China

Guangzhou

A booming southern megacity where dim sum meets 2,000 years of trade.

Local time: UTC+8
Population: 18.6M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Affordable

Food$$$$$About $19 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $62 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $1.8 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇨🇳 CNY =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

CANGuangzhou Baiyun International AirportMain hub, about 29 km north of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Metro line 3City centre (Gongyuanqian)	¥7-10	45-60 min
Cheapest option; change at Jiahewanggang if needed.
Airport busMajor hotels and stations	¥20-30	60-90 min
Several routes; check your hotel stop.
TaxiCity centre	¥100-150	40-60 min
Use the official taxi queue; avoid touts.
DiDi ride appCity centre	¥90-140	40-60 min
Pick a marked pickup point in the app.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Guangzhou

Getting around

Metro for almost everything: cheap, fast and signed in English.

Metro ★15+ lines, fares ¥2–21, English signs. Tap a foreign contactless card or buy a token. A Yang Cheng Tong card costs ¥50 (¥18 deposit) and gives 5–40% discounts.
BusCheap and wide-reaching but slower and harder to read for visitors.
Taxi / ride appsMetered taxis. DiDi and Amap work; Uber does not operate in China.
Rental carNot advised for visitors: heavy traffic and different rules.
Walking ★Good in the centre; shared bikes are common for short hops.
FerryFerries run to Hong Kong and Macau from Nansha and Lianhuashan ports.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers the old city, Shamian and a proper dim sum morning; add a night for day trips or shopping.

Best for

FoodDim sum mornings, roast goose and late-night Cantonese.
CultureChen Clan Ancestral Hall, Cantonese opera and the Pearl River.
HistoryShamian Island, the old town and the Sun Yat-sen sites.

Weather by month

19°11°Jan🌧 7d

21°12°Feb🌧 9d

24°16°Mar🌧 15d

27°20°Apr🌧 17d

30°23°May🌧 22d

31°25°Jun🌧 26d

32°26°Jul🌧 22d

32°26°Aug🌧 25d

31°25°Sep🌧 20d

28°21°Oct🌧 8d

25°17°Nov🌧 6d

20°12°Dec🌧 5d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Subtropical and humid: hot, wet summers and mild, drier winters.

Best time: October to DecemberHighs of 20–28°C with few rain days. Comfortable for walking and outdoor sights.
Hot, humid summer (June to September)Highs around 31–32°C and lows near 25–26°C. Muggy days; take indoor breaks.
Wettest months: May to AugustAround 22–26 rain days a month. Short heavy showers; carry an umbrella.
Typhoon seasonLate summer and autumn can bring storms. Check forecasts before day trips.
Cool, dry wintersJanuary and February drop to 11–12°C at night. A jacket helps in the evening.
What to packLight breathable clothes and rain gear in summer; a light layer for winter nights; comfortable shoes for walking.

Landmarks 14

Must-see · 8

1
Canton Tower
Guangzhou's defining modern icon, a twisting tower on the Pearl River with observation decks and a famous nighttime light show. Go near sunset to catch both daylight and the illuminated skyline; book observation deck tickets online in advance to skip queues.
2
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
A beautifully preserved Qing-era clan academy packed with intricate wood, stone and brick carvings, now a folk art museum. It is compact and central, so it fits easily into a half-day; arrive in the morning to avoid tour groups and allow about an hour.
3
Shamian Island
A leafy former colonial concession with European-style buildings and riverside promenades, ideal for a relaxed stroll. Come in the late afternoon for cooler weather and river views; it is walkable and close to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall area.
4
Baiyun Mountain
The city's classic green escape, with cable car access, walking trails and panoramic views over Guangzhou. Visit early morning when locals exercise and haze is lighter; take the cable car up and walk down if time allows.
5
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
A grand memorial building honoring the revolutionary leader, set in gardens and central to modern Chinese history. Combine it with nearby Yuexiu Park; check opening hours as the interior can close earlier than the grounds.
6
Yuexiu Park
Guangzhou's largest central park, home to the Five Rams Statue and remnants of the old city wall. It is free and pleasant for a morning walk; pair it with the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall for a history-focused half day.
7
Sacred Heart Cathedral
A striking Gothic-style granite cathedral, one of the few of its kind in China and a photogenic landmark. Dress modestly and visit outside mass times; it is a short walk from Shamian Island.
8
Pearl River
The river that shapes Guangzhou, best experienced on an evening cruise past the illuminated Canton Tower and bridges. Book a night cruise for the lights; daytime riverside walks are free and quieter.

Cultural

Tower 1

Museum 2

Skyscraper 1

Christian 1

Old Town 1

Modern History 1

University 1

Park 1

Natural

Mountain 1

River 1

Activities

Amusement Park 1

Theater 1

Football Stadium 1

Day trips from Guangzhou

Zhuhai · 2 h 06 by train

★★★★☆ · Full day · 127 km from Guangzhou

Best way: Intercity trains run directly from Guangzhou South to Zhuhai Station near the waterfront, far quicker than the bus.

Intercity trains from Guangzhou South run directly to Zhuhai Station near the waterfront, with no changes required.

Train ★2 h 06 · from $8-$17
Bus3 h 10 · from $7-$16
Car1 h 36 · taxi ≈ 340 CNY

What to see

Lovers' Road waterfront
Fisher Girl statue
New Yuan Ming Palace
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

The waterfront promenade and Fisher Girl statue are near Zhuhai Station
Gongbei border area is lively for a stroll

Foshan · 24 min by road

★★★☆☆ · Full day · 25 km from Guangzhou

Best way: A short high-speed or intercity train from Guangzhou South reaches Foshan directly with no changes.

Take a high-speed or intercity train from Guangzhou South Station to Foshan West or Foshan Station, a short ride with no changes needed.

Car24 min · taxi ≈ 80 CNY

What to see

Ancestral Temple (Zu Miao)
Lingnan Tiandi district
Nanfeng Ancient Kiln
Shiwan ceramic workshops

Good to know

Foshan's Ancestral Temple and Lingnan Tiandi are the main draws
Weekends are busier at the Ancestral Temple

Zhaoqing · 1 h 20 by bus

★★★☆☆ · Full day · 98 km from Guangzhou

Best way: The bus is faster than the train option given and still reaches Zhaoqing for the Seven Star Crags.

Frequent high-speed trains run from Guangzhou South to Zhaoqing East, then a local bus or taxi reaches the Seven Star Crags scenic area.

Train1 h 48 · from $3-$11
Bus ★1 h 20 · from $9-$18
Car1 h 20 · taxi ≈ 270 CNY

What to see

Seven Star Crags (Qixing Yan)
Dinghu Mountain
Ancient city wall
Star Lake boat ride

Good to know

Seven Star Crags is the classic scenic area
Allow extra time for the last-mile bus or taxi to the crags

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Guangzhou rewards visitors with Cantonese food, riverside towers and leafy colonial islands. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Food

A full day of Cantonese eating, from dim sum to a late street-food walk.

Stay: Yuexiu. Old-city centre: parks, markets and cheap eats within walking distance.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 280
Taxis: ≈ CNY 114

Day 1

Dim sum, market and old-town snacks

Tickets ≈ CNY 280 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 114

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 816 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 14
1

08:30–10:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Arrive early on weekends; queues build after 09:30.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

10:15–11:15 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Short taxi or metro ride. Browse dried goods and herbs.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

11:30–12:30 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Leafy colonial streets nearby. Good for a slow walk before lunch.

Open Always open
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CNY 24
4

13:00–13:45 · ≈ CNY 30–60 per person

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Quick Cantonese lunch in Tianhe. Check the day's hours.

Open Daily, usually long hours; check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 21
5

17:00–18:30 · ≈ CNY 30–100 per person

Shangxiajiu food street

Late afternoon into evening is best. Bring small cash for stalls.

Open Most stalls and shops daytime into evening
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 21
6

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Optional evening cruise or riverside walk to finish.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day

Day trip · Culture

The classic Guangzhou day: ancestral hall, tower and river lights.

Stay: Zhujiang New Town. Modern towers, Canton Tower views and the best metro links; good for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 350
Taxis: ≈ CNY 195

Day 1

Old crafts, then the new skyline

Tickets ≈ CNY 350 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 195

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 35 min · ≈ CNY 40
1

09:00–10:30 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Go on a weekday morning. Closed some Mondays; check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

11:00–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Short taxi ride. Check opening hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch near Yuexiu. Most dim sum places serve until early afternoon.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 31 min · ≈ CNY 36
4

16:00–18:00 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Late afternoon into evening gives you daylight and lights. Book ahead.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
5

18:30–19:15 · Free

Huacheng Square

Walk the square after dark for tower views.

Open Always open
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34
6

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise if you have energy; riverside paths are free.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34

Day trip · History

Colonial Shamian, old-town streets and the Sun Yat-sen story in one day.

Stay: Yuexiu. Old-city centre: parks, markets and cheap eats within walking distance.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 100
Taxis: ≈ CNY 125

Day 1

Shamian, old town and memorials

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 125

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CNY 24
1

09:00–10:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Quiet in the morning. Wear comfortable shoes.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

10:15–11:15 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Short walk or taxi. Busy but manageable mid-morning.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

11:45–13:15 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch in Yuexiu before the afternoon sights.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 18
4

13:30–15:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Weekday afternoon is calmer. Check Monday closures.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
5

15:30–16:30 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Check hours on the day; it usually closes late afternoon.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
6

17:30–19:00 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Evening stroll and dinner on the pedestrian street.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 816 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 14

1 night · Food

A quick eating trip: dim sum in the morning, market snacks and street food after dark.

Stay: Yuexiu. Old-city centre: parks, markets and cheap eats within walking distance.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 180
Taxis: ≈ CNY 128
Hotel: CNY 250–800

Day 1

Dim sum, old town tastes, night street food

Tickets ≈ CNY 180 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 128

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 816 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 14
1

08:30–10:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Go early on a weekday to beat the queue. Order a few baskets and share.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

10:30–11:30 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

About 15 minutes by taxi. Wander the dried goods and herb stalls.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

12:00–13:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Short taxi ride. Shady tree-lined streets, good for a walk after eating.

Open Always open
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ CNY 24
4

13:30–14:15 · ≈ CNY 30–60 per person

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Lunch. Simple Cantonese plates; expect a short wait at peak times.

Open Daily, usually long hours; check on the day
Taxi · 791 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 14
5

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Evening stroll. Snack as you go; shops stay open late.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 21
6

20:00–21:30 · ≈ CNY 30–100 per person

Shangxiajiu food street

About 20 minutes by taxi or metro. Busiest late afternoon into evening.

Open Most stalls and shops daytime into evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 21

1 night · Culture

Our pick for most visitors: the tower and river at night, the ancestral hall and opera house the next day.

Stay: Zhujiang New Town. Modern towers, Canton Tower views and the best metro links; good for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 350
Taxis: ≈ CNY 240
Hotel: CNY 450–1,300

Day 1

Arrive, tower and river lights

Tickets ≈ CNY 250 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 110

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 330 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
1

16:30–17:15 · Free

Huacheng Square

Open all day. A flat walk with the tower in view.

Open Always open
Taxi · 241 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
2

17:30–18:15 · Free to see outside; show tickets vary

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

Exterior always visible; go inside only with a show or tour.

Open Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour
Taxi · 1364 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

18:30–20:30 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Late afternoon into evening is best. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 35
4

21:00–22:30 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise or a riverside walk. Book cruises ahead.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34

Day 2

Ancestral hall and old town

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 130

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 35 min · ≈ CNY 40
1

09:00–10:30 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Morning on a weekday. Closed some Mondays, check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

11:00–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Short taxi ride. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch nearby in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CNY 29
4

14:30–15:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Campus grounds in daytime; check access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 19 min · ≈ CNY 25

1 night · History

Old Guangzhou on foot: Shamian Island, the ancestral hall and the Sun Yat-sen sites.

Stay: Shamian Island. Quiet tree-lined streets with colonial buildings; a calm base near the river.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 200
Taxis: ≈ CNY 216
Hotel: CNY 400–1,100

Day 1

Arrive, Shamian and the river

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 73

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 441 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
1

15:00–16:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Late afternoon light is best. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

16:30–17:30 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Short taxi ride. Morning is busiest; late afternoon is calmer.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ CNY 19
3

18:30–20:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Riverside walk after dark, or an evening cruise.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ CNY 24

Day 2

Sun Yat-sen sites and old town

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 142

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 19 min · ≈ CNY 26
1

09:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Morning. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

10:30–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

About 15 minutes by taxi. Closed some Mondays, check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 18
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CNY 29
4

14:30–15:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Campus grounds in daytime; check access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ CNY 27
5

16:30–18:00 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Evening walk through the old shopping streets.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ CNY 24

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

Dim sum mornings, market snacking and a late-night Cantonese dinner, kept close to Yuexiu and Tianhe.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 430
Taxis: ≈ CNY 148

Day 1

Arrive, old-town eating

Tickets ≈ CNY 140 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 50

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:30 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Start with a classic Cantonese dim sum breakfast in Yuexiu. Go early; popular rooms fill up.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

11:00–12:00 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

About 10 minutes by taxi. Wander the dried goods and seafood aisles.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

13:00–14:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Short taxi ride. Shaded colonial streets, good for a slow walk after eating.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

17:30–19:00 · ≈ CNY 30–100 per person

Shangxiajiu food street

Shangxiajiu for skewers, noodles and sweets. Busiest late afternoon into evening.

Open Most stalls and shops daytime into evening

Day 2

Tianhe tastes and skyline

Tickets ≈ CNY 290 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 97

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

12:00–12:45 · ≈ CNY 30–60 per person

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Quick Cantonese lunch in Tianhe. Expect a short wait at peak times.

Open Daily, usually long hours; check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34
2

14:00–14:45 · Free

Huacheng Square

Walk it off on the big open square. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 241 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
3

15:00–15:45 · Free to see outside; show tickets vary

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

See the exterior; interior only with a show or tour.

Open Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour
Taxi · 1364 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

17:00–19:00 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Late afternoon into evening gives you daylight and the lit-up skyline. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 35
5

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise or a riverside walk after dark. Book cruises ahead.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day

2 nights · Culture ★ Recommended length

The essential Guangzhou culture loop: ancestral hall, tower and river, with time for the opera house.

Stay: Zhujiang New Town. Modern towers, Canton Tower views and the best metro links; good for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 500
Taxis: ≈ CNY 288
Hotel: CNY 900–2,600

Day 1

Yuexiu culture morning

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 164

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 35 min · ≈ CNY 40
1

09:00–10:30 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Go on a weekday morning. Closed some Mondays; check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

11:00–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

About 10 minutes by taxi. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch nearby in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CNY 29
4

14:30–15:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Green campus walk. Check access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ CNY 27
5

17:00–18:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Evening stroll and dinner. Shops run late morning to late evening.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 32

Day 2

Zhujiang New Town and the river

Tickets ≈ CNY 400 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 124

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 211 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
1

14:00–15:00 · ≈ CNY 100–200 for the observation deck; check on the day

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre Landmark quest

Clear afternoon for the observation deck. Check hours on the day.

Open Observation deck usually daytime into evening; check on the day
Taxi · 446 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
2

15:30–16:15 · Free to see outside; show tickets vary

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

Short walk. Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour.

Open Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour
Taxi · 241 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
3

16:30–17:15 · Free

Huacheng Square

Open square between the tower and the opera house.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

17:30–19:30 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Late afternoon into evening. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 35
5

19:45–21:15 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise or riverside walk to finish.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34

2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

Old Guangzhou on foot: Shamian, the ancestral hall and the Sun Yat-sen sites, plus a skyline evening.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 390
Taxis: ≈ CNY 205

Day 1

Shamian and the old town

Tickets ≈ CNY 90 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 72

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Quiet in the morning. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
2

11:00–12:00 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Short taxi ride. Traditional market streets.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 18
4

14:30–16:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Closed some Mondays; check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 20
5

17:00–18:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Evening walk and dinner. Some old street remains under the glass.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening

Day 2

Sun Yat-sen sites and the river

Tickets ≈ CNY 300 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 132

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Morning visit. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 32
2

10:30–11:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Short ride. Check campus access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CNY 29
3

12:30–13:15 · ≈ CNY 30–60 per person

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Lunch in Tianhe.

Open Daily, usually long hours; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 35
4

15:00–17:00 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Afternoon into evening. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 35
5

18:00–19:30 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Riverside walk or evening cruise.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day

3 nights · Food

First-timers who plan the day around dim sum, markets and street food.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 675
Taxis: ≈ CNY 196

Day 1

Arrive, old town flavours

Tickets ≈ CNY 90 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 52

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–10:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Start with a classic Cantonese morning tea. Go early, queues build.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

10:30–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Ten minutes by taxi from Yuexiu. Check Monday closures.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 17
3

12:30–13:30 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Herbs, dried goods and snacks. Bargain politely.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
4

16:30–17:30 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Shaded old streets by the river. Good late-afternoon light.

Open Always open

Day 2

Yuexiu eating day

Tickets ≈ CNY 160 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 42

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

11:00–12:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Snack as you walk. Shops open late morning.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ CNY 21
2

16:30–18:00 · ≈ CNY 30–100 per person

Shangxiajiu food street

Shangxiajiu for roast meats and sweets. Cash and phone pay both work.

Open Most stalls and shops daytime into evening
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ CNY 21
3

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise or riverside walk after dinner. Check cruise times on the day.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day

Day 3

Tianhe and skyline

Tickets ≈ CNY 340 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 63

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

12:00–12:45 · ≈ CNY 30–60 per person

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Quick Cantonese lunch in Tianhe.

Open Daily, usually long hours; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34
2

15:00–16:00 · ≈ CNY 100–200 for the observation deck; check on the day

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre Landmark quest

Observation deck on a clear day. Check hours on the day.

Open Observation deck usually daytime into evening; check on the day
Taxi · 276 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
3

18:30–19:15 · Free

Huacheng Square

Open square, best after dark when the towers light up.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

19:30–21:30 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Book ahead for evening. Last entry can be early, check on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 85 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 38

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–10:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

One more dim sum breakfast before the airport.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 33 min · ≈ CNY 38
2

10:30–13:00 · ≈ CNY 5 park entry; cable car extra

Baiyun Mountain viewpoint

Only if your flight is late. Cable car saves time.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–21:00; check on the day

3 nights · Culture

First-timers who want the halls, the tower and the river in three calm days.

Stay: Zhujiang New Town. Modern towers, Canton Tower views and the best metro links; good for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 505
Taxis: ≈ CNY 417
Hotel: CNY 1,350–3,900

Day 1

Old town culture

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 140

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 35 min · ≈ CNY 40
1

09:30–11:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Go at opening on a weekday. Check Monday closures.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

11:30–12:30 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Short taxi ride. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

13:00–14:30 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch nearby in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ CNY 22
4

16:00–17:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Colonial-era streets, easy walking.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 12 km · ≈ 37 min · ≈ CNY 43

Day 2

Zhujiang New Town

Tickets ≈ CNY 300 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 72

Taxi from your hotel · 561 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ CNY 13
1

15:00–15:45 · Free to see outside; show tickets vary

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

Exterior always visible. Book a show or tour for inside.

Open Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour
Taxi · 446 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ CNY 100–200 for the observation deck; check on the day

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre Landmark quest

Clear afternoon gives the best view. Check hours on the day.

Open Observation deck usually daytime into evening; check on the day
Taxi · 276 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
3

18:00–18:45 · Free

Huacheng Square

Walk to the river edge.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 9 min · ≈ CNY 16
4

19:00–21:00 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Evening lights. Book ahead, check last entry on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17

Day 3

River and campus

Tickets ≈ CNY 105 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 141

Taxi from your hotel · 5 km · ≈ 19 min · ≈ CNY 25
1

09:30–10:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Weekday morning. Check campus access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 40 min · ≈ CNY 46
2

11:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 5 park entry; cable car extra

Baiyun Mountain viewpoint

Cable car up saves time. Bring water.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–21:00; check on the day
Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 30 min · ≈ CNY 36
3

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise. Check departure times on the day.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ CNY 34

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 0 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 64

Taxi from your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 32
1

10:00–11:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Shops open late morning. Good for last gifts.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 8 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ CNY 32

3 nights · History

First-timers who want the old town, Shamian and the Sun Yat-sen story at an easy pace.

Tickets & tours: ≈ CNY 500
Taxis: ≈ CNY 145

Day 1

Yuexiu history

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 53

1

09:00–10:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Morning is quiet. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ CNY 18
2

10:30–12:00 · ≈ CNY 10 entry

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Ten minutes by taxi. Check Monday closures.

Open Daily roughly 09:00–17:00; closed some Mondays, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ CNY 18
3

12:30–14:00 · ≈ CNY 50–120 per person

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Lunch in Yuexiu.

Open Most restaurants serve dim sum in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 17
4

14:30–15:30 · Free to walk; food priced per item

Qingping Market

Old market streets, still busy with locals.

Open Daily roughly morning to early evening

Day 2

Shamian and the river

Tickets ≈ CNY 100 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 62

1

10:00–11:00 · Free

Shamian Island walk

Cooler in the morning. Flat, easy walking.

Open Always open
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 27 min · ≈ CNY 33
2

13:30–14:30 · Free; campus access may need registration

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Check campus access rules on the day.

Open Campus grounds daytime; check access rules on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ CNY 29
3

19:30–21:00 · ≈ CNY 80–150 for a night cruise; riverside walks are free

Pearl River Landmark quest

Evening cruise past the old and new banks. Check times on the day.

Open Cruises usually evening; riverside paths open all day

Day 3

New city and views

Tickets ≈ CNY 300 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 30

1

15:00–15:45 · Free to see outside; show tickets vary

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

Exterior always visible. Interior only with a show or tour.

Open Exterior always visible; interior only with a show or tour
Taxi · 446 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ CNY 13
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ CNY 100–200 for the observation deck; check on the day

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre Landmark quest

Clear afternoon. Check hours on the day.

Open Observation deck usually daytime into evening; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ CNY 16
3

18:30–20:30 · ≈ CNY 150 for the main observation deck; higher decks cost more

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Book ahead. Check last entry on the day.

Open Daily roughly 09:30–22:30; check on the day

Day 4

Last morning, then go

Tickets ≈ CNY 0 pp · taxis ≈ CNY 0

1

10:00–11:30 · Free to walk; shops priced per item

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Old street with some excavated paving on show. Shops open late morning.

Open Shops usually late morning to late evening

Swap in instead

Add a day trip to Foshan for Cantonese martial-arts history and ceramics; trains from Guangzhou South take under an hour.
Ferries run to Hong Kong and Macau from Nansha and Lianhuashan ports; check times and tickets on the day.
Spend a slow morning in Yuexiu Park and the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall if you want more old-city time.

Getting around

Metro: 15+ lines, fares ¥2-21, English signs; tap a foreign contactless card or buy a token.
Yang Cheng Tong stored-value card costs ¥50 (¥18 deposit) and gives 5-40% metro discounts.
Buses are cheap and wide-reaching but slower and harder to read for visitors.
Taxis are metered; ride-hailing apps DiDi and Amap work, Uber does not operate in China.
Driving yourself is not advised for visitors; traffic is heavy and rules differ.
Walking is good in the centre; shared bikes are common for short hops.
Ferries run to Hong Kong and Macau from Nansha and Lianhuashan ports.

Where to stay

Zhujiang New Town · ≈ CNY 450–1,300 a night
Modern towers, Canton Tower views and the best metro links; good for first-timers.
Tianhe · ≈ CNY 350–1,000 a night
Big shopping malls, many mid-range hotels and easy metro access to the whole city.
Yuexiu · ≈ CNY 250–800 a night
Old-city centre: parks, markets and cheap eats within walking distance.
Shamian Island · ≈ CNY 400–1,100 a night
Quiet tree-lined streets with colonial buildings; a calm base near the river.

Food & drink

Start the day with dim sum (yum cha): har gow, siu mai and rice rolls. Go before 10am on weekends or expect a queue.
Try Cantonese roast meats: roast goose, char siu and soy chicken, often sold from small shopfronts at lunch.
Wonton noodles and congee are cheap, filling staples; a bowl is often under ¥30.
Evening dai pai dong and seafood streets are lively; point at what looks fresh and ask the price first.
Drink tea with meals. Tap water is not for drinking; bottled water is cheap everywhere.

Tips

WeChat Pay or Alipay are essential — physical cash is rarely used
Having early morning Dim Sum (Yum Cha) is a vital local cultural experience
The metro is efficient, but avoid the massive crowds during peak rush hours
Attending the Canton Fair requires booking hotels months in advance
Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin, though Cantonese is the historical local language

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Pearl River

Canton Tower

See the illuminated skyline and Canton Tower from the water
Glide under bridges on a comfortable evening cruise
33 reviews · 4.8 rating

Night viewsCruise

Pearl River Night Cruise, Skyline & Bridge Views

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (33)

$32View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Canton Tower

Experience autonomous vehicles and AI demos
Get a futuristic view of the city's tech scene
97 reviews · 4.8 rating

Future techRobotaxi

Future Tech Tour of eVOLT, Robotaxi & AI Machine

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (97)

$90View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Canton Tower

Explore the city after dark with robots and drones
See the skyline lit up from street level
58 reviews · 4.8 rating

Night walkDrones

Cyber Citywalk with Robots, EVs & Drones at Night

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (58)

$8View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Canton Tower

Ride in a driverless taxi
Learn about the future of urban transport
48 reviews · 4.9 rating

Autonomous rideLevel 4 taxi

Futuristic Tour & Level 4 Autonomous Taxi Ride

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (48)

$65View tour

Souvenirs

Cantonese Almond Cookies

CNY 30–70250–400 g box · estimate

These are soft, crumbly almond cookies in the Cantonese style. Lianxiang Lou is a long-running Guangzhou shop, so the cookies are a classic local gift.

Where: Lianxiang Lou, Dishifu Road

Pick boxes with individually sealed pieces. They stay fresher on the trip home.

Flights

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Luggage storage

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Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 14

Must-see · 8

Canton Tower

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

Shamian Island

Baiyun Mountain

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Yuexiu Park

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Pearl River

Cultural

Tower 1

Museum 2

Skyscraper 1

Christian 1

Old Town 1

Modern History 1

University 1

Park 1

Natural

Mountain 1

River 1

Activities

Amusement Park 1

Theater 1

Football Stadium 1

Day trips from Guangzhou

Zhuhai · 2 h 06 by train

What to see

Good to know

Foshan · 24 min by road

What to see

Good to know

Zhaoqing · 1 h 20 by bus

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Qingping Market

Shamian Island walk

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Shangxiajiu food street

Pearl River Landmark quest

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Huacheng Square

Pearl River Landmark quest

Shamian Island walk

Qingping Market

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Qingping Market

Shamian Island walk

Kungfu (Kungfu Catering) Landmark quest

Beijing Road pedestrian street

Shangxiajiu food street

Huacheng Square

Guangzhou Opera House Landmark quest

Canton Tower Landmark quest

Pearl River Landmark quest

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Cantonese dim sum breakfast

Sun Yat-sen University Landmark quest

Shamian Island walk

Qingping Market

Pearl River Landmark quest

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Landmark quest

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Landmark quest