Chongqing is a city that never sleeps, where the towering skyline is met with winding rivers, and the aroma of hotpot fills the air at every corner. Whether you're drawn to its fascinating history, the stunning views from its hills, or the sizzling local cuisine, Chongqing offers an adventure for every kind of traveler.
So, where to stay in Chongqing is key to making the most of your visit. Each area in Chongqing offers something different. The right base will help you experience the city like a local.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the best places to stay in Chongqing, whether you’re here for the food, the sights, or just to explore the city’s rich culture. By the end, you’ll have the perfect place to book for your stay in this incredible city.
Jiefangbei – Heart of Shopping, Skyscrapers & City Buzz
If you want to feel the full energy of Chongqing, stay near Jiefangbei. This area blends glitzy skyscrapers, high-end shopping, and buzzing street life all around the iconic Liberation Monument—it’s the city’s Times Square.
Who Should Stay Near Jiefangbei?
✔️ First-time visitors – It’s central, lively, and easy to explore Chongqing from here.
✔️ Shopping lovers – Department stores, luxury boutiques, and local fashion brands are everywhere.
✔️ Business travelers – Close to major offices, banks, and co-working hubs.
✔️ Foodies – Tons of street food, hotpot restaurants, and hidden snacks.
❌ Light sleepers – The area stays lively late into the night, especially on weekends.
Best Hotels Near Jiefangbei
- Luxury: Niccolo Chongqing – Jaw-dropping skyline views and a sleek modern design right in the heart of the action.
- Mid-Range: Glenview ITC Plaza – Comfortable rooms and great value with easy walkability to malls and the metro.
- Budget: THE HUMBLE River View Hotel – Friendly vibe and stylish budget rooms just a short stroll from the monument.
What to Do Near Jiefangbei?
- Liberation Monument – A historic landmark and great photo spot, especially lit up at night.
- Times Paradise Walk & Starlight Plaza – Best for shoppers and café hoppers.
- Yangtze River Cableway – Just a 10-minute walk to this scenic ride over the water.
- Night strolls – Experience Chongqing’s neon jungle vibes and watch the city come alive.
Food & Dining Nearin Jiefangbei
This area is hotpot heaven, with famous chains like Haidilao and Qiqi Hotpot just around the corner. Try spicy noodles or grilled skewers from side streets like Bayi Road for late-night snacks. If you’re after trendy cafés or fusion food, you’ll find plenty inside nearby malls.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Jiefangbei Station (Line 2 & 6) – perfect for getting around fast.
🚕 From Jiangbei Airport: ~35 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥70–90, about S$12.5-16), or hop on Metro Line 3 for a smoother ride.
Pros & Cons of Staying Nearin Jiefangbei
✅ In the heart of the city
✅ Great for nightlife, shopping, and eating
✅ Easy access to other major attractions
❌ Can be noisy and crowded
❌ Not ideal if you’re after peace and quiet
Ciqikou Ancient Town – Traditional Charm
Ciqikou is a charming riverside ancient town that feels worlds away from the modern hustle of Chongqing. This area is perfect if you want to experience local culture, ancient architecture, and street food while escaping the fast-paced city life.
Who Should Stay Near Ciqikou Ancient Town?
✔️ Culture & history lovers – Wander through ancient streets, visit temples, and see traditional architecture.
✔️ Families – Relaxed and kid-friendly with plenty of cultural sites and hands-on experiences.
✔️ Budget travelers – Affordable guesthouses and street food galore.
❌ Nightlife seekers – This area is quieter after dark with a more relaxed vibe.
Best Hotels Near Ciqikou Ancient Town
- Luxury: Yue Yin Resort Hotel – A blend of comfort and style, offering river views and easy access to the ancient town.
- Mid-Range: Such Mansion – Nice rooms with modern touches, right in the heart of the village.
- Budget: Chongqing Ashan River View Hotel – Cozy, low-cost dorms and rooms with a great local vibe.
What to Do Near Ciqikou Ancient Town?
- Ciqikou Old Street – Stroll down this ancient pedestrian street lined with teahouses, shops, and local delicacies.
- Baoding Mountain – Hike or take a cable car up for panoramic views of the city and surrounding river.
- Jinyun Taoist Temple – Explore this serene temple for a taste of Chongqing’s spiritual history.
- Tea Tasting – Visit local teahouses and learn about traditional tea culture in the region.
Food & Dining Near Ciqikou Ancient Town
Ciqikou is a food lover’s paradise. From sichuan snacks like spicy noodles and dumplings to grilled skewers, you’ll find something at every corner. Don’t miss out on trying kou shui ji (spicy chicken) or chongqing hotpot from one of the many outdoor eateries.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Ciqikou Station (Line 1) – Direct access to the main street of the ancient town.
🚕 From Jiangbei Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥90–110, about S$16-20).
Pros & Cons of Staying in Ciqikou Ancient Town
✅ Perfect for cultural exploration and scenic views
✅ Great food and local experiences
❌ Limited modern amenities
❌ Not much nightlife or major shopping options
Hongya Cave – Nightlife and Culture
Hongya Cave is a stunning combination of culture, history, and nightlife, set along the Jialing River. With its brightly lit, traditional-style buildings hanging on the cliffside, this area offers an unforgettable experience of Chongqing’s past and present, especially when the night lights come on.
Who Should Stay Near Hongya Cave?
✔️ Nightlife lovers – The area comes alive at night with vibrant lights, bars, and restaurants.
✔️ First-time visitors – A must-see for anyone wanting to experience the mix of Chongqing’s history and modern energy.
✔️ Foodies – A great spot for trying local Sichuan snacks and street food.
❌ Families looking for peace and quiet – It can get busy and noisy, especially in the evenings.
Best Hotels Near Hongya Cave
- Luxury: InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City – A luxurious stay with city views and top-tier amenities.
- Mid-Range: ASPERA HIGH-ALTITUDE GARDEN PANORAMIC HOTEL – Located right by the scenic area, offering affordable rooms with fantastic views.
- Budget: Yitel – A great budget option if you want to be in the middle of the action without breaking the bank.
What to Do Near Hongya Cave?
- Hongya Cave Scenic Area – Explore this riverside area with its cliffside buildings, markets, and historic architecture.
- Night View of Jialing River – Don’t miss the breathtaking night view of the river with the lit-up buildings reflecting on the water.
- Visit the Folk Culture Village – Check out local handicrafts and cultural exhibitions.
Food & Dining in Hongya Cave
Food is a big draw here. The night markets are filled with mouth-watering local delicacies like spicy dumplings, sichuan hotpot, and barbecue skewers. Make sure to try xiaomian (Chongqing noodles) at one of the open-air stalls.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Hongya Cave Station (Line 1) – Just a short walk from the scenic area.
🚕 From Jiangbei Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥100–120, about S$18-22).
Pros & Cons of Staying in Hongya Cave
✅ Amazing nightlife and riverside views
✅ Easy access to local culture and street food
❌ Can get crowded and noisy in the evenings
❌ Limited quiet spots for relaxation
Nanping – Modernity and Tradition
Nanping is a dynamic district of Chongqing where the contemporary city vibe meets traditional culture. With its buzzing shopping malls, riverside views, and local markets, it’s a great base for exploring the city’s blend of old and new.
Who Should Stay in Nanping?
✔️ First-time visitors – It’s centrally located, offering easy access to many major attractions.
✔️ Shopping enthusiasts – Nanping is home to some of the best malls and local markets in Chongqing.
✔️ Families – The area is more relaxed, with riverside parks and plenty of kid-friendly activities.
❌ Nightlife seekers – If you're looking for the wild party scene, you might want to look elsewhere.
Best Hotels in Nanping
- Luxury: Chongqing Marriott Hotel – Enjoy luxury with riverside views and modern amenities.
- Mid-Range: Le Meridien Chongqing Nan'an – A comfortable stay with spacious rooms and proximity to shopping and local attractions.
- Budget: Campanile Hotel – A great option for those on a budget, offering basic amenities with a cozy vibe.
What to Do in Nanping?
- Nanping Riverside Park – A relaxing spot to enjoy river views and local greenery.
- Hongji Square – Explore this busy area for shopping and local markets.
- Visit Chongqing's Science and Technology Museum – Great for families or anyone curious about the tech scene in Chongqing.
- Go shopping – Check out the Nanping Pedestrian Street for a range of local goods, clothes, and souvenirs.
Food & Dining in Nanping
Nanping is home to both street food vendors and established eateries. For a local experience, try the Chongqing hotpot or ma la xiang guo (spicy stir-fried dishes). Nanping Street also has a variety of cafes and small restaurants to explore.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Nanping Station (Line 3) – A short walk to get around the area.
🚕 From Jiangbei Airport: ~30 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥80–100, about S$14.5-18).
Pros & Cons of Staying in Nanping
✅ Central location
✅ Relaxing riverside parks
✅ More affordable
❌ Less vibrant nightlife scene
❌ Can feel a bit quieter
Beibei – A Peaceful Retreat
Located a bit further out from the city center, Beibei offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle. Known for its scenic landscapes, traditional culture, and historical attractions, it’s an ideal area to explore nature and enjoy a slower pace.
Who Should Stay in Beibei?
✔️ Nature lovers – Beibei is surrounded by mountains, parks, and rivers.
✔️ History buffs – The area is home to ancient temples and historical sites.
✔️ Families – The peaceful environment and family-friendly attractions make it ideal for those traveling with kids.
❌ Nightlife seekers – Beibei is quieter, with less emphasis on nightlife.
Best Hotels in Beibei
- Luxury: Bolian Resorts & Spa Chongqing – A stylish, top-tier hotel offering amazing mountain views and high-end service.
- Mid-Range: haiyuhotel – A comfortable and affordable stay with easy access to local attractions and parks.
- Budget: Kerui Hotel – Perfect for budget travelers, offering simple rooms with great value.
What to Do in Beibei?
- Chongqing University – Visit this beautiful, old campus with lush greenery and historic buildings.
- Baoding Mountain – Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures with panoramic views of Beibei.
- Beibei Old Town – Explore this charming area for a taste of local life and traditional architecture.
Food & Dining in Beibei
Food in Beibei is a mix of traditional Chongqing flavors and local specialties. Don’t miss the chance to try hotpot at one of the local restaurants or sample dandan noodles from street vendors.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Beibei Station (Line 6) – Provides easy access to the city center.
🚕 From Jiangbei Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥100–120, about S$18-22).
Pros & Cons of Staying in Beibei
✅ Peaceful, less crowded
✅ Surrounded by nature and parks for outdoor activities
✅ More affordable accommodation options
❌ Limited nightlife and shopping options
❌ A bit farther from major tourist attractions
Wulong Karst – Nature’s Majestic Masterpiece
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Wulong Karst is an awe-inspiring destination famous for its dramatic limestone formations, deep ravines, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a place where nature truly shows off its artistry, making it a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers.
Who Should Stay in Wulong Karst?
✔️ Nature lovers – If you crave scenic hikes and jaw-dropping natural beauty, this is your paradise.
✔️ Adventure seekers – The area is packed with thrilling activities like zip-lining, cave explorations, and rock climbing.
✔️ Photographers – The stunning landscapes provide endless photo opportunities.
❌ City dwellers – If you’re looking for a fast-paced, urban experience, Wulong might feel too remote.
Best Hotels in Wulong Karst
- Luxury: Garden Villa on Fairy Mountain – A luxury retreat nestled in nature with elegant rooms and incredible mountain views.
- Mid-Range: Shoyiri-La Hotel – A solid choice offering good value, with easy access to key attractions like the Three Natural Bridges.
- Budget: Xianyi Holiday Hotel – Perfect for backpackers, offering affordable rooms with basic amenities.
What to Do in Wulong Karst?
- Three Natural Bridges – The iconic limestone bridges are the highlight of the area and offer spectacular views.
- Longshuixia Scenic Area – Explore the incredible karst formations and deep canyons.
- Tianlong Bridge – A stunning natural bridge that’s perfect for hiking and photography.
- Shuanghe Cave – A vast cave system that offers exciting tours through underground rivers and chambers.
Food & Dining in Wulong Karst
Dining options in Wulong are more rustic and local, with an emphasis on fresh mountain vegetables, hearty meats, and wild herbs. Try the local pickled fish or mushroom hotpot for an authentic taste of the region.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: No direct metro access; most visitors arrive by bus or private car from Chongqing.
🚕 From Chongqing: ~2.5 hours by taxi (Approx. ¥300–350, about S$54-63).
Pros & Cons of Staying in Wulong Karst
✅ Incredible natural scenery and outdoor activities
✅ Great for adventure tourism and photography
✅ Peaceful and far from the city crowds
❌ Remote, limited amenities and services
❌ Requires some travel time from Chongqing to get there
Chongqing Zoo – Family-Friendly Animal Adventure
If you're a fan of pandas and wildlife, the Chongqing Zoo, particularly the Panda House, is a must-visit. Home to a famous population of giant pandas, this zoo offers an intimate, family-friendly experience to see these adorable creatures up close, along with other local and exotic animals.
Who Should Stay Near Chongqing Zoo?
✔️ Families with kids – The zoo is a hit for all ages, especially with the adorable pandas and engaging exhibits.
✔️ Animal lovers – If you’re fascinated by wildlife, this is one of the best places to see rare species in a well-maintained environment.
✔️ First-time visitors – The zoo provides a fun, accessible way to experience Chinese wildlife.
❌ Nightlife seekers – The area is relatively quiet after hours, with fewer nightlife options.
Best Hotels Near Chongqing Zoo
- Luxury: Howard Johnson Jinyi Hotel Chongqing – Stay here for luxury accommodations, impeccable service, and a quick walk to the zoo.
- Mid-Range: Orange Hotel – A solid choice with spacious rooms and a good location near the zoo and other attractions.
- Budget: Wuxiao Hotel – Affordable, basic accommodations perfect for budget-conscious travelers and families.
What to Do Near Chongqing Zoo?
- Panda House – The highlight of the zoo, where you can see giant pandas in a lush, natural habitat.
- Wildlife Exhibits – Explore other animal enclosures featuring rare species, including South China Tigers and red pandas.
- Xinhua Road Shopping Area – A short drive away, where you can shop for local souvenirs and enjoy delicious street food.
Food & Dining Near Chongqing Zoo
While the zoo itself has small eateries, the surrounding area has some great spots for local food, including hotpot and spicy Sichuan noodles. For more diverse dining, head to Xinhua Road, where you can find various options from local snacks to full meals.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Line 3, Chongqing Zoo Station – Just a short walk from the zoo entrance.
🚕 From Chongqing: ~30 minutes by taxi from the city center (Approx. ¥40-50, about S$7-9).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Chongqing Zoo
✅ Family-friendly, especially for kids and animal lovers
✅ Close to the zoo and wildlife attractions
❌ Limited nightlife in the area
❌ Not a central location for shopping or nightlife
Dazu Rock Carvings – A UNESCO Heritage Site of Ancient Art
The Dazu Rock Carvings are a spectacular display of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian art carved into cliffs over 1,000 years ago. Located just outside Chongqing, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into China’s rich spiritual history, with thousands of intricate sculptures and detailed carvings scattered across multiple sites.
Who Should Stay Near Dazu Rock Carvings?
✔️ History and culture enthusiasts – If you're fascinated by ancient art and history, this is a must-visit.
✔️ First-time visitors – It’s a unique cultural experience, perfect for those exploring Chongqing's historical depth.
✔️ Photographers – The carvings and surrounding natural beauty make for incredible photo opportunities.
❌ Nightlife lovers – The area is more historical and peaceful, with little to no nightlife.
Best Hotels Near Dazu Rock Carvings
- Luxury: Hetang Hanshe Chongqing – Stay here for comfortable accommodations and a serene atmosphere, perfect after a day of exploring the carvings.
- Mid-Range: My Family Courtyard Home stay – A well-located, affordable option with convenient access to the rock carvings and local attractions.
- Budget: Chongqing Baoding Xiaozhu – Simple and affordable, ideal for budget travelers visiting the rock carvings.
What to Do Near Dazu Rock Carvings?
- Dazu Rock Carvings – The highlight of the area, featuring over 50,000 statues and intricate stone carvings.
- Beishan Stone Carvings – Another remarkable site with a variety of Buddhist-themed sculptures.
- Baoding Mountain – A beautiful nearby location with impressive rock carvings and peaceful surroundings.
Food & Dining Near Dazu Rock Carvings
The area is known for local Sichuan cuisine, including spicy hotpot and sichuan-style dumplings. While options are more limited, small restaurants near the carvings serve authentic, flavorful dishes. For a more diverse experience, try the food stalls offering quick snacks along the way.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: No direct metro connection; the area is best reached by long-distance bus or private car from downtown Chongqing.
🚕 From Chongqing: ~1.5-hour drive from the city center (Approx. ¥100-150 by taxi, about S$18-27).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Dazu Rock Carvings
✅ Incredible historical and cultural experience.
✅ Peaceful and scenic surroundings.
✅ Great for photographers and history lovers.
❌ Limited dining and entertainment options.
❌ Requires travel time to get to Chongqing city center.
Yangtze River – The Lifeblood of China
The Yangtze River is not just a river; it's an iconic symbol of China's history, culture, and natural beauty. Flowing for over 6,300 kilometers, the Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and one of the longest in the world. In Chongqing, it cuts through the city, offering breathtaking views, river cruises, and plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape.
Who Should Stay Near the Yangtze River?
✔️ Nature lovers – Enjoy the scenic views and river cruises that offer a unique perspective of the city.
✔️ Photography enthusiasts – The Yangtze provides stunning sunrise and sunset views, ideal for capturing beautiful moments.
✔️ Couples or romantics – A river cruise or a peaceful walk along the water makes for a memorable experience.
❌ Nightlife lovers – The area is more about tranquil riverside experiences than vibrant nightlife.
Best Hotels Near the Yangtze River
- Luxury: Chongqing Ronghui Grand Hotel – Situated along the river, this hotel offers fantastic river views, world-class amenities, and a perfect base for exploring the area.
- Mid-Range: Glenview ITC PLAZA Chongqing – A modern, riverside hotel with great access to the city center.
- Budget: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Chongqing Yubei – Ideal for budget travelers, this place offers affordable rooms with scenic views of the river.
What to Do Near the Yangtze River?
- Yangtze River Cruise – A must-do experience, offering beautiful views of the city, the river, and surrounding landscapes.
- Three Gorges Museum – Learn about the river’s history and its impact on China, including the famous Three Gorges Dam.
- Chongqing Liberation Monument – Explore the iconic landmark with views of the Yangtze from nearby.
Food & Dining Near the Yangtze River
The area is perfect for enjoying spicy Sichuan cuisine, with many riverside restaurants offering hotpot, noodles, and dumplings. Many restaurants have outdoor seating where you can enjoy the food while taking in the river views. If you're looking for something unique, check out the riverfront seafood stalls for fresh and affordable eats.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Line 1 at Jiefangbei Station or Line 2 at Chongqing Station.
🚕 From Chongqing City Center: Easily accessible by taxi (~10-15 minutes from major downtown areas).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near the Yangtze River
✅ Stunning views and relaxing river cruises.
✅ Great for nature lovers and photographers.
✅ Peaceful and scenic atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
❌ Less nightlife and entertainment.
❌ Can be far from the main shopping and business districts.
Jiangbei International Airport – Convenient & Accessible
Chongqing's Jiangbei International Airport is the main gateway for both domestic and international travelers. Located just a short drive from the city center, the airport is well-connected and offers modern facilities, making it a popular choice for those looking to stay close to transport hubs.
Who Should Stay Near Jiangbei International Airport?
✔️ Business travelers – Convenient location with easy access to the airport and business districts.
✔️ Layover travelers – Perfect for those with short stays or layovers.
✔️ Budget travelers – Plenty of affordable hotels and transportation options available.
❌ Tourists seeking city experiences – Not ideal if you want to explore the vibrant city life, as it’s further from key attractions.
Best Hotels Near Jiangbei International Airport
- Luxury: Not many luxury hotels around the airport.
- Mid-Range: Ibis Hotel – An affordable yet comfortable stay, with easy airport access.
- Budget: Yu Nian City Homestay – Great for budget travelers, offering simple, clean rooms at a reasonable price.
What to Do Near Jiangbei International Airport?
- Jiangbei Central Park – A quiet green space ideal for relaxing or taking a walk after a long flight.
- Jiangbei Pedestrian Street – A popular shopping area for travelers staying nearby.
Food & Dining Near Jiangbei International Airport
Though the area around the airport isn't known for high-end dining, there are plenty of local restaurants and food courts offering hotpot and Sichuan cuisine. For travelers on the go, you’ll find many quick eateries serving local snacks and fast food.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest Metro: Line 3 at Jiangbei Airport Station, providing easy access to downtown Chongqing.
🚕 From Airport to City Center: Around 20-30 minutes by taxi (~¥50-70, about S$9-12.5).
Pros & Cons of Staying Near Jiangbei International Airport
✅ Convenient for layovers and quick airport access.
✅ Affordable accommodation options.
✅ Easy connection to transportation networks.
❌ Further from major tourist attractions.
❌ Limited dining and entertainment.
Find the Perfect Neighborhood for Your Chongqing Adventure
Chongqing offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, with every neighborhood offering its own slice of the city's charm. Whether you're looking to be close to the famous hotpot restaurants, the Yangtze River, or the vibrant nightlife, choosing the right area will make your trip unforgettable.
Now that you know the best places to stay in Chongqing, it’s time to book your accommodation and start your adventure. Need help? Compare options for your flight to Chongqing and check out the latest travel promotions. Don’t forget to grab a China eSIM to stay connected on the go!