Hangzhou
City

Hangzhou

Ancient elegance meets modern sophistication by West Lake

Marco Polo called Hangzhou "the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world." Eight centuries later, he'd probably still stand by that claim. This is where ancient Chinese poetry comes alive along the shores of West Lake, where morning mist dances over pagodas and willow trees. But Hangzhou isn't stuck in the past. The city that gave birth to Alibaba pulses with tech energy, while its tea houses and silk workshops keep thousand-year-old traditions breathing. You'll find yourself cycling past temples one moment, then sipping craft cocktails in a rooftop bar the next. The locals have mastered something rare: living gracefully between old and new.

Itineraries coming soon

We're working on adding amazing itineraries for Hangzhou. In the meantime, try the app to create your own!

West Lake is your obvious choice, and for good reason. The lakefront hotels put you steps from sunrise walks along Su Causeway and evening boat rides. Park Hyatt Hangzhou sits right on the water with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the lake. Expect to pay ¥1,500-2,500 per night, but you're literally living inside a Chinese painting. For something more intimate, try Amanfayun - it's tucked into a Buddhist village with actual monks as neighbors. The old courtyard houses have been converted into suites, and you wake up to temple bells instead of traffic. Budget travelers should look at Wushan Square area. It's a 15-minute walk to West Lake but half the price. The youth hostels here are clean and the street food is incredible. Xihu District puts you near the business center if you're mixing work with pleasure. The Shangri-La here has a decent spa and you're close to both the lake and Hangzhou's tech corridor.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Download Alipay before you arrive - most vendors don't accept foreign credit cards, but mobile payments work everywhere
  • 2.Buy a Hangzhou Tourist Card (¥25) for discounts at museums and free public transport for 24 hours
  • 3.Eat lunch before 1 PM and dinner before 6 PM when many restaurants offer set menus at half price
  • 4.Book West Lake boat rides directly with boatmen at the dock - they're 30% cheaper than hotel concierge bookings
  • 5.Shop for tea at wholesale markets like Hangzhou Tea Market instead of tourist shops - same quality, 60% less cost
  • 6.Many temples offer free vegetarian meals during lunch hours if you're respectful and dress modestly
  • 7.Use bike-share instead of taxis for short trips - it's ¥1 per hour versus ¥15 minimum taxi fare

Travel Tips

  • •Learn basic Mandarin greetings - locals appreciate the effort and are more helpful with directions
  • •Carry tissues and hand sanitizer - many public restrooms don't provide them
  • •Download offline maps before exploring - Google Maps doesn't work reliably in China
  • •Dress modestly when visiting temples - cover shoulders and knees, remove hats
  • •Book popular restaurants 24 hours ahead, especially on weekends when locals dine out
  • •Keep your passport with you always - hotels and some attractions require ID for entry
  • •Bring a portable charger - you'll be using translation apps and maps constantly
  • •Try to visit West Lake early morning (before 8 AM) or late afternoon to avoid tour groups

Frequently Asked Questions

Most visitors need a Chinese visa, but citizens of 53 countries can enter visa-free for up to 15 days through certain airports. Check current requirements as policies change frequently.

Explore Hangzhou

Things to Do in HangzhouWhen to Visit Hangzhou3 Days in Hangzhou7 Days in Hangzhou

Ready to explore Hangzhou?

Get a personalized itinerary in seconds with Takeoff.

Free on iOS. No credit card required.