Ultimate 3-Day Hangzhou Travel Guide: Must-See Spots

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is often described as “paradise on earth.” With its enchanting West Lake, ancient temples, lush tea plantations, and vibrant urban culture, it’s a city that captures both the heart and the imagination. This 3-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the very best of Hangzhou—from timeless classics to contemporary hotspots—all while immersing you in the city’s unique blend of natural beauty and rich history.

Day 1: The Heart of Hangzhou – West Lake & Beyond

No trip to Hangzhou is complete without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is West Lake (Xi Hu). This iconic body of water, surrounded by gardens, pagodas, and temples, has inspired poets and artists for centuries.

Morning: A Leisurely Stroll Around the Lake

Start your day early to experience the serene beauty of West Lake before the crowds arrive. Begin at Broken Bridge (Duan Qiao), famously associated with the legend of the White Snake. From there, walk along the Bai Causeway, which offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and distant hills. The morning light reflecting off the water is truly magical.

Next, head to Solitary Hill (Gu Shan), the largest island on the lake. Visit the Zhejiang Museum and the Zhongshan Park to get a dose of local art and history. The hill provides some of the best photo opportunities in the city.

Afternoon: Leifeng Pagoda & Lingyin Temple

After a traditional Hangzhou lunch (don’t miss the local specialty, Dongpo Pork), take a short taxi ride to the Leifeng Pagoda (Leifeng Ta). Although the original pagoda collapsed in 1924, the reconstructed version offers an elevator to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of the entire West Lake area.

From there, proceed to one of China’s most important Buddhist temples, Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul’s Retreat). The temple complex is a masterpiece of religious art and architecture. Don’t rush through the Feilai Feng grottos, where hundreds of ancient Buddhist statues are carved into the limestone cliffs.

Evening: Impression West Lake Show

As dusk falls, prepare for an unforgettable cultural experience. Impression West Lake, a large-scale open-air performance directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, takes place on the actual lake. Using water as its stage and the natural landscape as its backdrop, this show combines light, music, and dance to tell ancient local folktales. It’s a spectacular finale to your first day.

Day 2: Tea, Temples & Trendy Streets

Morning: Meijiawu Tea Village

Dedicate your second morning to the drink that made Hangzhou famous: tea. Take a trip to Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled in the hills southwest of West Lake. This is the heart of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea country. You can walk through the vibrant green tea plantations, visit a local farmer’s house, and learn about the traditional process of tea picking and roasting. The highlight is, of course, sitting down to savor a freshly brewed cup of the finest Longjing tea while enjoying the peaceful rural scenery.

Afternoon: Hefang Street & Qinghefang Ancient Street

Return to the city center for a journey into Hangzhou’s past. Hefang Street and the adjacent Qinghefang Ancient Street are restored historical pedestrian streets that buzz with energy. Here, you can find everything from traditional Chinese medicine shops and silk emporiums to snack stalls selling sticky rice cakes and beggar’s chicken. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs like silk scarves, hand-made fans, or a bag of Longjing tea.

Be sure to visit the Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum, a centuries-old pharmacy that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of TCM.

Evening: Dinner at Grandma’s Restaurant & Qianjiang New City

For dinner, experience a Hangzhou institution: Grandma’s Restaurant (Waipojia). Be prepared to queue, as it’s immensely popular for its delicious and affordable local dishes like Sweet and Sour Pork and Tea-Fragrant Shrimp.

After dinner, see the modern side of Hangzhou with a trip to Qianjiang New City. This central business district is illuminated at night, with skyscrapers like the Hangzhou International Conference Center and the Zhejiang Fortune Finance Center creating a dazzling light show. The Qianjiang River reflects the city lights, offering a striking contrast to the classical beauty of West Lake.

Day 3: Nature, Canals & Culinary Delights

Morning: Xixi National Wetland Park

On your final day, escape to Xixi National Wetland Park, China’s first and only national wetland park. This vast area of natural waterways, ponds, and reed beds is a haven for biodiversity. The best way to explore is by taking a boat ride through the quiet canals, passing under ancient stone bridges and past traditional buildings. It’s a peaceful and green retreat that shows a completely different side of Hangzhou.

Afternoon: Lunch at Zhiweiguan & Songcheng Park

For lunch, try another famed Hangzhou eatery, Zhiweiguan, known for its classic dishes and xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Then, for a dose of entertainment and history rolled into one, head to Songcheng Park. This theme park is dedicated to the Song Dynasty, a golden era for Hangzhou. Watch the incredible "Romance of the Song Dynasty" performance, a spectacular show that brings 1,000 years of history to life with stunning special effects. The park itself is a recreation of a Song Dynasty city, complete with period architecture and street performances.

Evening: Final Taste of Hangzhou

Spend your last evening indulging in Hangzhou’s famous food scene. Head to Gaoyin Street or the area around Hubin for a wide array of dining options. For a truly unique experience, book a table at the Lou Wai Lou Restaurant on the shores of West Lake. Dining on their terrace as the sun sets over the lake is the perfect, unforgettable end to your Hangzhou adventure.

Essential Travel Tips & Hot Topics

Getting Around: The "Hangzhou Model"

Hangzhou is famous for its public bike sharing system, one of the largest and most successful in the world. It’s an eco-friendly and incredibly convenient way to explore the city, especially around the flat terrain of West Lake. Simply use your phone to rent a bike from one of the thousands of stations. For longer distances, the Hangzhou Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate with English signs.

The Digital Travel Revolution

Hangzhou is the home of Alibaba, and its influence is everywhere. Be prepared to fully embrace a cashless society. Alipay and WeChat Pay are used for virtually everything, from buying a bottle of water at a convenience store to paying for taxi rides. Make sure your mobile payment apps are set up and linked to a credit card before you arrive to ensure a smooth experience.

When to Visit & What to Pack

The best times to visit Hangzhou are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings blooming flowers and the fresh harvest of Longjing tea, while autumn offers crisp air and golden foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters are cold and damp. Pack comfortable walking shoes—you’ll need them—and an umbrella, as the weather can be changeable.

Beyond the Basics: Current Hotspots

• Liangzhu Museum: For history buffs, this architecturally stunning museum showcasing the 5,000-year-old Liangzhu culture, another UNESCO site, is a must-visit and is gaining significant attention.
• Hangzhou’s Craft Coffee Scene: A new generation of trendy coffee shops is popping up around the city, offering a perfect blend of traditional aesthetics and modern caffeine culture. Look for shops in the Dongxin Street area.
• Silk Shopping: Hangzhou’s silk is world-renowned. The China National Silk Museum is not only educational but also has a fantastic shop where you can buy high-quality silk products directly.