Top reasons to visit Lanzhou
- Scenic Landscapes: Lanzhou is surrounded by stunning mountains and natural beauty, ideal for outdoor exploration.
- Cultural Richness: Experience Lanzhou's history through its historic temples and local traditions.
- Bustling Pedestrian Street: The Lanzhou Pedestrian Street offers a vibrant atmosphere with local delicacies and shopping.
- Academic Heritage: Visit Lanzhou University to appreciate the city's educational significance.
- Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options from luxury hotels to family-friendly resorts.
Find great hotels in Lanzhou
In Lanzhou, you'll discover a diverse selection of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to family-friendly resorts. Whether you're seeking modern amenities for business travel or pet-friendly facilities for a family vacation, Lanzhou caters to all your needs. Notable establishments such as Hilton Lanzhou, Hyatt Regency Lanzhou, and Crowne Plaza Hotel Lanzhou offer exceptional service and comfort, ensuring a delightful stay in this vibrant city.
- Wanda Vista Lanzhou: Embracing luxury and sophistication, Wanda Vista Lanzhou is a 4.5-star hotel that offers an exquisite experience for discerning travellers. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this property is ideal for business and leisure visitors alike. The hotel features elegantly designed rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a range of dining options that showcase both local and international cuisine. Its prime location in Lanzhou ensures easy access to business districts and cultural attractions, making it a top choice for those seeking a refined stay.
- Crowne Plaza Lanzhou by IHG: Another esteemed option, Crowne Plaza Lanzhou by IHG, boasts a 4.5-star rating and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel is tailored for business travellers and luxury seekers, offering a blend of modern comfort and professional amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with high-speed internet, a well-appointed business centre, and versatile meeting spaces. The hotel's dining facilities serve a variety of culinary delights, making it a pleasant retreat after a day of meetings or exploration in Lanzhou.
- Hilton Lanzhou City Center: Centrally located, the Hilton Lanzhou City Center is a 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, appealing to those looking for a dynamic city-themed getaway. The hotel features contemporary rooms with stunning city views, a fitness centre, and various dining options that reflect local flavours. Its strategic position in the city centre allows easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural sites, catering to both business and leisure travellers keen to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Lanzhou.
Where to stay in Lanzhou
Lanzhou offers a delightful blend of urban charm and cultural richness. Explore the vibrant downtown, where the bustling Lanzhou Pedestrian Street showcases local delicacies and shopping. A visit to Lanzhou University provides insight into the region's academic heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic landscapes surrounding Lanzhou are perfect for exploration. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or cultural experiences, Lanzhou promises an enriching vacation that caters to every traveler's desires.
- Chengguan: Chengguan, the vibrant heart of Lanzhou, is a district offering a blend of urban experiences and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock here for its bustling shopping centres and urban parks, especially during peak seasons in July and from September to October. The area is perfect for families and city-themed travellers, providing access to modern educational institutions and attractions. Don't miss the local squares where you can soak up the lively atmosphere, making Chengguan a must-visit for a dynamic travel experience.
- Zhangye Road Subdistrict: Nestled within Lanzhou, Zhangye Road Subdistrict is a charming village renowned for its family-friendly environment and business-themed activities. Peak travel seasons occur in July and from September to October, attracting visitors eager to explore its educational facilities and nearby shopping malls. The local modern college university stands as a key landmark, enriching the cultural fabric of the area. With a perfect mix of leisure and learning, Zhangye Road Subdistrict is an ideal spot for both short visits and extended stays.
- Tuanjie Xincun Subdistrict: Tuanjie Xincun Subdistrict, another quaint village in Lanzhou, is known for its cultural and city-themed experiences. Like its counterparts, it sees a surge in visitors during July and from September to October. The area is primarily characterised by its educational venues, making it a great choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in local culture. The proximity to a modern college university adds to the intellectual vibe of Tuanjie Xincun, providing a unique atmosphere for exploration and discovery.
Things to do in Lanzhou
Shopping
In Lanzhou, visit the bustling Xiguan Market for local crafts and snacks. For a more modern shopping experience, head to the Lanzhou Center, featuring numerous shops and dining options. If you're up for a drive, the 24km journey to the Golden Eagle International Shopping Centre offers additional retail choices.
Recreation
In Lanzhou, the Gansu Provincial Hot Spring Resort offers a serene environment with steaming mineral-rich pools that rejuvenate the body. Experience traditional Chinese massage therapies that aim to restore balance and harmony, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Adventure
The Lanzhou Yellow River Scenic Area offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences amidst stunning landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, the iconic Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park features vibrant rock formations and scenic trails that showcase nature's artistry.
Nightlife
Lanzhou's nightlife boasts vibrant venues like the Riverside Bar, offering live music and river views, while the Gansu Grand Theatre hosts captivating performances. For a more relaxed evening, local tea houses provide a cultural experience with traditional drinks and snacks, creating a unique atmosphere to unwind.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lanzhou
When planning your visit to Lanzhou, consider travelling between April to May or December for lower accommodation rates. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels by applying the price filter from lowest to highest. Moreover, combining your hotel booking with flights and activities can yield significant savings. Take advantage of Lanzhou's public transport, which is economical, and explore free attractions to further stretch your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lanzhou are April to May and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lanzhou is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Lanzhou is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Lanzhou with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Lanzhou
Lanzhou offers a splendid mix of city, culture, and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Key attractions include scenic mountains, urban parks, and historic temples, perfect for those seeking cultural enrichment and adventure. Notable points of interest include Hilton Lanzhou Pedestrian Street and various top attractions within the city. Explore Lanzhou's vibrant offerings for a memorable vacation experience.
- Gansu Provincial Museum: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich history and culture of Gansu province. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits, including ancient artefacts, traditional crafts, and stunning artworks, all set within a culturally vibrant atmosphere.
- Lanzhou Xiguan Mosque: As one of the largest mosques in Lanzhou, the Xiguan Mosque showcases exquisite Islamic architecture and serene surroundings. It serves as a peaceful retreat where visitors can learn about the local Muslim community and their customs.
- Zhangye Pedestrian Street: A lively hub in the heart of the city, Zhangye Pedestrian Street is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy local delicacies, shop for unique souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant urban culture that Lanzhou has to offer.
Best time to go to Lanzhou
The best time to visit Lanzhou is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Lanzhou
Flying into Lanzhou is convenient with the major airport being Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (LHW), situated approximately 21km from the city. Nearby accommodation includes the 3-star Greentree Inn Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport and the 3.5-star Uole Sunshine Hotel, both about 5km away, as well as the Grand Madison Lanzhou Hongjian, located 3km from the airport. For those considering other airports, Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN) is 145km away, offering hotels like the 3.5-star Floral Hotel Yun Jing He Yuan Haidong and Haifeng International Hotel, both within 6km. Xiahe Airport (GXH) is also an option, 190km from Lanzhou, with Xiongkong Guesthouse just 3km away.