Where to Stay in Hangzhou
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Our pick for families
Stay in West Lake Scenic Area
Features spacious parks, boat rides, and child-friendly attractions suitable for all ages.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Hangzhou
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
🛡️ Generally very safe during the day due to high foot traffic; exercise standard precautions against pickpocketing at night, especially in crowded areas.
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
🛡️ Very safe during the day; at night, it becomes quieter but remains generally safe due to its pedestrian nature, though be aware of your surroundings.
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
🛡️ Very safe during the day; at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas due to the busy commercial nature.
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'
🛡️ Extremely safe both day and night due to its modern infrastructure and high security presence.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
CNY 700/day
Hidden Gems in Hangzhou
Lesser-known spots the locals love
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.
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.
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.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Hangzhou