Xiamen independent travel guide (2025): top things to do near you, popular tourism attractions, itinerary planning, accommodation, food, transportation, weather, and more - everything you need to know (updated July 2025) | Trip.com
About Xiamen
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Xiamen Local Travel Guide 2025
Xiamen Brief Guide
Xiamen is a city well suited for walking, becoming lost in thought, and basking in the sun. It has become a haven for creative, artistic people and those who want to live a more relaxed life. This "garden on the sea" has the unique feel of a hometown for Chinese living abroad. There is delicious seafood and Fujian cuisine all around, and the exotic architecture of Xiamen gives it a distinct character. Xiamen's scenic spots are mainly concentrated in the southern part of the main island and on Kulangsu. You can go to Huandao Road and go for a bike ride in the refreshing ocean breeze, or go to Xiamen University to relive the old campus life. You can also visit pedestrian-only Kulangsu to get a taste of the artist's life.
Xiamen Must-try Local Experiences
1. Explore the Captivating Gulangyu Island Take a ferry to Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its special architecture, beautiful beaches, and winding streets. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and visit the Piano Museum. 2. Find Tranquility at South Putuo Temple Visit the historic South Putuo Temple, a Buddhist site with intricate architecture and serene gardens. Admire the impressive Buddha statues. 3. Watch a Nanyin Performance Nanyin is a traditional form of Chinese music from the Minnan region. Watching a live performance provides a unique cultural experience. 4. Savor the Flavors of Xiamen Cuisine Indulge in Xiamen's diverse cuisine, known for fresh seafood, flavorful soups, and unique snacks like Shacha Noodles and Oyster Omelette. 5. Discover Local Treasures at Zhongshan Road Explore Zhongshan Road, a bustling pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. Find unique souvenirs and sample local snacks. 6. Cycle Along the Huandao Road Rent a bike and cycle along the Huandao Road, a scenic coastal route with stunning views of the sea and city. It's also a popular spot for sunset photography. Capture the stunning colors as the sun sets over the ocean.
Xiamen Must-see Attractions
Xiamen is a vibrant coastal city in China known for its rich cultural tapestry, featuring attractions like the UNESCO-listed Kulangsu Island with its musical heritage, the lush Xiamen Botanical Garden, the panoramic Zhonggu Cableway, the picturesque and historic Xiamen University, and the educational Xiamen Science and Technology Museum.
Xiamen Food Guide
Xiamen's cuisine is based on its unique local characteristics and rich seafood resources, ranging from classic dishes such as Satay Noodles, Tusu Bing, Shrimp Noodles, and Oyster Omelette to everyday Mianxian Hu, not only showcasing the essence of traditional Minnan cuisine but also integrating health and culture, becoming a must-try delicacy for locals and tourists.
Xiamen Transportation
Xiamen's transportation infrastructure is robust, with Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport and Xiamen Railway Station being key intercity travel hubs. Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (IATA: XMN, ICAO: ZSAM) is a significant aviation hub located on the north side of Xiamen Island. It serves as the main base for XiamenAir and offers both domestic and international flights. To reach the city center from the airport, passengers can take city buses such as Route 27 to the main ferry terminal or Route 37 to the railway station. Taxis are also readily available, providing a quick transfer to the city center. Xiamen Railway Station, situated in the city center, is a vital rail junction serving high-speed and normal-speed trains. It connects Xiamen to major cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The station is accessible by subway, bus, and long-distance coach. For travelers arriving by train, the Xiamen BRT and city buses offer convenient transportation options to various parts of the city, while taxis provide direct access to specific destinations.
Xiamen Where to Stay
Xiamen offers a diverse range of accommodation options for travelers, with its primary lodging areas spread across different districts and islands, each presenting unique characteristics and advantages. The city's accommodation scene caters to a variety of preferences, whether one is seeking the bustling city center, serene island stays, or beachside relaxation.
Xiamen Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Xiamen is during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. These periods are characterized by mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 °C (59 to 77 °F), making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions such as Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, and Xiamen Botanical Garden. Spring offers warm and sunny days, occasionally accompanied by showers, while autumn brings clear and sunny days with minimal rainfall. Additionally, visiting in autumn allows you to experience the Mid-Autumn Festival and taste the famous dark dragon tea.
Xiamen Useful Guide
Xiamen, a vibrant coastal city in Fujian Province, China, is home to the Minnan dialect, also known as Southern Min or Hokkien, with the local variation being Amoy or Xiamenese. Mandarin, the official language of China, is widely spoken and understood, facilitating communication in this modern metropolis.
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