MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Zhaoqing

Where to Stay in Zhaoqing

Zhaoqing Guangdong, China Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Budget Accommodation

    Guesthouses, small inns, and various budget hotel chains like Home Inn and Hanting feature clean, basic rooms at affordable rates. Discover additional choices on Hostelworld.

  • Mid-Range Accommodation

    This category includes 3-star and 4-star hotels, with more services and comfort. Brands like Vienna Hotel, City Comfort Inn, and Holiday Inn Express are common.

  • Luxury Accommodation

    For heightened comfort, 5-star hotels such as the Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing The city center and Sheraton Zhaoqing Dinghu present premium facilities, fine dining, and superb service. Browse high-end choices on Booking.com.

  • Unique Local Accommodation Types

    Zhaoqing does not feature specific "unique local" accommodation types like traditional ryokans. The focus remains on standard hotel, guesthouse, and apartment formats.

Extended Stay & Alternative Lodging

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartments

    Platforms like Airbnb (registration can be challenging for foreigners) and local Chinese alternatives feature vacation rentals and serviced apartments. Explore options on Agoda or Vrbo.

  • Homestay Options

    Homestays and community-based-based tourism opportunities are less common for tourists from other countries in Zhaoqing compared to some other regions in China. Consider platforms like TrustedHousesitters for unique long-term stays.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Formal camping sites are limited in and around Zhaoqing. Some natural attractions might permit camping, yet it is not widely developed for tourism. Research certain locations and regulations thoroughly.

  • Traveler's Insight

    Local guesthouses around the Star Lake area frequently present a good deal and a prime location for budget-conscious travelers.

Neighborhood Guide

Zhaoqing's districts each hold an unique character, catering to different visitor interests.

Duanzhou District 端州区

Character & Pros
  • Central urban district, main tourist hub.
  • Home to Star Lake and Seven Star Crags.
  • Modern shopping, historical sites, green spaces.
  • Major attractions, diverse dining, excellent transport, broad accommodation selection.
Considerations
  • Can be busy and noisy, notably near commercial areas.
  • Peak tourist times see increased crowds.
  • Urban environment.
  • Standard precautions against petty theft apply.

Dinghu District 鼎湖区

Character & Pros
  • To the northeast of Duanzhou, known for Dinghu Mountain.
  • National nature reserve, Buddhist holy site (Qingyun Temple).
  • Natural, serene, tranquil environment.
  • Hiking, relaxation, cultural exploration.
  • Zhaoqing East Train Station (HSR hub) here.
Considerations
  • Further from city center's business districts.
  • Fewer dining and entertainment options.
  • Local transport necessary to reach Dinghu Mountain from HSR station.
  • Quieter ambiance.

Area Insights

Proximity & Safety
  • Duanzhou: Easy access to Seven Star Crags, Ancient City Wall, Mei'a Temple.
  • Dinghu: Direct for Dinghu Mountain, Qingyun Temple.
  • Zhaoqing is generally safe across all urban districts.
  • Serious crime is rare.
Noise & Ambiance
  • Duanzhou: Bustling urban noise, heavy traffic.
  • Dinghu: Peaceful retreat, calm ambiance near mountain.
  • For sightseeing, Duanzhou has ease.
  • For nature and peace, Dinghu District near the mountain provides a quiet escape.

Traveler's Insight

City Exploration Focus:

For extensive sightseeing and city exploration, Duanzhou District offers the easiest base.

Nature Retreat Focus:

If natural beauty and quietude are your priorities, a period of stay in Dinghu District near Dinghu Mountain is ideal.

Booking Strategies

Thoughtful booking strategies lead to better rates and confirm availability, especially during Zhaoqing's peak travel periods.

Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Oct-Nov): Book accommodation 1-3 months ahead. This is sensible, especially during the Liberation Day holiday (early Oct), a period of significant domestic tourism.
  • Shoulder Season (Mar-Apr, Dec): Booking approximately 1 month ahead generally suffices for favorable options and rates.
  • Low Season (Jun-Sep, Jan-Feb): More flexibility in these periods. Booking a few weeks prior or walk-in is often possible, though online booking generally presents superior rates.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiation for walk-in rates is less common for established hotels. Smaller guesthouses might show slight flexibility, but online rates remain competitive.

Platforms & Policies

  • International Platforms: Trusted sites include Booking.com, Agoda, and Trip.com (Ctrip's international brand).
  • Local Platforms: Popular local Chinese platforms like Fliggy (飞猪), Meituan (美团), and Elong (艺龙) list properties, mainly in Chinese, sometimes with local deals.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Policies differ considerably based on platform and hotel. Carefully review policies before confirming. Many feature free cancellation up to a defined point, a flexible arrangement.
  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices peak during major Chinese public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Independence Day) and the pleasant autumn high season. Lower prices characterize the low season months of the summer season and winter.

Traveler's Insight

Cancellation Policy
  • Confirm the cancellation policy during the reservation process.
  • Adaptability is valuable should plans shift.
  • Look for options with no-cost cancellation to retain flexibility.
  • Read terms and conditions for any booking.
Best Time to Reserve
  • For peak seasons, book as early as 3 months in advance.
  • During shoulder seasons, 1 month prior is often sufficient.
  • Low season offers more last-minute opportunities.
  • Holidays require the earliest bookings due to high demand.

Important Note on Local Platforms

Language Barrier

Local Chinese platforms are mainly in Chinese. Translation tools might be needed.

Account Creation

Registration on Chinese platforms often requires a local phone number and ID.

Payment Methods

Local ways to pay like WeChat Pay or Alipay are common, potentially challenging for foreign credit cards.

Accommodation Recommendations

This section has general guidance for selecting accommodation in Zhaoqing based on various traveler needs and includes location-specific recommendations.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget-Friendly Options

Look for guesthouses or budget chain accommodations (e.g., Home Inn, Hanting) in Duanzhou District. These feature basic amenities, spotless rooms, and good value. Many are nearby Star Lake. Consider options on Hostelworld.

  • Basic amenities and clean rooms.
  • Good value for money.
  • Commonly by Star Lake for convenient access.
  • Suitable for solo travelers and those on a firm budget.
Mid-Range Comfort

Consider 3-star and ALSO four-star hotels like Viennan Inn or Holiday Inn Express, predominantly in Duanzhou District. Comfortable rooms, often with breakfast options, and superior facilities mark these selections. Explore more at IHG Hotels or Booking.com.

  • Comfortable rooms with improved facilities.
  • Often include breakfast options.
  • Good balance of quality and price.
  • Mainly located in the central Duanzhou District.

Luxury & Family Stays

Luxury Experience

For a premium stay, properties like Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Downtown or Sheraton Zhaoqing Dinghu have widespread services, high-quality dining, and high-end amenities. These hotels dwell in prime areas. Find high-end accommodations on Agoda.

  • Premium services and high-quality dining.
  • Upscale amenities and luxurious facilities.
  • Located in prime city areas.
  • Ideal for special occasions or indulgent travel.
Family-Friendly Options

Many mid-range and luxury hotels include swimming pools. Vacation rentals or serviced apartments, accessible via platforms like Vrbo, provide more space, distinct bedrooms, and frequently kitchen facilities, a practical aspect for families with children. Duanzhou District stays facilitate easy access to parks.

  • Hotels with swimming swimming swimming pools are popular.
  • Apartment rentals provide space and kitchens.
  • Duanzhou District for easy access to parks and lakes.
  • Consider serviced apartments for home-like amenities.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Value & Social Opportunities

    Solo travelers frequently discover great value and chances to connect with others in guesthouses or cheap accommodations. Options available on Hostelworld.

  • Safety & Security

    Zhaoqing is generally safe for solo travelers. Choose accommodations with good reviews regarding safety and security protocols.

  • Convenience for Exploration

    A stay in Duanzhou District positions you near public transportation and dining, simplifying independent exploration. Browse options on Booking.com.

  • Independent Travel

    Ease of access to city amenities and transport networks supports independent travel plans.

Long-Stay & Cultural Stays

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    For extended visits, serviced apartments or vacation rentals provide more home-like amenities, including kitchens and laundry facilities, a cost-effective choice. Certain hotels may feature weekly or monthly discounts; direct inquiry is recommended. See Vrbo for options.

  • Culturally Significant Properties

    An accommodation selection with views of Star Loch or the Seven Star Crags enriches your experience. Some hotels might integrate local design elements or display Duan Inkstones in their decor, forging a link to the local culture.

  • Cost-Effectiveness

    Long-term rentals frequently offer better daily rates than short-term hotel bookings.

  • Home Comforts

    Kitchen facilities in serviced apartments permit self-catering.

Traveler's Tip

Location & Transportation

When booking, confirm the proximity of your chosen accommodation to bus stops or Didi pick-up points. This aids in easy access to all parts of the city.

  • Proximity to public transport saves travel time.
  • Didi (ride-hailing) is widely used and convenient.
  • Central locations minimize commute to attractions.
  • You could walk distance to amenities.
Amenities & Preferences

Align your accommodation amenities with your travel style. Families may prefer kitchens, while solo travelers might seek social spaces. Check for Wi-Fi, laundry, and places to eat.

  • Review included amenities carefully.
  • Wi-Fi access is generally available.
  • Laundry facilities are useful for longer stays.
  • On-site dining options add to convenience.

Explore Diverse Options

Budget Stays

Find affordable guesthouses and cheap accommodations on Hostelworld.

Hotel Bookings

Browse a broad range of hotels on Booking.com and Agoda.

Vacation Rentals

Discover vacation rentals and apartments on Vrbo.