Guangzhou Skyline

Guangzhou

The Culinary Capital & Trading Hub

Welcome to Guangzhou (Canton)! The culinary capital of China and a historic trading port. This 3-day guide mixes old-world charm with modern marvels.

1. Attractions

Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.

Note: Some major attractions require reservations even with tickets. Be sure to use Trip.com to purchase and reserve simultaneously

Day 1: Old Canton Charm

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠)

The ultimate example of traditional Lingnan architecture, famous for its incredibly detailed wood and stone carvings.

Cost:10 CNY
Hours:9:00 – 17:30
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠)

Sacred Heart Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂)

a magnificent, historic Gothic Revival cathedral constructed entirely of granite, standing as a notable example of European architecture built in China.

Cost:Free
Hours:Mon-Fri:8:30-11:30,14:30-17:00, Sat-Sun:8:30-17:00
Sacred Heart Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂)

Shamian Island (沙面岛)

A sandbank island filled with European colonial mansions and banyan trees; a peaceful escape from the city noise.

Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Shamian Island (沙面岛)

Yong Qing Fang (永庆坊)

A renovated historic block with Bruce Lee’s ancestral house and traditional Cantonese opera stages.

Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Yong Qing Fang (永庆坊)

Day 2: Modern Skylines

Canton Tower (广州塔)

The slim 'waist' of Guangzhou. Visit at sunset for the best views of the Pearl River.

Cost:~150-400 CNY
Hours:9:30 – 22:30
Canton Tower (广州塔)

Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城)

Walk through the futuristic library and opera house (Huacheng Square), and enjoy the stunning night view.

Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城)

Day 3: Nature or Wildlife

Yuexiu Park (越秀公园)

Home to the 'Five Rams Sculpture,' the symbol of the city.

Cost:Free
Hours:6:00 – 22:00
Yuexiu Park (越秀公园)

Chimelong Safari Park (长隆野生动物世界)

One of the best zoos in Asia, famous for its white tigers and panda triplets.

Cost:~300 CNY
Hours:9:30 – 18:00
Chimelong Safari Park (长隆野生动物世界)

2. Food

Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.

Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly

Yum Cha (Morning Tea)

Dim Sum

点心

Must Order: Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow), Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao), Rice Noodle Rolls. Try Dian Dou De(点都德) or Tao Tao Ju(陶陶居) for a more authentic experience.

Dim Sum

Cantonese Classics

Roast Goose

烧鹅

Crispy skin and juicy meat served with plum sauce.

Roast Goose

Double-Skin Milk

双皮奶

A smooth, cold milk custard dessert.

Double-Skin Milk

Wonton Noodles

云吞面

Thin bamboo-pressed noodles with bouncy shrimp dumplings.

Wonton Noodles

3. Transportation

Arrival

City Transport

  • Metro: Extensive. Use Alipay to scan for tickets.
  • Ferry: Water Bus (S series) for a cheap scenic ride (approx. 2 CNY).

4. Where to Stay

Tianhe District

Modern, near high-end malls and Canton Tower.

Liwan / Yuexiu

Older, more traditional feel, closer to food streets and history.

5. Essential Tips

💡 Top Tips

  • Trade Fairs: Avoid Canton Fair (mid-April to early May, mid-Oct to early Nov). Prices triple.
  • Language: Cantonese is the local dialect, but Mandarin is widely spoken.