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Top Attractions & Best Things to Do in Guangzhou
No.1 Explore the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
A breathtaking symbol of traditional Cantonese architecture, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is an unmissable attraction in Guangzhou. Built in the 19th century, the complex is adorned with intricate stone, wood, and brick carvings, each telling a unique story. The Hall also houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, displaying a rich collection of local artifacts, from elaborate ceramics to stunning embroidery. This trip is more than just a visual feast—it's an immersion into the rich tapestry of Guangzhou's cultural heritage.
No.2 View the Canton Tower in Huacheng Square
Huacheng Square is the perfect spot to marvel at the Canton Tower's lofty height and unique twisted shape. As one of the world's tallest towers, it is a testament to Guangzhou's rapid modernization. The square offers panoramic views of the futuristic Zhujiang New Town, with its forest of skyscrapers and the architecturally stunning Guangzhou Opera House. This juxtaposition of the city's recent urban development against the region's ancient history makes for a truly fascinating visit.
No.3 Stroll around the Yongqing Fang and Lychee Bay
Yongqing Fang is a historic district where you can experience the traditional Lingnan culture firsthand. The area is filled with preserved Qing Dynasty buildings, antique shops, and traditional teahouses. The Guangdong Cantonese Opera Theatre regularly hosts performances, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in this exquisite traditional art form. Nearby, Lychee Bay offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Stroll along its tranquil paths, admire the beautifully restored Xiguan Mansions and enjoy the scenic views of the waterways—an idyllic representation of Guangzhou's past. This combination of cultural immersion and serene sightseeing makes a visit to Yongqing Fang and Lychee Bay a memorable part of any Guangzhou tour.
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No.4 Experience the Local Cantonese Cuisine on Beijing Road and Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
Both places are home to a wealth of food stalls and restaurants serving a wide variety of Cantonese delicacies. On Beijing Road, you can indulge in an array of traditional dishes, from succulent roast duck to flavorsome char siu and a variety of dim sum. The bustling street is lined with eateries, each offering a unique take on classic Cantonese cuisines. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, on the other hand, is known for its traditional snack foods. Here, you'll find everything from steaming rice noodle rolls and crispy durian pastries to the famous double-skin milk dessert. The lively atmosphere and delicious street food make Shangxiajiu a must-visit for any food adventurer.
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No.5 Take a Pearl River Night Cruise to Admire City Skyline
A Pearl River Night Cruise provides a mesmerizing perspective of Guangzhou's cityscape. The city's landmarks, including the Canton Tower and the Guangzhou Opera House, are illuminated against the night sky, casting their reflections onto the shimmering river below. This enchanting experience, coupled with the gentle river breeze and the city's twinkling lights, encapsulates the magic of Guangzhou.
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Guangzhou Layover Tour: Flexible 5 to 8 Hours to Explore Highlights of Guangzhou2 Days Guangzhou Food Tour with Best Cantonese Cuisines, Dim Sum & Street Food3 Hours Guangzhou Night Tour with Pear River Night Cruise, Nightlife & Street Food3 Days Guangzhou City Tour with Ancient & Modern Highlights, Cantonese lifestyle
How Long to Stay in Guangzhou/Guangdong?
The duration of your stay in Guangzhou will depend on your vacation schedule and preferences. Visitors typically spend 1-3 days exploring Guangzhou and its nearby attractions such as Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, Huacheng Square, Canton Tower, and Beijing Road, among other top-notch sights. However, to truly delve into the essence of this captivating destination, it is highly recommended to allocate 4-7 days for your dream Guangzhou trips.
1-2 Days Guangzhou Classic Tour
Route:
Day 1 - Historical Exploration: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall - Yongqing Fang - Shamian Island
Day 2 - Modern Guangzhou Sightseeing: Yuexiu Park - Beijing Road - Huacheng Square - Canton Tower - Pearl River Night Cruise
Highlights:
- Experience the contrast between Guangzhou's historical and modern sides
- Discover the city's rich cultural heritage through its architecture and traditional performances
- Savour a wide variety of local Cantonese delicacies
- Enjoy captivating views of Guangzhou's skyline from both land and water
Suitable For:
It's suitable for all types of travelers, including families, couples, solo travelers, and even business travelers looking to explore the city during a short stay.
3 Days Guangzhou Foshan Kaiping Tour with Diaolou & Lingnan Culture2 Days Guangzhou Foshan Tour with Lingnan Culture & Yip Man Kung Fu6 Days Canton Fair & Guangzhou Local Tour:Bridging Business with Leisure3 Days Guangzhou City Tour with Ancient & Modern Highlights, Cantonese lifestyle3 Days Guangzhou Shenzhen Tour
3-4 Days Guangdong Cultural Tour in Guangzhou, Foshan, Kaiping, Meizhou
Route:
Day 1 - Guangzhou Exploration: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall - Yuexiu Park - Yongqing Fang - Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
Day 2 - Guangzhou - Kaiping Diaolou - Zili Village - Li Garden - Foshan
Day 3 - Foshan Ancestral Temple - Ancient Nanfeng Kiln - Linnantiandi - Guangzhou
Highlights:
- Delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Guangdong through its architecture, traditional performances, and local crafts
- Experience the contrast between the historical and modern aspects of Guangzhou
- Explore Foshan, the heartland of Chinese martial arts and pottery
- Discover Kaiping Diaolou, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing a unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles
- Savour a wide variety of local Cantonese delicacies across different cities
Suitable For:
This tour is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts who want to explore beyond Guangzhou and delve deep into the cultural richness of Guangdong province. It's suitable for travelers who have more time to spare and wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of the region's heritage. Meanwhile, it's also suitable for these overseas Chinese returning home to trace their roots by exploring cultural heritage and visiting historic sites.
One Week Guangzhou Canton Fair Tour in Guangzhou and Shenzhen
Route:
Day 1 - Arrival in Guangzhou
Day 2-4: Canton Fair in Guangzhou
Day 5 - Guangzhou Sightseeing: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall - Shamian Island - Huacheng Square - Pearl River Night Cruise
Day 6 - Travel to Shenzhen: Yuexiu Park - Beijing Road - Guangzhou South Station - Shenzhen
Day 7 - Shenzhen Exploration: Window of the World - Splendid China Folk Village - OCT Loft
Highlights:
- Gain industry insights and establish international business connections at the Canton Fair in Guangzhou.
- Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural charm of Guangzhou through its ancestral halls and colonial architecture.
- Explore Shenzhen, one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, known for its modern architecture and bustling shopping districts.
Suitable For:
This tour is ideal for business travelers attending the Canton Fair, who are also interested in exploring the culture and history of Guangzhou and the modernity of Shenzhen. It's perfect for those who want to combine their business trip with some leisure time to understand the region's rapid development and rich heritage.
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How to Get to Guangzhou - from Overseas, Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland
From Overseas:
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is one of China's busiest airports, offering numerous international flights. Major airlines operate direct flights to Guangzhou from many cities worldwide. The airport is 28 km from the city center, and you can take a taxi, airport shuttle bus, or the Guangzhou Metro Line 3 to reach downtown.
From Hong Kong:
- By Bullet Train: The high-speed train from Hong Kong to Guangzhou departs from West Kowloon Station, taking around 50 minutes to reach Guangzhou South Railway Station.
- By Air: Flights from Hong Kong International Airport to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport are quick, usually taking just over an hour.
- By Ferry: Ferries operate from Hong Kong (China Ferry Terminal or Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal) to Guangzhou Lianhuashan Port and Nansha Port. The journey takes about 2 hours.
- By Bus: Several companies run direct bus services from various points in Hong Kong to different areas in Guangzhou. The journey can take 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.
Check more information about Guangzhou to Hong Kong Train and Hong Kong to Guangzhou Train
From Chinese Mainland:
- By Air: Domestic flights from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chengdu to Guangzhou are plentiful. Flight duration depends on the departure city.
- By Bullet Train: High-speed trains connect Guangzhou with many cities across China . For instance, you can reach Guangzhou from Beijing in about 8-10 hours, from Shanghai in 6-7 hours, and from Chengdu in about 10-11 hours. Trains arrive at either Guangzhou Railway Station or Guangzhou South Railway Station.
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Where to Stay in Guangzhou - Recommended Best Areas to Stay in Guangzhou
When visiting Guangzhou, there are several iconic attractions that tourists often include in their itinerary, such as the Canton Tower, Yuexiu Park, Baiyun Mountain, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Shamian Island, and the various markets of the city. Most of these attractions are located within convenient reach of the city center. Here are some of the best districts to stay in for easy transportation and proximity to popular sites:
Yuexiu District (near Yuexiu Park, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Beijing Road Shopping District)
The Yuexiu District is the cultural and historical heart of Guangzhou. Staying here allows easy access to top attractions . There are numerous accommodation options in this area, ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly choices. Some popular options are located near Beijing Road or around Yuexiu Park.
Tianhe District (near Canton Tower, Tianhe City Shopping Mall)
The Tianhe District is a bustling, modern part of Guangzhou known for its shopping and business centers. This area is home to some of the city's top hotels and high-end accommodations. In addition, you can find numerous restaurants and bars for nighttime entertainment.
Haizhu District (near Shamian Island, Pearl River):
If you're interested in exploring Guangzhou's colonial history or enjoy riverside landscapes, staying in the Haizhu District is ideal. After visiting Shamian Island, you can easily return to your hotel or explore the vibrant Pearl River nightlife. This district offers a wide range of hotel choices to cater to different traveler needs.
Baiyun District (near Baiyun Mountain, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport):
If you value tranquility and natural beauty, the accommodations in the Baiyun District may be your best choice. Named after the famous Baiyun Mountain, this district is slightly farther from the city center but offers a more peaceful environment. The district is also close to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, making it a convenient location for those with early flights or late arrivals.
What to Eat in Guangzhou - Guangzhou Food
Guangzhou is the birthplace of Cantonese cuisines, one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of Chinese cuisine. Renowned for its emphasis on preserving the original flavors of the ingredients, Cantonese cuisines is characterized by its fresh, light, and delicate taste, earning adoration all over the world. The diversity of Cantonese culinary offerings is vast, ranging from various kinds of meat dishes to desserts, dim sum, and soups. Whether you're seeking an indulgent feast or street food, Guangzhou is sure to satiate your culinary desires and enthrall your taste buds.
Dim Sum is the most representative category within Guangzhou's cuisine. No trip to Guangzhou would be complete without trying the city's world-famous dim sum. This Cantonese brunch tradition features a variety of small dishes, from steamed buns and dumplings to rice noodle rolls and chicken feet.
For a taste of Guangzhou's street food, make your way to the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. Amidst the hustle and bustle, indulge in local delicacies like rice rolls (肠粉), fried dumplings, and Cantonese pastries.
To make the most of your dining experience, it's always helpful to have a local guide who can make recommendations based on your tastes and requirements. They can also assist with ordering dishes, ensuring a hassle-free dining experience.
Check more about what to eat in Guangzhou with Cantonese food>>
Do I Need A Visa for a Guangzhou Tour
China's 144-hour Visa-Free Transit policy allows travelers from 53 countries to transit in Guangzhou for up to 6 days without a visa. To be eligible, visitors must hold valid international travel documents and onward travel tickets to a third country or region (Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are considered third regions). The visa-free stay starts from the day following the entry date.
During the visa-free transit period, travelers cannot leave the specified region. For example, if you're transiting in Guangzhou, you can travel around the whole Guangdong Province such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, Jiangmen, Meizhou, and other cities in Guangdong, but can't go to other provinces.
Extend Your Guangzhou Tour
Part 1: Extend Guangzhou Tour to the Greater Bay Area
If you have a few extra days, consider extending your Guangzhou tour to the nearby cities of Hong Kong and Macau, both within a 1.5-hour train ride or ferry trip. Renowned for their unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures, these cities offer a fascinating look at China's rich history and modern development.
Hong Kong is famous for its stunning skyline and vibrant street markets. Don't miss the opportunity to take the historic Star Ferry and enjoy the breathtaking view of Victoria Harbour. Hike up to Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of the city. It's a good idea to spend 1-2 days here
Macau is known for its fusion of Portuguese and Chinese cultures. Visit the iconic Ruins of St. Paul's, wander around the historic Senado Square, and explore the unique cuisine that blends Portuguese and Chinese flavors. If you're interested in entertainment and nightlife, Macao's Cotai Strip, famous for its casinos and luxury resorts, is a must-visit for one day break.
Part 2: Extend Guangzhou Tour to China's Popular Destinations
Guangzhou being a significant transportation hub in China , provides effortless connections to other popular destinations in the country.
If you love nature and outdoor adventure, you can embark on a nature-inspired journey to the ethereal beauty of Huangshan, the stunning karst formations of Guilin, and the awe-inspiring sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie or take a Yangtze River Cruise to admire the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
Alternatively, delve into China's rich history and modern vibrancy by following the Golden Triangle route of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai . Walk along Beijing's Great Wall, uncover Xi'an's ancient Terracotta Warriors, and bask in Shanghai's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity in the Bund.
Allocate an extra 10-16 days to fully experience these popular Chinese destinations. Extending your Guangzhou tour opens doors to the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of China .
Explore Guangzhou with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Based in China with our office located in Guangzhou, our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel provides the best service to ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who want to visit Guangzhou. We offer a variety of carefully designed Guangzhou tours, including Classic Guangzhou Tours, Guangzhou Food Tours, Guangzhou Canton Fair Tours, Guangzhou Night Tours, Guangzhou Layover tours, and tours around Guangzhou, that cater to your needs and desires. Whether you prefer a private tour with a flexible itinerary or a budget-friendly group tour without compromising on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour to suit you, ensuring that your journey to Guangzhou is an enjoyable vacation.
If you're looking to extend your Guangzhou trip into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China Tours from Guangzhou . Our professional travel consultants are ready to help you customize a tailor-made Guangzhou tour at the best local price. Don't hesitate to contact us to start planning your dream trip to Guangzhou today!
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