Hangzhou is easiest when you slow down around West Lake, stay near a useful metro or lake-side area, and treat tea villages and temples as separate half-day blocks.
Arrival
Hangzhou East is the main high-speed rail hub and is useful for frequent trains from Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, and other Yangtze River Delta cities. The airport can work well, but check transfer time to your hotel.
Hangzhou East
Main rail hub. Good for Shanghai links but still requires a city transfer.
West Lake base
Best for classic sightseeing, walking, and a calmer first visit.
Tea route
Longjing and temple areas need their own time block, not a rushed add-on.
Where to stay
First-time visitors often prefer areas near West Lake, Wulin Square, or convenient metro access. Lake-area hotels can be more expensive on weekends and holidays, but the location can save energy.
Transport
Use metro and ride-hailing for longer movements. Around West Lake, walking and short hops often work better than over-planning. Traffic near scenic areas can be slow during peak periods.
Food and daily basics
Hangzhou is known for gentler Jiangnan-style food, lake-area restaurants, tea culture, and seasonal dishes. If a famous restaurant is crowded, a simple neighborhood meal may be a better first-day choice.
First day plan
- Keep the first day around West Lake.
- Check weekend and holiday crowd levels.
- Plan tea village or temple visits as separate blocks.
- Use a central base if you have luggage or an early train.
Simple 3-day structure
- West Lake walk, central food, and a relaxed evening.
- Lingyin/temple area or Longjing tea village with generous time.
- Canal area, museum, nearby water-town route, or a rail connection to Shanghai/Suzhou.
Avoid
Do not assume a lake-view hotel means easy access to every part of the lake. Check the exact side, walking route, and transport options. Also avoid stacking tea villages, temples, and a full lake loop into one tight day.