Flights from Paris (CDG) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou combines a calm lakeside setting with the energy of a fast-growing city. You will find historic streets, leafy hills, and modern waterfront districts all within easy reach, making it a rewarding place to slow down and explore.

What to expect
At the heart of Hangzhou is West Lake, surrounded by promenades, gardens, and viewpoints that frame the skyline. Across the city, you will see a mix of glass towers, restored traditional buildings, and lively commercial streets that give each neighbourhood a distinct character.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a standalone city break and a base for discovering the wider Zhejiang region. With efficient rail links and highways, you can easily connect your stay here with nearby cities and countryside escapes.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll, cycle, or cruise around this iconic lake to enjoy pavilions, arched bridges, and ever-changing views of the city and hills.

Leifeng Pagoda

Ride the lift or climb to the upper levels of this reconstructed landmark for sweeping panoramas over West Lake and central Hangzhou.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Walk through forested paths, dramatic rock formations, and historic stone carvings in one of Hangzhou’s most atmospheric green areas.

Hefang Street

Explore this restored old street lined with traditional façades, snack stalls, and shops selling regional crafts and souvenirs.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Visit the canal-side promenades and museums that trace the story of this ancient waterway and its role in the city’s growth.

Nine Creeks in Misty Forest

Follow shaded walking trails along streams and stone paths, especially appealing on warm days for a cooler escape close to town.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Take a boat ride or follow the boardwalks through waterways, reed beds, and small islets in this protected wetland landscape.

Qianjiang New Town

In the evening, see the illuminated skyline by the river, with striking modern architecture and riverside promenades to wander.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the most efficient way to cover longer distances across the city, with clear signage and frequent services. Buses and taxis fill in the gaps, while shared bicycles are ideal for moving around West Lake and nearby streets for the final part of your journey.

Local life & culture
Life in Hangzhou often revolves around the waterfront, with residents meeting along the lake and canals throughout the day. Compact neighbourhoods mix residential blocks with small cafés, tea houses, and community squares, so you will quickly sense the city’s relaxed yet energetic pace.

Where to unwind
For a quiet break, the lakeside parks and causeways offer shaded benches and long, scenic paths best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon. Further out, wooded hills and wetland parks provide peaceful walking routes and fresh air, giving you an easy way to escape the urban buzz.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
You will find local snacks and dishes in streets around Hefang Street, neighbourhood markets, and compact food alleys near West Lake. Small eateries often focus on a few specialties, so it is easy to sample different flavours as you move from one spot to the next.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping malls and new districts such as Qianjiang New Town bring together local chains, international favourites, and contemporary cafés under one roof. Menus usually feature sharing plates and manageable portions, making it simple to try a variety of dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For something memorable, look for restaurants with lake or river views, especially those on upper floors overlooking West Lake or the Qiantang Riverfront. These venues pair carefully presented cuisine with a striking backdrop, turning dinner into an unhurried part of your sightseeing.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in districts such as Wulin Square and Qianjiang New Town feature international labels, local brands, cinemas, and casual dining. These air-conditioned complexes are popular meeting points and give you everything from fashion to electronics in one convenient stop.

Markets & local crafts
For something more characterful, wander Hefang Street, Nansong Imperial Street, and nearby side lanes, where smaller shops offer regional crafts and design pieces. Neighbourhood markets are also good places to see daily life and pick up simple souvenirs or homeware.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central shopping streets and riverfront areas light up with colourful façades and animated shopfronts. Night-time strolls are popular, with many stores, cafés, and snack stalls staying open late, and metro links make these lively districts straightforward to reach and return from.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with average temperatures around 13–22°C (55–72°F) and fresh greenery around West Lake and the hills. Occasional showers keep the air clear, and this season is appreciated for comfortable walking weather and blossoming landscapes.

Summer (xia) – June to September, peak season
Summer brings warm to hot days, with averages of 24–32°C (75–90°F) and higher humidity. It is a lively time to explore shaded parks, enjoy evening walks by the water, and experience the city’s illuminated skyline, with longer daylight hours for sightseeing.

Autumn and winter (qiu/dong) – October to February, low season
Autumn is cool and crisp, with 15–22°C (59–72°F) and clear days that showcase colourful foliage. Winter is colder, around 3–10°C (37–50°F), but the city feels calmer, viewpoints are quieter, and misty mornings around West Lake can be especially atmospheric.

Frequently Asked Questions