Mid-Range Travel Guide: Xiamen

Accommodation

$35-80 per night

Mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses, or business hotels with private bathrooms and amenities

Food & Dining

$25-50 per day

Mix of local restaurants, seafood establishments, casual dining, and some tourist-oriented venues

Transportation

$10-25 per day

Combination of public transport, taxis, ride-sharing apps, and occasional private transfers

Activities

$20-60 per day

Paid attractions, guided tours, cultural sites, ferry trips, and recreational activities

Eat at local food courts and markets instead of tourist areas - typically 50-70% cheaper than restaurants in scenic zones

Use public buses and BRT system instead of taxis - saves approximately 70-80% on transportation costs

Stay in Siming District away from beachfront areas for accommodation savings of 30-50%

Visit temples and beaches during free hours rather than paying for guided tours - most natural attractions have no entry fees

Shop at local supermarkets for snacks and drinks instead of hotel mini-bars - typically 200-300% markup avoided

Take advantage of free walking areas like Zhongshan Road pedestrian street and Xiamen University campus

Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance for early bird discounts of 20-40%

Eating exclusively in Gulangyu Island tourist restaurants - typically 100-200% more expensive than mainland options

Taking taxis for all transportation instead of learning the bus system - can triple daily transport costs

Booking last-minute accommodation during peak seasons - often 50-100% higher than advance bookings

Buying souvenirs at major tourist attractions instead of local markets - markup typically 150-300%