Nothing could prepare us for the magic of Chongqing. The city represents the best of Chinese megacities: modernity and tradition. Besides, the food is superb, and the hotels fantastic. Massive roads, bridges, and the metro connect the entire city.
Two rivers run through it. Thus, the epic views. There are parks, malls, pedestrian streets, historic and neo-futuristic architecture. Chongqing is a city to enjoy at nights too. Its world-famous skyline will take your breath away. The following is our list of the best hotels and neighborhoods to enjoy Chongqing to the max!
Yuzhong District: Jiefangbei and Lianglukou
The Yuzhong District is the city center. We believe that Jiefangbei and Lianglukou are the best areas to stay in Chongqing. We are talking about the area in between rivers, Jiliang to the north and the Yangtze to the south. The city’s most iconic buildings are here, including The Hongya Cave and the Raffles.
The district is full of shops, restaurants, and bars. There are several pedestrian areas to walk about. Jiefangbei is near Chaotianmen dock, where cruises along the Yangtze River depart. Lianglukou has a traditional feel. Datianwan Stadium and the Great Hall of the People are here.
We Recommend These Hotels in Yuzhong:
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square
We believe The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square is the best hotel in Chongqing. The massive tower is in the heart of Jiefangbei. The luxurious hotel offers breath taking views. In fact, book a river view room and you will never want to leave. The pool and the spa are top notch.
Hilton Chongqing
We spent a wonderful weekend at the Hilton Chongqing. Our room had an amazing view over Datianwan Stadium, built in 1956. There’s a metro station in the corner that connects you to the entire city. The hotel has a full-size spa, a pool, and complimentary laundry. We loved the onsite Chinese restaurant.
Jiangbei District: Around Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street
We like Jiangbei District because it combines pedestrian streets, shopping centers, and parks. The district is also in the center, but north of Jiliang River. Our favorite pedestrian street in the city is here: Guanyinqiao. The 10000 feet long street has over 1500 huge trees. It’s the biggest and greenest walkable street in southwest China.
The district’s epicenter is Guanqyinqiao Square, with its massive 1800 tons carved stones. Chongqing’s biggest downtown park is here too. Jialing Park has trees, benches, art, and memorable views. Beicang Cultural and Creative District with its studios and artsy shops is super close.
We Recommend These Hotels in Jiangbei:
Chongqing Empark Grand Hotel
Considering its class and location, the Chongqing Empark Grand Hotel is great value for money. The contemporary tower is meters from pedestrian Guanyinqiao Street. The splendid Jialing Park is in front. The rooms are big and have a separate seating area.
Kerry Guanyue Executive Hotel
The Kerry Guanyue Executive Hotel rooms are even bigger. They feature a fridge, a washing and a drying machine. Since it is one of the tallest buildings in the area, the rooms from the top floors offer 180 views of the river and beyond. You won’t find better rooms at this price anywhere else!
Nan’an District: Around Nanping Pedestrian Street
Nan’an is to the south of the Yangtze River. Therefore, the district offers the best views of Chongqing’s skyline. You can see the entire center fully illuminated in all of its glory at nights. Several metro stations connect it to the rest of Chongqing.
However, we recommend taking taxis along the bridges that cross the river. You will feel like traveling to the future! We loved walking along Nanping Pedestrian Street in district’s center. The views from Haitang Yanyu park are the best. There are several restaurants and bars overlooking the park and the river.
We Recommend These Hotels in Nan’an:
Kempinski Hotel Chongqing
We spent New Year’s Eve at the Kempinski Hotel Chongqing and had a great time. The fancy tower is in the heart of Nan’an, a block from the metro. We booked an executive room so had amazing views. The hotel’s spa and pool were fantastic. The breakfast had an endless array of western and chines dishes.
DoubleTree by Hilton Chongqing – Nan’an
The Double Tree Chongqing Nan’an offers elegant rooms, a pool, a gym, and lovely views. The contemporary tower is right next to Nanping Street, very close to 2 metro stations. Since the hotel is the tallest in the area, we recommend booking the executive lounge. Views to die for!
How Many Days in Chongqing
Chongqing is so cool that you can spend weeks in the city without ever getting bored. We recently spent a week there and had a great time. That said, we all have time constraints and big world to discover. Therefore, we believe that you should spend at least 3 days in Chongqing.
You will have to rush a bit, but you will get to experience the best of Chongqing. Though you can go everywhere cheaply with the metro, a few extra bucks get you a taxi. You travel faster while enjoying the views. The city is safe, so you can go everywhere at all times.
