Why choose a hostel in Hangzhou?
Hangzhou has drawn poets, emperors, and travellers for centuries, and it's easy to understand why. West Lake sits at the city's core, framed by causeways, pagodas, and wooded hills. Lingyin Temple, one of the largest historic Buddhist complexes in the country, is a short ride from the water. The city blends ancient heritage with a modern, walkable energy. Hostels in Hangzhou place you close to both, often in charming older neighbourhoods where hotels charge a premium for the same address.
Hostels here suit solo travellers, couples, and small groups who want value without sacrificing location. Shared dorms cost a fraction of hotel rates, and private rooms offer more privacy than a typical dorm while still undercutting most hotels and private homes on price. Common areas encourage conversation and local tips you won't find in a brochure.
How to find the best hostel deals in Hangzhou
Want to use the same magic that powers our award-winning flight search to track down great room rates online? Here are some hacks to find the perfect stay and save in seconds.
Book in advance
Book early to increase your chances of finding the perfect hostel at a good price. This is even more important during busy travel periods like school breaks and major celebrations.
…or bag a last-minute Hangzhou hostel deal.
Although prices tend to rise the closer it gets to the date of your stay, sometimes hostels cut their rates at the last minute to fill empty rooms. It's more likely this will happen in the low season.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Shifting your dates slightly can help you save when searching for cheap hostels. Choose midweek stays over weekends, or travel during shoulder season instead of the most popular months.
Where to base yourself in Hangzhou
The area around West Lake is where many of the best hostels in Hangzhou tend to cluster, and it's easy to understand why. The lake and its causeways are right on your doorstep, and the surrounding streets are full of tea houses, noodle shops, and small restaurants that won't stretch your budget. Metro Line 1 runs nearby, making it straightforward to reach other parts of the city. If you'd rather be somewhere with a bit more local pace, the Hefang Street area offers a different feel. This older part of the city has traditional architecture, street food stalls, and small shops selling local snacks and crafts. It's easy to walk between here and West Lake, so you're not giving up access to the main sights. Either area puts you in a good spot for making the most of your time here.
Best hostels in Hangzhou
Hostels on Skyscanner come with ratings from travellers based on real guest reviews. They generally cover core factors like service, cleanliness, location, facilities, and value for money. It makes it easier to find a great stay for your trip, whether you're watching your spending or looking for something more comfortable.
Best all-rounder hostels
Shuiyicheng Youth Hostel is popular for a reason. From its cleanliness and location to its service, this stay ticks the boxes that matter most.
Hangzhou JZ Youth Hostel (Longhu Binjiang Paradise Walk Jiangling Road Metro Station Branch) also leaves a good impression. It earns strong ratings for its cleanliness, facilities and location.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
Shuiyicheng Youth Hostel takes care of the details. Guests rate this accommodation option as one of the best in the city for cleanliness. You'll find amenities like Wi-Fi and a lift.
Well-kept rooms and tidy shared spaces also come as standard at Hangzhou JZ Youth Hostel (Longhu Binjiang Paradise Walk Jiangling Road Metro Station Branch). Along with solid cleanliness ratings, it offers a lift and air conditioning.
Hostels with the best customer service
When it comes to customer service, Shuiyicheng Youth Hostel is one of the top-rated hostels in Hangzhou. This property comes with a laundry and a lift.
Travellers also often highlight the customer service at Hangzhou JZ Youth Hostel (Longhu Binjiang Paradise Walk Jiangling Road Metro Station Branch) in their reviews. Air conditioning and a lift are some amenities available here.
Centrally located hostels
A convenient location is a big part of the appeal at Shuiyicheng Youth Hostel. With Wi-Fi, air conditioning and more, you get everything you need to make yourself at home.
Or check in to Hangzhou JZ Youth Hostel (Longhu Binjiang Paradise Walk Jiangling Road Metro Station Branch). This well-located stay offers a laundry and air conditioning.
