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Where to Stay in Shantou

Where to Stay in Shantou

Shantou Guangdong, China Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in Shantou

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels

    Limited hostel options, usually near university areas or train stations. These cater to budget travelers and present basic amenities, often in dormitory-style rooms.

  • Budget Hotels

    Many local hotels (经济型酒店) and guesthouses offer basic, clean, and comfortable accommodations. These choices suit travelers seeking value without many frills.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    A large variety of 3-star and 4-star hotels exist, including local chains and some international brands. These hotels balance comfort, services, and value, often with restaurants and cafes, fitness centers, and business facilities.

  • Luxury Hotels

    Several 5-star hotels operate in Shantou, many belonging to international chains (e.g., Sheraton, Wyndham Grand) or high-end local brands. These establishments reside in the modern Longhu district, presenting extensive amenities, fine dining, and superior service.

Specialized Stays

  • Special Local Places To stay

    Shantou does not feature notably unique local accommodation types that differ significantly from standard hotel or guesthouse models.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Vacation rentals are available through platforms like Airbnb (access might be limited for foreign users without local ID) or local Chinese platforms like Tujia (途家). These options suit longer stays, families, or groups seeking more space and kitchen facilities.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism

    These opportunities appear less developed in Shantou compared to more rural or culturally distinct regions in China. Most homestay activities are informal guesthouses.

  • Camping and Outdoor Lodging

    Official campsites within or immediately around Shantou city are limited. Some areas on Nan'ao Island might present informal camping spots, but facilities stay minimal.

Shantou Neighborhood Guide

Shantou's districts each present distinct atmospheres, suitable for different types of travelers.

Longhu District 龙湖区

Highlights
  • Modern central business district (CBD)
  • Numerous new commercial developments
  • Large shopping malls, upscale hotels
  • Economic heart of the city
Considerations
  • Lacks historical charm
  • Can feel bustling and less "local"
  • Most historical attractions involve travel from Longhu
  • Moderate to high noise due to traffic and commercial activity

Jinping District 金平区

Highlights
  • Historic heart, includethe Historic District (小公园, Xiao Gong Yuan)
  • Rich in history and culture
  • Excellent for exploring on foot
  • Authentic local food experiences
Considerations
  • Older infrastructure
  • Fewer luxury hotel options
  • Some areas can be crowded or less clean
  • Noisy during the day with market activity, quieter evenings

Nan'ao Island 南澳岛

Highlights
  • Island county known for shores and scenery
  • A coastal a getaway with natural beauty
  • Opportunities for beach activities
  • Abundance of fresh seafood
Considerations
  • Specific trip to reach
  • Limited luxury accommodation options
  • Busy during high season seasons
  • Generally quieter outside main towns

Neighborhood Tip

For history and food:

Stay in Jinping District for a deep dive into Shantou's history and food.

Consider:

A lodging with laundry service proves useful for longer stays.

Booking Strategies for Accommodation

Smart booking strategies secure good accommodation at favorable prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Autumn, Public Holidays): Book 1-3 months ahead for popular hotels or during major Chinese holidays (e.g., National Day, Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Festival). Prices generally rise during these times.
  • Shoulder Season: Booking 2-4 weeks ahead generally suffices. Good deals and availability appear.
  • Low Season: You find good deals with 1-2 weeks advance booking, or even walk-in options. Online booking still brings better prices and guaranteed availability.
  • Negotiation Customs for Walk-in Rates: Negotiation occurs less in modern hotels. Little guesthouses or budget accommodations might allow for slight negotiation, especially during the low season. Online booking often has the best rates due to promotional offers.

Trusted Booking Platforms and Local Systems

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, and Trip.com (Ctrip's international site) are reliable for booking hotels in Shantou. These platforms often feature English interfaces and accept international credit cards. IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and TrustedHousesitters are also options.
  • Local Chinese Platforms: Ctrip (携程), Fliggy (飞猪), and Meituan (美团) are popular local platforms for hotel reservations. While mainly in Chinese, some offer English versions or translate with apps.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary by hotel and booking platform. Always check specific terms before confirming your reservation. Deposits may apply upon booking or check-in. Free cancellation policies occur with flexible bookings, but stricter policies apply to non-refundable rates.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices generally grow during Chinese public holidays and the peak autumn season. Summer and winter generally see lower prices, outside of specific festivals.

Accommodation Recommendations

Top Picks for Different Budget Levels:
  • Budget: Local hotels or guesthouses in Jinping District keep you near the Historic District and local life. Areas near Shantou University also present student-friendly, budget-friendly choices.
  • Mid-range: Accommodations such as the Golden Gulf Hotel (金海湾大酒店) or Shantou International Hotel (汕头国际大酒店) in central areas present good facilities, comfortable rooms, and reliable service at a reasonable price point.
  • Luxury: The Sheraton Shantou Hotel (汕头喜来登酒店) or Wyndham Grand Shantou (汕头温德姆至尊豪廷大酒店), both in the Longhu District, present international standards of service, extensive amenities, and a refined experience.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Many mid-range to luxury hotels offer family or connecting rooms, presenting more space. Hotels with swimming pools are favored options for families, especially during warmer months. Apartment rentals (via Tujia or similar platforms) offer more space, separate bedrooms, and kitchen facilities, particularly useful for families.
Traveler-Specific Stays:
  • Solo Traveler Recommendations: Budget hotels or b&bs in Jinping District suit solo travelers. They present easy access to sights, local life, and a chance to meet other travelers (if hostels are chosen). Choose hotels near public transit hubs for convenient solo exploration.
  • Long-Stay Accommodations: Serviced apartments or vacation rentals suit longer stays, presenting home-like amenities and often better value than hotels for extended periods.
  • Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance: Some guesthouses in Shantou Old Town reside in beautifully renovated traditional buildings. These places present a charming glimpse into Shantou's past through their architecture and decor. Availability varies.
  • When you reserve, read recent reviews from other travelers. This gives a clear picture of the accommodation's actual condition and service.

Important Note on Reviews

Review Reading:

Reviewing recent feedback from other travelers clarifies an accommodation's condition and service level.

Language Barrier:

While international platforms have English interfaces, local Chinese platforms may require translation apps.

Online Booking Advantage:

Online booking often secures better prices compared to walk-in rates due to various promotions.

Special Accommodation Types

Explore unique lodging options for distinct experiences in Shantou.

Cultural Stays

Old Town Guesthouses

Some guesthouses in Shantou Old Town reside in beautifully renovated traditional buildings.

  • Charming glimpse into Shantou's past
  • Traditional architecture and decor
  • Availability varies, research specific options
  • Authentic local atmosphere
Homestays Informal

Homestay experiences appear less developed compared to other regions. Most are informal guesthouses.

  • Opportunity for local interaction
  • Less structured than formal programs
  • Often in family-run establishments
  • Cultural exchange possibilities

Modern and Practical Stays

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments cater to longer stays, presenting home-like amenities.

  • Full kitchen facilities
  • More space than a standard hotel room
  • Often a good value for extended periods
  • Family-friendly or corporate travelers
Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Tujia (途家) offer diverse rental options.

  • Great for groups or families
  • Local living experience
  • Access to kitchen facilities
  • Privacy and flexibility

Location Advantages

  • Near Old Town (Jinping District)

    Staying in this area offers within walking distance of many historical sites and authentic local food stalls. Ideal for cultural explorers.

  • Modern City Center (Longhu District)

    This area has convenience to modern shopping malls, international restaurants, plus premium hotels. Good for business or luxury stays.

  • Coastal Retreat (Nan'ao Island)

    For a seaside escape with beaches and fresh seafood, Nan'ao Island lodges suit those seeking natural beauty and relaxation.

  • Near Transportation Hubs

    Hotels near the high-speed rail station or airport provide convenient access for travelers with tight schedules.

Guest Amenities and Preferences

  • Connectivity

    Most hotels and guesthouses present complimentary Wi-Fi. Confirm this feature upon booking for uninterrupted access.

  • Air Conditioning

    Given Shantou's warm climate, air conditioning appears standard in the majority of lodgings. Confirm this during warmer months.

  • Parking

    If behind the wheel, check for on-site or nearby parking facilities. Availability varies, especially in older districts.

  • Fitness Facilities

    Higher-end hotels often present fitness centers and swimming pools, suitable for guests wishing to maintain their routine.

Important Considerations

Check-in/Check-out Times

Standard check-in is typically after 2 PM, and check-out before 12 PM. Confirm these times to align with your travel itinerary.

  • Early check-in or late check-out may require additional fees.
  • Notify the lodging in advance for special requests.
Guest Services

Many hotels present concierge services, luggage storage, and tour assistance.

  • Inquire about services before booking.
  • Translation assistance is at times available at larger hotels.

Accessibility and Special Needs

Wheelchair Access

Modern luxury hotels often present wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities. Older buildings in the Old Town may lack such accessibility.

Specific Requirements

If you have specific needs (e.g., dietary, medical), communicate these directly with the accommodation prior to your arrival.

Family Accommodations

Connecting rooms, cribs, or extra beds for children are accessible upon inquire about at many family-friendly establishments.