Top Things to do in Xiamen: Best Activities & Must-Sees

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By Tina

September 21, 2026

Top Things to do in Xiamen: Best Activities & Must-Sees

Xiamen combines seaside walks, Buddhist temples, tropical gardens, and neighbourhoods full of small cafés. Located opposite the Taiwan Strait, this city in Fujian province has a more relaxed atmosphere than other large Chinese cities and is a good option to include in a route through the south of the country.

At Trip.com, we'll tell you about the main places to see in Xiamen, the best areas to stay, recommendations based on the length of your trip, and several tips for organising each visit.

📍 What to Do in Xiamen Based on Your Stay

Best for

Recommendation

2-day getaway

Gulangyu, South Putuo Temple, Zhongshan Road and Shapowei

3-day trip

Add the Botanical Garden, the Zhonggu Cable Car and Huandao Road

Couples' trip

Gulangyu, coastal walk and Lujiang night cruise

Family trip

Botanical Garden, Hulishan Fortress and Jimei School Village

Solo trip

Zhongshan Road, South Putuo, Shapowei and Gulangyu

Cultural trip

Gulangyu, South Putuo, Hulishan and the Jimei district

💡 Did you know…? Gulangyu Island was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017. Its architecture reflects the cultural exchange that took place when Xiamen became an international trading port during the 19th century.

🏙️ Must-Visit Districts in Xiamen

Zhongshan Road: local atmosphere and historic architecture

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street in the centre of Xiamen.

Zhongshan Road is one of the most well-known streets in the centre of Xiamen. Its arcade buildings combine influences from southern China and Southeast Asia, while traditional shops sit alongside restaurants, boutiques, and food stalls.

The area really comes to life at sunset. It’s a great spot to try some local snacks, pick up a souvenir, and wind down after returning from Gulangyu.

📌 Trip Tip: explore the side streets too. They tend to be less crowded and retain a more everyday atmosphere.

Shapowei: Xiamen's creative side

This former fishing port has been transformed into one of the city's most creative neighbourhoods. In its streets, you'll find design studios, cafés, independent shops, and cultural spaces housed in old industrial buildings.

Shapowei is close to Xiamen University and the South Putuo Temple, making it easy to combine all three spots into the same day.

Zeng Cuo An: near the coast

Zeng Cuo An has transformed from a small fishing village into a lively area, known for its accommodation, restaurants, and food stalls. Its location next to Huandao Road provides easy access to the beaches and allows you to cycle along part of the coast.

It's an interesting alternative if you prefer to stay away from the centre.

Jimei: architecture, education and history

Architecture of Jimei School Village in Xiamen.

To the north of the main island lies Jimei, a district linked to the figure of Tan Kah Kee, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who championed numerous educational projects. The area is notable for its Jiageng-style buildings, which combine Western elements with traditional Chinese roofs.

Its points of interest include Jimei School Village, the Dragon Boat Pond and Ao Garden. You can get there by metro and spend about half a day there.

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Top Hotels in Xiamen

5 star

9.3/10Very Good2687 Reviews
Bailuzhou Scenic Area Xiamen|0.74km from city centre
This was my first stay at the Pan Pacific Xiamen, and I was really impressed. The staff were all incredibly polite, friendly, and welcoming. A special thanks goes to Manager Zeng at the front desk, who assigned a room that perfectly suited my preferences, making my stay smooth and comfortable. The hotel's location is also fantastic – right next to a subway entrance and bus stops, with everything you could need nearby. It's also very close to Dongdu Wharf and Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, which was incredibly convenient.
From€46
9.4/10Outstanding2858 Reviews
Bailuzhou Scenic Area Xiamen|0.7km from city centre
My overall stay exceeded expectations; I'm very satisfied. Both the hotel's facilities and service deserve a full five-star rating. The room itself was clean and bright, with well-maintained furniture and appliances. The air conditioning provided stable cooling, which was great. The bathroom facilities were in perfect working order, with ample water pressure and instant hot water. The bedding was fluffy and soft, leading to excellent rest quality, and the room offered plenty of storage space with all necessary amenities provided. The hotel's public areas were tidy and elegant, well-maintained, and public facilities were neatly arranged, making for a comfortable experience upon entry and exit. The front desk staff were warm and friendly – very pleasing. Check-in was swift and efficient, and they provided detailed and thorough answers to my inquiries, quickly responding to any needs I raised. Room service was meticulous and professional; the room was thoroughly cleaned, consumables were replenished promptly, and the service was discreet and non-intrusive. From the maintenance of the hardware facilities to the service provided by the frontline staff, you can truly feel the hotel's high standard of management. My entire stay was reassuring and pleasant. It's suitable for both business travel and short leisure trips, offering outstanding value for money. I will prioritize staying here again when I'm in the area and would gladly recommend it to friends who are traveling. I really liked it.
From€50
9.3/10Very Good3007 Reviews
Bailuzhou Scenic Area Xiamen|1.4km from city centre
Overall, it was a good stay. The room facilities were moderately new, and the bathroom was quite nice, though it was a bit disappointing not to have a smart toilet. The room was very clean, and the view was also good. Breakfast offered a wide variety of choices. As an international brand, the service was impeccable and very thoughtful. For this price point in Xiamen, it offers excellent value for money. It's worth mentioning that the Japanese Teppanyaki on the second floor is great value; the 129 yuan single set meal offers a generous amount of food.
From€77
9.3/10Very Good9788 Reviews
Zhongshan Road and Ferry Area Xiamen|3.51km from city centre
First, four points that deserve high praise: 1. **Excellent Service:** Staff were always on hand at the hotel lobby entrance to help with car doors and luggage when getting in or out. 2. **Spacious Design:** The hotel lobby has a grand, high-ceiling design, and the rooms are sufficiently spacious. 3. **Well-Equipped Gym:** The gym is large and has a wide variety of equipment. 4. **Varied Breakfast:** The breakfast selection is extensive. And three points that need improvement: 1. **Unpleasant Odor:** The hallway on the 16th floor, as well as my room, had a strange smell like a laundry room and drainage pipes. The indoor ventilation was poor. 2. **Insufficient Delivery Robots:** There weren't enough delivery robots, so most food deliveries had to be left in a locker in the hotel parking lot, requiring guests to go down and pick them up themselves. 3. **Limited Power Outlets:** The double room only had one power outlet by the bed, which isn't very convenient for guests staying in this room type.
From€73
9.1/10Good3574 Reviews
Bailuzhou Scenic Area Xiamen|0.89km from city centre
My stay at Pullman Xiamen Powerlong was fantastic. It's right by Yundang Lake, so after dinner, I enjoyed a lovely stroll along the lake, admiring the beautiful lake views and city lights. The front desk service was friendly and efficient; they gave me great practical advice on local attractions and food. The room assigned by the lady at the front desk was clean and comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. Plus, there's a heated pool perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. The location is excellent, making it a worthwhile choice for a trip to Xiamen.
From€46

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Family friendly

9.1/10Good2854 Reviews
IslandRingBlvd/Huangcuo Beach/Convention Center Xiamen|8.53km from city centre
The hotel boasts an excellent location and a magnificent building. The rooms are spacious, and the surroundings are beautiful. The butler service was great, even providing complimentary fruit. It's right on the beach, and the breakfast spread was particularly extensive. However, the hotel is a bit old, and some facilities are in need of replacement or maintenance.
From€66
9.4/10Outstanding8816 Reviews
IslandRingBlvd/Huangcuo Beach/Convention Center Xiamen|7.72km from city centre
I spent the whole day at the hotel, enjoying the quiet and beautiful atmosphere. However, it's not always easy to find peace and quiet at Haiyue Villa, haha, because it's full of families with kids. You'll find children of all ages, from babies in arms to preschoolers in strollers and elementary school kids running around. Teenagers might find it a bit boring. When I was planning, I debated for a long time because some reviews mentioned it was an older hotel, about ten years old. But honestly, I found it perfectly acceptable. The overall decor isn't super luxurious; the sofa and carpet patterns might be a bit old-fashioned, and it's not very high-tech, but the overall comfort was good, and my daughter loved it here. The hotel is right next to Huangcuo Beach, just across the road. As soon as you enter the grounds, you feel instantly relaxed – full vacation mode! It's a huge property, lush with green trees, like a whole resort area itself. It's divided into the Main Building, Water Garden, and Mountain Villa, with prices increasing accordingly. We booked a Deluxe Sea View room on the 4th floor and got a free upgrade on arrival to a Nalong (Milk Dragon) themed full sea view room on the 5th floor. The view was even more expansive, overlooking the pool, green trees, the ocean, and ships – absolutely beautiful, comparable to Sanya. The room was spacious, 46 square meters, with a round bathtub on the balcony where you could soak while enjoying the sea view. That experience was absolutely amazing. The Nalong theme was everywhere! There were Nalong duvet covers, two adorable Nalong plushies and throw pillows on the bed, a Nalong mat on the floor, and Nalong murals on the walls. Most importantly, there was a sizable Nalong tent, which kids would surely love. I have to rave about the swimming pools. In the main building area, we visited the outdoor infinity pool and several other pools downstairs from the guest rooms. Not only were the pool views stunning, but they were also quite clean, and there were plenty of lifeguards. Swim rings and kickboards were provided free of charge, and there were also some paid activities to choose from. Through the pool area, there's a small gate that you can open with your room card. After walking through an underpass, you arrive at Huangcuo Beach. Swimming doesn't seem to be allowed, but everyone was wading and playing in the water. Even though it's a public beach, it wasn't crowded. The sand was quite fine, and the waves weren't too big, though there were occasional bits of floating trash. The breakfast buffet was good, but it was incredibly crowded and noisy. If you went later, you'd have to queue. They offered a variety of Southern Fujian (Minan) snacks, and the Satay noodles, Mianxian paste, Guo Bian Hu (pot-side paste), and Peanut Soup were all delicious 😋 The fried dough sticks, pudding, and oatmeal bowls were also very tasty 😋 Oh, by the way, our butler, Xiao Bin, provided excellent service! He helped me book dinner reservations and even arranged a two-hour late check-out! Highly recommended!
From€83
9.6/10Excellent4644 Reviews
Aluohai Plaza/Songyu Ferry Xiamen|3.46km from city centre
This stay was incredibly comfortable! Our butler, Sophia, was absolutely wonderful – she promptly took care of any request we had. She was so attentive and thoughtful, making sure we didn't have to worry about a thing throughout our stay. The hotel's sea view is absolutely breathtaking; the room offers a super open vista of the endless ocean, which is incredibly healing to look at. Overall, a perfect experience, highly recommended!
From€55
9.2/10Very Good794 Reviews
Huli Industrial Park Xiamen|2.33km from city centre
Le Méridien Xiamen Garden View Balcony King Room Stay Review: A Healing Retreat Amidst a Full House The sky had already darkened upon arrival. Winding our way up the tree-lined paths of Xian'gueshan Mountain, the air gradually became moist and cool. It felt like a magical escape from the bustling, humid city, into a 'city oasis' nestled in the mountains. The moment I opened the room door after checking in, the fatigue from the journey instantly melted away. Room | A Mountain Holiday Opened by a Courtyard The room felt very spacious, with a layout of about 40 square meters that was just right. What surprised me the most, naturally, was the exquisite private balcony. Le Méridien's room types each offer different views, and I chose the garden view balcony room specifically for a quiet, relaxing stay. After all, in a mountain setting surrounded by dense vegetation, a few insects are perfectly normal, and the garden view neatly sidestepped that issue. Opening the window in the morning, the lush green central courtyard came into view. Instead of the city's hustle and bustle, I heard the crisp, pleasant chirping of morning birds and the sweet, fresh air blowing from the mountains. I couldn't help but close my eyes and take several deep breaths. Returning to the room in the evening, I lay on the balcony chair, clearing my mind, sipping an iced cola while enjoying the mountain breeze—this is exactly what a vacation should be like. The room's hardware can be summed up in two words: solid and reliable. Beyond being clean and tidy, the 'rainforest' shower's stable water pressure and temperature were truly impressive. The hotel also thoughtfully implemented a dry-wet separation in the bathroom, completely eliminating the awkwardness of worrying about splashing the toilet while showering. The experience was very comfortable and smooth. The bedding, as always, maintained Le Méridien's high standards, soft, fluffy, and supportive, allowing me to sleep soundly until I woke up naturally. Environment | French Romance Hidden in the Mountains If the guest room brought surprise, then the entire hotel environment was stunning. Le Méridien Xiamen's location is meticulously chosen, nestled charmingly on the mountainside of Xian'gueshan. The overall architectural style leans towards a resort villa, so secluded and tranquil that it doesn't feel like it's in the bustling downtown area of the island. Compared to many coastal hotels that face the humidity and noise of sea winds, the mountain landscape here truly provides another level of spiritual enjoyment. The hotel's artistic atmosphere, from the corridors to the public spaces, everywhere you can feel the unique imprint of French aesthetics. Whether it's the artistic flair of the chandeliers or the fragrance in the lobby, everything constantly reminds me that I'm staying in a stylish Le Méridien. The dense vegetation surrounding the hotel makes it feel like living in a natural oxygen bar. A morning jog in Xian'gueshan Park, enjoying the pleasure of sweating freely in the mountains, is a unique experience that you can never feel in a hotel gym. Service and Details | Thoughtfulness Hidden in Every Detail The staff, from the front desk to the concierge, maintained a perfectly measured, welcoming smile. During check-in, the front desk lady patiently asked about my preferences. Knowing that I valued privacy and quiet, she specifically helped arrange a room set apart from other guests on the same floor, handling everything gently and efficiently, which was truly heartwarming. The hotel also provides a free shuttle bus service down the mountain, making it convenient to travel to the Seaworld shopping center and Dongdu Ferry Terminal. On weekends and holidays, there's even a free shuttle bus connecting to popular attractions like Zhongshan Road and Baicheng Beach. One evening, a guest was inconsiderately skipping rope upstairs; after calling the front desk, they responded immediately and resolved the issue quickly! Truly commendable! Conclusion On the day of check-out, the morning sun still gently warmed the garden view balcony, as if possessing a magic that made me reluctant to close the door and leave. To be honest, I've stayed in many hotels, but rarely have I felt such a pang of reluctance upon departure as this time. It embodies the entire mountain forest, yet never strays from the human world, truly interpreting the beautiful realm of 'hidden in the bustling city, yet nestled in the mountains.' If you long for a tranquil vacation experience, listening to the wind on the mountainside, then Le Méridien Xiamen's Garden View Balcony King Room is definitely worth unlocking!
From€53
9.3/10Very Good870 Reviews
Huandonghaiyu Scenic Area Xiamen|15.38km from city centre
Here's my review: **Pros:** 1. The environment is absolutely top-notch. 2. The service staff, including the security personnel, are exceptionally helpful and resolve any issues you might have. Other staff members proactively greet guests. I'd particularly like to mention Fiona, Sylvia Wang, and Doris Zhang by name, though all the other service staff were superb too! Give them a raise! 3. Fiona kindly brought me welcome snacks and a welcome gift. **Cons:** 1. As soon as I entered the room, there was a strong, musty old furniture smell. It was incredibly heavy, and it even woke me up once during the night. The hotel really needs to replace its furniture, or at least some of the wooden elements like doors and wardrobes, as the moldy wood smell is too overpowering. The room door also looks very old and definitely needs replacing! (Fiona did provide an air purifier, but that's just a temporary fix). 2. As you can see in Picture 3, the hangers are also very old, and age makes them look dirty. 3. The small makeup mirror in the bathroom kept drooping and wouldn't stay up. It should be replaced. 4. The TV is also very old – an ancient Philips model. The remote control is sluggish, taking ages to change channels, which was frustrating to watch. 5. The hotel lacks robots. They should invest in delivery robots so guests can easily have food delivered to their rooms. 6. The breakfast selection is rich and varied. I highly recommend the wontons and waffles. The lady making waffles and the gentleman and lady cooking wontons were all very enthusiastic. (Give them a raise!) In summary, the smell in the room is arguably this hotel's biggest flaw, but it's not something that can be changed quickly. It will depend on the owner's decision.
From€99

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Swimming pool

9.7/10Excellent6538 Reviews
Jimei School Village/Xinglin Bay/Yuanbo Garden Xiamen|9.14km from city centre
This isn't my first time staying here, and I really love it; the experience is consistently great. The breakfast selection changes a bit daily, always featuring authentic Southern Fujian specialties. There's a wide variety and the food tastes excellent. The room is also very dorm-like, quiet, and the bed is fantastic, leading to naturally high-quality sleep. The only minor downside is that the pool isn't very big, but the water quality is excellent. Also, our butler, Merry, took great care of us. For example, she'd ask what we wanted refilled in the minibar and prepared turn-down service nightly before we came back (which included a pre-sleep dessert, a floor mat next to the bed, and indoor slippers).
From€57
9.7/10Excellent6933 Reviews
Bailuzhou Scenic Area Xiamen|1.17km from city centre
We booked a family room, which had an extra small bed combined with the main one, perfect for us traveling with two young children. The theme was Xiamen Airlines, though it was a bit disappointing that the headboard didn't have the airplane pattern shown when I booked online. The hotel facilities are comprehensive, including an infinity pool. Although there isn't a separate children's pool, the water isn't deep, so our kids still had a great time! The breakfast we booked also offered a good variety and the food was tasty. The hotel even sells Xiamen Airlines merchandise, and guests get a discount, which is a nice touch. The only minor drawback for me was the parking lot; our 7-seater car is quite large, and there were barely any spots big enough! Aside from that, this hotel truly exceeded our expectations!
From€50
9.4/10Outstanding7944 Reviews
IslandRingBlvd/Huangcuo Beach/Convention Center Xiamen|10.81km from city centre
The hotel's location is good, and the sea view suite we booked offered a nice view, though the ongoing construction of the Haixin Bridge did obstruct it somewhat. Perhaps due to the summer holiday, there were too many people, and the service was just so-so. The bathroom wasn't even properly cleaned upon check-in, which made for a very poor experience. The suite floors don't offer any special services, and the cleanliness on the floor was also mediocre; a cigarette butt sat there for two days without being dealt with. The executive lounge experience was also underwhelming. Overall, it didn't really feel up to Shangri-La's hotel star rating.
From€93
9.4/10Outstanding1968 Reviews
Wanda Commercial Area/Wuyuanwan Xiamen|9.47km from city centre
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to Wanda Plaza. Alan and the duty manager at the front desk were very nice, polite, and professional, deserving a five-star rating! We stayed on the executive floor, and the daily Happy Hour menu was always different, offering hot dishes, salads, soup of the day, fruits, and various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It was very abundant and tasted great. Breakfast was also very extensive, featuring local delicacies like satay noodles and southern Fujian five-spice rolls, which were delicious. The staff in the restaurant, guest rooms, recreational facilities, and executive lounge were all wonderful, greeting us every time we saw them. Every day when we returned to the lobby, the lobby manager would politely greet us, making us feel right at home. We were very satisfied with our trip to Xiamen.
From€47
9.4/10Outstanding2826 Reviews
Jimei School Village/Xinglin Bay/Yuanbo Garden Xiamen|10.62km from city centre
My stay at the Xiamen Beihaiwan Hualuxe Wanda Hotel was fantastic! A special shout-out to VIP Manager Kira for her incredibly thoughtful service throughout. She was professional, efficient, and meticulous, arranging everything in advance and proactively addressing all my needs. Her attitude was always gentle and patient. The hotel boasts stunning ocean views, excellent facilities, and delicious food. Paired with Kira's exclusive service, my entire stay was comfortable and worry-free. Highly recommend it – I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time!
From€60

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⭐ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Xiamen

Gulangyu: a car-free island off the coast of Xiamen

Gulangyu, also known as Kulangsu, is Xiamen's absolute must-see. Its pedestrian streets wind through gardens, old residences, consulates, and buildings of various architectural styles.

Among its best-known spots are Sunlight Rock, Shuzhuang Garden, and the Piano Museum. It’s also worth walking without a rigid route: many of the most interesting façades, courtyards, and corners appear far from the main streets.

The island is fully pedestrianised and can only be reached by ferry. Visitors usually board during the day at the Xiamen international cruise terminal. It’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance, especially at weekends and on public holidays, and remember to bring the passport you used for the booking.

Gulangyu Island and its historic buildings off the coast of Xiamen.
📌 Trip Tip: dedicate at least half a day to Gulangyu and wear comfortable footwear. If you want to explore it at a leisurely pace, set aside a full day.

South Putuo Temple: spirituality by the mountain

The South Putuo or Nanputuo Temple is one of the most important Buddhist centres in southern Fujian. It is located at the foot of the Wulao Peaks and very close to Xiamen University.

The complex includes several pavilions, courtyards, ponds, and halls dedicated to worship. Its location means you can easily combine your visit with Shapowei and the coast in a single trip.

Admission is usually free, although pre-booking systems may be in place. Check the latest conditions before you visit and dress respectfully.

South Putuo Buddhist Temple at the foot of the Wulao Peaks in Xiamen.
📌 Trip Tip: visit the temple first thing in the morning, when the atmosphere is calmer and the temperatures are more pleasant.

Xiamen Botanical Garden: tropical landscapes within the city

Xiamen Botanical Garden, also known as Wanshi Botanical Garden, stretches across a mountainous area close to the city centre.

Its most popular spaces are the succulent garden and the tropical forest area, where the vegetation, ponds, and mist effects create one of the most photographed landscapes in the grounds. As the distances are vast, it is worth selecting the areas you wish to visit in advance.

Building inside the Xiamen Botanical Garden.
📌 Trip Tip: allow between two and three hours, bring water and avoid the middle of the day during the hottest months.

Zhonggu Cable Car: Xiamen from the heights

The Zhonggu Cable Car offers panoramic views of the city, the hills, and the coast. Its location, near the Botanical Garden, makes it easy to combine both activities in the same morning or afternoon.

The route is especially appealing on clear days. Weather conditions can affect the service, so it is advisable to check availability and book in advance.

Zhonggu cable car with panoramic views of Xiamen.
📌 Trip Tip: try to time your visit for the late afternoon to see the city in softer light.

Hulishan Fortress: military history by the sea

Hulishan Fortress was built during the Qing dynasty to protect the coastline. The site still preserves tunnels, ramparts, old barracks, and pieces of artillery.

Its seaside location allows you to combine your visit with Baicheng Beach and Huandao Road. It is a particularly interesting stop for those who want to discover a different facet of Xiamen's history.

Inside Hulishan Fortress and its ancient coastal defences in Xiamen.
📌 Trip.com Tip: combine the fortress with a bike ride along the coast to make the most of your trip.

🌊 More Places to See in Xiamen

Explore Huandao Road

Huandao Road skirts much of Xiamen's coastline. It features pedestrian zones and stretches perfect for cycling, with access to beaches, parks, and viewpoints.

The route between Baicheng Beach and Zeng Cuo An is one of the most comfortable for a first-time visit.

Take a night cruise along the Lujiang River

The Lujiang night cruise allows you to admire the illuminated skyline of Xiamen and views of Gulangyu from the water. It’s a great way to end the day after exploring Zhongshan Road.

You can also check out other things to do at night in Xiamen.

Discovering Nanyin music

Nanyin music is a tradition native to southern Fujian, considered one of the oldest musical forms in China. Some venues and cultural centres in Xiamen offer performances featuring traditional instruments.

☀️ Best Time to Visit Xiamen

Season

What it's like

Recommendation

March and April

Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation

Great time for outdoor visits

May to September

Heat, humidity and frequent rain

Check the weather and any potential typhoon alerts

October and November

Drier and more pleasant weather

The best time to visit

December to February

Moderate temperatures and fewer visitors

A great option for a cultural trip

Spring and autumn usually offer the most comfortable conditions. If you're travelling during the first week of October, which coincides with China's Golden Week, book your transport, hotels and tickets well in advance.

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🥢 What to Eat in Xiamen

Xiamen's cuisine is part of the Minnan gastronomic tradition and is closely linked to the sea. Here are some dishes you can try:

  • Shacha noodles: noodles served in an intense broth made with local satay sauce.
  • Oyster omelette: a combination of oysters, egg, and starch with a smooth texture.
  • Peanut soup: a sweet dish that's very popular as a breakfast or snack.
  • Prawn noodles: seafood broth served with noodles and various ingredients.
  • Xiamen spring rolls: filled with vegetables, meat and other local produce.
Xiamen spring rolls: filled with vegetables, meat and other local produce.

Zhongshan Road and its surrounding streets are home to numerous establishments, though you will also find interesting options in markets and less touristy neighbourhoods.

🚇 How to Get Around Xiamen

Xiamen has a modern metro network that connects the airport, train stations, the city centre, and districts like Jimei. It is one of the most convenient options for covering long distances, especially during peak traffic hours. City buses reach more areas, although the routes can be less intuitive if you don't know the city.

For occasional trips, you can also use taxis or local ride-hailing apps (such as DiDi). It's a good idea to have your destination written down in Chinese, as not all drivers speak English. The main map and payment apps will help you calculate routes and avoid communication issues.

Some tourist spots require special planning. To visit Gulangyu you will need to take a ferry intended for travellers, while areas like Zhongshan Road, Shapowei and South Putuo can easily be combined in the same day. On Huandao Road, walking or renting a bicycle is a good way to explore the coast without relying on public transport.

📌 Trip.com tip: organise each day by grouping nearby places together. Xiamen may seem compact, but travelling between the main island, Jimei and other areas can take longer than expected. If you are arriving by plane, check in advance how to get from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport to your accommodation.

🚆 Day Trips from Xiamen

If you have an extra day, you can visit the Fujian Tulou, large communal earth buildings primarily linked to the Hakka people. Some of these complexes are World Heritage sites and are located a few hours from Xiamen.

Due to the distance and connections, it is advisable to book an organised excursion or hire private transport. If you're planning a wider route, check out our China itineraries and our guide to the best cities to visit in China.

📱 Xiamen Travel tips

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