Where to Stay in Xiamen First Time: Best Areas, Hotels & FAQs (2026)

Choosing the right accommodation area is the crucial first step to ensuring a perfect experience during your first trip to Xiamen. Though compact, each district in Xiamen offers a distinct atmosphere, convenience, and target audience. This guide provides a detailed analysis of the pros and cons of Xiamen’s main accommodation areas, along with practical advice tailored for foreign visitors—especially first-time travelers—to help you make the best choice based on your travel style, budget, and interests.

Xiamen First-Time Traveler Accommodation Guide

If you’re short on time, quickly choose based on the following descriptions:

Seeking ultimate convenience, want to be close to all attractions and transportation hubs → Zhongshan Road/Ferry Terminal area
Longing for artistic romance, enjoy unique shops and seaside vibes → Zengcuo’an/Huangcuo Coastal area
Looking for a unique experience, want to immerse yourself in a World Cultural Heritage site → Gulangyu Island (Island Accommodations)
Prefer modern tranquility with premium hotel amenities and city views → Eastern Xiamen Island (Wuyuan Bay, Convention Center)
Budget-conscious travelers seeking hostels and backpacker vibes → Old neighborhoods near Zengcuo’an or Zhongshan Road

Guide to Xiamen’s Main Accommodation Areas

1. Zhongshan Road/Ferry Terminal Area

This is the top recommendation for most first-time visitors.

Key Advantages:

Exceptionally convenient transportation: Adjacent to the ferry terminal for Gulangyu Island (including night routes), accessible on foot. Serves as a hub for buses, taxis, and tour coaches.
Concentrated attractions: Within walking distance of Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street and Ba Shi Seafood Market; short drives to Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, and Shapowei.
Abundant dining and shopping: Lined with restaurants, food stalls, and shops, bustling day and night.
Safe and Familiar: As a central district, it remains lively at night with ample assistance available.

Considerations:
Potential Noise: Main streets and night market areas experience high foot traffic and noise levels. When selecting accommodations, prioritize rooms in side alleys or higher floors.
Lack of “Vacation Vibe”: Leans more toward an urban commercial district than a beach resort atmosphere.

Ideal for: Most first-time visitors, families, and travelers seeking maximum sightseeing efficiency.
Hotel options: Extensive range from international chains (e.g., Wyndham, Lujiang Hotel) to budget hotels and homestays.

Recommended Reading: What to eat in zhongshan Road xiamen

2. Zengcuo’an/Huangcuo Coastal Area

If your vision of Xiamen is “artsy, laid-back, and leisurely by the sea,” this spot fits the bill perfectly.

Key Advantages:
Rich artistic atmosphere: Zengcuo’an itself is a transformed fishing village brimming with unique guesthouses, cafes, and creative boutiques—staying here feels like living within a scenic area.
Direct ocean access: Just cross the street to reach Huan Dao Road and the beach, perfect for strolling, cycling, or simply enjoying the sea views anytime.
Relatively laid-back: Compared to Zhongshan Road, evenings here are quieter and more relaxing (excluding Zengcuo’an’s main street).
High Value: Features numerous uniquely designed homestays across a wide price range.

Considerations:
Relatively Inconvenient Transportation: Some distance from major attractions (Gulangyu Pier, Nanputuo Temple, etc.), requiring taxis or buses that may experience congestion during peak hours.
Noise Within Zengcuoan: If your homestay is on the commercial street, evenings can be noisy. Consider staying near the outskirts or in Huangcuo Village.
Catering options are tourist-oriented: While street food is abundant, more authentic dining requires venturing into the city center.

Ideal for: Couples, young travelers, photography enthusiasts, slow-paced visitors, and those seeking relaxation in Xiamen.
Accommodation types: Primarily boutique homestays and boutique hotels, with few large chains.

Recommended Reading: 2025 Top Spots on the Xiamen Mountain-Sea Trail

3. Gulangyu Island

Staying overnight on the island is the best way to experience the soul of Gulangyu.

Key Advantages:
Unparalleled Atmosphere: As day-trippers depart, Gulangyu returns to tranquility at night and dawn, allowing you to savor century-old villas and quiet alleys in solitude.
Time Efficiency: Ample time for in-depth exploration without rushing to catch return ferries.
Architectural Charm: Many accommodations are converted historic buildings, brimming with character and stories.

Considerations:
Luggage Handling: Motorized vehicles are banned on the island. You’ll need to drag your luggage along cobblestone paths to reach your hotel. Choosing a hotel that offers pier shuttle service is crucial.
Higher Pricing: Accommodations of comparable quality typically cost more on the island than on mainland Xiamen.
Limited and Pricey Dining: Options are scarce and generally expensive.
Relative Isolation: Inconvenient for experiencing Xiamen’s mainland nightlife.

Ideal For: Historic architecture enthusiasts, couples seeking romantic and unique experiences, photography lovers.
Important Note: Always confirm luggage assistance with your hotel and choose accommodations near the ferry terminal (e.g., Sanqiutian Pier).

Recommended Reading: Xiamen Gulangyu Island One Day Itinerary

4. Eastern Xiamen Island (Wuyuan Bay, Convention Center)

Core Advantages:
Quiet, modern, and well-maintained: An emerging district featuring upscale residences, five-star hotels, and attractive urban landscapes.
Cluster of luxury hotels: Including Hyatt, Hilton, InterContinental, etc., with top-tier facilities.
Ideal for leisure: Offers recreational amenities like wetland parks and sailing harbors.

Key Disadvantages:
Extremely distant from all major attractions! Reaching Gulangyu Ferry Terminal, Zhongshan Road, etc., requires 30-40 minutes by car, unsuitable for visitors primarily relying on public transportation.
Lacks local ambiance: More akin to a modern business-resort district.

Ideal for: Business travelers, self-driving tourists, guests solely staying at hotels for leisure or attending conventions.
Not recommended for first-time visitors seeking intensive exploration of Xiamen’s classic landmarks.

5. Xiamen Railway Station/Lianban Area

Features: Major transportation hub with diverse hotel options, moderate pricing, and convenient subway access.
Pros: Extremely convenient for high-speed rail station and airport transfers; subway connects directly to Zhongshan Road and Zengcuo’an areas.
Cons: Limited tourist attractions in the area itself; relatively noisy environment.
Ideal for: Travelers with tight schedules requiring frequent high-speed rail use, or as a transitional stay for the night before arrival/departure.

Practical Accommodation Tips for Foreign Visitors

Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons (May Day, National Day, summer vacation), good accommodations are in high demand. Unique homestays in Gulangyu and Zengcuoan require even earlier booking.
Use Map Apps: When checking hotel locations on booking platforms (like Trip.com or Booking.com), always verify the exact spot using Google Maps or Baidu Maps. Is it on a bustling main street or a quiet alley? How far is it from bus stops or subway stations?
Read Reviews Carefully: Focus on reviews from foreign travelers to understand their experiences with cleanliness, noise levels, service (especially English-speaking staff), and location.
Regarding “homestays”: Xiamen’s homestay industry is thriving but varies greatly in quality. Opting for “boutique inns” or “premium homestays” typically offers more assurance than standard private apartments. Confirm whether 24-hour front desk service is provided.
Payment and communication:

Most hotels accept international credit cards for online reservations.
Upon arrival, Alipay/WeChat Pay can be used for deposits or additional expenses.
Communicate with hotels via booking platform messaging; prepare translations for key information beforehand using translation apps.

Essential Amenities Checklist: Verify availability based on personal needs: free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, hairdryer, bottled water, breakfast.

Xiamen Accommodation FAQ

Q1: Where is the most convenient place to stay for first-time visitors to Xiamen?
A: For the vast majority of first-time foreign visitors, the Zhongshan Road/Ferry Terminal area is the most convenient choice. This hub concentrates transportation options, offering walking distance to the Gulangyu ferry terminal, Zhongshan Road shopping street, and the Eighth Market. Travel times to other major attractions are also short, maximizing your sightseeing efficiency.

Q2: Is it worth staying overnight on Gulangyu Island?
A: Absolutely, if you appreciate historic architecture, photography, or tranquil settings. This allows you to experience the island’s unique serenity after daytime crowds depart. Note that luggage must be carried on foot, dining options are limited and pricier. If your schedule is tight or you prioritize convenience and dining choices, staying on mainland Xiamen is a more practical option.

Q3: Is accommodation expensive in Xiamen?
A: Xiamen offers a wide range of lodging prices. Budget hotels or homestays (especially in Zengcuoan) are relatively affordable; mid-range comfortable hotels provide ample options; high-end hotels are priced on par with international standards. Overall, prices rank mid-range among China’s first-tier tourist cities—lower than Beijing or Shanghai but higher than many inland cities. Rates surge significantly during peak seasons (holidays, summer vacation).

Q4: How do I get from the airport/high-speed rail station to my hotel?
A: Gaoqi International Airport (XMN): The most convenient options are taxis or ride-hailing apps (like DiDi). The airport also offers a metro (BRT) and airport shuttle buses to major downtown areas.
Xiamen North Station (High-Speed Rail): Taking Metro Line 1 is an economical and efficient option, providing direct access to downtown stations like Zhenhai Road Station (near Zhongshan Road) or Jiangjunci Station. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also convenient, though traffic congestion may occur during peak hours.
Tip: Save your hotel’s Chinese name and address on your phone beforehand to show to drivers.

Q5: Is Xiamen safe for solo female travelers?
A: Xiamen is considered one of China’s safest and most traveler-friendly cities, with good public security and a welcoming environment for solo female travelers. Even at night, major tourist areas and streets remain well-lit and bustling. Follow standard travel safety guidelines: choose reputable accommodations, stay in lively areas, and keep personal belongings secure.

Q6: Can I use cash or international credit cards in Xiamen, or is mobile payment mandatory?
A: Mobile payment (Alipay and WeChat Pay) is ubiquitous and the dominant method in Xiamen. Major hotels, chain restaurants, and shopping malls typically accept international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). However, many small guesthouses, street food stalls, and taxis may only accept mobile payment or cash. Therefore, we strongly recommend:

Set up mobile payment apps (if possible).
Carry a reasonable amount of cash in Chinese yuan for unexpected situations.
Always carry your international credit card.

For the vast majority of foreign visitors coming to Xiamen for the first time, our top recommendation is:
Choose accommodations in either the “Zhongshan Road/Ferry Terminal area” or the “Zengcuo’an area (on the outskirts).”

The Zhongshan Road area offers unparalleled convenience and a sense of security, allowing you to focus more energy on exploration rather than transportation hassles.
The Zengcuo’an area, meanwhile, embodies Xiamen’s “artsy and leisurely” vibe, perfect for travelers who want to wake up to the sea breeze each morning.

A smart strategy is to split your stay: spend 2 nights in Zhongshan Road (convenient for visiting Gulangyu Island and downtown attractions) and 1-2 nights in Zengcuo’an (to experience Huan Dao Road and seaside relaxation). This approach allows for both efficient sightseeing and deep relaxation.

Regardless of your choice, Xiamen remains a safe, welcoming city with well-established tourist services. May you find your ideal accommodation in this “Garden on the Sea” and embark on a perfect journey!

Where to Stay in Xiamen First Time: Best Areas, Hotels & FAQs (2026)

Xiamen First-Time Traveler Accommodation Guide