Hangzhou is a city that combines natural beauty with deep cultural roots. Its West Lake, lush tea plantations, and ancient temples make it a perfect playground for full-day tours. Whether you prefer a tailored experience or a comprehensive look at the city’s highlights, Hangzhou offers options that suit different interests and travel styles. We especially like the Private Full Day Tour for its flexibility and personalized touch, and the Incredible Hangzhou Highlight tour for a well-rounded visit that covers the major sights comfortably. For those wanting a deeper dive into old and new Hangzhou, the Memory of Old Hangzhou and New Highlights tour is an excellent choice.
If you’re visiting Hangzhou, these tours provide a great way to see the city without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From peaceful boat rides on West Lake to exploring the Longjing tea fields, each tour offers something special. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the best full-day options, highlighting what makes each unique.
1. Private Full Day Tour : Customizable Hangzhou City Highlights with Multi Options
At number one is the Private Full Day Tour that offers just the kind of flexibility many travelers crave. For $148 per person, you’ll enjoy an 8-hour private experience with a knowledgeable local guide who can tailor the itinerary to your interests. This tour hits all the highlights, including West Lake, Longjing tea fields, and the Fei Lai Feng scenic area, with options to add visits like the Leifeng Pagoda or explore local markets. One of the big advantages is the door-to-door transfer from your hotel or train station, making logistics effortless.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizable nature. You can decide what interests you most—perhaps a leisurely boat ride on West Lake, a walk through Linyin Scenic Spot, or a visit to a local tea farm. The guide’s depth of knowledge ensures you get insightful commentary, and reviews rave about the personalized service and excellent lunch at a tea farmer’s house. This is best suited for travelers who want a private experience with the flexibility to change plans on the fly.
Bottom line: If you prefer a tailored, comfortable day that hits your personal highlights without the stress of navigating alone, this private tour ticks all the boxes.
2. Full Day Private Tour Incredible Hangzhou Highlight
At number two is the Incredible Hangzhou Highlight tour, which costs $149 per person and offers a full 8-hour exploration with a private guide. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a detailed look at the city’s most iconic sites without worry. It includes visits to Lingyin Temple, West Lake, and a boat ride on West Lake—the quintessential Hangzhou experience. The logistics are taken care of, with hotel or railway station pickup and drop-off, plus all entrance fees and transportation included.
This tour emphasizes the cultural and scenic highlights that define Hangzhou. You’ll wander through Lingyin Temple, admire the Leifeng Pagoda, and enjoy authentic local dishes during lunch. The guide will share stories about Miss Bai at Leifeng Pagoda, adding a personal touch to the sightseeing. Guests consistently praise the seamless organization and the opportunity to see top attractions comfortably.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free day that covers Hangzhou’s must-see sights with a knowledgeable guide.
$149.00 per person
3. Private Full-Day Tour: Memory of Old Hangzhou and New Highlights
At number three, we find the Memory of Old Hangzhou and New Highlights tour, costing $164 per person. This 7-8 hour trip is an excellent choice for those interested in the city’s dual character—its ancient roots and modern expansion. The tour includes visits to the Grand Canal, Gongchen Bridge, and Tangqi Ancient Town, where you can walk along historic streets and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. Afterwards, you’ll explore the Qianjiang New CBD and visit the Hangzhou Urban Planning Hall to see how the city is evolving.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on both historical sites and contemporary developments. It’s ideal for those curious about how Hangzhou has developed over centuries, blending old-world charm with modern urban planning. The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the engaging exploration of Tangqi Ancient Town, making it a great choice for history buffs and urban explorers alike.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded view of Hangzhou’s past and present, this tour offers a thoughtful mix of ancient waterways and modern architecture.
$164.00 per person
4. Hangzhou: Full-Day Private Highlights Guided Tour
Finally, the Hangzhou: Full-Day Private Highlights Guided Tour provides a streamlined way to see the city’s top sights. Priced at $149 per person, it offers a flexible, private guide to visit key attractions such as Lingyin Temple and enjoy a scenic boat ride on West Lake. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, allowing you to absorb the beauty and history without rushing.
While details are fewer about specific sites included, the focus is on providing an efficient and enjoyable experience of Hangzhou’s most iconic landmarks. This tour is suited for travelers who prefer a straightforward overview with personalized attention and don’t need a lengthy, in-depth exploration of every site.
Bottom line: A good choice for visitors wanting a reliable guide to the essentials, with the flexibility to enjoy sites at their own pace.
$149 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Hangzhou
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a highly personalized experience with the ability to customize your itinerary, the Private Full Day Tour (see details here) is hard to beat. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, worry-free day that covers the highlights, the Incredible Hangzhou Highlight (see details here) provides excellent value. If you’re interested in understanding the city’s past and present in depth, the Memory of Old Hangzhou and New Highlights (see details here) offers a balanced mix.
Think about your fitness level and interests—some tours include hikes in tea plantations or walking through ancient towns, so check the itinerary if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn when Hangzhou’s scenery is at its best.
Final Thoughts
Hangzhou’s full-day tours offer a fantastic way to experience this city’s natural beauty and cultural treasures without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The Private Full Day Tour is perfect for those who want a customizable experience, while the Incredible Hangzhou Highlight tour provides a well-rounded overview that covers all the iconic sights. For a deeper dive into the city’s layers of history and modern life, the Memory of Old Hangzhou and New Highlights delivers a thoughtful itinerary.
No matter which tour you choose, early booking will ensure you secure a spot, especially during busy seasons. With these options, you’re well positioned to enjoy a memorable day exploring Hangzhou’s best.