Want to know where to stay in Chengdu? The best areas include Tianfu Square for first-time visitors, Chunxi Road for shopping and nightlife, Jinli Ancient Street for culture, and the Panda Base area for families. Each neighbourhood offers something unique, and I’ve rounded up the top spots to help you choose.
Chengdu is a huge, lively city with so much to offer from its famous panda research base to spicy Sichuan hotpot, lively teahouses, and beautiful old streets. It’s a city that feels both modern and laid-back at the same time, which makes it such a fun place to explore.
But with so many neighbourhoods to choose from, deciding where to base yourself can be overwhelming. Do you want to be right in the centre, close to all the action? Or would you prefer a quieter area surrounded by history, temples, or parks? Maybe you’re here for the shopping and nightlife, or you just want to stay near the pandas.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best areas to stay in Chengdu, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a family on holiday, or a frequent traveller looking for something a little different. Each neighbourhood has its own character, and I’ve included a hotel recommendation in every spot to make planning your stay super easy.
Pro Tip: Check this list of exciting things to do in Chengdu, too!
Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Chengdu
1. Tianfu Square
If it’s your first time in Chengdu, Tianfu Square is a fantastic place to base yourself. This is the true centre of the city, where you’ll find major landmarks, shopping centres, and easy connections on the metro. Staying here means you can get to most attractions quickly, whether it’s a museum, a teahouse, or a hotpot restaurant.
If you choose to stay at Tianfu Square, Niccolo Chengdu is a great choice. It’s a luxury hotel with views across the city and a modern, stylish design that’s perfect if you want to treat yourself while in Chengdu. You can also join a guided tour here, which includes Tianfu Square + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
2. Chunxi Road & Taikoo Li
Chunxi Road and the neighbouring Taikoo Li district are where Chengdu’s shopping and nightlife are. This area is full of malls, designer stores, and restaurants. At night, the bars and clubs keep the energy going. It’s a great choice if you want a lively, modern base close to the action.
While in the area, you can stay in The Temple House, a boutique luxury hotel that blends modern design with touches of traditional Chinese style, right in the heart of Taikoo Li.
3. Jinli Ancient Street & Wuhou Shrine Area
If you’re looking for a more traditional atmosphere, Jinli Ancient Street and the Wuhou Shrine area are filled with charm. Here you’ll wander cobbled streets lined with red lanterns, try local snacks, and explore historic temples. It’s an area that feels a little slower and more cultural than the busy city centre.
You can join a guided tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount and stay at Skytel Hotel Chengdu, as this hotel has a comfortable mid-range option close to Jinli, making it easy to enjoy the area’s history and culture.
4. Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan & Zhai Xiangzi)
The Wide and Narrow Alleys are one of Chengdu’s most famous spots, and staying nearby gives you a taste of the city’s old-world charm. This neighbourhood is full of restored courtyards, boutique shops, and traditional teahouses. It’s especially romantic in the evening when the lanterns light up.
Diaoyutai Boutique Hotel Chengdu is a stunning boutique property built in the classic courtyard style and is a good choice to stay at in the area.
5. Hi-Tech Zone & Tianfu New Area
For a very different vibe, head south to Chengdu’s Hi-Tech Zone and Tianfu New Area. This part of the city is sleek, modern, and full of skyscrapers. It’s the business hub of Chengdu, with international restaurants and stylish cafés mixed in. While it’s not as cultural, it’s a good choice for business travellers or anyone who prefers a modern setting.
InterContinental Century City Chengdu, a luxury hotel with all the modern comforts and located right in the heart of the city’s new business district, is a good choice to stay at while in the area.
6. Wenshu Monastery Area
Wenshu Monastery is one of Chengdu’s most beautiful temples, and the surrounding neighbourhood is just as peaceful. Staying here gives you a more relaxed pace, with plenty of teahouses, vegetarian restaurants, and a more local feel. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for a quieter stay that still feels close to the city. You can book a guided tour to the Monastery + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount.
BuddhaZen Hotel is a boutique stay designed in traditional Chinese style, just steps away from Wenshu Monastery, so it’s a good place to stay at if you want to explore the Wenshu Monastery area.
7. Du Fu Thatched Cottage & Culture Parks
For something quieter and more cultural, stay near Du Fu Thatched Cottage. This area is dedicated to China’s most famous poet and is surrounded by leafy gardens, museums, and peaceful parks. It’s a lovely spot if you’re travelling with family or just want a break from the busy city centre.
If you are looking for a comfortable mid-range option with easy access to both the cottage and other nearby attractions, stay at Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Gulou + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
8. Chengdu Panda Base Area
One of the biggest reasons people visit Chengdu is to see the giant pandas, and if that’s at the top of your list, staying near the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a great idea. This area is perfect for families and panda enthusiasts, with plenty of green space and family-friendly hotels.
Holiday Inn Chengdu Xindu is a reliable hotel to stay at, as it is close to the Panda Base, which is ideal if you want to get there early in the morning to see the pandas at their most active.
9. Chengdu East Railway Station Area
If you’re planning day trips out of Chengdu or have an onward train journey, staying near the East Railway Station makes things really convenient. It’s not the most atmospheric part of the city, but it’s practical and often more affordable.
Holiday Inn Chengdu Oriental Plaza is a good-value hotel that’s modern, comfortable, and close to the transport area. You can book your stay here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
10. Shuangliu Airport Area
If you’ve got a layover or an early flight, staying near the airport is the best option. It’s not the place for sightseeing, but it makes life easier when catching a plane is the top priority. You’ll save time, avoid traffic, and start your journey with one less thing to worry about.
The Chengdu Airport Hotel is a great choice to stay at as it is located right by the terminal, making it the most hassle-free option for a quick stopover.
11. Qingyang District
Qingyang District is known for its Taoist temples, leafy streets, and relaxed local atmosphere. Staying here gives you a taste of Chengdu’s spiritual side, while still keeping you within easy reach of the city centre. It’s a great option if you prefer a slower, more cultural base.
While in Qingyang District, stay at H-hotel Riverside Chengdu, which is a modern hotel close to key cultural attractions, offering a comfortable base in this peaceful district.
12. Jinjiang District
If you’re after a fun and youthful vibe, Jinjiang District is one of the best places to stay in Chengdu. This area is filled with hip cafes, riverside bars, and trendy spots popular with younger travellers. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and perfect if you want to experience Chengdu’s more modern side.
While in the Jinjiang District area, Niccolo Chengdu is a good choice to stay at as it is a stylish luxury hotel that fits perfectly with Jinjiang’s trendy, creative energy.
Choosing where to stay in Chengdu really comes down to the type of trip you’re planning. If it’s your first visit, you can’t go wrong with Tianfu Square or Chunxi Road, where everything is within easy reach. Culture lovers will enjoy the charm of Jinli Ancient Street or the peaceful atmosphere around Wenshu Monastery, while families might prefer staying near the Panda Base or in the leafy surroundings of Du Fu Thatched Cottage.
For travellers who want something sleek and modern, the Hi-Tech Zone or Jinjiang District are excellent choices, while the East Railway Station and Airport Area are the most practical for onward journeys.
If you have the time, consider mixing it up, spend a few nights in the city centre for the convenience, then head to a more cultural or relaxed neighbourhood for a different side of Chengdu. But wherever you stay, the city’s famous food, pandas, and laid-back charm are never far away.