Hangzhou tours

Things to do in Hangzhou

Hangzhou invites you to slow down and savour the serenity that has enchanted emperors and poets for centuries. As you stand on the shores of West Lake, the willows whisper tales of romance and elegance. With your local guide, uncover the essence of Hangzhou beyond its picture-perfect gardens and pagodas. A private tour here is your gateway to experiences like a soothing tea ceremony in the lush plantations of Longjing Village or a leisurely walking tour through ancient temples that echo with the chants of monks. Skip the line and delve into Hangzhou's rich tapestry of culture and cuisine, where each sip of Dragon Well tea and every bite of beggar's chicken is a story waiting to be told. Let your guide lead you on a journey through Hangzhou's heart, where tranquility and discovery blend seamlessly. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Hangzhou. Explore Hangzhou your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Hangzhou tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Hangzhou for every interest, including: Layover tours: Get picked up at HGH and squeeze in West Lake highlights, with a stroll along Su Causeway and a 30-minute boat ride by Three Pools Mirroring the Moon. Add a quick stop in Meijiawu for a Dragon Well tea tasting and a snack on Hefang Street before your return transfer. Art and Culture tours: Explore the Grand Canal craft museum cluster by Gongchen Bridge, like the China Umbrella Museum and the Fan Museum, then see contemporary pieces at the Zhejiang Art Museum by the lake. Your guide can arrange a hands-on calligraphy or fan-painting lesson with a local artisan. Nature and Wildlife tours: Glide by punt through Xixi National Wetland Park to watch herons and egrets in the reeds. Continue to the bamboo-lined paths of Nine Creeks or the tea terraces above Longjing Village for easy walks and views. Getting around: The lakefront and historic areas are very walkable, and the metro connects major sights, the rail hubs, and the airport. If you’re short on time or want to reach the wetlands and tea villages easily, you can book a chauffeured tour with private transportation or ask your local guide to arrange it. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Hangzhou inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Take a private walking tour in Hangzhou to explore the city's neighborhoods with a local guide. This city, known for its natural beauty and rich history, offers a variety of experiences. - West Lake: Ideal for families and cultural tourists, this iconic area is famous for its scenic beauty and historic sites like Leifeng Pagoda. - Hefang Street: Great for those seeking meaningful connections, this vibrant neighborhood is lined with shops and stalls offering traditional crafts and snacks. - Xixi Wetland Park: Nature lovers will enjoy this unique urban wetland. It's a peaceful escape where you can walk among waterways and enjoy diverse wildlife. Day trip ideas from Hangzhou Base yourself in Hangzhou, then slip out on easy day trips to nearby towns, green hills, and wide lakes, shaping them as private tours or quick train rides that match your pace. Wuzhen Water Town: walk stone lanes and arched bridges, ride a simple canal boat, and drop into small workshops that show dyeing, silk, and wood carving; if you like old streets, river views, and clear photo spots, this compact town keeps it simple and rewarding. Shaoxing: glide in a black-awning boat along narrow canals, visit Lu Xun’s Former Residence, and taste mellow rice wine; readers, culture fans, and food lovers get a grounded mix of history and flavour in a city that sits less than an hour away by rail. Moganshan: follow quiet bamboo trails, learn how old stone villas tell a story of early mountain getaways, and take short hikes for clean valley views; if you want fresh air and light activity, this hill retreat fits a full day without feeling rushed. Qiandao Lake: cruise between islands, cycle beside the water, and try a lakeside lunch with local fish; for you, that means a calm change of scene with gentle movement and clear water, good for families, photographers, and anyone who likes slow days. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Hangzhou most travellers miss.