Top reasons to visit Guilin
- Breathtaking Karst Landscapes: Guilin is renowned for its stunning karst mountains and picturesque scenery, perfect for sightseeing and photography.
- Enchanting Li River: A cruise along the Li River offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
- Cultural Heritage: Discover Guilin's rich history and local traditions through its vibrant markets and historical sites.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and exploring stunning caves.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Guilin offers a range of lodging, from modern hotels to quaint guesthouses, catering to all travellers.
Find great hotels in Guilin
Explore a range of hotel accommodations in Guilin, Guangxi, catering to various needs, from business travellers to families seeking a luxury vacation experience. Whether you prefer a modern hotel or a quaint guesthouse, Guilin offers diverse lodgings that ensure a comfortable stay. Discover exceptional services and facilities designed to enhance your visit to this picturesque region, making it an ideal choice for any traveller.
- Sheraton Guilin Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Guilin, the Sheraton Guilin Hotel offers a luxurious 4.5-star experience tailored for families and city explorers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel features a range of family-friendly amenities, including complimentary cribs and a dedicated children's club. The hotel's central location makes it an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the spacious accommodations, making it an excellent choice for both relaxation and adventure.
- Shangri-La Guilin: A luxurious 5-star property, Shangri-La Guilin boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel is designed for families seeking an exceptional vacation experience. With amenities such as an arcade game room, children's pool, and on-site babysitting services, it ensures that younger guests are well catered for. The lush surroundings and elegant design create a serene atmosphere, while the attentive staff are dedicated to enhancing your stay. This hotel is a superb choice for those looking to enjoy quality family time in a sophisticated setting.
- Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel: The Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel, rated 4.5 stars with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, is an excellent option for business travellers and spa enthusiasts. Located conveniently within Guilin, this hotel features a full-service spa, sauna, and pool facilities, offering a relaxing retreat after a busy day. Guests can indulge in a variety of wellness treatments or unwind by the poolside. With its business amenities and tranquil atmosphere, this hotel caters well to those balancing work and leisure.
Where to stay in Guilin
Guilin, a captivating city in Guangxi, offers an unforgettable travel experience with its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality of friendly locals. Nearby attractions such as the enchanting Li River and the historical town of Yangshuo provide a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for recreation and exploration. Whether you're here for a city adventure or a serene getaway, Guilin promises memorable nights and delightful discoveries.
- Yangshuo: Nestled amidst stunning karst mountains, Yangshuo is a charming county renowned for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant outdoor activities. This area attracts a steady stream of visitors year-round, especially from March to April and July, making it a hotspot for family adventures and city-themed experiences. Travellers can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring public markets and shopping areas, or indulge in recreational activities such as biking and river cruises. Noteworthy local landmarks include historic sites and lush parks, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
- Guilin City Centre: The bustling heart of Guilin, the City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a rich blend of outdoor and urban experiences. With peak visitor numbers in April, October, and December, this area is ideal for those seeking a lively city atmosphere complemented by natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from shopping in local markets to exploring picturesque parks and scenic hills. The unique rock formations surrounding the area further enhance its appeal, making it a delightful destination for both business and leisure travellers.
- Xiufeng: A dynamic district, Xiufeng is a fantastic destination for families and business travellers alike. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, particularly in April, October, and December, Xiufeng offers a mix of shopping centres and public markets that cater to diverse tastes. The district is also home to notable attractions such as marinas and beautiful water features, providing a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This district’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its convenient amenities, makes it an attractive choice for those exploring Guilin.
Things to do in Guilin
Shopping
In Guilin, visit the Zhengyang Pedestrian Street for a vibrant shopping atmosphere filled with local handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, explore the Yangshuo West Street, about 48km away, where you can find unique shops and local art amidst stunning scenery.
Recreation
At the Banyan Tree Yangshuo, indulge in revitalising spa treatments amidst stunning karst landscapes. Participate in yoga sessions that harmonise body and mind, followed by leisurely bike rides along the Li River, immersing yourself in the serene natural beauty of the region.
Adventure
Explore the stunning Li River on a bamboo raft, gliding past dramatic karst landscapes. For an adrenaline rush, hike the Longji Rice Terraces, where panoramic views reward your efforts. Don't miss the chance to experience the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, adorned with vibrant rock formations and illuminated displays.
Nightlife
Explore the lively atmosphere at the Riverside Night Market, where you can enjoy local street food and vibrant performances. For a more relaxed evening, visit the 1912 Club for cocktails and a trendy ambience, or enjoy live music at the Guilin Beer House, showcasing local bands.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Guilin
Guilin offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Moon Water Cave, while public transport options such as buses and bicycles are budget-friendly. To secure the best hotel rates, consider visiting in March or the December to January period, and book at least three months in advance. Wednesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilize Expedia for last-minute deals or package savings on flights and hotels, allowing you to refine your search by budget and preferences for a more economical trip.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Guilin are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Guilin about 3+ months out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Guilin is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Guilin is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Guilin with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Guilin
Guilin offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and urban experiences, making it ideal for various types of vacations. Visitors can explore stunning caves, picturesque mountains, and urban parks, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Key attractions include the vibrant Guilin city centre and the best of Guilin's natural beauty, perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation in this charming destination.
- Elephant Trunk Hill: This iconic hill resembles an elephant drinking from the Li River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. A popular spot for photography, it is an excellent place to enjoy the natural beauty of Guilin while exploring its unique rock formations and lush greenery.
- Yangshuo Park: Nestled in the heart of the city, Yangshuo Park is a delightful urban oasis perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With well-maintained paths, gardens, and recreational facilities, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls or engage in various activities while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
- Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas: These stunning historic towers stand majestically on the waters of Shan Lake. The pagodas, illuminated at night, reflect the rich cultural heritage of Guilin, making them a captivating site to explore and learn about local history.
Best time to go to Guilin
The best time to visit Guilin is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Guilin
Flying into Guilin is convenient via Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL), located 13km from the city. Noteworthy hotels nearby include the Four Points By Sheraton Guilin, Lingui, and the Hampton by Hilton Guilin Lingui, both offering various airport transportation services. Additionally, Wingate by Wyndham Yangshuo, also situated 13km away, provides comfortable lodging options. Other airports include Shaoyang (WGN) at 180km and Liuzhou (LZH) at 138km, with several hotels nearby, such as the Wanda Realm Liuzhou and Crown Century Hotel, which offer shuttle services. Overall, Guilin's accessibility ensures a pleasant arrival for tourists.