Where to Stay in Hangzhou: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Budget

Compare Hangzhou’s best neighbourhoods for sightseeing, family trips, luxury stays and value—from West Lake and Wulin Square to Xixi Wetland and Qianjiang New Town.

Where should you stay in Hangzhou?

Hangzhou West Lake, particularly its eastern shore near Hubin, is the ideal area to stay in if you are visiting Hangzhou for the first time. There are plenty of lakeside strolls and boat rides nearby as well as shopping streets, restaurants and metro access. Families and tourists will enjoy being centrally located, though hotel prices tend to be higher than in other districts. For a more economical stay with still great public transit, stay around Wulin Square. Hefang Street is ideal if you are traveling and want a more historic vibe. Xixi Wetland is nice if you are looking for a quieter resort type atmosphere. Finally, if you are a business traveler or like modern luxury, check out Qianjiang New Town.

  • Best overall West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)
  • Best for families West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)
  • Best for sightseeing West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)
  • Best value Wulin Square
  • Best luxury West Lake
  • Best for business travel Qianjiang New Town

Best areas to stay in Hangzhou

Skim the shortlist, then jump to the area that fits your trip.

Details

The best area for most first-time visitors, offering walkable access to Hangzhou’s signature lake scenery alongside restaurants, shopping and convenient transport.

Best for
First-time visitors, families, sightseeing, couples and short city breaks
Price
Mid-range to luxury
Transport
Longxiangqiao Station, Metro Line 1; Wushan Square Station, Metro Line 7; Ding’an Road Station, Metro Line 1; Walking, public buses and taxis around the lake
Watch out
Hotels are usually more expensive, and the lakeside can become extremely crowded on weekends and public holidays.

Best Value and Transport

Wulin Square

Details

A practical central base with excellent metro connections, abundant shopping and generally better-value hotels than the immediate West Lake waterfront.

Best for
Value seekers, shoppers, public-transport users, repeat visitors and business-leisure trips
Price
Budget to upscale
Transport
Wulin Square Station, Metro Lines 1 and 3; Wulinmen Station, Metro Line 2; West Lake Cultural Square Station, Metro Lines 1, 3 and 19; Extensive public bus connections
Watch out
The surroundings feel more commercial and do not offer the scenery or evening atmosphere of the lakeside.

Best for History and Evening Atmosphere

Hefang Street and Old Town

Details

Stay here for heritage streets, traditional shopfronts and evening food walks while remaining close to the southern side of West Lake.

Best for
Culture lovers, photographers, food-focused travellers and visitors seeking traditional atmosphere
Price
Budget to mid-range
Transport
Wushan Square Station, Metro Line 7; Ding’an Road Station, Metro Line 1; Walking routes through Qinghefang and Southern Song Imperial Street
Watch out
The most popular streets can feel commercial and crowded, particularly in the evening.

Best Nature Retreat

Xixi Wetland

Details

A peaceful alternative to central Hangzhou, best for resort stays, wetland scenery and travellers who do not need to be beside the main tourist sights.

Best for
Nature lovers, couples, families seeking space, resort stays and repeat visitors
Price
Mid-range to luxury
Transport
Xixi Wetland South Station, Metro Line 3; Huawu Station, Metro Line 3; Xixi Wetland North Station, Metro Line 19; Park shuttle services, buses and taxis
Watch out
Reaching West Lake, Hefang Street and the city centre requires additional travel time.

Best Modern Luxury

Qianjiang New Town

Details

Hangzhou’s best base for contemporary five-star hotels, business travel and illuminated views across the Qiantang River.

Best for
Business travellers, luxury city stays, architecture lovers and visitors attending events in the CBD
Price
Mid-range to luxury
Transport
Citizen Center Station, Metro Lines 4 and 7; Qianjiang Road Station, Metro Lines 2, 4 and 9; Jiangjin Road Station, Metro Line 4; Taxis and riverfront walking routes
Watch out
The neighbourhood feels less connected to Hangzhou’s traditional identity and requires metro or taxi trips for West Lake sightseeing.

Best for Longer Stays

Binjiang

Details

A quieter residential and technology district where longer-stay travellers can often secure newer rooms and more space for their budget.

Best for
Long stays, remote work, business travel, repeat visitors and travellers visiting friends or companies in Binjiang
Price
Budget to upscale
Transport
Jiangling Road Station, Metro Lines 1 and 6; Binhe Road Station, Metro Line 1; Jucai Road Station, Metro Line 5; Extensive metro and bus connections across Binjiang
Watch out
Daily sightseeing around West Lake and Old Town involves crossing the Qiantang River and spending more time in transit.

Top hotel picks in Hangzhou

Grand Hyatt Hangzhou illuminated at dusk beside West Lake in Hangzhou

Best Overall

Grand Hyatt Hangzhou

West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)

Choose Grand Hyatt Hangzhou for a polished luxury stay directly beside West Lake, with sightseeing, dining and shopping within easy walking distance.

Its Hubin location delivers the classic Hangzhou experience while remaining close to the metro, shopping centres and restaurants, making it the most convenient all-round recommendation for a first visit.

Nearest station
Longxiangqiao Station, Metro Line 1
Walking time
Approximately 4 minutes; the station is reported to be around 245 metres from the hotel.
Price band
Luxury
  • Excellent location directly beside West Lake
  • Easy access to Hubin shopping and restaurants
  • Direct Metro Line 1 access to Hangzhou East Railway Station

Drawback: The prime lakeside location commands high rates, particularly for lake-view rooms, weekends and public holidays.

Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake overlooking tree-lined streets and West Lake at sunset

Best West Lake Value

Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake

West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)

Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake suits travellers who want a recognised international hotel near the lake without paying the highest ultra-luxury rates.

It provides convenient access to West Lake, the Hubin commercial area and southern Old Town attractions, making it a practical alternative to the city’s most expensive lakefront hotels.

Nearest station
Ding’an Road Station, Metro Line 1
Walking time
Approximately 5–8 minutes. Accor describes the hotel as a five-minute walk from Metro Line 1.
Price band
Upper mid-range to luxury
  • Close to West Lake and the Hubin shopping district
  • Useful location for both the lake and Hefang Street
  • Established international hotel facilities

Drawback: Some facilities may feel less contemporary than those at Hangzhou’s newest luxury hotels.

Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin illuminated at night among the city towers near Wulin Square

Best Value

Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin

Wulin Square

Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou Wulin is a dependable choice for travellers who value international standards, central transport and better rates than the West Lake waterfront.

The hotel supports Wulin Square’s positioning as the best-value central area, with convenient metro connections and straightforward access to West Lake and the railway stations.

Nearest station
Wulinmen Station, Metro Line 2
Walking time
Approximately 9 minutes. Wulin Square Station is around 11 minutes away.
Price band
Mid-range to upper mid-range
  • Strong value for an international hotel
  • Convenient access to multiple central metro stations
  • Good base for shopping and cross-city sightseeing

Drawback: It is not beside West Lake, so guests will need to walk, take the metro or use a taxi for the main lakeside attractions.

Aerial view of Banyan Tree Hangzhou’s traditional Chinese-style villas surrounded by greenery near Xixi Wetland

Best Nature Retreat

Banyan Tree Hangzhou

Xixi Wetland

Book Banyan Tree Hangzhou for a peaceful luxury retreat surrounded by Xixi Wetland rather than a conventional city-centre sightseeing stay.

It is the clearest hotel match for travellers choosing Xixi Wetland specifically for greenery, quiet surroundings and a resort-style experience.

Nearest station
Dongyue Station, Metro Line 3
Walking time
Approximately 12–15 minutes; the station is reported to be around 0.99 kilometres from the hotel.
Price band
Luxury resort
  • Peaceful setting close to Xixi Wetland
  • Resort atmosphere away from central crowds
  • Strong choice for couples and special occasions

Drawback: The hotel is less convenient for daily sightseeing around West Lake, Hubin and Hefang Street.

Night view of Qianjiang New Town’s illuminated skyscrapers through floor-to-ceiling windows at Park Hyatt Hangzhou

Best Modern Luxury

Park Hyatt Hangzhou

Qianjiang New Town

Park Hyatt Hangzhou is an excellent choice for travellers seeking contemporary luxury, high-rise views and direct access to Qianjiang New Town’s business district.

The property represents the modern side of Hangzhou and is well suited to business trips, premium city breaks and travellers who prefer newer commercial districts over historic neighbourhoods.

Nearest station
Jiangjin Road Station, Metro Line 4
Walking time
Approximately 12 minutes.
Price band
Luxury
  • High-rise rooms and modern city views
  • Convenient for Qianjiang New Town offices and shopping
  • Polished luxury facilities and service

Drawback: It is not within walking distance of West Lake and is less atmospheric for a first-time leisure visit.

Conrad Hangzhou rising above the modern Qianjiang New Town business district

Best for Skyline Views

Conrad Hangzhou

Qianjiang New Town

Conrad Hangzhou combines striking contemporary design with a convenient position near Qianjiang New Town’s offices, shopping and Qiantang River skyline.

It offers a strong alternative to Park Hyatt for travellers who want a modern luxury hotel in Hangzhou’s CBD rather than a traditional West Lake setting.

Nearest station
Jiangjin Road Station, Metro Line 4
Walking time
Approximately 18–19 minutes.
Price band
Luxury
  • Contemporary rooms and high-rise city views
  • Close to premium shopping in Qianjiang New Town
  • Well suited to business and luxury travellers

Drawback: The nearest metro station is a relatively long walk, and reaching West Lake requires a metro or taxi journey.

Entrance of Holiday Inn Express Hangzhou Binjiang with illuminated hotel signage and glass doors

Best for Longer Stays

Holiday Inn Express Hangzhou Binjiang

Binjiang

Holiday Inn Express Hangzhou Binjiang is a practical base for longer stays, business visits and travellers whose plans are centred south of the Qiantang River.

It reinforces Binjiang’s role as a quieter, better-value district where guests can prioritise practical accommodation over immediate access to Hangzhou’s main tourist attractions.

Nearest station
Xingmin Station, Metro Line 6
Walking time
Within walking distance; the official hotel page does not provide a precise walking time, so this should be checked against the final map pin before publication.
Price band
Budget to mid-range
  • Practical rates for longer stays
  • Convenient for business visits in Binjiang
  • Recognisable international limited-service brand

Drawback: It is too far from West Lake and Old Town to be the most convenient choice for a short first-time sightseeing trip.

West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside) – Best Overall

West Lake is the classic answer when travelers ask where to stay in Hangzhou for the first time. The eastern shore near Hubin has convenient metro access, lakeside walks, boat piers, malls and numerous restaurants. It allows you to visit the lake during less crowded morning and evening hours without having to commute across the city every day. The downside is cost: centrally located rooms can be pricey on weekends, during spring and autumn, and on national holidays.

Area facts

Best for
First-time visitors, families, sightseeing, couples and short city breaks
Not ideal for
Budget travellers, visitors avoiding crowds or travellers prioritising large rooms
Typical price level
Mid-range to luxury
Nearest stations
Longxiangqiao Station, Metro Line 1; Wushan Square Station, Metro Line 7; Ding’an Road Station, Metro Line 1; Walking, public buses and taxis around the lake
Airport or station access
Longxiangqiao is roughly 55–65 minutes from Xiaoshan International Airport by metro. Hangzhou East Railway Station is generally around 20–30 minutes away, depending on the hotel and transfer.
Main advantage
The easiest base for enjoying West Lake early in the morning and after most day visitors leave.
Main drawback
Hotels are usually more expensive, and the lakeside can become extremely crowded on weekends and public holidays.
Nearby attractions
West Lake Scenic Area
Broken Bridge
Hubin Pedestrian Street
Bai Causeway
Leifeng Pagoda
West Lake boat cruises
Zhejiang Provincial Museum
Recommended for
Best for a first visit of two to three nights or a short sightseeing-focused stay.

Pros

  • Walkable access to Hangzhou’s most famous scenery
  • Excellent selection of hotels, restaurants and shopping
  • Convenient for short first-time visits

Cons

  • Higher hotel prices than most other areas
  • Very busy during weekends and holidays
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific West Lake search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

Hotels in West Lake (Hubin / Lakeside)

Wulin Square – Best Value and Transport

If convenience and price are your top priorities West Lake's strongest alternative is Wulin Square. Wulin Square is a large commercial district with metro interchanges, malls, restaurants and many budget to luxury hotels. West Lake is still easily accessible from Wulin Square, but hotels may have better rates during peak tourism seasons. Book your stay in Wulin Square if you want to be in the center of things and don't mind not waking up right next to the lake.

Area facts

Best for
Value seekers, shoppers, public-transport users, repeat visitors and business-leisure trips
Not ideal for
Travellers wanting immediate lake views or a traditional neighbourhood atmosphere
Typical price level
Budget to upscale
Nearest stations
Wulin Square Station, Metro Lines 1 and 3; Wulinmen Station, Metro Line 2; West Lake Cultural Square Station, Metro Lines 1, 3 and 19; Extensive public bus connections
Airport or station access
The airport-to-Wulin Square metro journey is approximately 55 minutes. Hangzhou East Railway Station is particularly convenient, with a direct metro journey of around 10 minutes before walking and waiting time are added.
Main advantage
One of the most convenient locations for reaching different parts of Hangzhou without paying peak West Lake prices.
Main drawback
The surroundings feel more commercial and do not offer the scenery or evening atmosphere of the lakeside.
Nearby attractions
Wulin Square
Hangzhou Tower Shopping City
Wulin Night Market
West Lake Cultural Square
Zhejiang Museum of Natural History
Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal
Recommended for
Suitable for two- to four-night trips, shopping breaks and travellers planning to explore several parts of Hangzhou by metro.

Pros

  • Excellent metro and railway-station connections
  • Broad selection of hotels across different budgets
  • Convenient shopping and dining nearby

Cons

  • No immediate West Lake scenery
  • Busy commercial atmosphere
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific Wulin Square search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

Hotels in Wulin Square

Hefang Street and Old Town – Best for History and Evening Atmosphere

Hefang Street and the nearby Old Town are less commercialized and modern than other areas of Hangzhou. The old buildings, street snacks, medicine halls, teahouses and pedestrian streets are worth wandering around especially in the late afternoon and night. Its proximity to Wushan Square also gives you access to the south of West Lake. The neighborhood caters to tourists more than it is representative of old Hangzhou that has been left alone, but it's a great option if you are looking for convenience.

Area facts

Best for
Culture lovers, photographers, food-focused travellers and visitors seeking traditional atmosphere
Not ideal for
Travellers seeking quiet surroundings, resort facilities or a large selection of international luxury hotels
Typical price level
Budget to mid-range
Nearest stations
Wushan Square Station, Metro Line 7; Ding’an Road Station, Metro Line 1; Walking routes through Qinghefang and Southern Song Imperial Street
Airport or station access
Metro Line 7 connects Xiaoshan International Airport with Wushan Square in approximately one hour. Hangzhou Railway Station is nearby, while Hangzhou East Railway Station is generally around 20–30 minutes away by metro or taxi.
Main advantage
A more atmospheric base for exploring traditional streets, food shops and the southern side of West Lake on foot.
Main drawback
The most popular streets can feel commercial and crowded, particularly in the evening.
Nearby attractions
Qinghefang Ancient Street
Southern Song Imperial Street
Wushan Square
Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum
Chenghuang Pavilion
Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
Southern West Lake shoreline
Recommended for
Best for one to three nights, particularly for cultural visits, food exploration or a second trip to Hangzhou.

Pros

  • Historic streets and traditional architecture nearby
  • Excellent for evening walks and local snacks
  • Convenient for the southern side of West Lake

Cons

  • Popular streets can be crowded and commercialised
  • Smaller selection of full-service luxury hotels
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific Hefang Street search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

See all hotels in Hefang Street and Old Town

Xixi Wetland – Best Nature Retreat

Though Xixi Wetland is only a few kilometres west of West Lake, it can feel quite far away from the heart of Hangzhou. Offering canals, ponds, avenues lined with trees, and wetland villages, it has a slower pace than Hubin or Wulin Square. Most accommodation is boutique resorts and luxury retreats. Budget hotels and guesthouses can be accessed near the park entrances. Xixi is great for couples and families looking to stay and relax, but difficult to make the first journey from if you are only visiting West Lake and the Old Town.

Area facts

Best for
Nature lovers, couples, families seeking space, resort stays and repeat visitors
Not ideal for
First-time visitors with only one or two days or travellers focused mainly on West Lake sightseeing
Typical price level
Mid-range to luxury
Nearest stations
Xixi Wetland South Station, Metro Line 3; Huawu Station, Metro Line 3; Xixi Wetland North Station, Metro Line 19; Park shuttle services, buses and taxis
Airport or station access
Xixi Wetland North is served by Line 19, Hangzhou’s airport express corridor, while the southern entrances are reached using Line 3. The area is also more convenient for Hangzhou West Railway Station than for Hangzhou East Railway Station.
Main advantage
Peaceful greenery, waterways and resort-style hotels away from central Hangzhou’s heaviest crowds.
Main drawback
Reaching West Lake, Hefang Street and the city centre requires additional travel time.
Nearby attractions
Xixi National Wetland Park
National Wetland Museum of China
Hezhu Street
Zhoujia Village
Gaozhuang Garden
Wetland boat routes and walking trails
Recommended for
Best for a one- or two-night retreat, the final stage of a longer China trip or a return visit to Hangzhou.

Pros

  • Peaceful natural setting with fewer central-city crowds
  • Distinctive boutique and resort accommodation
  • Metro access on both the north and south sides

Cons

  • Less convenient for central sightseeing
  • Limited nightlife compared with Hubin or Wulin
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific Xixi Wetland search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

Hotels in Xixi Wetland

Qianjiang New Town – Best Modern Luxury

Qianjiang New Town showcases a newer, more contemporary side of Hangzhou. Think landmark towers, upscale shopping malls, office buildings, and an expansive riverside stretching along the Qiantang River. Hotels in this area tend to be newer than those around West Lake. They also tend to have bigger rooms and bathrooms with higher floor views, as well as sleek business centers. The neighborhood is metro accessible for exploring around, but it's definitely geared towards travelers who prefer luxury and practical business amenities over quaint streets and lake views.

Area facts

Best for
Business travellers, luxury city stays, architecture lovers and visitors attending events in the CBD
Not ideal for
First-time visitors focused on historic Hangzhou or travellers wanting to walk to West Lake
Typical price level
Mid-range to luxury
Nearest stations
Citizen Center Station, Metro Lines 4 and 7; Qianjiang Road Station, Metro Lines 2, 4 and 9; Jiangjin Road Station, Metro Line 4; Taxis and riverfront walking routes
Airport or station access
Citizen Center is served by Metro Line 7, which continues towards Xiaoshan International Airport, and Line 4 provides direct access towards Hangzhou East Railway Station. Citizen Center is confirmed as an interchange for Lines 4 and 7.
Main advantage
Modern hotels generally offer larger rooms, newer facilities and impressive skyline or river views.
Main drawback
The neighbourhood feels less connected to Hangzhou’s traditional identity and requires metro or taxi trips for West Lake sightseeing.
Nearby attractions
Qiantang River City Balcony
Hangzhou Grand Theatre
Hangzhou International Conference Center
Raffles City Hangzhou
The MixC Hangzhou
Qianjiang New Town light displays
Qiantang River promenade
Recommended for
Best for business trips, conferences, modern luxury weekends or stays combining work with sightseeing.

Pros

  • Excellent modern luxury and business hotels
  • Impressive skyline and Qiantang River views
  • Convenient metro links to the airport and railway station

Cons

  • Not within walking distance of West Lake
  • Less historic atmosphere than older districts
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific Qianjiang New Town search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

Hotels in Qianjiang New Town

Binjiang – Best for Longer Stays

Binjiang is a newer area for residences and technology parks on the south side of the Qiantang River. While there aren't the instant gratification attractions of West Lake, for some longer-term travelers the newer hotels, utilitarian restaurants/shopping centers, and relatively larger rooms are worth checking out. Binjiang is serviced by Metro Lines 1 and 6 which go into central Hangzhou, but will require extra travel time when crossing the river to get to attractions. Binjiang works best when your work, family, or other reasons already has you here.

Area facts

Best for
Long stays, remote work, business travel, repeat visitors and travellers visiting friends or companies in Binjiang
Not ideal for
First-time tourists, short sightseeing breaks or travellers wanting to walk to Hangzhou’s historic attractions
Typical price level
Budget to upscale
Nearest stations
Jiangling Road Station, Metro Lines 1 and 6; Binhe Road Station, Metro Line 1; Jucai Road Station, Metro Line 5; Extensive metro and bus connections across Binjiang
Airport or station access
Jiangling Road provides access to Metro Lines 1 and 6, while several other lines serve different parts of Binjiang. Airport and Hangzhou East Railway Station journeys are manageable by metro but generally take longer than from Wulin Square or Qianjiang New Town.
Main advantage
Newer hotels and larger rooms can offer stronger value for extended stays.
Main drawback
Daily sightseeing around West Lake and Old Town involves crossing the Qiantang River and spending more time in transit.
Nearby attractions
Qiantang River waterfront
Star Avenue
Hangzhou Low Carbon Science and Technology Museum
Changhe Historic District
White Horse Lake area
Binjiang riverside parks
Recommended for
Best for stays of four nights or longer, remote-working trips, business assignments or visits centred on southern Hangzhou.

Pros

  • Better room size and value for longer stays
  • Modern residential amenities and local restaurants
  • Useful metro connections across southern Hangzhou

Cons

  • Too far from the main sights for most short visits
  • Less attractive as a leisure base for first-time visitors
  • Area Stay22 / booking URL
  • Leave blank until an area-specific Binjiang search link is generated.
  • Area CTA label

Hotels in Binjiang

Compare hotels in Hangzhou

Use the map to compare hotel locations after choosing your preferred area. Check the distance to the nearest station before booking.

Booking tips

  • Best time to visit

    Late March-May and late September to early November have the most pleasant weather for sightseeing. Spring provides flowers, new Longjing tea leaves and green landscapes around West Lake; autumn is usually cooler and drier than summer.

  • High season

    Peak tourist season is April through May and September through October. Demand surges especially around Labour Day in early May, China' National Day Golden Week in early October, holiday weekends, and during peak times to view autumn foliage. Hotels around West Lake also tend to book up on regular weekends during spring and autumn.

  • Festivals & events

    Large events include China International Cartoon & Animation Festival, usually held around late May or early June each year. Others include the China International Tea Expo held typically in May, Hangzhou West Lake International Expo and recently Global Digital Trade Expo which was held in late September. The date and venue vary from year to year so business and leisure travelers should refer to the official calendar when planning.

  • When to book

    Book three to eight weeks in advance for regular dates. Book two to three months ahead if you're going to stay near West Lake in spring or autumn, to ensure a better selection of rooms in central locations. Book three to six months ahead if your trip is during Labour Day, National Day Golden Week, a major trade fair or if you plan to stay at popular luxury hotels near West Lake.

  • Typical prices

    Budget rooms can be from around US$35/night. Average for mid-range hotels is closer to US$80–180. Luxury hotels start around US$250 but can be much more, especially for rooms with lake views, suites and during weekends and public holidays. Hotel rooms in Wulin Square and Binjiang generally have better value than right on the West Lake waterfront. Room rates should be listed in CNY, if at all possible, and considered seasonal approximates rather than set rates.

  • Getting around

    The metro system is Hangzhou's most convenient method of transport to and from the airport, railway-station and for cross-city travel. Longxiangqiao Station is accessible to the East Lake area, Wushan Square covers Hefang Street and the south of West Lake, Wulin Square has the strongest interchange. Taxis or DiDi are recommended for Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Village and hotels not located near metro stations. Factor in more travel time when visiting West Lake during weekends and public holidays.

  • Airport access

    Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is served by Metro Lines 1, 7 and 19. Line 19 is an airport express line, serving Hangzhou East Railway Station, West Lake Cultural Square and Hangzhou West Railway Station. Travel time to central Hangzhou is usually about 35–60 minutes, depending on destination and transfers.

  • Railway access

    Hangzhou East Railway Station will likely be your most useful high speed rail station for most of your visit, as it's convenient to West Lake, Wulin Square and Qianjiang New Town. Hangzhou West Railway Station is a better choice for Xixi Wetland and the rest of western Hangzhou. Hangzhou Railway Station, also known as City Station, is convenient to Hefang Street and the south side of West Lake. Be sure to confirm which station you'll be travelling through before buying your ticket - tickets for Hangzhou's different stations are not transferable.

  • Family stays

    West Lake and Hubin are easiest for first-time visitors traveling with family as attractions like lakeside walks, boat rides, parks, dining and shopping are in close proximity. Wulin Square offers larger family rooms with convenient metro access and better value. Xixi Wetland is a nice option if you are looking for something more resort-style and quiet for your family. Verify if the occupancy included in the quoted room price is for children as well and if breakfast, extra beds, or cots are available for additional fees.

  • Accessibility

    Most metro stations and newer hotels are equipped with lifts and step-free access. Accessibility varies at older attractions, boutique hotels and many scenic spots. Some roads around West Lake are flat, but wheelchair/stroller-friendly. Temples, older streets and roads, some bridges, and boardwalks through wetlands may have steps or uneven paving. Please ask the hotel specifically about step-free access at the entrance, accessible restrooms, lifts and room configurations.

  • Payment tips

    Mobile payment is prevalent. International cards including Visa and Mastercard are accepted when linked to Alipay or WeChat Pay, subject to card verification, possible fees and transaction limits. Have some cash (RMB) and a physical bank card on hand for backup, especially at smaller establishments or if mobile signal is poor.

  • Local booking tips

    Foreigners should choose a listing that specifically states they accept international guests, and be sure to use their passport name exactly as it is spelled when entering a reservation. Bring your passport to check in. Hotels will handle your registration with local authorities, but Apartments, private homes and some Guesthouses may require that the guest or host register the person's place of accommodation within 24hrs of arrival. Ask if the quoted price includes tax, service charges, breakfast and if there is a cancellation policy.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best area to stay in Hangzhou?

West Lake is the best area to stay in Hangzhou for most first-time visitors because of its scenic beauty, walkable attractions, great restaurants, and convenient transportation links.

Should I stay near West Lake or Wulin Square?

West Lake is best for sightseeing whereas Wulin Square is best for saving money and convenient public transportation. Overall, we recommend West Lake if it’s your first trip to Hangzhou.

How expensive is Hangzhou?

Hangzhou isn’t as expensive as Shanghai or Beijing. You can find budget hotels for as low as US$35/night. Mid-range hotels usually range from US$80 to US$180/night. The more luxury hotels start at $250/night or more, depending on the season.

How long should I spend in Hangzhou?

The average person spends two to three days in Hangzhou. This will allow you to see everything from West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Village, Hefang Street, Xixi Wetland without rushing.

Is Hangzhou safe to travel to?

Hangzhou is one of the safest Chinese cities for international tourists. Violent crimes are uncommon. Public transportation is reliable, and the main tourist areas are clean. As always, watch your belongings at popular attractions.

Best area for families

West Lake is best for families. It has spacious parks, scenic boat rides, pedestrian-friendly streets, and international hotels.

Best area for business travellers

Business travellers should stay in Qianjiang New Town. It has many modern hotels and is packed with office towers and convention facilities. The area also has great metro access.

West Lake in Hangzhou with a traditional boat on the water and Leifeng Pagoda rising above the tree-lined hills
A peaceful view of West Lake in Hangzhou, with a traditional boat on the water and Leifeng Pagoda in the background

Final Verdict

Picking where to stay is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when traveling to Hangzhou. Although each district offers something unique, most tourists will be happiest staying in an area around West Lake. All of Hangzhou’s top attractions are located nearby and you’ll be steps away from scenic walkways and lakeside cafes.

On a budget? Head to Wulin Square for some of the city’s best deals without sacrificing convenience. Couples seeking romance may enjoy staying at one of the boutique hotels near Lingyin Temple or Xixi Wetland. Business travelers will love luxuriating in one of the high-end hotels of Qianjiang New Town.

Illustrated map showing the best areas to stay in Hangzhou, including West Lake, Wulin Square, Hefang Street, Xixi Wetland, Qianjiang New Town, and Binjiang
Map of the best areas to stay in Hangzhou, highlighting West Lake, Wulin Square, Old Town (Hefang Street), Xixi Wetland, Qianjiang New Town CBD, and Binjiang

Once you decide what part of town you want to be in, you’ll be able to narrow your hotel choices down and spend less time researching and more time discovering why Hangzhou is one of China’s top destinations.

Final recommendation

Compare hotels in Hangzhou

Derek

Learning to be a dad. Works in tech, blogs part time for fun @ shinyvisa.com.

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