Best Urban Hotels in China

Nestled along the shores of West Lake, this hotel provides views of the water, the lush garden grounds and the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil ambience. Seamlessly blending traditional Chinese aesthetics and native artworks with contemporary elements, the architecture features graceful lines and intricate details. A sanctuary of tranquillity and rejuvenation, the spa provides beauty rituals inspired by ancient Chinese traditions. Curated experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons and traditional musical performances also enable guests to immerse in local heritage. The InterContinental’s rooftop bar is a standout feature and an ideal vantage point to admire the breathtaking West Lake sunsets.

The Shangri La is famous as being one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world and this Chengdu branch does not disappoint. Set in a shimmering tower on the bank of the Jinjiang River, guests are treated to pretty views of the waterway as well as the neighbouring Yihe Park. There are plenty of elegant authentic Chinese touches throughout this establishment such as deep red lacquer panels, fresh flowers and the large chandeliers that have been inspired by Chinese lanterns. The guestrooms are very comfortable and offer understated luxury with their marble bathrooms, while the river view deluxe rooms are simply stunning. As you would expect from a Shangri La there are several excellent restaurants to choose from that focus on authentic Chinese dishes with plenty of decadent touches.

Stay in the Heping district, beside the former residence of Cao Kun. This is the political and economic heart of Tianjin, making it a great option for business travellers, as well as those wishing to sightsee. The Ritz-Carlton has 277 rooms. Guests can relax and socialise in The lounge bar with cocktails and the group’s famed afternoon tea. For larger meals, the Victorian Lounge and Zhu Zang cater for a range of tastes. There’s an indoor pool, a sun terrace, a garden with a BBQ area, a spa and a tennis court at The Ritz-Carlton in Tianjin.

Set on Gulou Square, just 50 meters from the Metro, the InterContinental is housed in a skyscraper building. Accommodation begins at the 49th floor, ensuring some epic views (especially those that look onto the nearby Xuanwu Lake). There are 433 bedrooms, each with air purifiers and tea and coffee makers. Plus there are indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and events spaces including huge ballrooms. Prime Restaurant Bar is found on the 78th floor, making it the highest restaurant in Jiangsu, and Summit Restaurant on 76th floor is the highest Chinese restaurant in the province.

Serving as a modern retreat in one of the most historical parts of the city, the Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square features a striking contemporary style and plenty of luxurious touches. Iconic attractions such as the Bell Tower and Muslim Street can be reached on foot in less than ten minutes, while guests can admire a whole host of impressive structures from the large picture windows that grace their room. With four restaurants and three different bars to choose from guests never need to venture far in search of refreshment, while the hotel also comes with a spa and wellness centre for guests to make use of.

Located in the former home of the famed Shanghai Club, the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund stands out from the crowd with its seamless combination of Baroque Revival architecture and a brand new building in modern style. Within easy reach for a stroll along the Bund or the delights of Nanjing Road, it offers such excellent service that you won’t want to leave – from luxurious massages and treatments in the spa to personal shopping assistants and an on-site florist, as well as six distinctive dining options to suit all tastes. Make sure to check out the Long Bar, painstakingly restored to its former glory with the help of historic records and archive photographs.

One of the priciest hotels in Beijing, The St. Regis caters to an exclusive clientele that ranges from global business moguls to movie stars. From the hand-painted ceiling in the lobby to the Chinese silk upholstery in every room, the hotel offers high standards of comfort. Guests get 24-hour butler service and impressive facilities. For entertainment and relaxing, The St. Regis has its own cigar humidor, 24-hour gym, spa and swimming pool. You can dine in any one of the five restaurants in the hotel, which serve Asian and Western delicacies. The St. Regis is in the political and financial district of Chaoyang on 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie.

Marking the brand’s first foray into Greater China, this hotel opened its doors for the first time on the 18th of December 2023. Based in Tsim Sha Tsui beside Victoria Harbour, it has 324 guest rooms, 12 of which are two-bay suites. The architecture, by Karin Krautgartner, is striking, complemented by bespoke art installations. Ascend to the top floors to discover the cocktail and dining spaces. Carna is an Italian steakhouse on 39, by butcher Dario Cecchini. Avoca (whose name means The Meeting of Waters) has superb views from floor 38, cocktails and a lighter menu, with live DJ sets.

Rising 51 stories above the city, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an brings timeless elegance, bespoke service, and sophisticated design to one of China’s most dynamic districts. Designed by André Fu, the hotel blends New York’s glamour with Shenzhen’s innovative spirit, offering 289 refined rooms and suites with panoramic views and signature St. Regis Butler Service.

Guests can indulge in four exceptional dining venues, including Yan Ting for modern Cantonese cuisine, The St. Regis Bar with its exclusive Bay Mary cocktail, The Drawing Room for the brand’s signature Afternoon Tea, and The Astor Terrace Bar, a rooftop retreat with fine wines and handcrafted cocktails. The St. Regis Spa, 25-metre infinity pool, and state-of-the-art Fitness Centre provide a sanctuary of relaxation and wellness.

With over 1,000 square metres of event space, including the Astor Ballroom, the hotel is ideal for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Located just 15 kilometres from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and close to key cultural and business hubs, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an sets a new benchmark for luxury in the city.

This upmarket hotel bypasses rooms and offers suites providing all that guests would expect, such as a living-room with sofa, and Club upgrades giving access to a private lounge and complimentary breakfasts. Food and drink options include a ballroom, French café, afternoon tea and poolside bar – there are two outside pools – and also a spa and fitness centre. Added bonus points are the superb views from its location at the top of Cotai’s Galaxy Macau entertainment complex, a shopping mall, ten-screen 3D Cineplex, and the closeness of the Ritz-Carlton Macau to essential sightseeing.

The 5-star, family-friendly Cordis Hong Kong, located in Mongkok, welcomes guests to embraces excellence in one of its 665 sophisticated rooms and suites, spread over 42 floors. This hotel radiates relaxation and offer guests the opportunity to unwind in the Club lounge or the Chuan Spa where traditional Chinese medicine is practiced in a modern setting. The fully equipped Health Club allows guests to keep fit in style and take part in tranquil Tai Chi classes. This deluxe hotel boasts a 20-metre, heated, rooftop swimming pool and hot tub with a panoramic view of Hong Kong’s remarkable skyline. There is plenty to choose from when it comes to bars and restaurants, especially the salubrious Michelin-starred, Ming Court which offers authentic Cantonese cuisine and a delectable array of wines from across the globe. Cordis,

Located in the heart of Hong Kong’s central district, The Pottinger invites guests from around the world to experience old and new Hong Kong in beautiful, bustling surroundings. Offering the choice of 68 stylish and spacious rooms and suites, this boutique hotel extends a warm welcome to all. These rooms include plush beds and an elegant, modern décor with an oriental touch – not to mention the exceptional views. Boasting a myriad of awards, the Sino Group’s ‘The Pottinger’ exudes luxury. Home to gastronomic excellence, guests are encouraged to dine out at one of the hotel’s lavish restaurants, HUSO or the 3 Michelin-starred Ta Vie旅, to enjoy an exciting fusion of global cuisines. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Venchi offers velvety, artisanal delights to satisfy your cravings. The Pottinger encapsulates the perfect blend of authenticity and luxury.