According to forum posts, many travelers recommend Hazratganj as a central and convenient area to stay in Lucknow. It offers a range of hotels suitable for different budgets. Gomti Nagar is also suggested for its selection of mid-scale to upscale hotels, although it is slightly farther from some attractions.

Some travelers have recommended specific hotels like Sarovar Portico, which costs around INR 4,000 per night, and the government-run Tourist Lodge Hotel Gomti in Hazratganj, which can be booked online and is noted for its safety and good service. Additionally, La Palace Sarovar Portico and Clarks Awadh are mentioned for their central locations, providing easy access to local attractions.

Travelers have called out negative experiences at specific hotels like Oyo 29826 Central Hotel, citing issues with cleanliness and customer service. It’s advised to avoid this hotel due to reports of unprofessional staff behavior and hygiene problems.

According to forum posts, a popular day trip from Lucknow is to Ayodhya, which is about a 3-hour drive one way. Travelers have recommended visiting attractions like Ram Mandir, Kanak Bhawan, and Hanuman Garhi during the trip. It's advisable to leave early in the morning to make the most of the day.

For local sightseeing within Lucknow, travelers have called out Hazratganj for an evening stroll and shopping, Chowk for experiencing local cuisine and markets, and Aminabad for a mix of food and shopping. Some users suggested that a visit to the Bara Imambara and the British Residency could also be rewarding.

Some travelers said hiring a private taxi is a feasible option for these trips, suggesting booking in advance to secure availability and possibly better rates. Major cab services like Ola and Uber are available in Lucknow for these purposes.