Flights from Dubai (DXB) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its classical lakeside scenery, tree-lined promenades, and a relaxed pace that contrasts with China’s larger megacities. You will find a blend of historic streets, modern districts, and leafy waterfront paths that make it ideal for unhurried exploration.

What to expect
Most visits to Hangzhou centre on West Lake, where landscaped gardens, stone bridges, and islands create a calm setting close to the city centre. Beyond the water, you can explore tea-growing hills, stylish neighbourhoods, and a fast-developing tech scene that adds a modern edge to this historic city.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a relaxing city break and a base for exploring the wider Zhejiang region. High-speed rail and road links connect you to nearby cities, while the compact core makes it easy to fit lakeside walks, tea fields, and urban districts into a short stay.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll along willow-lined shores and stone causeways, with views of pavilions, pagodas, and distant hills reflected in calm waters.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or ride up this multi-storey landmark on the lake’s southern shore for panoramic views over West Lake and the city skyline.

Lingyin scenic area

Wander through a wooded valley framed by dramatic rock formations and historic stone carvings in a peaceful setting.

Longjing tea fields

Walk through terraced tea plantations in the hills above the city and learn how the region’s famous green tea is grown and processed.

Hefang Street

Explore a lively historic street lined with traditional facades, local snack stalls, and shops selling regional crafts and souvenirs.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Discover waterside lanes, old warehouses, and museums along the southern end of the ancient canal that links Hangzhou with northern China.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Take a boat or boardwalk walk through a network of waterways, reed beds, and small villages on the city’s western edge.

Qianjiang New Town riverside

Enjoy an evening walk along the Qiantang River, where modern towers and light displays show Hangzhou’s contemporary side.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the quickest way to travel between the lake area, the railway stations, and new business districts. Buses and taxis help you reach scenic hills and wetlands, while shared bikes are ideal for lakeside paths. Walking remains the best way to enjoy West Lake’s details.

Local life & culture
Around West Lake you will see residents taking slow walks, meeting friends, and pausing on benches to enjoy the water views. In older neighbourhoods and along the canal, traditional architecture mixes with small shops and family-run cafés. Newer quarters highlight Hangzhou’s role as a technology and creative hub.

Where to unwind
West Lake offers countless quiet corners, from shaded promenades to small piers that catch the evening light. The surrounding hills and wetland parks provide gentle walking routes, fresh air, and seasonal foliage. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially calm, with soft light and fewer crowds.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou is known for delicate, mildly seasoned dishes that highlight fresh river produce and seasonal vegetables. Around Hefang Street and side lanes near West Lake, you can sample local snacks, noodles, and small plates that reflect the region’s traditional flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find convenient dining options in central shopping malls and contemporary districts, with everything from regional Chinese cuisines to international favourites. Many places offer smaller portions or sharing plates, making it easy to try several dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
Around West Lake, some restaurants and teahouses offer dining rooms with views of the water and surrounding hills. In newer riverside and high-rise districts, you can enjoy meals with a city skyline backdrop, turning dinner into a relaxed way to take in Hangzhou by night.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In central Hangzhou, large shopping malls combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and indoor attractions. These complexes are popular meeting spots, where you can combine shopping with dining and a relaxed stroll in air-conditioned comfort.

Markets & local crafts
Historic streets such as Hefang Street and nearby lanes are good places to look for regional crafts, packaged teas, and small gifts. Other neighbourhoods around the Grand Canal and older residential areas offer smaller boutiques and studios that showcase local creativity and design.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many shopping streets and mall façades light up, creating a pleasant atmosphere for an evening walk. Smaller stalls and snack vendors often become busier, adding to the sense of activity. Public transport and taxis make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your hotel when you are ready.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with average temperatures around 12–22°C (54–72°F). Trees and flowers around West Lake begin to bloom, and light mist over the water creates atmospheric views. It is a comfortable time for walking, boating, and exploring the tea fields in fresh greenery.

Summer lakeside days (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with average temperatures of 24–33°C (75–91°F). This is when lake cruises run frequently and evening walks benefit from later daylight. Occasional showers help cool the air, and shaded paths and indoor attractions offer easy escapes from the heat.

Autumn colours and crisp air (September to November, shoulder season)
Autumn is pleasantly cool, with averages around 15–24°C (59–75°F). Foliage in the hills and parks slowly turns golden, adding colour to lakeside walks and countryside visits. Clearer skies and comfortable temperatures make this a popular time for outdoor activities and photography.

Cool, quiet winter (December to February, low season)
Winters are generally cold but manageable, with average temperatures of 3–10°C (37–50°F). The city is calmer, and West Lake can feel particularly peaceful on clear days. Light layers and a warm coat are usually enough, and quieter attractions mean you can linger longer at viewpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions