# Xiamen, China Xiamen, a picturesque coastal city in southeastern China's Fujian province, is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends modern urban life with rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'Garden on the Sea,' Xiamen boasts beautiful beaches, lush parks, and a laid-back atmosphere that sets it apart from many of China's bustling metropolises. The city is famous for its charming Gulangyu Island, a car-free pedestrian haven filled with colonial architecture and winding alleyways. Xiamen's unique blend of Chinese and Western influences, coupled with its stunning natural scenery, makes it an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. **Must see:** Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, Hulishan Fortress, Xiamen Botanical Garden, South Putuo Temple, Xiamen Piano Museum, Wanshi Botanical Garden, Kulangsu Gallery of Foreign Artifacts ## Hotels in Xiamen - [Fairmont Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/fairmont-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — Upscale Xiamen hotel with an indoor pool, spa, sauna, and restaurant, a short walk from Tapu Beach. Rooms include minibars, hot tubs, and coffee machines, with free bikes and WiFi available throughout. - [Shangri-La Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/shangri-la-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — This luxurious 5-star Shangri-La hotel in Xiamen offers sea views, an indoor pool, spa, and easy beach access. Located near the business center, it features stylish rooms and diverse dining options. - [W Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/w-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — The 5-star W-Xiamen offers luxurious rooms with city views, a spa, indoor pool, and diverse dining options in central Xiamen. Its prime location provides easy access to local attractions and the airport. - [Lohkah Hotel & Spa](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/lohkah-hotel-spa.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — This luxurious 5-star Xiamen retreat offers an infinity pool, spa services, and garden-view rooms with balconies, blending modern comfort with scenic beauty just 4.3 miles from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. - [InterContinental Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/intercontinental-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — This 5-star InterContinental Xiamen offers stunning sea views, an infinity pool, and multiple dining options, just steps from the beach and conference center in Xiamen's coastal business district. - [Andaz Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/andaz-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — Nestled in Xiamen, the 5-star Andaz Xiamen, By Hyatt offers a luxurious retreat with an outdoor pool, garden, and gourmet dining, blending modern sophistication with local charm just minutes from key attractions. - [Waldorf Astoria Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/waldorf-astoria-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — Luxurious 5-star retreat in Xiamen's city center, the Waldorf Astoria offers elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and a lavish spa, just minutes from key attractions and 4.3 miles from the airport. - [Conrad Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/conrad-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — Perched in Xiamen, the 5-star Conrad offers panoramic sea views, a luxurious spa, and heated indoor pool, just minutes from Nanputuo Temple and Xiamen University, blending urban sophistication with coastal tranquility. - [Langham Place, Xiamen](https://firstrowtravel.com/hotels/china/xiamen/langham-place-xiamen.md) (5-star, Xiamen) — Experience luxury at the 5-star Langham Place Xiamen, offering a spa, indoor pool, and city views, just steps from Wanda Square and a short drive from Xiamen's beaches and airport. ## Common questions **What's the best time of year to visit Xiamen?** The best time to visit Xiamen is from September to November or March to May. These months offer pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. **How do I get to Gulangyu Island?** You can reach Gulangyu Island by taking a ferry from one of several ports in Xiamen. The most common departure point is Xiamen Dongdu International Terminal. The ferry ride takes about 5-10 minutes. **Is Xiamen suitable for a family vacation?** Yes, Xiamen is great for families. It offers numerous family-friendly attractions, including beaches, parks, and museums. The relaxed atmosphere and pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to explore with children. **What local food should I try in Xiamen?** Don't miss out on Xiamen's seafood dishes, especially oyster omelet and seafood soups. Other local specialties include satay noodles, peanut soup, and various dim sum items. Be sure to try the famous Gulangyu Ice Jelly for dessert. **Do I need a visa to visit Xiamen?** Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter China, including Xiamen. However, Xiamen is part of China's 72-hour visa-free transit policy for certain nationalities. Check with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa information. ## How to book - WhatsApp: https://wa.me/19453939299 - Email: advisor@firstrowtravel.com - Include the hotel page URL and your travel dates; booking through First Row Travel costs the same as booking direct — no booking fees.