Best place to stay in Xiamen?

Question

Is it at Zhongshan road? Or are there other popular locations recommended?

Not driving so will rely on trains/subway/didi. Plan on doing a day trip to Tianlukeng tulou, Another day for Gulangyu. Plus another 2 days covering Xiamen U, Nanputuo, Xiamen Botanical garden, Zengcuoan, and maybe Riyuegu hotspring if time permits.

Question aboutthe hotspring: using swim wear or fully naked?

Question about Gulangyu: once we arrive via ferry, how do we get around?

Thanks,

Answer

For your Xiamen trip, staying near Zhongshan Road is very convenient for first-time visitors. This area is central, well-connected by buses, taxis, and Didi, and close to attractions like Zhongshan Pedestrian Street and nearby restaurants. However, other popular areas include the Siming district, which is central and near Xiamen University, and the area near Xiamen Railway Station if you plan on taking day trips out of the city.

For your itinerary:

Day trip to Tianluokeng Tulou: Best to book a tour or arrange a private driver, as public transport is possible but slower.
Gulangyu Island: Take the ferry from Xiamen Island (usually from the ferry terminal near the International Cruise Terminal or Zhongshan Road). Once on the island, there are no cars, so walking is the main option, though there are electric buggies for hire to move around.
Xiamen University, Nanputuo Temple, Botanical Garden, Zengcuoan: All are accessible by bus, taxi, or Didi. Staying near Siming or Xiamen University makes these easier to reach.
Riyuegu Hotspring: Swimwear is typically required; nude bathing is not standard in public hot spring resorts in Xiamen.

Additional recommendations:

Consider staying two nights near Zhongshan Road for convenience to shopping and food, and two nights near Xiamen University/Siming for easier access to cultural sites.
For Gulangyu, bring comfortable walking shoes as the island is hilly and most exploration is on foot.
For day trips outside Xiamen, using a combination of private tours or Didi is most efficient if you are not driving.

Overall, your plan is feasible using public transport and Didi, but grouping attractions geographically will save travel time and make your stay more enjoyable.

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