Hello, I’m Alex Chen, an avid traveler who loves exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. I’m passionate about sharing my experiences on how to travel independently on a budget in China. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best areas to stay in Hangzhou—a city that not only boasts rich cultural heritage but also offers breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you choose the perfect place to stay in Hangzhou for a comfortable and convenient trip.

Summary

What are the best areas to stay in Hangzhou?

Hangzhou’s metro system is highly developed, and most attractions are concentrated around West Lake (except for Wuzhen). You can visit most of the main attractions in Hangzhou in 2-3 days. Therefore, it’s recommended to stay near metro stations around West Lake. Most visitors arrive via Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport or Hangzhou East Railway Station, so I recommend staying in areas that offer easy access to both the airport and train station, with plenty of food options nearby.

  • Fengqi Road / West Lake Cultural Square / Longxiangqiao Area, next to West Lake, you can easily walk to the scenic spots. This area is served by Metro Line 1 and Line 2, providing convenient access to Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport and Hangzhou East Railway Station. Additionally, it’s close to Hangzhou Longyun Wulinmen Bus Station, where you can catch direct buses to Wuzhen. Whether you’re visiting Lingyin Temple, Xixi National Wetland Park, or Hefang Street, this is a highly convenient area to stay. I recommend staying near Fengqi Road Metro Station, where you’ll find plenty of shopping malls, night markets, and restaurants, making it a perfect location for couples or family trips.
  • Qianjiang New City Area, this is a more affordable alternative to the Fengqi Road area and is still not far from West Lake. You’ll find more budget-friendly hotels and new establishments, and compared to Fengqi Road, it’s quieter. I recommend staying near Citizen Center Metro Station, where Metro Line 4 and Line 7 offer convenient access to both the airport and train station. You can take a bus to Wuzhen from Hangzhou East Railway Station. If you can’t find a hotel you like near Fengqi Road, this area is a great alternative.
  • Xixi Wetland Area, this is a unique lodging experience in Hangzhou. Xixi Wetland is China’s first National Wetland Park, offering scenic views throughout the year. Staying here provides top-tier accommodations and an exceptional environment. The hotel prices are higher, but since most visitors only stay in Hangzhou for 1-2 nights, it’s perfect for those who want to experience staying within a wetland.

Home Inn Plus (Hangzhou West Lake Wulin Square Yan’an Road)

Home Inn Plus (Hangzhou West Lake Wulin Square Yan'an Road)
  • Location: 6 minutes walk from Fengqi Road Metro Station, 12 minutes walk from Wulin Square Metro Station
  • Price Range: 269 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.6
  • Special Amenities: Laundry room

The hotel is very close to Wulin Night Market, with many shopping malls nearby. You can also walk to West Lake easily, as it’s located near Fengqi Road. The location is fantastic and offers great value for money.

The rooms are quite spacious and clean, and the bathrooms are equipped with disinfecting wet wipes. Daily cleaning service is well-done. However, the soundproofing is not the best, so light sleepers should be aware of potential noise. The breakfast selection is varied and tastes great.

Hangzhou Friendly Hotel

Hangzhou Friendly Hotel
  • Location: 5 minutes walk from Longxiangqiao Metro Station
  • Price Range: 528 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Family rooms, Four-person rooms

The hotel is in an excellent location, just a 5-minute walk to West Lake. There are plenty of dining options around, and directly across the street is a metro station and a tourism bus station with direct routes to attractions like Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda. It’s a great choice for independent travelers.

The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The hotel facilities and service are excellent. The highlight is the revolving restaurant on the 20th floor, where breakfast is a real treat. The hotel offers a wide variety of dining options, including Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisines, all with delicious flavors.

Marco Polo Holiday Hotel Hangzhou (West Lake Branch)

Marco Polo Holiday Hotel Hangzhou (West Lake Branch)
  • Location: 7-minute walk from Longxiangqiao Metro Station
  • Price Range: 539 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Family rooms, Robot room service, Four-person rooms

The hotel has a great location, very close to the West Lake Fountain. You can spot the hotel easily from the main street between Yintai Department Store. The metro station is nearby, and there are plenty of restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmacies in the area, making it extremely convenient.

The rooms are spacious and clean. The bathrooms are well-organized with separate wet and dry zones, and they feature smart toilets. The bedding is made from comfortable down feathers. The breakfast offers a variety of both Chinese and Western dishes, providing an excellent selection.

Hangzhou West Lake Hubin Zhongshan North Road Atour Hotel

Hangzhou West Lake Hubin Zhongshan North Road Atour Hotel
  • Location: 11-minute walk from Fengqi Road Metro Station, 12-minute walk from Zhonghebei Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 578 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Family rooms, Four-person rooms

The hotel is ideally located next to Wulin Night Market, West Lake, and Yintai 77. It’s very close to shopping malls, and you can easily walk to them in 15 minutes. The hotel is also well connected by metro or bus to nearby attractions.

The rooms are equipped with modern amenities, and the hardware is top-notch, making your stay both comfortable and convenient. The restaurant is clean and hygienic, offering a wide variety of breakfast options.

Hangzhou West Lake Wulin Square Yan’an Road Atour X Hotel

Hangzhou West Lake Wulin Square Yan'an Road Atour X Hotel
  • Location: 6-minute walk from Fengqi Road Metro Station, 11-minute walk from Wulin Square Metro Station
  • Price Range: 633 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com
  • Rating: Trip 4.8, Booking 8.5
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Family rooms, Robot room service, Four-person rooms

The hotel has an excellent location, with a metro station just a short walk away, making it easy to get around. You can walk to West Lake, and the night views are breathtaking. If you want to visit Lingyin Temple or Leifeng Pagoda, you can catch a direct shuttle from across the hotel. The Hubin Yintai shopping mall is also within walking distance.

The rooms are clean and equipped with all necessary facilities. The bedding is comfortable, and the air conditioning works very well. The hotel offers generous amenities, including disposable slippers, toothbrushes, and even alcohol wipes.

Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Hangzhou

Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Hangzhou
  • Location: 8-minute walk from Fengqi Road Metro Station, 12-minute walk from Wulinmen Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1041 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.6, Booking 8.0
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Indoor swimming pool, Family rooms, Robot room service, Four-person rooms

The hotel is shaped like two giant ships. It’s perfectly located right by West Lake, and the back entrance leads directly to Broken Bridge (around 300-400 meters away). The Wulin Night Market is just to the right of the lobby, and Hubin in 77 is within walking distance, making it very convenient.

The rooms are spacious and well-equipped. Free drinks are a nice bonus. The hotel breakfast is abundant, with a variety of popular Chinese snacks, Western pastries, and various delicate treats.

Veegle by Landison Hangzhou Binjiang (Qianjiang New City Radisson Blu Hotel)

Veegle by Landison Hangzhou Binjiang (Qianjiang New City Radisson Blu Hotel)
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station, 12-minute walk from Civic Center Metro Station
  • Price Range: 345 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Robot room service

The hotel is very well-located, just a few minutes’ walk from the metro station. A direct metro line connects to Hangzhou East Railway Station. There is also a food court downstairs, making dining very convenient.

The rooms are spacious and clean, with excellent soundproofing. All the facilities are well-maintained, making for a comfortable and hassle-free stay.

Ji Hotel (Hangzhou Qianjiang New City)

Ji Hotel (Hangzhou Qianjiang New City)
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station, 10-minute walk from Civic Center Metro Station
  • Price Range: 404 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Robot room service

The hotel is very close to the metro station. It’s just a short walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station (Line 4). The hotel is also near the Qianjiang River and Wanda Plaza (Raffles City), with easy access to both metro and taxis.

The rooms are well-equipped with amenities, including a smart toilet and a refrigerator. The hotel is very clean, with excellent hygiene practices and attention to detail.

Mercure Hotel Hangzhou Qianjiang New City

Mercure Hotel Hangzhou Qianjiang New City
  • Location: 8-minute walk from Civic Center Metro Station, 8-minute walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 450 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com
  • Rating: Trip 4.7
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Robot room service

The hotel enjoys a fantastic location with the metro station right across the street, offering easy access to places like Wu Qian Square, Hangzhou Museum, Hefang Street, and the West Lake area. You’re also just a 10-minute walk to Raffles City and Wanda Plaza.

The hotel offers excellent room cleanliness and prompt housekeeping service. Public facilities and dining areas are great, with spectacular views from the floors, and the night views are absolutely stunning.

JOYA Hangzhou Qianjiang CBD

JOYA Hangzhou Qianjiang CBD
  • Location: 4-minute walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station, 9-minute walk from Civic Center Metro Station
  • Price Range: 735 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Robot room service

This hotel has an excellent location, with just a short walk to Chengxing Road Metro Station (Line 4). You’re also close to City Balcony, Intime Mall, and Wanda Plaza, with great transport options.

The rooms are very nice, with an incredibly spacious shower and excellent water pressure. The bed is super comfortable. The smart controls for the room are perfectly designed for ease of use, and the housekeeping service is highly satisfactory.

InterContinental Hangzhou

InterContinental Hangzhou
  • Location: 8-minute walk from Civic Center Metro Station, 8-minute walk from Chengxing Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1174 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7, Booking 8.3
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Indoor pool, Children’s playground

This iconic Hangzhou landmark offers stylish design and a prime location. You’re close to major attractions such as Outlets, the Grand Theatre, Raffles City, and Wanda Plaza. The hotel is conveniently located near Line 4 and Line 7 of the metro.

The rooms are spacious and luxuriously decorated, with comfortable bedding. Enjoy stunning city and river views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathroom is well-designed with separate shower and bathtub areas. The hotel also boasts an excellent gym, rooftop pool, and a variety of breakfast options, including both local and international dishes.

Angsana Hangzhou Xixi Wetland Resort

Angsana Hangzhou Xixi Wetland Resort

The hotel is nestled within Xixi Wetland and just a 5-minute walk from the Wetland Museum, which is free to visit and quite interesting.

The rooms are uniquely designed with a strong sense of style. As always, the hotel’s aesthetic is impressive. The room features such as aromatherapy and tea sets create a serene, Zen-like atmosphere—perfect for relaxation and tranquility.

Xixi Hotel Hangzhou

Xixi Hotel Hangzhou
  • Location: Northwest of Xixi National Wetland Park
  • Price Range: 878 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Indoor pool, Family rooms, Quadruple rooms, Children’s playground, Tennis court

The hotel is in a stunning location, within Xixi Wetland (but not within the tourist area). It’s built in the form of small villas, creating a peaceful and comfortable walking environment within the hotel grounds.

The rooms are quite spacious, with full facilities and a clean, tidy environment. The scenic views are exceptional, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

Blossom Hill Hotel & Resorts Hangzhou Xixi

Blossom Hill Hotel & Resorts Hangzhou Xixi
  • Location: Southwest of Xixi National Wetland Park, a 12-minute walk from Hongyuan Metro Station
  • Price Range: 1011 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8
  • Special Amenities: Family rooms, Quadruple rooms

The hotel is conveniently located near the Zhoujia Village entrance to Xixi Wetland. You can walk to the boat dock in about 20 minutes from the hotel.

The rooms are spacious with a small private garden for relaxation. The minimalist yet luxurious design makes the space feel bright and open. The bath is large, with bath salts and a bath kit prepared for you. Steam eye masks and earplugs are also provided, showcasing thoughtful attention to detail.

Banyan Tree Hangzhou Xixi

Banyan Tree Hangzhou Xixi
  • Location: Southeast of Xixi National Wetland Park, a 15-minute walk from Dongyue Metro Station
  • Price Range: 2890 RMB
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials, Book on Booking.com, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7, Booking 8.2
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Indoor pool, Children’s playground, Family rooms, Quadruple rooms

Banyan Tree Hangzhou is hidden away by Xixi Wetland, with a Jiangnan-style courtyard design that beautifully blends nature with luxury.

The rooms are spacious and incredibly comfortable. Sitting on the balcony while sipping tea is a relaxing experience. The bed linens are soft and comfortable, and the room’s incense and essential oils create a calm, soothing atmosphere.

FAQ

Where should I stay if I want to visit West Lake in Hangzhou?

If your primary destination is West Lake, I recommend staying near Fengqi Road, Longxiang Bridge, or West Lake Cultural Square. These areas are very close to the lake, and you can easily walk to the attractions. The area is well-connected by public transport, with Metro Lines 1 and 2 providing easy access to Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport and Hangzhou East Railway Station. Plus, you’ll find plenty of shopping and dining options in this area, making it perfect for tourists.

Do I need to stay in Wuzhen to visit it?

You don’t necessarily need to stay in Wuzhen. You can choose to stay around Fengqi Road or Longxiang Bridge, where there are direct buses to Wuzhen, making the journey very convenient. Staying in downtown Hangzhou also allows you to enjoy the city’s attractions and culinary delights while being able to easily visit Wuzhen.

Where should I stay for easy access to Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport?

If you want easy access to Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, I suggest staying near Fengqi Road or Longxiang Bridge. This area is well-served by Metro Lines 1 and 2, providing direct access to the airport. Additionally, there are plenty of dining and shopping options nearby, making it a convenient choice for travelers needing to frequently commute to the airport.

Where should I stay for easy access to Hangzhou East Railway Station?

If you want easy access to Hangzhou East Railway Station, consider staying near Fengqi Road or Longxiang Bridge. Both metro lines 1 and 2 provide quick connections to the station. For a quieter environment, you could stay around Qianjiang New City, where you can also catch Metro Lines 4 and 7, offering easy access to the station.

Essential Hangzhou Travel Resources