You have decided to go to Hangzhou and don’t know where to stay? No worries, we prepared this post with our three favorite areas in the city. These are gorgeous, well connected, and full of attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Our top choice goes to the lake front Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, east of the West Lake. In the City Center, stay at the JW Marriot. Finally, if you decide to stay next to Hefang Street, book a room at the Sofitel.
Hangzhou offers incredible nature, history, culture, and state of the art architecture. We are sure you’ll have a great time.
East of the West Lake
The eastern shore of the West Lake is the most scenic area in all of Hangzhou. There’s a huge sidewalk next to the lake that takes you through a string of splendid parks. You have to stop by the West Lake Scenic Area Music Fountain at night.
Pedestrian Dongpo Street is here too. Shopping malls and restaurants of all types line the wide street. The metro connecting you to the entire city is here. Stay east of the West Lake to enjoy the best of Hangzhou: nature and architecture.
The Best Hotels East of the West Lake
Grand Hyatt Hangzhou
The Grand Hyatt Hangzhou is fabulous. The contemporary building faces the lake. It has a rooftop terrace with unforgettable views, and the coolest pool in the city. Pay a bit extra, book a Lake View room, and have the time of your life.
Westlake 7 Service Apartment
The Westlake 7 Service Apartment Hotel is great value for money. The hotel is a couple of blocks from Dongpo Street. There’s a night market directly downstairs and the metro is literally feet away. All units come with a washing machine.
City Center – Wulin Square
Wulin square is Hangzhou’s city center. It’s a state of the art area with superb contemporary architecture. The square itself with its fountain is fascinating. It’s a major transport hub and the best place to people watch.
The Zhejiang Culture and Art Center is north of the square. You have to see it to believe it. Check out the Zheijiang Science and Technology Museum and Hangzhou’s Library. Water taxis leave from the Wulinmen Warf. The 45 minute ride along the Grand Canal is a must!
The Best Hotels in the City Center
JW Marriot
The JW Marriot is a tall contemporary tower halfway between the culture and art center and Wulin square. The pool is gorgeous. Splurge a bit and book a top floor executive room for awesome lake views and your own hot tub!
Hangzhou Tower Hotel
The Hangzhou Tower Hotel is literally feet from Wulin Square. It’s a tall tower with huge comfortable rooms at unbelievable prices. The onsite restaurant is pretty good. The beds are soft, no worries.
Hefang Street
The area around Hefang Street is the only part of ancient Hangzhou that’s still standing. Its epicenter is pedestrian Hefang Street. Historic architecture, old temples, and lots of trees dot the area. There are several metro stations that connect you to the entire city.
Stay here if you like Chinese architecture and a traditional vibe. You have to go up Wushan Tianfeng small hill, next to Wushan Square. The Hangzhou Museum is nearby. Do not skip the incredible City God Pavillion scenic area.
The Best Hotels around the Hefang Street
Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake
You won’t get a 5 star luxury room at a lower price than at the Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake. It’s next to the lake. The rooms are super comfy and huge. There’s a big indoor pool and one of the best Chinese restaurants in the city.
Hangzhou Lanshe Hotel
If you want to save, book a room at the Hangzhou Lanshe Hotel. It’s a steal. The rooms are big and feature good beds. The best ones have views over the city. They even have bicycles you can rent to discover the city.
How Many Days in Hangzhou
What sets Hangzhou apart is its wonderful West Lake. It’s hard to believe that such natural beauty is in such a futuristic and cool city. Thus, you can stay in Hangzhou for weeks and never have a dull moment. Now, to see the basics you need at least 2 days.
That’s why we believe 3 days are much better. An extra day will allow you to enjoy the lake for hours. In fact, if you can afford it, stay at least one night at the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake, one of the best hotels in China and the world!
