Things To Do
in Guangzhou
Guangzhou, located at 23.13, 113.26, is a dynamic southern Chinese metropolis famed for its Cantonese heritage and port history. It blends centuries of Lingnan architecture with modern skylines, offering a culinary powerhouse, vibrant markets, and riverside charm. The city is a gateway to Guangdong’s culture, with traditional tea houses, crafts, and a thriving contemporary arts scene.
In Guangzhou, you can wander from ancient temple courtyards to glittering towers along the Pearl River in the same day.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and transfer to your hotel in downtown Tianhe. Unpack and freshen up while savoring a classic Cantonese dim sum brunch in a local teahouse. Soak in the energy of the city streets as you stroll toward the Pearl River.
Head up to the observation deck of Canton Tower for panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline and riverbanks. Visit the interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that tell the story of the city’s growth. Relax in the adjacent Huacheng Square with its fountains and green lawns.
Embark on a glittering Pearl River night cruise to admire illuminated landmarks from the water. Sample street snacks like sugarcane juice and rice noodle rolls sold by riverside vendors. Return to Canton Tower to witness its LED light show dancing across the night sky.
Explore the ornate courtyards and intricate wood carvings of the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a masterpiece of Qing dynasty craftsmanship. Learn about clan history and traditional folk arts in the museum galleries. Participate in a short calligraphy or ink-painting demonstration by local artists.
Wander over to Shamian Island, a leafy enclave of colonial-era mansions and tree-lined avenues. Pop into cozy cafés housed in red-brick villas for iced milk tea or herbal jelly. Visit boutique art shops and antique stalls to discover jade carvings and lacquerware.
Dine riverside at one of the colonial-style restaurants offering Cantonese and Western fusion dishes. Watch street musicians performing on the island’s promenades under vintage street lamps. Cap off the night with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, listening to the lull of boat horns on the Pearl River.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class Cantonese cuisine and seafood
- Vibrant markets, river views, and historic neighborhoods
- Extensive rail and air connectivity to Guangdong and beyond
- Rich cultural heritage and modern urban experiences
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Crowds can be heavy in markets and during holidays
- Some areas primarily Mandarin/Cantonese; language may be a barrier for non-speakers in less-touristy spots
- "Nei5 hou2" - Hello
- "M4 goi1" - Please / Excuse me
- "Do1 ze6" - Thank you
- "Zoi3 gin3" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Guangzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic skyline with river views; best photographed at dusk from the promenade or from a sky-high observation deck.
Historic colonial-era architecture and tree-lined avenues ideal for atmospheric wide shots.
Exquisite Lingnan architecture with intricate carvings and courtyards for detailed photography.
Grand neoclassical building and expansive grounds—great for symmetrical compositions and establishing shots.
Urban green space with elevated viewpoints and the famous Five Rams monument as a cultural anchor.
Food in Guangzhou
Guangzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small bite-sized dumplings and snacks served with tea; sample har gow, siu mai, and custard buns at authentic yum cha spots.
Must-Try!
Poached chicken served with a light sesame-ginger dipping sauce and a fresh, clean flavor.
Sweet-savory roasted pork with a glossy red glaze; often found over rice or in noodle dishes.
Fresh whole fish steamed simply to highlight the fish’s sweetness and delicate flavors.
Translucent dumpling wrappers encasing juicy shrimp and a touch of bamboo shoot.
Rice porridge served with pickles, salted eggs, or fried dough sticks for a comforting meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant avenue of stalls and small eateries offering Cantonese snacks, roasted meats, and sweets.
Historic lanes lined with eateries and snack vendors; great for casual dining and atmosphere.
A maze of stalls selling herbs, dried seafood, spices, and traditional medicines—ideal for sampling local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light handshake or nod is common; use formal titles when addressing elders or hosts. When giving or receiving items, use both hands.
Chopsticks should not be stuck upright in rice; avoid pointing; share dishes and pour tea for others as a sign of hospitality.
Building relationships and polite conversation matter; avoid sensitive political topics in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in Guangzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most places, but it is appreciated in high-end restaurants and hotels. In tourist-heavy venues, a small tip for exceptional service is common.
Cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are dominant; many venues, especially in cities and shopping districts, also accept bank cards. Always have some cash as a backup for markets and smaller stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (around 15–25°C). Ideal for outdoor photography and market visits; carry a light jacket.
Hot and humid (often 28–35°C) with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated and seek shade or indoor venues.
Pleasant and drier (roughly 20–28°C); excellent for streets, parks, and river views.
Mild cool weather (around 10–18°C); less humidity and comfortable for urban exploration.
Guangzhou at Night
Hiking in Guangzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular urban hiking with forest trails and city views; short and longer routes available.
Iconic Danxia landforms with cliff formations and scenic overlooks; best as a day trip from Guangzhou.
Forested hills and temple trails set in a picturesque reserve; accessible day trip from the city.
Airports
How to reach Guangzhou by plane.
Major international hub; rapid transit connections to the city; wide range of airlines and routes.
Nearby alternative gateway; convenient connections to Guangzhou via high-speed rail and road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primary ethnic group; Cantonese-speaking in the urban core and wider Guangdong region.
Large migrant population from across China contributing to economic activity.
Growing communities in Zhujiang New Town and university districts; bilingual services increasingly available.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; community clubs and public courts are common.
Popular in schools and neighborhoods; rec leagues and courts are plentiful.
Traditionally associated with the Pearl River and local festivals; exciting summer activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guangzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Cantonese dishes can be adapted with vegetable proteins, tofu, and mushrooms; ask for no fish sauce and look for veggie-friendly steamers or clear soups. Communicate clearly in Chinese or via your hotel staff to ensure substitutions.