Top reasons to visit Guilin
- Breathtaking Landscapes: Guilin is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, particularly along the picturesque Li River.
- Vibrant City Atmosphere: The bustling streets of Guilin offer lively markets and engaging shopping experiences.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore caves, urban parks, and nearby attractions like Yangshuo for recreational activities.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Experience the local customs and traditions through various cultural sites and events.
- Diverse Accommodations: From luxurious hotels to quaint guesthouses, Guilin caters to all preferences and budgets.
Find great hotels in Guilin
Guilin offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to various needs whether for business travel or a family getaway. With stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, you'll find hotels that provide exceptional services and amenities, ensuring a memorable stay. Discover the perfect hotel in Guilin for your holiday, whether you prefer a serene resort or a bustling city centre location.
- Sheraton Guilin Hotel: Set against the stunning backdrop of Guilin's natural beauty, the Sheraton Guilin Hotel offers a harmonious blend of comfort and wellness. This 4.5-star hotel, rated 8.4 out of 10 by guests, caters to families and business travellers alike with amenities specifically designed for younger guests, including free children’s clubs and dining options. Guests can unwind on the rooftop terrace or enjoy barbecues amidst the lush surroundings, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a rejuvenating escape.
- Shangri-La Guilin: Embracing a family-friendly ethos, the Shangri-La Guilin is a luxurious 5-star hotel boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This expansive property features a wealth of amenities for families, including supervised childcare, an arcade game room, and a shared playground. Parents can relax while their children enjoy the dedicated play areas or the inviting pool. With its elegant design and serene atmosphere, this hotel is a splendid choice for those looking to create lasting family memories in Guilin.
- Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel: A sanctuary for relaxation, the Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel is a 4.5-star property rated 8.0 out of 10. Ideal for spa enthusiasts and business travellers, the hotel features an extensive spa offering rejuvenating treatments, along with indoor and outdoor pools for leisurely swims. Guests can enjoy poolside service and sun loungers for a tranquil experience. The hotel’s contemporary facilities and serene ambiance provide an excellent retreat after a day of exploring Guilin's enchanting landscapes.
Where to stay in Guilin
Guilin is a captivating city renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the picturesque Li River, while the vibrant streets of Guilin city offer a bustling atmosphere filled with friendly locals. For a more relaxing experience, visit the tranquil parks or take a leisurely boat ride. Nearby attractions, such as Yangshuo, promise unforgettable scenery and recreational activities, making your trip to Guilin an enchanting blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Yangshuo: Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Guilin, Yangshuo is a charming county renowned for its stunning karst mountains and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors flock here for a variety of experiences, including family-friendly activities and themed explorations. The area is particularly popular in March to April and July, attracting tourists eager to immerse themselves in local culture. You can stroll through bustling public markets, enjoy leisurely shopping, or embrace the outdoors in recreational spaces. Key highlights include historic sites, serene parks, and fascinating historic buildings that showcase the rich heritage of the region.
- Guilin City Centre: The heart of Guilin, the City Centre is a lively neighbourhood where urban life meets natural beauty. This area sees a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, peaking in April, October, and December. It offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, shopping opportunities, and business amenities. Explore the vibrant public markets, wander through shopping areas, or enjoy the scenic parks that dot the landscape. Notable attractions include the majestic hills and unique rock formations that define the city's stunning skyline, making it a must-visit for any traveller.
- Xiufeng: Xiufeng district, located near the centre of Guilin, is a dynamic area that caters to a diverse range of visitors, including families and business travellers. With consistent visitor numbers year-round, peaking in April, October, and December, Xiufeng offers a blend of shopping, local markets, and leisure activities. Explore the bustling shopping centres or relax by the marina, where water features add to the charm. This district is also home to several institutes and other landmarks, providing a unique insight into the local culture and lifestyle.
Things to do in Guilin
Shopping
In Guilin, head to the Ming Palace Shopping Mall for a variety of local and international brands. If you're up for a drive, visit the more expansive Wanda Plaza, which offers numerous dining options and entertainment alongside shopping experiences.
Recreation
In Guilin, the Banyan Tree Spa offers a serene escape with traditional Chinese therapies and stunning views of the Li River. Alternatively, the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat provides yoga classes surrounded by breathtaking karst landscapes, allowing for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature's beauty.
Adventure
The Li River offers breathtaking views as you embark on a bamboo raft, gliding past karst mountains and picturesque villages. For thrill-seekers, head to the Longsheng Rice Terraces for exhilarating hikes, where you can marvel at the stunning landscape shaped by centuries of rice cultivation.
Nightlife
In Guilin, the vibrant night market offers an array of local snacks and crafts, creating a lively atmosphere. The Two Rivers and Four Lakes area provides scenic boat tours, while bars and clubs around the city centre feature live music and dancing, making for an engaging evening out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Guilin
To save money on your visit to Guilin, consider travelling during the off-peak months of March and December to January, when prices are generally lower. Utilise public transport options like buses and bicycles for affordable travel, and take advantage of free attractions such as Moon Water Cave. Book your accommodation at least three months in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly on Wednesdays for the best rates. Combining hotel bookings with flights can also yield significant savings.
- 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Guilin is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Guilin with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Guilin
Guilin is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and city explorers alike, offering a variety of attractions such as caves, urban parks, and stunning mountains. Visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery and adventure experiences that Guilin has to offer. Don't miss the vibrant Guilin city centre and the best of Guilin's natural beauty during your stay for a truly memorable vacation.
- Xianggong Mountain: Experience breathtaking views from the summit of Xianggong Mountain, where the lush karst landscape unfolds beneath you. This location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of hiking and adventure opportunities amidst stunning scenery.
- Shiwai Taoyuan: As a national park, Shiwai Taoyuan presents a pristine natural environment perfect for exploration. Wander through picturesque trails, take in the serene vistas, and engage in various outdoor activities that showcase the park's remarkable beauty.
- Guangxi Maoer Mountain Reserve: This reserve is a haven for nature lovers, featuring diverse flora and fauna. Its tranquil atmosphere and scenic landscapes provide an excellent backdrop for hiking and immersing oneself in the region's natural charm.
Best time to go to Guilin
The best time to visit Guilin can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Guilin falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Guilin falls in January, 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 with its major airport, Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL), located 13km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 4-star Four Points By Sheraton Guilin, Lingui and Hampton by Hilton Guilin Lingui, both offering airport shuttle services. Alternatively, Liuzhou Airport (LZH), situated 138km away, has luxurious options like the 5-star Wanda Realm Liuzhou and Radisson Blu Hotel Liuzhou, which provide various transportation services to the airport. For those considering Shaoyang Airport (WGN), located 180km away, there are 3.5-star hotels such as Lano Hotel, offering proximity and easy access to the airport.