, though spacious and full of old Shanghai charm, can be a bit worn around the edges, and the staff, while generally eager to please, isn't always as on the ball as employees at newer internationally run hotels.
On the other hand, it's a brilliant example of classic colonial-era architecture, and if you value atmosphere, history and charm, it can be a fantastic place to stay. Just to the north of the Bund across Suzhou Creek, the Astor House is a pleasant ten-minute walk north from Nanjing Dong Lu and its metro station. Note that the rooms above ground floor tend to be quieter and better appointed than those at the noisy street level.