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Guangzhou

Pearl River nights, dim sum mornings & riverside bars

Browse Guangzhou

Guangzhou is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Canton Tower, Shamian Island and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Food lovers should not miss Party Pier Beer Culture & Art Zone and Panxi Restaurant. Below you will find 11 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Guangzhou at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Canton Tower and Shamian Island
  • Where to stay: Liwan and Yuexiu
  • Local picks: 11 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Where to stay in Guangzhou

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Yuexiu

A pedestrian shopping street built over ancient road ruins.
★ 4.3
$

Tianhe

A local favourite for polished, classic Cantonese cooking.
★ 4.5
$$

Haizhu

The twisting mega-tower with observation decks and a sky drop.
★ 4.6
$

Liwan

An exquisite Qing hall of carvings, now a folk-art museum.
★ 4.5
$

Liwan

A sprawling lakeside garden restaurant famed for dim sum.
★ 4.4
$$

Pearl River

A riverside strip of Western-style bars and pubs on the banks of the Pearl River, with the Canton Tower glowing across the water. A favourite for a night out and a Pearl River cruise – it really gets going after 8pm.
★ 4.2
$$

Centre

An evening cruise past the glittering towers along the Pearl River.
★ 4.5
$$

Yuexiu

A soaring all-granite Gothic cathedral known as the Stone House.
★ 4.5
$

Liwan

A leafy island of colonial mansions and quiet riverside lanes.
★ 4.5
$

Shamian

A landmark riverside luxury hotel on Shamian Island.
★ 4.5
$$$

Yuexiu

The citys largest park, home to the Five Rams statue.
★ 4.4
$

Book your trip to Guangzhou

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Guangzhou travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Guangzhou?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Guangzhou at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Guangzhou?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Guangzhou?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Guangzhou guide.

What is the best time to visit Guangzhou?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Guangzhou is worth visiting year-round.

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