Looking for where to stay in Chengdu? You’ve come to the right place. During our second world tour, we decided to include China in our itinerary at the beginning of 2025, and Chengdu quickly made it to the list. Known for its adorable giant pandas, the vibrant culture of Sichuan, and the food that both warms (and numbs!) the tongue, this city surprised us from the very first moment. Plus, Chengdu has a more relaxed pace compared to other Chinese metropolises, and you’ll notice locals love to spend hours in tea houses, simply enjoying life.
But where to stay in Chengdu? Choosing the right area can make all the difference in fully enjoying the city. We stayed at Holiday Inn Express Tianfu Square, a practical and comfortable choice in the heart of the city. But there are options for all tastes and budgets – from boutique hotels in traditional neighborhoods to modern skyscrapers with incredible views. Here are the best areas to stay and the hotels we recommend in each one.
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Best Areas to Stay in Chengdu
When planning your stay in Chengdu, it’s essential to choose the area that best suits your travel style:
- Tianfu Square: Ideal for first-time visitors to Chengdu, with easy access to main attractions and public transportation.
- Kuan Zhai Alley: Perfect for those looking for a more authentic experience, with historic streets, tea houses, and traditional architecture.
- Hi-Tech Zone: The best choice for those who prefer a modern and peaceful environment, with cafes, shopping centers, and great restaurants.
Tianfu Square: In the Heart of the City
Tianfu Square is the center of Chengdu, the perfect starting point for exploring the city. If this is your choice for where to stay in Chengdu, you’ll be close to main attractions like Wuhou Temple and Jinli Street, and have easy access to the metro. It’s the best area for first-time visitors to Chengdu.
Best Hotels in Tianfu Square
Chengdu Flipflop Hostel
Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Gulou
The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu
- Budget: Chengdu Flipflop Hostel – One of the best hostels in the city, with a young and relaxed atmosphere.
- Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Gulou – Comfortable rooms, excellent location, and breakfast included.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu – One of the most exclusive hotels in the city, with a spa, stunning views, and impeccable service.
Kuan Zhai Alley: Historic charm and traditional streets
If you’re wondering where to stay in Chengdu for a more authentic experience, Kuan Zhai Alley is the perfect area. Its alleys are filled with traditional architecture, charming tea houses, and restaurants serving famous Sichuan dishes.
Best hotels in Kuan Zhai Alley
- Budget: Chengdu Mix Hostel Poshpacker – Cozy atmosphere with great common areas.
- Mid-range: Buddha Zen Hotel – A boutique hotel with decor inspired by Buddhist culture, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
- Luxury: Guanyin Yiyuntai Hotel Chengdu – A sophisticated hotel that combines history and modernity.
Hi-Tech Zone: Modernity and Business
This newer area where to stay in Chengdu and it is ideal for those who want a modern and quiet environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the center. There are many cafes, shopping centers, and high-quality restaurants.
Best Hotels in Hi-Tech Zone
- Budget: Hampton by Hilton Chengdu Waishuangnan – Great value for money with breakfast included.
- Mid-range: Fraser Suites Chengdu – Spacious apartments with hotel services.
- Luxury: Fairmont Chengdu – Five-star hotel with an amazing rooftop bar and luxurious rooms.
Extra Tips for Your Chengdu Trip
- Check the location: Always confirm with the accommodation the best way to get there, including the nearest subway station or the address in the local language to make the journey easier, whether for the taxi driver or on the Didi app.
- Is Chengdu safe? Yes! The city is very safe, both day and night. As in any big city, be mindful of your belongings in tourist areas.
- How to get around? Chengdu’s subway is efficient and cheap. For shorter trips, shared bikes are a great option. You can also use Didi to get around by car.
- Currency and payments: The currency is the Chinese yuan (CNY). Most payments are made via WeChat Pay or Alipay, but some places accept international cards. The best option for foreign tourists is to use Alipay.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter.
- Unlimited internet: China blocks many Western apps, including Google and WhatsApp. An eSIM from Holafly provides unlimited internet and free access to your apps without complicated VPNs that don’t always work on hotel Wi-Fi.
- Travel insurance: Healthcare in China can be expensive for foreigners. Insurance like Heymondo offers 24/7 medical coverage without the hassle.
