Xiamen has never felt like other major cities in China. The hectic energy and bustling skyscrapers of Shanghai or Shenzhen have no parallel here. Xiamen has a languid tempo all its own, set by palm-tree lined boulevards, seaside promenades, historic colonial-era architecture, bustling cafes and some of the best seafood you’ll find anywhere.

The city sprawls across Xiamen Island as well as several satellite districts. Some tourists arrive in Xiamen for day trip only to Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO world heritage site. Others flock to beaches along Huandao Road or come to explore historic temples near Xiamen University. Xiamen’s luxury waterfront hotels are also seeing more visitors every year.

Good news is that Xiamen isn’t that big. Plus, it has a great Metro and taxis are cheap. If you stay in the “wrong” area, it’s almost never more than 20–30 minutes to most of the major tourist destinations in the city. But stay in the right neighbourhood and you’ll save yourself time while maximizing your sightseeing opportunities — and stretching your hotel budget further.

In this guide I’ll recommend the best neighbourhoods to stay in Xiamen. I’ll highlight who each district is best for, along with some of the highest rated hotels in the city. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend, family vacation, romantic trip or business conference, this guide will help you pick the ideal neighbourhood to stay in Xiamen.

Quick Glance: Best Hotels in Xiamen

Xiamen Area Guide

Before you reserve your hotel room, it might be useful to know how Xiamen city is laid out.

Approximately 95% of overseas tourists spend nearly all of their time in Xiamen’s Siming District, located on the southern half of Xiamen Island itself. Zhongshan Road, Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, Shapowei, Gulangyu ferry terminal, and most of the nicer dining can be found here.

Eastward along the coast from Siming is Huandao Road which hosts some of Xiamen’s most luxurious beachfront resorts. North of Siming is Wuyuan Bay which has recently become Xiamen’s downtown district for businesses and upscale hotels. Jimei District, located on the other side of the bridge from Siming, is less visited by tourists and more authentic. Proximity to Xiamen North Railway Station may also be convenient if you are taking high speed rail to your next destination.

One of these areas will likely be ideal for your stay.

Zhongshan Road (Siming District) – Best Place for First-Time Visitors to Xiamen

Recommended if… You only have time to visit Xiamen once.

“If I were only visiting Xiamen once, I would book accommodation around Zhongshan Road without hesitation.”

Zhongshan Road is Xiamen’s main pedestrian district and puts you within walking distance of many of the city’s biggest attractions. During the day, the streets are filled with locals going about their daily lives, visitors wandering through colonial-era lanes, and cafés serving Fujian coffee alongside local snacks like roasted nuts and sweet potato patties.

After sunset, the neighbourhood comes alive. Bright shopfronts illuminate the historic streets while restaurants, seafood eateries, dessert cafés, and street food vendors stay busy well into the evening.

One of the biggest advantages of staying here is convenience. Major attractions such as Gulangyu Island Ferry Terminal, Shapowei, Yanwu Bridge, and Bashi Seafood Market are all nearby, making it easy to explore without spending much time in taxis.

You’ll also find the widest range of accommodation in Xiamen, from affordable chain hotels to luxurious waterfront properties.

Pros

• Best location for sightseeing
• Excellent public transport connections
• Huge variety of restaurants and cafés
• Walking distance to Gulangyu Ferry Terminal
• Fantastic shopping streets

Cons

• Very busy on weekends and public holidays
• Hotel prices are generally higher than other districts

Best Hotels Near Zhongshan Road

Luxury: Swiss Grand Xiamen

Address: 12 Lujiang Ave, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 361001

Swiss Grand Xiamen remains one of the city’s most popular luxury hotels. Located directly opposite Gulangyu Island, higher-floor rooms enjoy spectacular sunrise views across the harbour. Spacious guestrooms, an indoor swimming pool, and an extensive breakfast buffet make this an excellent choice for first-time visitors.

Mid-Range: Millennium Harbourview Hotel Xiamen

Only a few minutes’ walk from Zhongshan Road, Millennium Harbourview Hotel offers comfortable rooms, friendly service, and excellent value for money.

Budget: Hanting Premium Zhongshan Road

A clean, modern hotel that’s ideal if you’d rather spend your budget enjoying Xiamen’s food scene and attractions than on accommodation.

Gulangyu Island – Best Area to Stay for Couples

Recommended if… You’re visiting Xiamen with your partner.

“For couples, I’d recommend spending at least one night on Gulangyu Island. Few visitors realise just how magical it becomes after dark.”

Gulangyu Island is one of China’s most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites and deserves far more than a rushed day trip. Spending the night allows you to experience the island after the last ferry leaves, when the crowds disappear and its true charm emerges.

Once evening falls, the narrow pedestrian streets become wonderfully quiet. Walking beneath lantern-lit colonial villas without traffic or tour groups is an experience that feels completely different from the daytime atmosphere.

The island’s European architecture, lush gardens, seaside viewpoints, and boutique cafés make it one of the most romantic places in Fujian Province.

Pros

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Romantic atmosphere
• Beautiful colonial architecture
• Excellent photography opportunities
• Peaceful after sunset

Cons

• Requires ferry travel to and from mainland Xiamen
• Mostly boutique hotels rather than international luxury brands
• Limited nightlife

Best Hotels on Gulangyu Island

Luxury: Lin’s House Hotel

An elegant heritage hotel featuring beautifully restored architecture, landscaped gardens, and stylish rooms that perfectly complement the island’s historic character.

Mid-Range: Miryam Boutique Hotel

Located within walking distance of Gulangyu’s major attractions, this charming boutique hotel consistently receives glowing reviews from couples.

Budget: Local Heritage Guesthouses

Most accommodation on Gulangyu consists of locally owned boutique guesthouses instead of large international hotel chains. Don’t let that put you off—these charming heritage properties provide a far more authentic island experience and are often surprisingly affordable.

Xiamen University & Nanputuo Temple – Best Area for Culture and Scenic Walks

Recommended if… You want to experience Xiamen’s culture while enjoying peaceful surroundings.

“If your itinerary allows, I’d highly recommend staying near Xiamen University. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful neighbourhoods.”

Just south of Zhongshan Road lies one of Xiamen’s most scenic districts. This area combines cultural attractions, leafy streets, waterfront promenades, and historic landmarks to create a slower, more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling city centre.

The neighbourhood is home to Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, and Hulishan Fortress, making it ideal for travellers interested in history, architecture, and leisurely walks.

Often regarded as one of China’s most beautiful university campuses, Xiamen University sits between the mountains and the sea. Its tree-lined avenues, historic buildings, and tranquil gardens make it worth visiting even if you’re not particularly interested in universities.

Next door stands Nanputuo Temple, a Buddhist temple with more than a thousand years of history. Wander through incense-filled halls, admire the intricate architecture, and follow peaceful hillside walking trails behind the temple for panoramic city views.

One of the biggest bonuses of staying here is being within walking distance of Baicheng Beach and Yanwu Bridge, where locals gather every evening to watch the sun set over the Taiwan Strait.

Pros

• Beautiful scenery
• Rich cultural attractions
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Great walking routes
• Close to beaches and sunset viewpoints

Cons

• Fewer shopping options than Zhongshan Road
• Nightlife is relatively quiet

Best Hotels Near Xiamen University

Luxury: Conrad Xiamen

Address: 186 Yanwu W Rd, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 361005

Occupying the upper floors of the iconic Shimao Cross-Strait Plaza towers, Conrad Xiamen is widely regarded as one of the finest luxury hotels in the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase breathtaking views of Gulangyu Island, the coastline, and Xiamen’s skyline. Spacious rooms, an indoor infinity pool, and award-winning restaurants make it a superb choice for travellers looking to indulge.

Mid-Range: Zhongshan International Hostel

Affordable dormitory-style accommodation conveniently located near the main entrance of Xiamen University, making it popular with backpackers and budget-conscious travellers.

Budget: Jinjiang Inn Xiamen University

Simple, clean, and comfortable accommodation in an excellent location. A great choice if you plan to spend most of your time exploring Xiamen rather than relaxing at your hotel.

Shapowei – Best for Cafés, Art Spaces and Young Travellers

If you asked me where I’d spend an afternoon relaxing in Xiamen, I’d probably choose Shapowei.

In recent years this former fishing harbour has developed into one of Xiamen’s most creative neighbourhoods. Old warehouses have been converted into independent cafés, art galleries, boutique stores and design studios. Colorful murals and waterfront seating areas give the district an energy and vibe that feels worlds away from downtown Xiamen.

The atmosphere is much more local than around Zhongshan Road. You’ll see university students hanging out after classes, photographers admiring the harbour view, and plenty of cafés proudly advertising that they roast their own coffee beans. It’s also one of my favorite places in Xiamen to slow down with brunch and watch the fishing boats arrive and depart.

Families, couples, and solo travelers will all enjoy exploring Shapowei’s walkable streets. It’s also located within walking distance of Xiamen University, Yanwu Bridge and Nanputuo Temple – some of the city’s best attractions for sightseeing.

Hotels are more limited around Shapowei than Zhongshan Road, but there are still several boutique hotels that have opened in recent years. Here are my top picks.

Why stay here?

Shapowei is perfect if independent cafés and boutique hotels are more your style. It’s one of the best areas in Xiamen to get an authentic taste of modern culture while staying close to the city’s top attractions.

Nearby attractions: Shapowei Harbour, Art galleries, Independent cafés, Yanwu Bridge, Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, Cat Street (Daxue Road).

Recommended hotels

Luxury: Conrad Xiamen Hotel

Although this hotel is technically located beside Xiamen University, Conrad is only a ten minute walk from Shapowei and has the best sea views of any hotel I’ve stayed at in Xiamen.

Mid-range: Hotel Indigo Xiamen Harbour

Stylish hotel with contemporary decor and excellent access to both Shapowei and Zhongshan Road.

Budget: Ibis Styles Xiamen Zhongshan Road

Affordable hotels located within walking distance to the harbour district.

Huandao Road – Best Area for Beach Resorts and Ocean Views

Did you know that Xiamen actually has some pretty great beaches?

Stretching for over 40 kilometres around Xiamen Island’s eastern coastline, Huandao Road is one of China’s most beautiful coastal drives. Scenic palm trees, landscaped gardens and dedicated cycling paths make it popular for locals to jog, have weekend picnics and take evening walks.

Huandao Road feels like more of a tropical seaside resort compared to the bustling Zhongshan Road area. Large hotels line prime beachfront real estate with options ranging from family-friendly resorts to high-end beach clubs that offer direct access to the sand and multiple swimming pools.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday or want something relaxing during your stay in Xiamen, this is one of my favorite areas.

On weekends I love renting a bicycle and cycling along the waterfront. There’s an entire dedicated bike lane that stretches for kilometres, passing sandy beaches, scenic lookout areas and small cafés with sea views. Early mornings here are beautiful when you can find locals practicing tai chi while fishermen take care of their boats before market.

Huandao Road is also home to some of Xiamen’s best sunrise spots if you’re into photography. Make sure to set your alarm early at least once during your trip.

Why stay here?

Perfect if you want a relaxing beach holiday rather than visiting tourist attractions. You’ll need taxis or the Metro to get into historic downtown Xiamen, but it’s well worth it.

Nearby attractions: Baicheng Beach, Music Square, Coconut-lined promenade, Coastal cycling route, Zengcuoan Village, Beach parks.

Recommended hotels

Luxury: Seaview Resort Xiamen

Foreign visitors and domestic travellers have been flocking to Seaview Resort for years. It features spacious tropical gardens, multiple swimming pools and direct beach access. Highly recommended if you’re visiting with family.

Luxury: International Conference Center Hotel Xiamen

Located directly along Huandao Road with excellent sea views and spacious rooms. It also includes resort-style facilities.

Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Xiamen Ocean View

A great reliable hotel with comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

Wuyuan Bay – Best for Luxury Hotels, Business Travellers and Airport Convenience

Over the past decade Wuyuan Bay has quickly become Xiamen’s go-to luxury district.

Located between downtown and Gaoqi International Airport, this neighbourhood features wide boulevards, sleek office towers, luxury apartments and waterfront promenades. Unlike older historic streets around Zhongshan Road, Wuyuan Bay has a more modern and spacious vibe.

It’s also incredibly convenient. The airport is only about fifteen minutes away by car, making it ideal for business travellers or late-night arrivals. Despite recent development, you’ll still find plenty of green space near Wuyuan Bay Wetland Park – one of China’s largest urban wetland reserves.

There’s also a marina where yachts are docked along the waterfront and several upscale restaurants with views of the bay.

Wuyuan Bay isn’t ideal if you want to walk between Xiamen attractions, but it’s perfect if you value luxury hotels, conference facilities and convenient transport.

Why stay here?

If you want to stay in a five-star hotel without staying in Xiamen’s busiest tourist district, Wuyuan Bay is the way to go.

Nearby attractions: Wuyuan Bay Yacht Marina, Wetland Park, Wanda Plaza, Coastal promenade, Airport, Convention Centre.

Recommended hotels

Luxury: Langham Place Xiamen

You can’t go wrong with Langham Place. It’s one of the finest business hotels in Xiamen with elegant rooms, exceptional service, an amazing breakfast buffet and easy access to the airport. The spacious rooms and executive lounge also make it popular for longer stays.

Luxury: DoubleTree by Hilton Xiamen

Clean rooms with comfortable beds and reliable Hilton service. It appeals to both leisure and business travellers.

Mid-range: Hampton by Hilton Xiamen

Dependable hotel that provides excellent value while staying close to the airport and Metro.

Xiamen Railway Station – Best for Shopping and Convenience

Many travel guides completely ignore this neighbourhood, but Xiamen Railway Station can actually be a great place to stay – especially if shopping is one of your must-do activities.

Xiamen Railway Station is a busy commercial district filled with department stores, local eateries, shopping malls and convenient Metro access. It actually reminds me more of everyday Xiamen where locals live, work and hang out rather than Zhongshan Road.

You’ll also find some of the biggest retail complexes near Xiamen Railway Station, including Robinson Lifestyle Center and MIXC Shopping Mall.

Hotels around Xiamen Railway Station are usually cheaper than along the waterfront. With convenient Metro and taxi connections, it’s also easy to get to every tourist attraction in the city.

If you don’t mind taking a short Metro ride into downtown Xiamen, this neighbourhood offers great value for shoppers on a budget.

Why stay here?

The area around Xiamen Railway Station is practical and affordable with plenty of shopping and convenient transport links. It doesn’t feel super touristy like some other areas in Xiamen either.

Nearby attractions: Xiamen Railway Station, MIXC Shopping Mall, Robinson Lifestyle Center, Bailuzhou Park, Metro Line 1.

Recommended hotels

Luxury: Pan Pacific Xiamen Hotel

Pan Pacific is well-established hotel with spacious rooms and convenient transport connections.

Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Xiamen Railway Station

Comfortable hotel located within walking distance to Xiamen Railway Station.

Budget: Ji Hotel Xiamen Railway Station

New, clean and excellent value for travelers looking to spend most of their day out and about in Xiamen.

Jimei District – Best for Families, Longer Stays & Local Culture

As far as quieter districts of Xiamen go, Jimei is probably my favorite.

Jimei District is located across Xiamen Bridge on the mainland side of the island. Wide tree-lined streets, expansive parks, and university campuses give Jimei a much more relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation prices are also often much cheaper than similar hotels on Xiamen Island.

Jimei is also well-known for being the birthplace of Tan Kah Kee (Chinese name Chen Jiageng), who was a famous overseas Chinese philanthropist. As a businessman, he made his fortune in Singapore before returning to China and founding the city of Jimei. Beautiful schools, museums and cultural attractions are scattered throughout Jimei thanks to Tan Kah Kee’s influence.

A standout for me was exploring Jimei School Village where architectural styles combine Fujian designs with Western elements. Dragon Boat Pond is also lovely here, especially during Dragon Boat Festival when there are boat races.

Xiamen Metro makes it easy to travel into downtown from Jimei District, so it’s not ideal if you plan on spending every day around Zhongshan Road or Gulangyu Island. But if you’re staying for a few days or travelling with kids, cheaper prices and quieter atmosphere can make it worth the travel.

Why stay here?

Much quieter than downtown with spacious parks, cultural attractions and budget-friendly hotels. Perfect for families, repeat visitors or anyone looking to avoid busy tourist areas of Xiamen.

Nearby attractions: Jimei School Village, Dragon Boat Pond, Tan Kah Kee Memorial Hall, Garden Expo Park, Xiamen Bridge waterfront.

Recommended Hotels

Mid-range: Atour Hotel Xiamen Jimei

Atour Hotel offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds and some of the best service I’ve experienced in this price range.

Mid-range: Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Yuzhou Xiamen

Modern international hotel with spacious family rooms and great transport connections.

Budget: Holiday Inn Express Xiamen Jimei

Reliable hotel that is clean and affordable for families or longer stays.

Xiamen North Railway Station – Best for High-Speed Rail Travellers

If you’re only stopping over in Xiamen as part of a longer China trip, staying near Xiamen North Railway Station can save you a lot of time and hassle.

China has an extensive network of high-speed rail across the country. Xiamen North Railway Station has direct services to many Chinese cities including Fuzhou, Quanzhou, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hangzhou and Shanghai to name a few.

The neighbourhood itself isn’t the most glamorous compared to Xiamen’s historic downtown, but you can find modern hotels, shopping malls and great Metro connections. If your travel plans require you taking a high-speed rail train, staying near Xiamen North Station means you won’t have to wake up extra early to rush into the city.

Perfect for overnight transit if you’re travelling by high-speed rail or for business travellers needing convenient transport connections.

Recommended Hotels

Luxury: Courtyard by Marriott Xiamen

Modern rooms with comfortable bedding and consistently high ratings from travellers.

Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Xiamen North Railway Station

Good option for reliable hotels with great value.

Budget: Vienna Hotel Xiamen North Railway Station

Affordable rooms with comfortable beds.

Gaoqi International Airport – Best for Overnight Layovers

Unless you’re only in Xiamen for transit, I wouldn’t recommend spending your entire vacation here. But if you need to spend a night near the airport before an early morning flight, Gaoqi International Airport has some great hotel options.

Arrive late on a flight? Need to leave super early the next morning? Sometimes it simply makes more sense to stay near Xiamen’s Gaoqi International Airport.

Compared to other international airports, Gaoqi is pretty close to downtown Xiamen. The drive from the airport to downtown takes taxi drivers about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

International hotel chains have opened here over the years with comfortable rooms, airport shuttle service and all the amenities you’d expect from business hotels.

Why stay here?

Ideal for overnight layovers, business travellers or anyone continuing your journey by plane.

Recommended Hotels

Luxury: Langham Place Xiamen

Langham Place has elegant rooms with great restaurants. It’s also located right beside the airport which cuts down travel time.

Mid-range: Hampton by Hilton Xiamen Airport

Comfortable hotel with reliable service and good value for your money.

Budget: Holiday Inn Express Airport

Budget-friendly option if you’re catching an early morning flight.

Which Area Should You Stay in Xiamen?

Still undecided? Here’s my recommendation based on different travel styles.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Xiamen?

Xiamen may not be as big as cities like Beijing or Shanghai but there’s still lots to do.

2 Days

Good for ticking Xiamen off on a wider Fujian tour. Day one could be spent exploring Zhongshan Road and Gulangyu Island. Dedicate day two to Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University and Huandao Road.

3 Days

This is probably ideal for most travellers. You’ll have time to see the main sights at a leisurely pace, indulge in some cafe time and maybe even spend a night on Gulangyu Island.

4–5 Days

Good if you like to take things slow. Additions include Jimei District, Wuyuan Bay, Zengcuoan Village and longer walks on the beaches at Huandao Road.

Tips Before Booking Your Hotel in Xiamen

Selecting a hotel is just one step of your trip planning. Here are a couple of handy tips to prevent any rookie mistakes.

If you’re traveling during Chinese New Year, Labour Day or National Day make sure to book your hotel several weeks/months in advance. All the hotels within popular districts like Zhongshan Road and Gulangyu Island will be fully booked during these holidays.

Staying overnight on Gulangyu Island? Make sure to take note of the ferry schedule. Although overnight stays on Gulangyu Island are strongly recommended, you’ll still be required to arrive before the last ferry and walk a few hundred meters with your luggage.

Unless you’ve got specific reasons to stay outside the city, we recommend picking a hotel within walking distance to a Metro station. Xiamen’s Metro is cheap, efficient, and stops near nearly every tourist spot on this list.

Want a room with a sea view? Check twice to make sure your hotel room type has one. Many hotels along the coast only provide city views for their standard rooms.
All international hotel chains and most large domestic hotels won’t have any problem with foreign passports. However, if you book with a small boutique hotel, we recommend verifying they accept foreign passports before you reserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best area to stay in Xiamen?

Zhongshan Road is home to most of Xiamen’s sightseeing attractions, restaurants, shops and transport links, making it ideal for first-time visitors (it’s located in Siming District).

Is it worth staying overnight on Gulangyu Island?

Definitely! Gulangyu is much quieter (and nicer) once most day-trippers have departed. One night on Gulangyu will allow you to experience the island at its finest.

Which area of Xiamen has the best beaches?

Huandao Road, especially around Baicheng Beach, is the most popular stretch of beach in the city. Several beachfront hotels line the coastline.

Is Xiamen expensive?

Cheap! Prices in Xiamen are far lower than in Shanghai, Hong Kong or Singapore. There’s accommodation to suit every budget, from affordable business hotels to world-class luxury resorts.

Where should families stay in Xiamen?

Jimei District has some lovely quiet streets, parks and museums, as well as offering larger hotel rooms. Huandao Road is another good pick if you’re after a resort-style vacation.

Is Xiamen easy to get around without a car?

Yes. Many of Xiamen’s attractions are located near one another, especially around Zhongshan Road, Shapowei, and Xiamen University. The Metro makes getting around easy as well.

Is it worth staying near the airport?

Only if you’re arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning. If you’re visiting Xiamen for the sightseeing, staying near the airport won’t give you the best experience. You’re better off in or near the city centre.

Final Thoughts

Xiamen doesn’t attract as many foreigners as Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou. That’s its charm. Spend the morning strolling through ancient temples, stop for lunch at a chic harbour-side café, rent a bike and ride along the beach in the afternoon and end your day watching the sunset from Gulangyu Island.

Most visitors will find that Zhongshan Road offers the best balance of location and access to Xiamen’s main sights. For a romantic overnight stay Gulangyu Island can’t be beaten. Huandao Road has the best beach resorts and Wuyuan Bay is best for luxury hotels and business travellers.

Wherever you stay, Xiamen is small, friendly and easy to get around. With convenient public transport, tasty seafood and one of China’s easiest-going atmospheres, Xiamen is worth visiting.