Suzhou

While this former Sheraton hotel has been rebranded, its five-star luxury still makes the grade. — Lonely Planet

Part of a small yet nationwide chain of “culture hotels”, this appealingly rustic venue seeks to re-create the charm of old Suzhou. — Rough Guide

Within huge, green grounds, the very popular five-star Garden Hotel has elegant, spacious and attractively decorated rooms. — Lonely Planet

This brand-spanking-new Philippe Starck–wannabe has a lot of sharp angles and neon blue lights but not much soul. — Lonely Planet

Filled with character, this friendly canal-side venue is hugely popular with budget travellers – singles and doubles are remarkably stylish for the price. — Rough Guide

Tucked away down Dashitou Xiang ('Big Stone Alley'), a lane off Renmin Lu, this 200-year-old courtyard complex houses an OK hostel. — Lonely Planet

Beside a canal and a short stroll to historic Pingjiang Lane, this comfortable and well-run hotel wraps around a peaceful courtyard and Suzhou-style garden. — Fodor's

The modern four-star Garden is set in a delightful, history-rich compound where the rich and powerful once lived. — Insight Guides

Resort-like business hotel between two lakes in a fast-growing economic region west of Shanghai. — Jetsetter

Eight decks of spacious rooms wrap around a nautical-themed lobby bar at this ship-shaped luxury hotel on Jinji Lake. — Fodor's

Right in the heart of Sūzhōu, this former Sofitel has been rebranded and still makes the grade. — Lonely Planet

Bursting with Qing-dynasty charm... Rooms are small, but have high ceilings and open out onto courtyards. There’s wi-fi, bike rental, peace and tranquillity. — Lonely Planet

Set in a large, tree-filled compound entered off Shiquan Jie and surrounded by gardens, the tasteful rooms in this modern hotel are dressed in shades of mahogany and cream. — Lonely Planet

— Jetsetter

This Thai-styled boutique retreat is located a 30-minute cab ride from the city center, and the beautifully styled rooms, terraces, and spa make this a popular weekend getaway. — DK Eyewitness

A place for Suzhou’s artier visitors, featuring just four spartan but immaculate rooms – sliding doors, white linen and an atmosphere so quiet you could hear a pin drop. — Rough Guide