Welcome to Guilin
Karst peaks rise straight from the Li River, and a bamboo raft trip through that landscape is unlike anything else in China. The surrounding countryside is laced with rice terraces, ancient villages, and cave systems worth a full day each. Resorts in Guilin sit close to the riverbanks and rural scenery, with many properties designed around the dramatic views that define the region.
How to find the best resort deal in Guilin
Our search engine is an expert in finding flight deals. The good news? It's just as clever at hunting down the best rates on resorts. Spend less on your stay with these tips.
Book in advance
Book in advance if possible. Planning well before you travel often means better prices and a wider variety of resorts, especially during peak seasons.
...Or bag a last-minute Guilin resort deal
It generally gets more expensive as your travel dates get closer. But in quieter periods, last-minute bargains can still be found when resorts have rooms to fill.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Being flexible can be a game-changer when searching for cheap resorts in Guilin. Choose midweek stays over weekends, or travel during shoulder season instead of peak holiday periods.
Go all-inclusive
All-inclusive resorts in Guilin keep things simple by bundling meals, activities and drinks into the room rate. They're a great option if you plan to stay mostly on site and want to keep daily costs predictable. Check availability for this type of stay before booking.
Show discounted resorts only
For a simple way to skip the full-price options, make use of the 'Only show hotels with discounts' filter. It finds properties with price drops or deals.
When to visit Guilin
High and low season in Guilin
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Guilin. The weather is mild and the famous karst landscape looks clear and green, making it ideal for river cruises and outdoor sightseeing. These seasons draw plenty of visitors, so securing accommodation early is smart, especially during Chinese national holidays.
Winter is the quietest period in Guilin, and you'll find fewer crowds and generally lower prices on accommodation. The trade-off is that mist and cooler conditions can sometimes limit visibility on the Li River. That said, the landscape still has real appeal, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easier to explore at your own pace.
Guilin has cultural connections to traditional Chinese festivals, including Spring Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which are celebrated locally. For current events and activities, the official Guilin tourism website or a local visitor information centre is the most reliable place to check before your trip.
Events in Guilin
Guilin International Mountain Festival: This trail running and outdoor sports event draws competitors and spectators to the karst landscape around Guilin. You'll find races at multiple levels, so it works whether you're competing or just watching from the riverside.
Guilin Lijiang River Lantern Festival: Locals release lanterns onto the Li River in a tradition tied to regional heritage. The water reflections make it a genuinely atmospheric experience, and it's one of the more visually memorable things you can witness in Guilin.
Zhuang Song Festival: Celebrated by the Zhuang people of Guangxi, this festival features traditional singing competitions, folk performances, and communal gatherings. It's held across the region, including areas accessible from Guilin, and gives you a closer look at local cultural life.
Check local tourism boards before your trip for the latest event details.
Best family-friendly Guilin resorts
Pack up the crew and treat everyone to a stay at Guilin Zizhou Panorama Resort. This 4-star resort has amenities that make life easier when travelling with kids, such as children's facilities and air conditioning.
