Find hotels in Dunhuang from £16

Top reasons to visit Dunhuang

• Mogao Caves: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite Buddhist art and ancient murals.
• Singing Sand Dunes: Experience thrilling camel rides and sandboarding amidst the stunning desert landscape.
• Vibrant Markets: Stroll through lively local markets to savour authentic delicacies and immerse in the local culture.
• Dunhuang Museum: Discover the rich history and heritage of Dunhuang through fascinating exhibits.
• Desert Culture Festival: Participate in the unique Dunhuang International Desert Culture Festival for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Find great hotels in Dunhuang

In Dunhuang, you'll discover a diverse selection of accommodations, from hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to various traveller needs. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly stay, a pet-friendly option, or facilities suited for business travel, Dunhuang's hotels offer a range of services to ensure a comfortable experience. Explore popular choices, including star-rated hotels, to enhance your visit to this captivating region of Gansu.

• Dunhuang Dunhe hotel: A well-rated 3-star hotel boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.2, Dunhuang Dunhe Hotel is the perfect choice for business travellers seeking a comfortable and efficient stay. Located conveniently in Dunhuang, this hotel offers a professional atmosphere complemented by essential amenities such as high-speed internet and business facilities. Guests have highlighted the attentive service and the cleanliness of the rooms, ensuring a restful retreat after a busy day of meetings or sightseeing.
• Dunhuang Season Boutique Hotel: This charming 3-star boutique hotel is an excellent option for those looking to travel with their pets. Dunhuang Season Boutique Hotel allows certain pets on the premises, making it a unique choice for pet-friendly travellers. Situated in the heart of Dunhuang, the hotel combines comfort with a business-friendly environment. Visitors will appreciate the thoughtful pet policies and amenities, including deposits and fees associated with bringing their furry companions. The inviting decor and personalised service add a touch of warmth to your stay.
• Dunhuang Hotel: As a budget-friendly 3-star hotel, Dunhuang Hotel is an ideal choice for families seeking a fun-filled vacation experience. Located in Dunhuang, this property caters specifically to families with children, offering a variety of amenities such as an arcade game room, supervised childcare, and a children's club. Families can enjoy quality time together while ensuring that the little ones are entertained and well cared for. Guests have praised the hotel's family-oriented services and friendly atmosphere, making it a welcoming environment for all ages.

Where to stay in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers an extraordinary blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Explore the stunning Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the intricate Buddhist art. Stroll through downtown Dunhuang for local delicacies and vibrant markets. Venture to the nearby Singing Sand Dunes for an exhilarating camel ride or sandboarding. With its breathtaking scenery and rich history, Dunhuang is a captivating destination for any adventurer seeking to embrace the beauty of Gansu province.

• Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: Nestled near Dunhuang, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is a stunning neighbourhood renowned for its desert landscape and cultural richness. Visitors flock here for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, particularly between July and October when the weather is most favourable. The area offers exciting activities such as exploring the nearby public market and engaging with local crafts. Noteworthy attractions include the breathtaking sand dunes, which produce a unique sound when traversed, and the picturesque Crescent Spring, a serene oasis amidst the arid surroundings. The nearby archaeological sites and caves add to the historical allure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of nature and culture.
• Qilizhen: Located a mere 8.0km from Dunhuang, Qilizhen is a charming village that encapsulates the essence of rural life in Gansu. This quaint settlement sees a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from July to October, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Qilizhen offers a more tranquil experience, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in local customs and traditions. Strolling through the village, you can enjoy the stunning desert landscapes and perhaps engage with local artisans. Its proximity to Dunhuang makes it an ideal spot for a day trip, offering a peaceful retreat while still being close to the area's main attractions.

Things to do in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers a splendid blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for an unforgettable holiday. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant public markets, enjoy camping under the stars, and partake in the Dunhuang International Desert Culture Festival. Don't miss the opportunity to explore featured activities and guided tours, ensuring a comprehensive experience of this historic oasis town in Gansu.

Shopping

Dunhuang offers a unique shopping experience with local markets like the Dunhuang Night Market, where you can find handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Jiuquan Shopping Centre, located about 24.1km away, featuring a mix of shops and eateries for a complete shopping day.

Recreation

Experience serenity at Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves retreat, where ancient art meets mindfulness practices. Enjoy yoga sessions amidst the stunning desert landscape and rejuvenate with traditional Chinese medicine treatments that promote balance and well-being.

Adventure

Explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at ancient Buddhist art and sculptures. Experience the vast Gobi Desert on a camel trek, and enjoy the stunning sunset views over the sand dunes, creating unforgettable memories amidst the breathtaking landscape.

Nightlife

Dunhuang's nightlife offers a vibrant blend of culture and relaxation. Enjoy a tranquil evening stroll along the Crescent Lake, or sip tea at a local teahouse. For a lively atmosphere, visit the local night market, where you can savour street food and experience traditional music.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dunhuang

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Dunhuang is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Dunhuang are January and March, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are moderately higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Dunhuang is usually 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Dunhuang is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Dunhuang is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Dunhuang hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, perfect for tourists seeking cultural experiences. Key attractions include its picturesque lakes, ancient caves, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the Dunhuang Museum and other notable landmarks within the city, while also considering costs for trips and activities. With a variety of points of interest, Dunhuang promises a memorable vacation for those eager to immerse themselves in its rich heritage and natural beauty.

• Mogao Caves: Explore the magnificent Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Buddhist art. These ancient caves, carved into the cliffs, offer a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery.
• Xiqian Buddha Caves: Visit the Xiqian Buddha Caves, a historic site rich in cultural significance. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and murals that reflect the artistry and spirituality of ancient Buddhist traditions.
• Dunhuang Museum: Discover the Dunhuang Museum, where you can delve into the region's history and culture. The museum showcases a variety of artefacts, providing insights into the rich heritage of Dunhuang.

Best time to go to Dunhuang

The best time to visit Dunhuang is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	19.4°F (-7.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
February	29.1°F (-1.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low
March	44.8°F (7.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
April	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	83.3°F (28.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
November	35.1°F (1.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	21.9°F (-5.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Dunhuang

Flying into Dunhuang, Gansu, is convenient with Dunhuang Airport (DNH) located 12.9km from the city centre. A great hotel option nearby is the Sun Spring Hotel Dunhuang, a 4-star establishment situated 3.2km from the airport, offering airport transportation services. The Dunhuang Dunhe hotel and Dunhuang Season Boutique Hotel, both 3-star accommodations, are located 12.9km from DNH and provide various transportation options, including limited-hour airport shuttles and free airport transfers on request. These hotels ensure easy access to the airport, making your arrival and departure seamless.