Things To Do
in Guangzhou

Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is a vibrant metropolis in southern China known for its rich history and modern architecture. It is a key port city located on the Pearl River, blending traditional Cantonese culture with contemporary urban development. Home to a diverse population, Guangzhou is famous for its delicious cuisine, particularly dim sum, and is a major center for trade and commerce.

With a subtropical climate, the city offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Culture and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a beautifully preserved example of traditional Cantonese architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Guangzhou Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture, followed by a stroll through the nearby People's Park.

evening
:

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Pearl River, taking in the illuminated skyline of Guangzhou.

day 2
Day 2: Modern Marvels and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Visit the Canton Tower, one of the tallest structures in China, for panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Explore the Zhujiang New Town area, where you can see modern skyscrapers and have lunch in a local restaurant.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned dim sum restaurant, followed by exploring the bustling nightlife in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$3
Coffee$4
🍺Local beer$2
🍽️Dim sum meal$15
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse and delicious food scene.
  • Modern infrastructure and amenities.
  • High humidity in the summer can be uncomfortable.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问洗手间在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Guangzhou

Visit one of these nice places.

Canton Tower

This iconic structure offers stunning views and dramatic night lighting, making it perfect for photography.

Shamian Island

Known for its colonial architecture and peaceful streets, it's an excellent spot for capturing the charm of Guangzhou.

Guangzhou Opera House

Designed by Zaha Hadid, this modern architectural marvel is strikingly beautiful and offers unique photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a culinary paradise, particularly famous for its Cantonese cuisine, which emphasizes fresh ingredients and subtle flavors.

Guangzhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dim Sum

A variety of bite-sized dishes served in small steamer baskets, perfect for sharing.

Must-Try!

Char Siu

Barbecue pork that is sweet and savory, often served with rice or noodles.

Wonton Noodles

Delicate noodles served in a flavorful broth with shrimp or pork dumplings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

A famous shopping street lined with stalls offering various street foods, including skewered meats and sweet treats.

Xiaogang Food Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guangzhou has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. Summer months (June to August) experience high temperatures averaging around 30-35°C (86-95°F), while winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). The majority of rainfall occurs during the summer months, particularly in June and July.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals by greeting them first and using polite language.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Gift Giving

When giving gifts, avoid wrapping in white, as it is associated with funerals; red is a more favorable color.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guangzhou is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places and when using public transport. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure. It's also recommended to avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Guangzhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Guangzhou, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in some restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is also accepted but less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it an ideal time to explore parks and gardens in full bloom.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F); stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and lower humidity make autumn an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter

Mild winters with temperatures around 10-20°C (50-68°F) can be expected; occasional rain may occur.

Nightlife Guide

Guangzhou at Night

Guangzhou's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city offers everything from upscale lounges with skyline views to lively night markets filled with food stalls. Popular areas for nightlife include Zhujiang New Town, where you can find trendy bars and clubs, and the bustling Shangxiajiu Street, known for its street food and casual atmosphere.

Hiking in Guangzhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Baiyun Mountain Trail

A popular hiking destination with several trails offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Nansha Wetland Park

Features scenic walking trails through wetland ecosystems, providing a peaceful escape from the city.

Airports

How to reach Guangzhou by plane.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Located approximately 28 kilometers north of the city center, this major international airport serves as a key transport hub for domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guangzhou is quite walkable in certain areas, especially in pedestrian-friendly districts like Zhujiang New Town and Shamian Island. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, traffic can be heavy in some parts of the city, so it's advisable to exercise caution when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cantonese

The predominant ethnic group in Guangzhou, known for their rich culinary traditions and cultural practices.

Migrant Workers

Guangzhou has a large population of migrant workers from various provinces, contributing to the city's economic growth and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A highly popular sport in China, with many local clubs and facilities available for enthusiasts.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played and followed in Guangzhou, with local teams and numerous courts in parks and neighborhoods.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Guangzhou can be quite congested, especially during rush hours. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a subway network that is efficient and affordable. Using public transport is often a more convenient way to navigate the city, and ride-sharing apps are also popular among locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guangzhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if meat broth is used in soups.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so be sure to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Guangzhou has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and traditional Chinese medicine centers. Public hospitals are available, but they may be crowded; private hospitals offer more personalized care and shorter wait times. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to seek medical attention for serious issues.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide