Where to stay in Shenzhen
Pick a base near the metro. Futian is central and efficient; Nanshan puts you near OCT highlights; Luohu is handy for markets and the HK border. Cross-check your plan against the Shenzhen Metro guide.
Best areas for first-timers
Plan this trip faster with our free online itinerary maker. Get a personalized day-by-day plan in minutes.
Futian
Business core with fast links. Great for Ping An, Lianhuashan Park, and museum days at the Shenzhen Museum.
Nanshan (OCT)
Perfect for OCT-focused trips: Window of the World, Splendid China, OCT Loft, and evenings at OCT Harbor.
Luohu
Budget-friendly and close to HK border plus markets. Good metro access to Shenzhen Bay Park and citywide connections.
Hotel-picking checklist
- 5–8 minute walk to a metro station.
- Easy access to at least one LEAF sight on your plan.
- Late-night food options within 10 minutes walking.
Fit your base to your route: start with the 3-day Shenzhen itinerary or go deeper with the 5-day itinerary.
Area comparison
| Area | Vibe | Closest sights | Who it's for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Futian | Business core, central | Ping An, Lianhuashan Park, Shenzhen Museum | First-timers, quick metro access |
| Nanshan (OCT) | Leisure, creative, bayfront | Window of the World, Splendid China, OCT Loft, OCT Harbor | Families, cafe-hopping, food & night |
| Luohu | Markets, border access | Dongmen, Luohu Commercial City | Budget, HK day-trippers |
Who should stay where
- First visit, 3 days: Futian for fast metro links; add an evening in Coco Park.
- Family with kids: Nanshan (OCT) to be near Window of the World and Safari Park.
- Shopping & HK: Luohu for markets and border convenience.
Sample 2-night placements
- Futian base: Day 1 Futian core; Day 2 OCT; Day 3 Dafen + bayfront. See 3-day plan.
- Nanshan base: Day 1 OCT sights; Day 2 Futian; Day 3 Dapeng or Coco Park night. Use the 5-day plan for add-ons.
Price guide by area (indicative)
| Area | Budget | Mid-range | Upper-mid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Futian | $40–70 | $70–130 | $130–220 |
| Nanshan (OCT) | $45–80 | $80–140 | $140–240 |
| Luohu | $30–60 | $60–110 | $110–180 |
Note: Prices fluctuate by season and proximity to metro; use this as a ballpark.
Good “micro-areas” to search
- Futian Station / Convention Center: fast links across the grid.
- Window of the World Station: OCT theme parks and OCT Loft.
- Chegongmiao / Civic Center: balanced access to Ping An and parks.
- Huaqiangbei: electronics, food courts, metro hub.
Booking tips
- Prioritize 5–8 minute walks to metro over amenity extras; it saves hours.
- Check late-night food options nearby (Coco Park and OCT Harbor areas excel).
- Cross-check your route against the Shenzhen itinerary days you’ll follow.
FAQs
Is Futian or Nanshan better for first-time visitors?
How close should I be to the metro?
Best areas
- Futian: business core, quick hops to Ping An Finance Centre and Lianhuashan Park.
- Nanshan: for Window of the World, Splendid China, OCT Loft, OCT Harbor.
- Luohu: budget options, bayfront access via metro, markets and HK border.
Planning? Map days with our Shenzhen itinerary (3-day / 5-day).