Top 50 Best Things to Do in Xiamen
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Top 50 Best Things to Do in Xiamen

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Kulangsutop_1
    󰺂8.7
    0.93
    Xiamen.Gulangyu Scenic Area4.5 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoCapture Kulangsu’s orange-hued horizon at sunset
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱓊Taste authentic Hokkien snacks on Kulangsu
    Regular diverse concerts held
    󱨠Saved by 2096 users󱨠17090 positive reviews
    4.4/5
    M25***74M25***74

    The tour guide was very responsible and communicated with you in advance about the pick-up location and other important information. On the bus, the guide interacted with everyone, teaching some local dialect, explaining the sights, and telling jokes. The guide was very humorous.

  • Xiamen Botanical Gardentop_2
    󰺂8.5
    5.55
    Xiamen.Xiamen University Area4.1 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱨜Exotic Flowers and Trees: Trending Spot
    󱓊40,000 sq ft rare cacti
    󱨠Saved by 1188 users󱨠13694 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    Five stars! A fantastic day trip to Nanputuo Temple and Gulangyu Island – kudos to tour guide Zhou! Today's Xiamen day trip was incredibly satisfying! Tour guide Zhou was professional and attentive – a perfect score is a must! Tour guide Zhou picked us up on time this morning, arranged the Nanputuo Temple reservation in advance, and provided a vivid and detailed explanation of the temple's history and the origins of the Buddha statues. In the afternoon, we visited Gulangyu Island. His planned route avoided the crowds, taking us to popular photo spots and Lin Yutang's former residence. His explanations were meticulous and detailed, making the stories behind the attractions captivating. The pace was comfortable throughout, with no forced spending. Tour guide Zhou patiently answered all our questions, and he took good care of both the elderly and children. Highly recommended! I'll definitely choose him again next time I'm in Xiamen!

  • Zhonggu Cablewaytop_3
    󰺂8.4
    36.62
    Xiamen.Zhongshan Road Area3.1 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊82 cabins reduce wait time
    3280 ft skywalk for Zhonggu & Drum Hills
    󱨠Saved by 1278 users󱨠5595 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    It's a bit pricey, but quite fun. You can't get off the cable car; it's a round trip. It requires two people per car; if you're traveling alone, you'll need to share. A round trip takes about 40 minutes, which is pretty accurate. There was no queue when I went. You can see the sea view, but on the return trip, it's mostly building views 😂

  • Hulishan Fortress
    4
    󰺂7.7
    4.63
    Xiamen.Xiamen University Area5.9 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Xiamen
    Highlights:
    󱓊Overlook Xiamen's ocean views
    Daily Red Barbarian Cannon & Qing drill
    󱨠Saved by 272 users󱨠6815 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    M27***90M27***90

    🎉Hulishan Fortress is truly amazing value! 🏯The ancient cannons on display are breathtaking, brimming with historical charm👏. 🌳The lush greenery and tranquil environment make for fantastic photo opportunities📸. 🎯The cannons are exquisitely detailed, offering a highly interactive experience👍. The staff are warm, attentive, and provide professional explanations💬. Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations and is definitely worth a visit🌟!!

  • Xiamen Science & Technology Museum
    5
    󰺂7.5
    18.31
    Xiamen.SM City Square Area2.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱨜Near Gulangyu & other attractions
    3 theaters for immersive experience
    󱨠Saved by 523 users󱨠8542 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    M51***54M51***54

    This stay was absolutely perfect! I was worried about not having enough time for breakfast because of my early morning schedule, but when I mentioned it to the front desk, they opened the dining area for us half an hour early. The hot porridge and snacks instantly soothed my fatigue from getting up early. They also kindly helped me extend my check-out time, so I didn't have to rush to pack my luggage. True quality is shown in the details; such heartwarming service will definitely make me choose this hotel again next time! (006.008: Enthusiastic attitude)

  • South Putuo Temple
    6
    󰺂7.5
    Xiamen.Xiamen University Area4.3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    Pray & taste vegetarian meals & cakes
    󰋄Temples on hills overlook university
    󱨠Saved by 853 users󱨠843 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    张家老飞侠张家老飞侠

    Stepping into Nanputuo Temple, the aroma of incense mingles with the fragrance of ancient wood. Red walls and gray tiles reflect the blue sky, wind chimes tinkle softly on the eaves, and solemn Buddha statues stand within, where devout worshippers kneel in prayer. Walking around to the back of the temple, stone steps lead to Wulao Peak, lush with greenery along the way, where you might occasionally see monks strolling by. After descending the mountain, don't forget to try the vegetarian pastries outside the temple; the mung bean filling is sweet and refreshing. Here, there is no hustle and bustle, only a tranquil peace that calms the mind; even the wind carries a touch of Zen.

  • Lujiang Night Cruise
    7
    󰺂7.3
    23.67
    Xiamen.Zhongshan Road Area3.5 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Night Attractions
    Highlights:
    󱓊Xiamen nightscape & landmarks
    Boat trip with Fujian puppet show & food
    󱨠Saved by 815 users󱨠2211 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    M2i***f6M2i***f6

    Xiao Bao really loves boat rides. We bought a tourist annual pass for a free night cruise on the Lujiang River, a one-hour journey that allowed us to fully enjoy the Xiamen night view. The boat has three decks: the first deck has plenty of seating, the second deck offers stunning views of the riverside for photos, and the third deck offers the best panoramic views. The cruise passes by attractions such as Gulangyu Island, the Ferris wheel, and the Twin Towers. There are photographers on the top deck who take pictures, and you can also purchase larger photos.

  • The Jimei School Village
    8
    󰺂7.2
    Xiamen.Jimei School Village/Xinglin Bay/Yuanbo Garden9.6 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoA Guide to Sunsets in Jimei: Discover New Surprises While Exploring the City
    trip best small logoNo. 3 of Night Attractions in Xiamen
    Highlights:
    󱓊Minnan-style buildings, scenic seas
    Stone garden, fine carvings
    󱨠Saved by 421 users󱨠294 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    The Milky Way^🦋The Milky Way^🦋

    Who knows! Choosing the right hotel during a trip to Xiamen is such a huge plus 😭 This time, while exploring Jimei University Village, I immediately booked the Jinjiang Inn Premium Hotel. The entire stay was incredibly relaxing, perfectly matching my desired slow-paced Xiamen travel rhythm. The hotel's location is simply divine! It's only a 20-minute bike ride to Jimei University Village subway station, avoiding the morning rush hour and making daily coffee breaks a breeze ✨ Want to explore Cong Coffee and Centimeter Coffee on Shigu Road? A 15-minute bike ride away; in the evening, a 10-minute taxi ride to the Ten-Mile Causeway to chase the sunset makes the return trip effortless. For those wanting to explore Jimei University Village in depth, this location is a treasure trove of a transportation hub! The room's comfort far exceeded my expectations! Stepping through the door reveals a pristine, gleaming environment. The soft mattress and clean bedding make it incredibly relaxing; after a day of sightseeing, collapsing onto the bed instantly washes away fatigue, leading to a sound sleep. The separate wet and dry areas in the bathroom are a thoughtful touch, and a hot shower is a complete rejuvenator. The breakfast was a delightful surprise! The Minnan-style peanut soup was smooth and sweet, and the rice noodle soup was absolutely divine. No need to search for traditional restaurants; the hotel itself offers an authentic local experience, bringing immense happiness! What truly touched me was the hotel's "transitional" feel—escaping the hustle and bustle of the city while seamlessly immersing myself in the artistic atmosphere of Jimei University Village. Returning to the hotel in the evening, passing by the surrounding Minnan-style traditional houses, the warm yellow lights illuminating the walls covered in bougainvillea, and the evening breeze carrying the aromas of nearby shops, instantly relieved the stress of my journey, creating a truly immersive atmosphere. The receptionist even proactively shared a map of Jimei's attractions and reminded me of the coffee season activities—these thoughtful details touched my heart. During this trip to Xiamen, the Jinjiang Hotel felt like a truly therapeutic transit point. It lacked lavish decorations, but its convenient transportation, comfortable amenities, and attentive service made my leisurely trip in Xiamen a breeze. Next time I'm in Xiamen, I'll definitely stay here again! Spending more time enjoying the scenery instead of wasting time on the road – that's the right way to travel!

  • Huandao Road
    9
    󰺂7.2
    Xiamen.Xiamen University Area5.2 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 4 of Night Attractions in Xiamen
    Highlights:
    Leisurely bike ride past landmarks
    󰋄Coastal walk with blue sea & golden sands
    󱨠Saved by 629 users󱨠1304 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    一起去看世界的风景一起去看世界的风景

    The essence of Pingtan's northern route lies in the drive from the "most beautiful island ring road" towards Jingsha and Changjiang'ao. As the car follows the S-shaped coastal curve, verdant mountains rise to the left and the boundless blue sea to the right. White windmills stretch along the distant mountain ridges, the air thick with the salty scent of the sea. Every turn reveals a delightful surprise, compelling you to capture it all. Leaving the main road and turning towards Jingsha is like stepping into the secret realm of Iceland. Gray-black volcanic rocks carpet the coast, their sharp edges sculpted by millennia of waves. Colliding with the azure waters, they create snow-white spray, instantly evoking a desolate yet soothing atmosphere. At low tide, the beach reveals winding rock caves, sunlight filtering through the rock walls onto the damp black stones, creating a cinematic effect with its interplay of light and shadow. Standing on the wooden boardwalk in a simple dress, with the surging waves and dark rocks behind you, every snapshot is a poignant "end of the world" masterpiece. Remember to wear non-slip shoes when traversing the reefs and stay away from the cliff edges to safely capture this wild beauty. Starting from Jingsha, continue along the island ring road. A 15-minute drive will take you to the windmill wonderland of Changjiang'ao. Dozens of pristine white windmills stand between the sea and sky, their massive blades slowly turning, creating a magnificent yet romantic scene against the backdrop of the vast mudflats and azure sea. In the afternoon, when the sun is shining brightly, the windmills cast dappled shadows on the lawn. Cyclists glide across the road, their silhouettes framing the windmills, creating a refreshingly Japanese atmosphere. As evening falls, this becomes the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The afterglow paints the sky with a pink-gold gradient, turning the windmills, sea, and mudflats into a warm orange-red. The receding tide transforms the beach into a mirror, reflecting the glow of the sunset and the spinning windmills. Every snapshot is a heart-warming sunset masterpiece. This short stretch of road holds the most captivating beauty of Pingtan's northern route: the black reefs of Jingsha are a stark poem of mountains and sea, the windmills of Changjiang'ao are a gentle footnote to the sunset, and the most beautiful island ring road connecting them is the link that brings the scenery to life. There's no need to deliberately search for a good spot; you can stop at any of the roadside parking spots. The sea breeze, the waves, and the sounds of the windmills are the most beautiful background music for your travel photography. Every press of the shutter is a heartfelt embrace with this landscape of mountains and sea.

  • Zhongshanlu Pedestrian Street
    10
    󰺂7.0
    Xiamen.Zhongshan Road Area3 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoChina's only sea-view metro: Xiamen Metro Line 1, scenic throughout
    trip best small logoNo. 5 of Night Attractions in Xiamen
    Highlights:
    󱤎Nighttime lights, food & old brands
    󱓊Historic street with exquisite arcades
    󱨠Saved by 943 users󱨠672 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    🌹岁岁年年🌹🌹岁岁年年🌹

    Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is a distinctive tourist route in Xiamen, often hosting events like Xiamen Fashion Week and anime character cosplay, attracting many young tourists. The architecture itself bears the marks of its time, with many featuring Nanyang-style arcades.

Best things to do in Xiamen (2026)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Xiamen? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Xiamen offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Xiamen

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Xiamen experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Kulangsu

• Xiamen.Gulangyu Scenic Area | 4.5 km from downtown

• : Taste authentic Hokkien snacks on Kulangsu,Regular diverse concerts held

Xiamen Botanical Garden

• Xiamen.Xiamen University Area | 4.1 km from downtown

• : Exotic Flowers and Trees: Trending Spot,40,000 sq ft rare cacti

Zhonggu Cableway

• Xiamen.Zhongshan Road Area | 3.1 km from downtown

• : 82 cabins reduce wait time,3280 ft skywalk for Zhonggu & Drum Hills

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Xiamen

If you want to explore attractions just outside Xiamen, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Xiamen, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Xiamen special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Xiamen

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Xiamen

Ready to explore the best of Xiamen? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are the best things to do in Xiamen?
The best things to do in Xiamen include: Kulangsu|Xiamen Botanical Garden|Zhonggu Cableway|Hulishan Fortress|Xiamen Science & Technology Museum. These activities offer a mix of cultural experiences, sightseeing, and entertainment suitable for all types of travelers.
How much do the top attractions in Xiamen cost?
Kulangsu:From SGD 0.93|Xiamen Botanical Garden:From SGD 5.55|Zhonggu Cableway:From SGD 36.62|Hulishan Fortress:From SGD 4.63|Xiamen Science & Technology Museum:From SGD 18.31
What amenities or facilities can I expect at top attractions in Xiamen?
Most attractions in Xiamen provide facilities such as visitor centers, guided tours, parking, rest areas, dining options, and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable experience.
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