China City Guide Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for Hangzhou

Thinking about a quick getaway in China that blends ancient charm with modern flair? Look no further than Hangzhou — a city where misty lakes meet cutting-edge tech, and every corner whispers poetry from the Tang Dynasty. Whether you're a culture lover, foodie, or just chasing serene views, this ultimate weekend itinerary for Hangzhou packs the perfect mix.

Why Hangzhou?

Nestled southwest of Shanghai, Hangzhou was once the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty and remains one of China’s most livable cities. Known for its West Lake (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), lush tea plantations, and silk heritage, it's no wonder Marco Polo called it "the finest and noblest city in the world."

But don’t let the history fool you — Hangzhou is also home to Alibaba and a thriving startup scene, making it a fascinating blend of old and new.

Saturday: Lakes, Temples & Lanterns

8:00 AM – Breakfast at GaoYi Fang
Start your day like a local with steamed buns, soy milk, and xiao long bao (soup dumplings) at this beloved traditional eatery.

9:30 AM – West Lake Circuit
Rent a bike or stroll along the lake. Hit key spots like Su Causeway, Leifeng Pagoda, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Pro tip: go early to avoid crowds and catch the morning fog drifting over the water.

Data Snapshot: West Lake by the Numbers

12:30 PM – Lunch at Lou Wai Lou
This 150-year-old restaurant on the lake serves up classics like West Lake Fish in Sweet Sour Sauce and Beggar’s Chicken. Reserve ahead — it’s iconic for a reason.

2:00 PM – Lingyin Temple & Feilai Peak
One of China’s oldest Buddhist temples, Lingyin is surrounded by grottoes carved into limestone cliffs. The stone carvings date back over 1,000 years — a must-see for history buffs.

6:00 PM – Evening Cruise on West Lake
As the sun dips, hop on a paddle boat or electric cruiser. Don’t miss the Impression West Lake show — a stunning fusion of light, music, and dance choreographed on the water.

Sunday: Tea, Trails & Tech Vibes

8:30 AM – Longjing Village & Tea Tasting
Head to the famous Dragon Well (Longjing) tea fields. Walk the mountain paths, chat with tea farmers, and sip freshly brewed green tea. You can even buy some authentic leaves straight from the source.

11:00 AM – Hike Huagang Park to Yanggong Causeway
A peaceful 2-hour loop trail offering killer lake views and photo ops. Less crowded, more zen.

1:00 PM – Lunch at Grandma’s Restaurant (Xiang Ji)
Try their braised pork belly and stir-fried bamboo shoots — homestyle Zhejiang flavors done right.

3:00 PM – Explore Xixi National Wetland Park
Escape the urban buzz in this sprawling wetland dotted with canals, villages, and birdlife. Take a boat ride through narrow waterways lined with willows.

6:00 PM – Final Stop: Hubin步行街 (Hubin Pedestrian Street)
Shop for souvenirs, sip bubble tea, or just people-watch as the city lights come alive. Grab dinner at a rooftop spot overlooking the lake.

Pro Tips for Your Trip

• Best time to visit: March–May or September–November
• Get the Hangzhou Public Transport Card for easy metro/bus access
• Download Didi (China’s Uber) and Meituan for food/local deals

Hangzhou isn’t just a stopover — it’s an experience. With this curated weekend itinerary, you’ll soak in the soul of the city without breaking a sweat. Pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for one of China’s most poetic escapes.