Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its tranquil lakeside scenery, tree-lined hills, and elegant historic streets, offering a calm contrast to the pace of larger cities. You will find a blend of classical gardens, waterfront promenades, and creative districts that make the city easy to enjoy at a relaxed pace.

What to expect
Most visits centre around West Lake, where walkways, bridges, and viewpoints reveal a different scene with every turn. Beyond the water, you can explore traditional teahouses, leafy neighbourhoods, and modern business districts, all connected by efficient transport and a growing network of parks and cycling paths.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for exploring the wider Zhejiang region. Its high-speed rail and road connections make it easy to combine with nearby cities, while its compact core means you can experience much of the lakeside atmosphere in just a few days.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll, cycle, or cruise around this iconic lake, framed by willow trees, bridges, and pavilions that change character with each season.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or ride the lift to the viewing platforms of this historic tower for sweeping views over West Lake and the surrounding city skyline.

Hefang Street

Walk along this preserved old street lined with traditional architecture, local snacks, and small shops selling regional products and souvenirs.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Head into the hills above the city to wander through tea terraces, learn about Longjing tea, and enjoy quiet views over the countryside.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Explore the banks of the ancient canal, where warehouses and quayside buildings have been turned into museums, galleries, and walking routes.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Take a boat or follow wooden boardwalks through this wetland reserve of waterways, reed beds, and traditional-style houses on the water.

Qianjiang New Town

Visit this modern riverside district for its striking architecture, riverfront promenades, and illuminated skyline views after dark.

Experience Hangzhou's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro system and buses make it straightforward to move between the lake, city centre, and newer districts. Around West Lake, walking and shared bicycles are ideal for enjoying the scenery at a comfortable pace, while taxis and ride-hailing apps help with late-evening journeys.

Local life & culture
Along the lakeshore in the early morning and evening, you will see residents enjoying gentle exercise, music, and conversation, giving a calm rhythm to the city. Creative zones and university areas add a younger, artistic energy, with regular events, exhibitions, and public performances in open spaces.

Where to unwind
West Lake’s parks and causeways offer quiet corners to sit, read, or simply enjoy the water views, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light is soft. For more greenery, the nearby hills and wetland parks give you shaded paths, gentle boat rides, and a cool escape on warmer days.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou is known for freshwater fish, seasonal vegetables, and light, delicate flavours. Around Hefang Street and neighbourhood markets, you can try local snacks, noodles, and traditional sweets that showcase the region’s long culinary heritage in an informal setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In central shopping districts and newer business areas, you will find casual restaurants, cafés, and food courts serving regional favourites alongside broader Chinese and international dishes. Menus often feature smaller plates, making it easy to share and sample a variety of flavours in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, choose a restaurant overlooking West Lake or set in the surrounding hills, where large windows and terraces frame the landscape. Many hotels and standalone venues offer refined takes on classic dishes, allowing you to pair carefully prepared menus with city or lakeside panoramas.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Hangzhou’s central districts feature modern malls that combine international fashion brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, making them convenient places to spend a few hours. These lifestyle centres offer spacious interiors and are often connected to metro stations for easy access in any weather.

Markets & local crafts
For traditional crafts and distinctive souvenirs, explore streets and small markets around the old town and lakeside lanes. Here you can look for local tea, textiles, and handicrafts, especially in areas near Hefang Street and other heritage quarters with restored historic buildings.

Evening retail scene
After dark, key shopping streets and waterfront promenades are illuminated, creating a pleasant atmosphere for browsing and people-watching. Some neighbourhoods host evening markets with late-opening stalls and food options, and public transport and taxis make it simple to return to your hotel when you are ready.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Hangzhou is mild and fresh, with average temperatures around 12–20°C (54–68°F). Trees and flowers around West Lake and the tea fields begin to bloom, creating soft colours and comfortable conditions for walking, cycling, and boat trips.

Summer (xia tian) – June to September, peak season
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with typical temperatures between 24–32°C (75–90°F). It is a lively time on the lakefront promenades, and longer daylight hours give you more time for evening strolls, sunset views, and night-time boat rides.

Autumn and winter (qiu dong) – October to February, low season
Autumn is cool and clear, with 15–22°C (59–72°F) days and golden foliage in parks, while winter is colder, averaging 4–10°C (39–50°F). The lakeside is quieter, creating a calm atmosphere, and misty mornings add a distinctive, atmospheric quality to the scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions