3 Best Hotels in Ningbo, Eastern China

Overlooking the confluence of three rivers, Ningbo's most opulent international hotel offers personalized service, first-rate facilities, and elegantly appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame urban panoramas. Splurge for one of the Horizon Club rooms, and you'll be escorted to the club lounge and treated like royalty. The cozy, dimly lit Lobster Bar and Grill will prepare imported Australian Tajima beef to perfection, offers a decent wine selection, and has live music that will make you want to linger.

A massive marble lobby features an unusual spiky chandelier, and spiral staircases lead to guest rooms at this hotel, whose excellent service and convenient location make it an ideal base from which to explore the city. The more expensive club rooms are worth the price, as they include superfast check-in, breakfast, Y100 daily laundry credit, afternoon tea, and a complimentary cocktail hour (which actually lasts three hours) during which you can enjoy a rejuvenating 15-minute back rub. For everyone else, a Starbucks and several lively bars are within arm's reach.

Next to popular shopping complex Wanda Plaza, the Sofitel Wanda combines French flair and touches of Chinese culture for a sophisticated result. Rooms come with some nice touches—think marble bathrooms and 37-inch plasma TVs—plus there are four restaurants to choose from.