Where to Stay in Hangzhou
China
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Hangzhou at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Hangzhou
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Rent a bicycle (plenty of shared services available) and cycle around West Lake early in the morning before the crowds arrive to truly appreciate its beauty.
Getting Around
Utilize the metro for longer distances; it's efficient and cost-effective. For West Lake, consider renting a bike or taking a scenic bus.
Watch Out For
Tea ceremony scam: Inviting tourists to a 'tea ceremony' which is overpriced.
Solo Female Travel
Hangzhou is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding dimly lit areas late at night and being aware of your surroundings are sufficient.
Hidden Gems in Hangzhou
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Longjing Tea Village
FREEWander through the emerald green tea plantations where the famous Longjing (Dragon Well) tea is grown. You can often chat with farmers, learn about tea production, and enjoy a fresh cup with a stunning view.
Hefang Street (historical section)
FREEWhile parts of Hefang Street are touristy, delve into the quieter side streets and alleyways to discover traditional craft shops, old apothecaries, and authentic local snacks away from the main crowds.
Meijiawu Tea Village
Similar to Longjing, but often less crowded, Meijiawu offers a more intimate experience of tea culture. Enjoy a meal at a local farmhouse restaurant surrounded by tea fields.
Zhejiang Provincial Museum (Gushan Branch)
FREEThis branch of the provincial museum, located on Gushan Island in West Lake, offers a more focused look at Zhejiang's history and art, often with fewer crowds than the main museum.
Baochu Pagoda
FREEClimb to the top of this ancient pagoda on a hill overlooking West Lake for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and city, especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.
Xixi National Wetland Park
Explore this vast wetland park with its network of waterways, ponds, and reed beds. It's a serene escape offering boat rides through picturesque scenery and a chance to see diverse birdlife.
What It Costs in Hangzhou
Daily budget per person in CNY
💡73% cheaper than London
CNY 350/day
CNY 700/day
CNY 1500/day
Where to Stay in Hangzhou
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Lingyin Temple45 min
- Hefang Street30 min
- Hubin Pedestrian Street10 min
Pros
- +Iconic scenery and attractions
- +Excellent public transport access
- +Plenty of dining and shopping options
Cons
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially during holidays
- -Accommodation can be pricier
Top stays in West Lake Scenic Area
Shangri-La Hotel, Hangzhou
$$$Offers stunning lake views and impeccable service, with direct access to the West Lake promenade.
The Dragon Hotel Hangzhou
$$A well-established hotel with a good range of amenities and convenient location near West Lake.
Hangzhou Peace International Hotel
$$Comfortable accommodation with a central location, making it easy to explore the surrounding attractions.
Hangzhou Hanting Hotel (West Lake)
$A budget-friendly option providing clean and basic accommodations within walking distance of the lake.
Best for
Walk to
- West Lake Scenic Area5 min
- Wulin Square15 min
- Hefang Street30 min
Pros
- +Vibrant atmosphere with numerous restaurants and shops
- +Excellent public transport connections
- +Close proximity to West Lake
Cons
- -Can be very noisy and crowded
- -Accommodation prices can be high
Top stays in Hubin (Lakeside)
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou
$$$Luxury hotel with modern amenities and excellent dining options, situated near shopping centers.
Hyatt Regency Hangzhou
$$$Offers spacious rooms and a prime location overlooking the city skyline and close to West Lake.
Citadines Hangzhou West Lake
$$Serviced apartments offering more space and kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays.
Hangzhou Huaxia Hotel
$$A solid mid-range option with good facilities and convenient access to transport and attractions.
Best for
Walk to
- West Lake Scenic Area (southern entrance)15 min
- Six Harmonies Pagoda40 min
- Hu Xueyan Former Residence5 min
Pros
- +Rich in history and traditional culture
- +Excellent for experiencing local snacks and souvenirs
- +Generally affordable dining options
Cons
- -Can be extremely touristy and crowded
- -Street vendors can be persistent
Top stays in Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City
Huaxia Hotel Hangzhou
$$Located near Hefang Street, offering comfortable rooms and good value.
New City Hotel Hangzhou
$$Conveniently situated for exploring the historical area, with standard amenities.
Hanting Hotel (Hefang Street)
$A clean and basic budget option right in the heart of the historical district.
Best for
Walk to
- Hangzhou Grand Theatre10 min
- MixC Shopping Mall15 min
- West Lake (via metro/taxi)25 min
Pros
- +Modern infrastructure and amenities
- +Excellent for business and luxury stays
- +Good nightlife and dining scene
Cons
- -Lacks the traditional charm of other areas
- -Can feel sterile and less 'local'
Top stays in Qianjiang New City
The Ritz-Carlton, Hangzhou
$$$Premier luxury hotel offering world-class service, fine dining, and panoramic city views.
Grand Hyatt Hangzhou
$$$A sophisticated hotel with excellent facilities, including a well-regarded spa and multiple dining venues.
Shangri-La Hotel, Qianjiang
$$$Offers a luxurious experience with spacious rooms and excellent business amenities in the heart of the CBD.
Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Qianjiang
$$Reliable international brand offering comfortable accommodations and good amenities for business and leisure travelers.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts: These areas lack tourist attractions and can be less safe and accessible, offering little of interest for visitors.
- Very remote villages outside the main tourist routes: While potentially picturesque, they lack infrastructure and can be difficult to navigate without local knowledge, potentially leading to safety concerns.
Insider tip: Rent a bicycle (plenty of shared services available) and cycle around West Lake early in the morning before the crowds arrive to truly appreciate its beauty.
Safety in Hangzhou
SafeSolo Female Travel
Hangzhou is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding dimly lit areas late at night and being aware of your surroundings are sufficient.
At Night
Most tourist areas like West Lake and Hefang Street are well-lit and populated. Qianjiang New City is also very safe. Exercise caution in less crowded or unfamiliar residential areas.
Emergency
110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Tea ceremony scam: Inviting tourists to a 'tea ceremony' which is overpriced.
- 2Fake guides: Offering tours at inflated prices.
- 3Overcharging in taxis: Ensure the meter is used.
Getting Around Hangzhou
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Metro Line 1 (approx. 1 hour, ¥6-8) or Taxi/Didi (approx. 40-50 mins, ¥100-150).
🎫
Day Pass
No specific day pass, but a rechargeable public transport card (Lingtong Card) can be used on metro and buses.
Single: Metro: ¥2-8 depending on distance; Bus: ¥2.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Didi
📶
WiFi
Good30-60 Mbps in cafes
Public Transport
Extensive Metro system (Lines 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 16, 19) connecting major areas; extensive bus network.
Ride-share
Didi (China's Uber equivalent) is widely available. Typical cost for short rides: ¥15-30.
Transport Tip
Utilize the metro for longer distances; it's efficient and cost-effective. For West Lake, consider renting a bike or taking a scenic bus.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi (often requiring a Chinese phone number for registration).
Coworking
Several options in Qianjiang New City and business districts, such as Ucommune or Kr Space; daily costs typically range from ¥50-150.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Mar, Oct, Nov
Hotels & Accommodation in Hangzhou
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Who Is Hangzhou Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time visitors
This area provides the quintessential Hangzhou experience with its iconic lake, temples, and gardens.
Foodies
Offers a vibrant atmosphere to sample a wide variety of local Hangzhou snacks and traditional dishes.
Luxury travelers
Features high-end hotels, fine dining, and modern amenities for a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
Budget backpackers
Provides more affordable accommodation and plentiful street food options, immersing you in local culture.
Couples
Offers romantic strolls, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a getaway.
Families
Features spacious parks, boat rides, and child-friendly attractions suitable for all ages.
Hangzhou on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Hangzhou
Hangzhou is the capital city and most populous city of Zhejiang province, China, situated at the intersection of the southern terminus of the Grand Canal and the head of Hangzhou Bay. Renowned as one of the Eight Ancient Capitals of China, Hangzhou is celebrated for its cultural heritage and its West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Established as a county seat in 221 BC, Hangzhou later served as the capital of the Wuyue Kingdom (923–997) and the Southern Song dynasty (1138–1276).
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Hangzhou Guides by Traveller Type
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