Guangzhou is an economic and commercial powerhouse, flourishing particularly in trade, finance and tourism. New skyscrapers are springing up, the streets are packed with shoppers and the good times are rolling for one of China’s largest cities.Guangzhou is situated on the Pearl River in Southern China. From its founding during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 B.C.), the city has become an important hub for international trade. After substantial reforms in the 1970s, Guangzhou became an economic role model for the rest of the country.One of the most visible signs of this city’s energy and modern attitude is Canton Tower. Make this colossal building one of your first stops. From its summit not only will you have an incredible bird’s-eye-view of the city, you’ll also have the opportunity to ride the world’s highest Ferris wheel in the form of the tower’s Bubble Tram.Guangzhou may have its sights set on the future, but it has not severed its links with the past. Local heritage can be seen in the city’s temples, mosques, classical architecture, and traditional arts and crafts. Discover more than 2,000 years of the city’s history with a visit to The Western Han Museum of the Nanyue King Mausoleum. It houses the tomb of an ancient king and many of the relics that were buried along with him. Visit the lavishly decorated Chen Family Temple, which was once an ancestral shrine but now holds a museum dedicated to the area’s long tradition in arts and crafts.Take in some of Guangzhou’s many modern attractions. Shop for bargains on Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, and treat the family to a day out at the Chimelong Paradise theme park. For quieter moments surrounded by beauty, head for the hills, lakes and lawns of Yuexiu Park (Yuexiu Gongyuan).Although Guangzhou still has a reputation for its air pollution, the city has done much in recent years to improve this. There are pollution controls and a vastly improved subway system. Guangzhou’s subway is actually one of the quickest and most efficient ways to get around, and it connects to most of the major attractions.
Guangzhou Travel Guide
Where to stay in Guangzhou
Tianhe
Enjoy the popular shops in Tianhe. Tianhe Park is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Tianhe Park Station or Yuancun Station to see more of Guangzhou.
Yuexiu
Consider a visit to Guangdong Provincial Museum and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Yuexiu. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Peasant Movement Institute Station or Beijing Lu Station.
Haizhu
Haizhu is a destination travellers like for its spas, and you might hop aboard the metro at Datang Station or Kecun Station to explore sights like Canton Tower.
Panyu
Panyu is well liked for its mountain views and parks. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Dafu Mountain Forest Park and Chimelong Paradise are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Panyu Square Station or Shiqiao Station to get around.
Guangzhou Central Business District
Noted for its spas and coffee shops, there's plenty to explore in Guangzhou Central Business District. Top attractions like Tianhe Stadium and Tee Mall are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Tianhe Sports Center Station or Linhexi Station to see more of the city.
Baiyun District
Baiyun District is well liked for its mountain views and coffee shops. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Guangzhou Wanda Plaza and Guangzhou Gymnasium are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Feixiang Park Station or Sanyuanli Station to get around.
Reviewed on 3 Jun. 2024
Reviewed on 1 Jun. 2024
Reviewed on 26 May 2024
Reviewed on 7 May 2024
Reviewed on 26 May 2024
Reviewed on 3 Apr. 2024
Popular places to visit
Canton Fair Complex
Learn about the events happening in Canton Fair Complex during your trip to Guangzhou. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in the area.
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street
Browse for shopping bargains and explore ancient sites at one of the oldest roads in Guangzhou.
Chimelong Paradise
One of the largest theme parks in China offers a mixture of fast-paced fun and relaxation for all the family.
Canton Tower
Journey up one of the tallest buildings in the world, a steel and concrete television tower that rises high above the clouds.
Taikoo Hui
During your visit to Guangzhou, you can do some window-shopping at Taikoo Hui. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its lively festivals.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center during your trip to Guangzhou. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its fascinating museums.
Activities
4-Hour Private Flexible Guangzhou City Tour with Dim-Sum Option
Private Tour to Canton Tower and Pearl River Night Cruise
Private VIP Guangzhou Full-day Tour: Canton Tower Lunch, Night Cruise and More
7 Day Private Tour in Guangzhou
Private Guangzhou Night Tour with Canton Tower and Pearl River VIP Class Cruise
Half Private Day Tour to Old City of Guangzhou
Reviews of Guangzhou
5/5 - Excellent
Lots to do and see ..good different option as stopover for Europe
2/5 - Disappointing
Didn't feel comfortable walking the streets with my partner. Certainly didn't get the vibe that tourists were very welcome. Not a lot to see or do. Shopping was either high end prices or low priced fake brands. Nice parks in city centre.
4/5 - Good
Good place for food
4/5 - Good
Have been before really enjoyed and will visit on return trip.
5/5 - Excellent
Wow. It was my first time in China, and I was amazed. Pros: happy people, modern, great food, transport metro system is excellent, almost non existent poverty, safe, happy elderly people. Tips: Wechat translate, ExpressVPN or data roaming
4/5 - Good
Great city!