Discover the Best Areas to Stay in Hangzhou
When visiting Hangzhou, choosing the right neighborhood can transform your trip. Whether you’re here for the serene West Lake, vibrant culture, or modern city vibes, Hangzhou offers diverse options. Let’s explore the top areas to base yourself—and how to make the most of your stay.
Which areas near West Lake offer the best views?
The heart of Hangzhou’s charm lies in West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Staying along its shores means waking up to mist-covered waters and sunsets over pagodas. The North Shore (near Baochu Pagoda) puts you steps from iconic spots like Broken Bridge and Leifeng Pagoda. For quieter nights, the West Bank (around Lingyin Temple) blends forest tranquility with easy access to tea plantations. Boutique hotels like The West Lake Hotel or Airbnbs in hutongs (lanes) let you soak in history. Pro tip: Book early—rooms with lake views sell fast!
Where should I stay for local food and nightlife?
For a taste of Hangzhou’s old-meets-new soul, head to Hefang Street. This historic district buzzes with night markets, medieval-style alleys, and Michelin-starred hangbang (local) cuisine. Stay near Southern Song Imperial Street to explore eateries like Lu’s Restaurant (try the crispy West Lake fish!) and bars with traditional opera performances. Budget travelers love the hostels here, while luxury seekers can splurge on The Qianhu Resort, a stone’s throw from the action.
Is the money-saving area worth it?
If you’re watching your yuan, Xiaoshan District (near Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport) is smart. Hotels like Crowne Plaza Hangzhou Xiaoshan offer free shuttles to downtown (30-minute ride) and cost 30%-50% less than West Lake options. Use the savings for day trips to the Grand Canal or Xixi National Wetland. Just note: This area feels corporate during the day but quiets at night.
How do I choose between “old” vs. “new” Hangzhou?
Qianjiang New City (Money River) is your go-to for modernity. Skyscrapers, the Sunday Light Show on the river, and malls like MixC draw business travelers. Stay at Conrad Hangzhou for panoramic views or opt for trendy Wuxia Hotel (inspired by Chinese martial arts). Contrast this with Canal Culture District, where refurbished warehouses house art galleries and canal-side cafes. It’s perfect for creatives and history buffs.
What about transportation and day trips?
No matter where you stay, Hangzhou’s subway (lines 1, 2, and 4) connects everything. From West Lake, take the metro to Longjing Tea Plantations (40 minutes) or Six Harmonies Pagoda (15 minutes). If driving, note that West Lake areas have weekend traffic restrictions. For trips to Suzhou or Shanghai, Hangzhou East Railway Station is your hub—book bullet trains in advance!
Bonus Tips:
- Family travel? West Lake’s Yanggongdi area has playgrounds and pedal boats.
- Couples? Book a lakeside villa in Fenghuangying for private boat tours.
- Foodies: Don’t miss Deqing Road for soup dumplings and lotus-root snacks.
Ready to craft your perfect Hangzhou adventure? Let Deep China Travel tailor your itinerary—we’ll handle the logistics while you sip dragon well tea by the lake. 🌏