For centuries, Guangzhou has attracted foreign visitors, from traders to tourists. The city is an economic and commercial powerhouse, thanks to trade, finance and tourism. Since becoming one of the world’s greatest trading ports in the 18th century thanks to its location on the Pearl River, Guangzhou has been at the centre of China’s political and economic history. Traders might not be hauling bales of opium off barges as they did in the past, but Guangzhou is still a massive centre for trade.In the 1970s, China started its economic reforms of moving from an economically communist state to a capitalist free-for-all in Guangzhou, and the city became an economic role model for the rest of the country. Modern-day Guangzhou is modern and spacious, with gleaming skyscrapers that reflect its status as China’s third-largest city. One of the most obvious signs of Guangzhou's brash attitude is the Canton Tower, the tallest TV tower in the world. Visitors who want to get the lay of the land should make a bee-line for the tower as soon as they arrive. Depending on the smog levels and weather, you should be able to enjoy wonderful views of the city, and thrill-seekers will love the world's highest Ferris wheel perched on top. Despite all the modernity, the city has plenty of remnants of its past, too. Find some of them in The Western Han Museum of the Nanyue King Mausoleum. This museum contains the tomb of an ancient king under a glass pyramid as well as many of the relics that were buried along with him 2000 years ago. Another must-see is the Chen Family Temple, which was once an ancestral shrine but is now an arts and crafts folk museum.There's plenty of more worldly activities to do, too - if you need a bit of retail therapy, it’s worth checking out Beijing Road Pedestrian Street for its massive range of toys, bags and clothes. Kids will love a day out at Chimelong Paradise, a family-friendly theme park. For peace and quiet and beautiful scenery, head for the hills, lakes and lawns of Yuexiu Park (Yuexiu Gongyuan).A great way to get around town is by subway as the city has one of the best systems in the world. Taxis are good too – as long as you have the address written down in Chinese characters if you're not a Cantonese speaker.
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.
Guangzhou Central Business District
Noted for its spas and coffee shops, there's plenty to explore in Guangzhou Central Business District. Top attractions like Zhongtian Shopping Mall and Tianhe Stadium are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Tianhe Sports Center Station or Linhexi Station to see more of the city.
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.
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 9 May 2024
Reviewed on 4 May 2024
Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Reviewed on 3 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 7 May 2024
Reviewed on 7 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Canton Fair Complex
During your trip, find out what's happening in Canton Fair Complex, a top convention centre in Guangzhou. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in the area.
Chimelong Paradise
There's guaranteed fun for all the family at this excellent amusement park which has more than 70 thrilling rides.
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street
Make sure you bargain hard at Guangzhou's main shopping destination.
Canton Tower
Rise above the clouds and enjoy the views from the world's tallest communications tower.
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.
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.
Activities
2-Day Zhangjiajie Private Trip from Guangzhou by Air with Drop off Option
Private Guangzhou History and Culture Tour with Dim-Sum Option
5-Day Private Yunnan Discovery from Guangzhou: Kunming, Dali, Shaxi and Lijiang
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!