West Lake district in Hangzhou captivates with mirror-like waters reflecting ancient pagodas and willow-lined causeways. Stone bridges arch gracefully over lotus-filled coves while incense drifts from lakeside temples. Traditional pavilions dot manicured gardens where visitors pause for tea ceremonies amid gentle waves. Early mornings offer peaceful solitude for photography and contemplation away from daytime crowds. Longjing tea houses and cultural performances showcase authentic Chinese traditions throughout the area. Metro stations provide easy access to this classical landscape that has inspired poets for centuries.
City centre Hangzhou blends business hustle with cultural treasures. Modern skyscrapers stand alongside ancient temples and traditional tea houses. Explore Hangzhou Stadium or browse silk treasures at China Silk Town. The area pulses with activity as locals practice morning tai chi between gleaming office towers. Well-connected by metro stations and bus routes, this area makes city exploration effortless. Shop at Hangzhou Tower Mall or experience the lively atmosphere at Wushan Night Market. History buffs will appreciate the traditional architecture scattered throughout this commercial heart of Hangzhou.
Shangcheng District frames the picturesque West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site where ancient pagodas reflect in mirror-like waters. Visitors can explore Hefang Street's artisan workshops, tranquil temple grounds, and stone bridges arching over lotus-filled canals. Traditional wooden boats drift past willow-draped shores. Morning tai chi practitioners and authentic tea houses showcase local culture amid Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Wander through manicured gardens along the Bai and Su Causeways. The district offers excellent access to Hangzhou's metro system while maintaining its historical charm.
Get to know Hefang Street and its many features like its museums and monuments. You might want to explore sights like Qinghefang Old Street and Hu Xueyan Former Residence, and you can jump on the metro at Jiangcheng Road Station or Wushan Square Station to get around the city.
While you're in Qianjiang New Town, take in top sights like Hangzhou Grand Theatre or MIXC Mall, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Citizen Center Metro Station or Chengxing Road Station.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Hangzhou
West Lake
9.2/10 (230 reviews)
West Lake's poetic landscape has inspired Chinese artists for centuries with its pagodas and willow-lined causeways. Glide across its tranquil waters on a traditional boat ride to fully appreciate this UNESCO treasure.
Dating back to 326 AD, Lingyin Temple houses a 24.8-meter Buddha statue and ancient stone carvings. Visit early morning to experience the spiritual atmosphere among the temple's grand halls and lush surroundings.
Wulin Square showcases the iconic dancing maidens fountain amid Hangzhou's modern skyline. Experience the evening spectacle when synchronised water jets and colourful lights transform this vibrant public plaza.
China's first national wetland park blends waterways, flora, and cultural heritage. Glide through the tranquil landscape by boat or follow trails to discover seasonal festivals and hidden pavilions.
Hangzhou Tower, the city's premier luxury shopping destination, showcases brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Enjoy personalised concierge services and upscale dining between browsing elegant boutiques.
This man-made lake features over a thousand islands and submerged ancient cities beneath its clear waters. Take a morning boat tour to explore temple-dotted islets and enjoy the serene landscape.
Immerse yourself in China's silk heritage at this traditional marketplace. Watch artisans demonstrate ancient weaving techniques while browsing luxurious textiles and handcrafted garments.
This lotus-inspired stadium blends modern design with cultural symbolism in a striking architectural showcase. Enjoy world-class events in the 80,000-seat venue with impressive evening lighting effects.
"Very clean. Helpful staff. Lots of shops and restaurants. closeby.
Public bus with 3 stops only to the West Lake coast right in front of hotel's door.
Very convenient for West Lake visitors
Price for the room is good."
"We stayed there for 4 nights in OCT26. Generally the hotel staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean and well kept. The in room air-conditioning can fluctuate between warm and cool at times. The breakfast spread was good, with an array of international and Chinese selection. The executive lounge was a huge disappointment. The food in the lounge were very basic and the wines served were bad. Location wise, it's close to Malls, and Wulin Night market."
"Except for the AC issue in the room, the staff, location, and cleanliness were all 5 stars! If you need shopping, do not miss the outlet mall, which is within walking distance from there."
"The cleaners were diligent and helpful, always keeping our room clean and comfortable daily. The breakfast spread was delicious. However the male receptionist I met on 131126 morning was not so patient or friendly. Overall it was a good hotel to stay."
"Overall, I had a very pleasant stay. The staff were extremely helpful and quick to arrange a room change when I noticed a cigarette smell upon arrival. The new room was perfect: spacious, comfortable and equipped with excellent amenities. My only complaints were occasional cigarette smells through ventilation, some noise from neighbouring rooms plumbing and quite heavy noise from the floor above, especially towards the end of the day. Despite these inconveniences, I appreciated the service and...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
In Hangzhou, you can explore the Hangzhou Tower Shopping Mall for a vibrant mix of entertainment and family vibes. For local finds, visit Hangzhou China Silk Town and Wushan Night Market, both brimming with city energy and unique souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center, where you can engage in various sports activities. For family fun, Crazy Appleland offers outdoor playgrounds filled with joy. Finally, unwind at Baiyunyuan Scenic Area, a serene venue perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.
Adventure
Xianghu Tourism Resort offers thrilling outdoor activities amidst beautiful natural scenery, perfect for adventure seekers. Explore the Bamboo-lined path at Yunqi, an enchanting hiking trail that presents stunning views and a sense of adventure. For a unique experience, visit Qiaobo Ice & Snow World, which is perfect for skiing and family fun.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Hangzhou by visiting the lively bars along West Lake. For a chic vibe, try the rooftop at The Hotel Indigo. If you're seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the bustling streets of Wushan Night Market offer a variety of local snacks and street performances.
Find the best attractions in Hangzhou
Hangzhou, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is ideal for romantic and outdoor getaways. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of West Lake, explore ancient temples, and unwind in urban parks. Major attractions include the heart of Hangzhou, the Hangzhou Stadium, and the enchanting sights around the city. This charming destination perfectly blends cultural experiences with the tranquility of nature, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Xixi Wetland Park: Experience the tranquil beauty of Xixi Wetland Park, a national park that offers a serene escape into nature. With its lush landscapes, winding streams, and diverse wildlife, it's perfect for outdoor adventures such as boating and birdwatching, allowing you to immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery.
Lingyin Temple: Discover the rich cultural heritage at Lingyin Temple, one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in China. Surrounded by lush greenery, the temple features stunning architecture, ancient carvings, and tranquil meditation areas, providing a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and spiritual exploration.
Broken Bridge: Embrace the romance and culture at Broken Bridge, an iconic landmark known for its stunning views over the West Lake. The bridge is particularly enchanting at sunset, offering a perfect backdrop for romantic strolls and photography, steeped in local legends and beauty.
Best time to go to Hangzhou
The best time to visit Hangzhou is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Hangzhou
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Hangzhou during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Hangzhou holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Hangzhou getaway. However, factors like your choice of hotel, the season and length of stay will determine how much your holiday to Hangzhou costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Hangzhou?
December, January and February are great times to search for cheap Hangzhou holiday packages. Choosing to travel in quieter periods means you can typically find better prices on hotels and flights.
How many days is enough for Hangzhou?
With around 2 days, you'll have enough time to enjoy popular neighbourhoods such as Xihu and Downtown Hangzhou during your Hangzhou holiday. Make sure to also add Zhejiang Museum of Natural History and Zhejiang Science and Technology Museum to your list of must-sees. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Hangzhou on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Hangzhou?
It's no wonder a Hangzhou holiday is on the to-do list of many travellers. Major attractions like West Lake are just the beginning of things to keep you busy here.
How to find the best Hangzhou package deals?
Finding a cheap Hangzhou package deal is a breeze with Expedia. Once you've entered your trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your maximum budget, add some filters and see what's available. You can customise your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Popular locations" and more. Sort the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most pocket-friendly Hangzhou package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are generally lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Hangzhou holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you considerable savings when compared to arranging accommodation and flights individually. Better still, you can customise your Hangzhou trip to fit your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Hangzhou?
Land incredible bargains by booking your flights ahead of time with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your style, snap up one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Hangzhou trip.
How to plan a trip to Hangzhou?
Pick the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all impact your decision on when to visit Hangzhou.
Calculate your budget: Make sure you have enough money to cover everything from food and transportation to activities and airfares. Your hotel will probably be the biggest expense during your trip to Hangzhou.
Decide your trip length: Think about how long you want to spend discovering Hangzhou. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the attractions and experiences you're interested in without rushing.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your hotels, car rental, flights and more into a customised Hangzhou holiday package.