Hefei Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Things to do & Itinerary | Trip.com | January, 2026

About Hefei

Recommended trip: 1–3 day(s)

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Hefei Local Travel Guide 2026

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Hefei Brief Guide

Hefei is a historic site of the Three Kingdoms Period and the hometown of Bao Zheng. Hefei is rich in tourism resources of all kinds to meet the varying wants and desires of travelers. The waterside cloisters and balconied pavilions combine to create the variegated style of Xiaoyaojin Park. The dignified hall of Judge Bao is said to be just like a "green shell on a silver plate". Outside the city you can visit the Sanhe Ancient Town, with its characteristic Hui-style architecture, and the two outlying forest preserves of Zipeng Mountain and Dashu Mountain. Wandering around the mountains, the meandering waters and lush forests paint an idyllic picture of the natural landscape intertwined with a sense of culture.

Hefei Must-try local experiences

1. Discover Hefei's Historic Treasures Visit Mingjiao Temple, Lord Bao Memorial Temple, and Anhui Museum to explore Hefei's rich history and cultural heritage. 2. Visit the Hefei Science and Technology Museum The Hefei Science and Technology Museum offers interactive exhibits and a fun, educational experience for all ages. 3. Discover the Sanhe Ancient Town Sanhe Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical area with traditional architecture, ancient bridges, and narrow streets, showcasing old Hefei's charm. 4. Experience the Hefei Wildlife Park Hefei Wildlife Park offers an educational and fun experience with a variety of animals, promoting wildlife conservation. 5. Delve into the World of Traditional Chinese Opera Experience Huangmei Opera at the Anhui Huangmei Opera Theatre, with its elaborate costumes, expressive singing, and captivating storytelling. 6. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit markets and workshops to see traditional Anhui handicrafts like paper-cutting, bamboo weaving, and inkstone carving, perfect for unique souvenirs. 7. Savor the Flavors of Hefei Embark on a culinary adventure with local specialties like hairy tofu and Luzhou Roast Duck. 8. Shop for Souvenirs and Local Products Explore Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street and Sanxiaokou Shopping Area for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and unique treasures. 9. Enjoy a Scenic Cruise Take a relaxing river cruise along the Fei River to soak in the city's charm and gentle breeze, or head to Chaohu Lake for stunning views and a peaceful escape, perfect for a serene boat ride.

Hefei Must-see Attractions

Hefei, a city rich in cultural and historical sites, features attractions such as the Ming and Qing-style Sanhe Ancient Town, the scenic Lord Bao Park, the educational Former Residence of Li Hongzhang, the culturally enriching Anhui Museum, and the historically significant Hefei Rongchuang Park, making it a compelling destination for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.

Hefei Food Guide

Hefei offers an eclectic mix of culinary delights, from the historically rich and complex Li Hongzhang Chop Suey, to authentic street food like Furong Egg Rolls, the sweet and traditional Osmanthus and Red Bean Paste, and the distinctively flavored Smelly Mandarin Fish, offering a varied gastronomic experience for food enthusiasts.

Hefei Transportation

Hefei's transportation network is well-developed, with Hefei Xinqiao International Airport and Hefei South Railway Station being the major hubs for intercity travel. Hefei Xinqiao International Airport (IATA: HFE) is the primary airport serving the region, located about 40 kilometers from the city center. It operates a wide range of domestic and international flights, connecting Hefei with major cities globally. To reach the city from the airport, passengers can use shuttle bus services with various lines and stops, or take a taxi. Hefei South Railway Station, a comprehensive transportation hub, is situated in Baohe District and serves as a key point for high-speed long-distance trains. It is connected to the city via Hefei Metro Lines 1, 4, and 5, offering easy access to various parts of the city. The station itself is equipped with multiple levels, including waiting areas, ticket offices, and a range of transportation options like city buses and taxis.

Hefei Where to Stay

Hefei is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of accommodation areas, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. The city's hotels and places to stay are spread across various districts, providing visitors with a wide array of choices to suit their preferences and travel needs. From bustling commercial centers to serene lakeside districts, Hefei's accommodation scene caters to both business and leisure travelers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Hefei Best Time to Visit

The optimal period to visit Hefei is during autumn, specifically from August to October, when the weather is quite favorable with crisp fall days. This season offers a comfortable climate for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying the natural beauty without the hindrance of extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall. Additionally, spring, from March to May, presents a mild and pleasant climate, making it another recommended time for a visit, especially for those interested in the city's blooming flora and cultural events. However, it is worth noting that spring can be rainier, which may affect outdoor activities.

Hefei Useful Guide

The official language of Hefei, a city in Anhui Province, China, is Mandarin Chinese, specifically Hefei Mandarin, a sub-branch of Jianghuai Mandarin. While Mandarin serves as a lingua franca, Hefei's Mandarin dialect has unique phonetic characteristics. Translation services, including language apps and professional interpreters, are available to assist travelers. The city's multilingualism is less prevalent, but English is spoken in tourist areas and major cities. For effective communication, travelers are encouraged to learn basic Mandarin phrases and use non-verbal cues like gestures.