Choosing the right area to stay in Chongqing makes a big difference to your trip. The city is enormous, mountainous and full of completely different districts. Some areas are better for tourism, others for transport or for keeping costs down.
If it's your first time in Chongqing, the ideal is to stay close to the metro and the central areas, such as Jiefangbei or Hongyadong.
Quick info
- Best area for first-time visitors: Jiefangbei
- Best area for nightlife and views: Hongyadong / Chaotianmen
- Best value for money: Shapingba
- Best area for transport: Lianglukou
- How many nights to stay: 2 to 4 nights
Comparison of the best areas to stay in Chongqing
| Neighbourhood | Best for | Average price per night | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jiefangbei | First-time visitors | US$55–US$155 | Central, modern and close to attractions |
| Hongyadong / Chaotianmen | Night views | US$75–US$220 | Most touristy and visually impressive area |
| Shapingba | Budget | US$25–US$75 | Cheaper hotels and local atmosphere |
| Lianglukou | Transport | US$40–US$110 | Easy metro access and close to the train station |
Average price ranges researched for the next 1–2 months on Booking and similar platforms. Prices may vary depending on the season, how far in advance you book and the hotel category.
Best area for first-time visitors: Jiefangbei
Jiefangbei is the most practical area for first-time visitors to Chongqing. It concentrates restaurants, shopping centres, metro stations and is close to famous attractions such as Hongyadong and Chaotianmen.
It is also one of the most modern and bustling parts of the city, with excellent infrastructure for tourists.
Is it worth staying in Jiefangbei?
Yes. It's the best choice for those who want convenience, easy transport and quick access to the main attractions.
Recommended hotels in Jiefangbei
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square
Modern hotel with a great location near the metro and the city's main attractions.
Average range: US$120–US$220 per night
Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing
Good value option in the centre of Chongqing, with spacious rooms and city views.
Average range: US$70–US$140 per night
Best area for night views: Hongyadong and Chaotianmen
This is the most famous area in Chongqing. The illuminated buildings, the streets on different levels and the views of the rivers make the district breathtaking at night.
Staying here is ideal for those who want to make the most of the most visual and touristy side of the city.
Is it worth staying near Hongyadong?
Very much so, especially for those who enjoy photography, nightlife and want to explore the city on foot.
Recommended hotels in Hongyadong
River Four Seasons Hotel Chongqing
Hotel with views of the illuminated Hongyadong area and a good location for exploring the district.
Average range: US$65–US$120 per night
Niccolo Chongqing
Premium hotel with panoramic city views and modern rooms.
Average range: US$190–US$320 per night
Best budget area: Shapingba
Shapingba tends to have cheaper hotels and a more local atmosphere. The area has good metro connections and works well for those who want to save money without being too far from the centre.
It's a good choice for longer trips or tighter budgets.
Is it worth staying in Shapingba?
Yes, especially for those who want to reduce costs without being extremely far from the main attractions.
Recommended hotels in Shapingba
Holiday Inn Chongqing University Town
Good option for those looking for comfort without spending too much.
Average range: US$45–US$85 per night
IU Hotel Chongqing Shapingba
Simple, budget-friendly hotel with good transport connections.
Average range: US$25–US$45 per night
Best area for transport: Lianglukou
Lianglukou is a great area for those who plan to use the metro frequently and explore different parts of the city.
The district connects several important lines and makes it easy to get around the city and even reach the train station.
Is it worth staying in Lianglukou?
Yes. It's one of the most practical areas for those who plan to use public transport daily.
Recommended hotels in Lianglukou
Hilton Chongqing
Traditional hotel close to the metro with easy access to the city centre.
Average range: US$80–US$150 per night
Chongqing Milky Way Hotel
Good location with quick access to the main transport lines.
Average range: US$50–US$95 per night
Do you need to stay near the metro in Chongqing?
Yes. Chongqing is a very large city and traffic can be heavy at certain times of day. The mountainous terrain also means that journeys take longer than they appear on the map.
Staying near a metro station therefore makes a big difference to getting around during your trip.
How many nights should you stay in Chongqing?
The ideal is to stay between 2 and 4 nights to see the city's main attractions, explore Hongyadong, try the local cuisine and enjoy the night views.
Is Chongqing good for a first trip to China?
Yes. Chongqing combines modern areas, famous food, viewpoints and a unique urban atmosphere. Despite its enormous size, the city has an efficient metro system and can be an incredible experience for first-time visitors to China.
My final recommendation
For a first trip, Jiefangbei is usually the best area to stay in Chongqing. Hongyadong is perfect for those who want incredible views and a more visual experience of the city.
If the priority is saving money, Shapingba offers excellent value without being too far from the main attractions.