Book flights to Hangzhou (HGH)

Book your visit to Hangzhou

Nestled on the banks of the iconic West Lake, Hangzhou is where Chinese history, culture, and natural wonders unite. Once the largest city in the medieval world and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers an immersive tapestry of experiences.

At its heart lies the shimmering lake that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Bustling marketplaces reflect its past as a Silk Road trading hub, while leafy streets reveal the multi-layered character Marco Polo called ‘the finest and noblest in the world’.

The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with classical pagodas and terraced tea plantations where the scent of Longjing tea fills the air. Fly to Hangzhou with Qatar Airways and discover a city shaped by legend, nature, and timeless elegance.

Things to do in Hangzhou

West Lake lies at the heart of Hangzhou – a peaceful expanse of water fringed by parks, pathways and viewpoints. Take a boat ride or stay after dark to watch the Impression West Lake light show, a magical fusion of light, music and performance.

For a deeper cultural experience, visit Lingyin and wander round the majestic pagodas and grottos. Nearby, the hills are lined with the Longjing Tea Plantation, the birthplace of the region’s famed Dragon Well tea.

Step into the elegant world of Qing Dynasty merchants at the Former Residence of Hu Xueyan, a wonderfully preserved historic home. For panoramic views over the Qiantang River, climb to the top of the Liuhe (Six Harmonies) Pagoda before ending your day with a lakeside dinner.

Activities in Hangzhou

A walk around West Lake is a perfect way to experience Hangzhou’s natural beauty, with leafy paths leading past Lingyin Road and the city’s Botanical Gardens. The route winds through bamboo groves and landscaped gardens, or you can hire a boat to explore the lake’s two scenic islands.

Just outside the city, hiking trails lead into the hills. The path from Baochu Pagoda is a gentle climb with rewarding views over Hangzhou’s rooftops.
Tea culture is central to local life. For an authentic experience, head to Meijiawu Village to watch Longjing tea being picked and enjoy a fresh brew in a hillside teahouse.

As evening falls, take a Grand Canal Night Cruise and see the city illuminated from the water – a serene way to end the day.

Food in Hangzhou

Hefang Street is the best place to discover Hangzhou’s local tea houses and eateries. Start with a cup of Longjing tea, served with delicate Chinese pastries and savoury snacks. For a taste of tradition, try West Lake fish in sweet and sour sauce – a bold yet refined local favourite. Another signature dish is shelled shrimp stewed with Longjing tea, pairing the region’s prized brew with fresh seafood.

For a non-seafood option, Beggar’s Chicken – marinated, wrapped in lotus leaves, and slow-baked – delivers a fragrant, hearty meal.

Tofu is a staple here, often prepared with a signature blend of eight herbs and spices. For dessert, look out for Victory Cake, made with rice flour and filled with red bean or lotus seed paste – best enjoyed fresh at the Wushan Night Market.

Shopping in Hangzhou

Begin your shopping experience at Wulin Square, the centre of Hangzhou’s commercial district. Here, sleek malls and designer boutiques offer everything from global fashion brands to Chinese couture, electronics and luxury souvenirs.

For a more traditional atmosphere, stroll along Hefang Street, a charming pedestrian area known for its heritage architecture and stalls selling silk, tea, calligraphy sets and porcelain.

As the sun sets, head to Wushan Night Market, where the air fills with the scent of street food spices and stalls display handcrafted goods, jewellery and keepsakes.

For something truly special, visit Wushan Square or the eastern edge of West Lake to find local artists selling watercolour landscapes and traditional paintings – the perfect way to take home a piece of Hangzhou’s cultural charm.