Guangzhou Travel Guide
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is a major commercial hub and the cultural center of Cantonese China. Known for its delicious dim sum, vibrant markets, and modern skyline, Guangzhou offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Top Attractions
Canton Tower (广州塔)
One of the tallest towers in the world, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and Pearl River. The tower features observation decks, restaurants, and even a Ferris wheel.
Ticket price: 150-298 RMB (varies by observation level)
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Best time: Evening for city lights
Duration: 1-2 hours
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠)
A magnificent example of traditional Cantonese architecture, now housing the Guangdong Folk Art Museum. Intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and ceramic decorations.
Ticket price: 10 RMB
Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Duration: 1-2 hours
Shamian Island (沙面岛)
A historic island with European colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Free to visit: Yes
Best time: Morning or late afternoon
Duration: 1-2 hours
Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺)
A historic Buddhist temple dating back to 537 AD. The Flower Pagoda is the temple’s most famous feature.
Ticket price: 5 RMB
Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Pearl River Night Cruise
Take an evening cruise along the Pearl River to see Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline. A must-do experience.
Ticket price: 48-88 RMB (varies by boat type)
Duration: 1 hour
Best time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM departures
Where to Stay
- Tianhe District: Modern business district with luxury hotels
- Yuexiu District: Central location, near major attractions
- Liwan District: Traditional area, good for experiencing local culture
Book hotels in Guangzhou - Find great accommodation deals.
Getting Around
Metro
Guangzhou Metro is extensive, clean, and efficient. Connects all major areas of the city.
Buses
Comprehensive bus network covering the entire city. Very affordable (1-2 RMB).
Taxis
Readily available. Use Didi app for convenience.
Food & Dining
Guangzhou is the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine and dim sum:
Dim Sum (点心)
Must-try: Guangzhou is famous for dim sum
- Best time: Brunch (10 AM - 2 PM)
- Popular restaurants: Guangzhou Restaurant, Tao Tao Ju, Panxi Restaurant
- Price: 50-150 RMB per person
Cantonese Cuisine
- Char Siu: Barbecued pork
- Wonton Noodles: Classic Cantonese dish
- White Cut Chicken: Simple but delicious
- Double-Skin Milk: Traditional dessert
Street Food
- Congee: Rice porridge with various toppings
- Roast Goose: Famous Cantonese specialty
- Egg Tarts: Portuguese-influenced pastry
Shopping
- Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street: Famous shopping street
- Beijing Road: Commercial street with shops and restaurants
- Tianhe District: Modern shopping malls and luxury brands
Nightlife
- Zhujiang New Town: Modern bars and restaurants
- Tianhe District: Trendy nightlife scene
- Pearl River: Riverside dining and entertainment
Day Trip Ideas
- Foshan: Birthplace of Bruce Lee, traditional ceramics (1 hour by metro)
- Shenzhen: Modern tech hub (30 minutes by high-speed train)
- Zhuhai: Coastal city, gateway to Macau (1 hour by bus)
Practical Tips
- Language: Cantonese is widely spoken, but Mandarin and English are also common
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
- Best time to visit: October-April (avoid hot, humid summer)
- Weather: Subtropical climate, hot and humid in summer
- Visa: Check visa requirements before traveling
Getting There
- By Air: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (major international hub)
- By Train: High-speed trains connect to major cities
- By Bus: Extensive bus network to nearby cities
This guide contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you book through our links.