Where to Stay in Hangzhou
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City
Provides more affordable accommodation and plentiful street food options, immersing you in local culture.
See full Hangzhou neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Hangzhou
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City
A historical pedestrian street bursting with traditional crafts, tea houses, and street food.
Our top picks in Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City
Located near Hefang Street, offering comfortable rooms and good value.
Book NowConveniently situated for exploring the historical area, with standard amenities.
Book NowA clean and basic budget option right in the heart of the historical district.
Book Now
West Lake Scenic Area
The postcard-perfect heart of Hangzhou, offering serene lake views and classical Chinese gardens.
Our top picks in West Lake Scenic Area
Offers stunning lake views and impeccable service, with direct access to the West Lake promenade.
Book NowA well-established hotel with a good range of amenities and convenient location near West Lake.
Book NowComfortable accommodation with a central location, making it easy to explore the surrounding attractions.
Book Now
Hubin (Lakeside)
A bustling commercial and entertainment hub directly north of West Lake, perfect for shopping and dining.
Our top picks in Hubin (Lakeside)
Luxury hotel with modern amenities and excellent dining options, situated near shopping centers.
Book NowOffers spacious rooms and a prime location overlooking the city skyline and close to West Lake.
Book NowServiced apartments offering more space and kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City | Budget | A historical pedestrian street bursting with traditional crafts, tea houses, and street food. | culturefoodies |
West Lake Scenic Area | Mid-range | The postcard-perfect heart of Hangzhou, offering serene lake views and classical Chinese gardens. | first-timerscouples |
Hubin (Lakeside) | Mid-range | A bustling commercial and entertainment hub directly north of West Lake, perfect for shopping and dining. | first-timersnightlife |
Qianjiang New City | Luxury | Hangzhou's modern CBD, characterized by skyscrapers, shopping malls, and the iconic Hangzhou Grand Theatre. | business travelersluxury |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Hangzhou
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Hangzhou
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Hangzhou. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Hangzhou
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Hangzhou
Hefang Street & Southern Song Imperial City
BudgetA historical pedestrian street bursting with traditional crafts, tea houses, and street food.
- +Rich in history and traditional culture
- +Excellent for experiencing local snacks and souvenirs
- +Generally affordable dining options
- -Can be extremely touristy and crowded
- -Street vendors can be persistent
West Lake Scenic Area
Mid-rangeThe postcard-perfect heart of Hangzhou, offering serene lake views and classical Chinese gardens.
- +Iconic scenery and attractions
- +Excellent public transport access
- +Plenty of dining and shopping options
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially during holidays
- -Accommodation can be pricier
Hubin (Lakeside)
Mid-rangeA bustling commercial and entertainment hub directly north of West Lake, perfect for shopping and dining.
- +Vibrant atmosphere with numerous restaurants and shops
- +Excellent public transport connections
- +Close proximity to West Lake
- -Can be very noisy and crowded
- -Accommodation prices can be high
Qianjiang New City
LuxuryHangzhou's modern CBD, characterized by skyscrapers, shopping malls, and the iconic Hangzhou Grand Theatre.
- +Modern infrastructure and amenities
- +Excellent for business and luxury stays
- +Good nightlife and dining scene
- -Lacks the traditional charm of other areas
- -Can feel sterile and less 'local'
Daily Budget (Budget)
CNY 350/day
Hidden Gems in Hangzhou
Lesser-known spots the locals love
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Hangzhou
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Hangzhou Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Hangzhou on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Hangzhou Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Hangzhou with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Hangzhou: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Hangzhou's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Hangzhou: Scenic Excursion
Escape Hangzhou for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Hangzhou Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Hangzhou's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Hangzhou
Backpackers in Hangzhou: FAQ
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