Guangzhou Hotels

Guangzhou is one of the most popular and prosperous cities in China. Food, sights, shops, attractions abound in the ancient city, that a week won’t be enough to explore everything the thriving metropolis has to offer.

The west side of the city is where you’ll find shrines, temples, and villages reminiscent of the old Canton life. In the east, ultra-modern skyscrapers fill the business district with shops and museums.

Luxurious hotels that will keep you pampered, trendy restaurants serving exquisite Cantonese cuisine, heritage buildings that depict the city’s deep history, and the buzzing markets where you can buy almost everything – Guangzhou’s cultural juxtaposition is something that continues to attract tourists from all over the globe.

How to Go

The Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is situated around 28km north of the city center. It will take you around 45 minutes to get to the city proper by train which is located just below the airport terminal.

There are also taxis waiting outside the terminal that can take you directly to your accommodation. They’re expensive, though, and you might run into a traffic jam, especially during rush hour. Consider this option only as your last resort.

Getting Around

The best way to get around the city is by utilizing its extensive train system. You’ll have to transfer between the 13 lines every time, though, to get from east to west and north to south of the region.

Buses are accessible, but you may get confused with their wide network of routes. Taxis are also an option since they’re generally safe to ride. The most reputable ones are blue and yellow taxis, so look for them during your travel.

Top Things to Do

Enjoy the numerous things you can do in Guangzhou thanks to its dynamic and exciting culture. A must-see tourist spot in Guangzhou is the Canton Tower. Climb the 600-meter skyscraper and get a bird’s eye view of the city. Extreme activities like Sky Drop is also one of the exciting things to do here. An architectural tour in Shamian Island is one of the necessary things to do in Guangzhou. You’ll witness over 150 buildings featuring baroque, neo-classical, and pseudo-gothic styles.

To get to know more about Chinese history, one of the vital things to do in Guangzhou is to visit the Ancestral Temple of the Chen Family. The carvings, sculptures, and paintings here will tell you the province’s story in an artistic way.

If you’re with your family or friends, the Chimelong Tourist Resort is a must-visit tourist spot in Guangzhou. It features a mix of water parks, amusement facilities, and a zoo that everyone will surely enjoy. If you want to see more of nature’s wonders, the White Cloud Mountain offers a challenging but rewarding hike. Exploring its 30 peaks will give you a different view of the city on top of floating clouds.

After a tiring tour, go to Yuexiu Park for a short break. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere amidst trees, man-made pools, and a picturesque view of the mountains from afar in this free-for-all park. While you’re here, you may also want to visit the Guangzhou Museum for a minimal fee. At night, cruising the Pearl River is one of the most relaxing things to do in Guangzhou after a tiring day tour.

What to Eat

Make sure you fill your stomach with shrimp dumplings, shaomai, char siu bao, chicken feet, molten egg custard buns, radish cake, and rice noodle rolls. You probably won’t get enough of eating authentic Chinese food in Guangzhou.

The most famous places to load up on dim sum are Guangzhou Restaurant (aka Guangzhou Jiujia) and Dim Dou Dak. But if you want to get the best gourmet dim sum you’ll taste in your whole life, head to White Swan Hotel Restaurant. Prices are quite expensive, but every serving is worth it.

Nightlife

The three famous pub streets in Guangzhou are Bai'e Tan, Binjiang Road, and Huanshi Road. Huanshi Road is situated in the city center, making it easily accessible at night. Binjiang Road is near the Pearl River, so you can have a nice view of the city lights while drinking. Bai'e Tan is the flashiest of the three areas. It’s filled with exotic-looking pubs with quirky designs that will grab your attention.

A word of caution, though. It’s best to go with a friend or in groups when you drink in clubs. Although cases are rare, spiking drinks isn’t unheard of in these areas. Better go with friends who can always watch your back.

Where to Stay

If it’s your first time in China, Guangzhou hotels situated in the Yuexiu district are the best to book. You’ll be near several museums in the area and the popular Beijing Road will be within walking distance from your accommodation.

For budget travelers, Xiguan is the place to look for inexpensive B&Bs and hotels in Guangzhou. The district is filled with restaurants and shopping malls. It’s also where the infamous Hualin Jade Street is located where you can shop for distinct jewelry pieces.

Want to enjoy the city’s nightlife? Stay in Huanshi Lu. Crowded clubs, upscale restaurants, and posh cafes are near Guangzhou hotels in the area, so you can party with locals and tourists every night.

If you’re after a relaxing place to stay, look for Guangzhou hotels in the Haizhu area. This upscale neighborhood is near popular tourist spots in Guangzhou and has convenient access to public transportation.

Meanwhile, family travelers will find that the Tianhe district hosts the best hotels in Guangzhou. The friendly town hosts shopping centers, restaurants, amusement parks, and museums that kids will enjoy.

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