2 Best Hotels in Dunhuang, The Silk Road

This cross between a Chinese fortress and an alpine lodge is the most interesting place to stay in Dunhuang, and possibly in the whole of the province. The large, spacious rooms have historical touches like Ming reproduction furniture and traditional wooden shower buckets. The hotel arranges some great tours, including a sunrise camel ride to the sand dunes of Singing Sand Mountain. The fourth-floor café is the perfect spot to appreciate the dunes from a distance. The hotel's only drawback is its location 3 km (2 miles) south of the town center.

If you're looking for something mildly luxurious, this lodging in the center of town will fit the bill. Rooms are nicer than the average Chinese hotel, but without an elevator you'll have to climb the stairs to your room.