Guangzhou, the vibrant capital of China’s Guangdong Province, blends rich history with stunning modernity. Famous for its Cantonese cuisine, impressive skyline, and the scenic Pearl River, this dynamic city offers travelers a unique glimpse into southern China’s culture and urban life. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or city explorer, Guangzhou has something to captivate every visitor.

1. 3-Day Itinerary with Detailed Transportation and Highlights

Day 1: Historical & Cultural Exploration

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (Chen Clan Academy)

[caption id="attachment_1175" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall[/caption]

Address: No. 34 Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Road, Zhongshan 7th Road, Liwan District

Description: Built in the late 19th century, this architectural masterpiece showcases exquisite Lingnan-style craftsmanship, including intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and vibrant ceramics. It’s a peaceful cultural oasis amid the city buzz.

How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Station, Exit A, then walk 5 minutes.

Shamian Island

[caption id="attachment_1176" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Shamian Island[/caption]

Address: Shamian Street, Liwan District

Description: A charming, tree-lined island with colonial European architecture, quaint cafes, and riverside promenades. It reflects Guangzhou’s international trade history and offers a relaxing stroll away from busy streets.

How to get there: From Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, walk to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Station, take Line 1 for 1 stop to Changshou Road Station, then walk 10 minutes to the island.

Canton Tower

[caption id="attachment_1177" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Canton Tower[/caption]

Address: 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District

Description: One of the tallest towers in the world, Canton Tower offers panoramic city views from its observation deck and thrilling experiences like the sky drop and bubble tram. The tower’s LED light show at night is spectacular.

How to get there: From Shamian Island, return to Changshou Road Station, take Line 1 to Gongyuanqian Station, transfer to Line 3 South Extension, and get off at Canton Tower Station. Walk 3 minutes to the tower.

Day 2: Modern City & Shopping

Guangzhou Opera House

[caption id="attachment_1178" align="alignnone" width="800"]

Guangzhou Opera House[/caption]

Address: No. 1 Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe District

Description: Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this futuristic building resembles twin boulders by the river. It hosts world-class performances in opera, ballet, and concerts. Even a daytime visit to admire its design is rewarding.

How to get there: Take Metro Line 3 to Liede Station, Exit B, then walk 8 minutes.

Beijing Road Shopping Street

[caption id="attachment_1179" align="alignnone" width="800"]

Beijing Road Shopping Street[/caption]

Address: Beijing Road, Yuexiu District

Description: A bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Beneath glass panels on the street, you can see ancient road remnants dating back over 1,000 years. Perfect for shopping and tasting street food.

How to get there: From the Opera House, take Line 3 to Tiyu Xilu Station, transfer to Line 1 to Gongyuanqian Station, then walk 5 minutes.

Pearl River Night Cruise

[caption id="attachment_1180" align="alignnone" width="800"]

Pearl River Night Cruise[/caption]

Departure points: Tianzi Wharf or Huangpu Wharf near the Canton Tower

Description: A relaxing evening cruise along the Pearl River offers stunning views of Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline, bridges, and iconic landmarks. It’s a must-do to see the city sparkle at night.

How to get there: From Beijing Road, walk to Gongyuanqian Station, take Line 3 South Extension to Canton Tower Station, then walk to the pier.

Day 3: Nature & Local Life

Yuexiu Park

[caption id="attachment_1181" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Yuexiu Park[/caption]

Address: No. 988 Yuexiu South Road, Yuexiu District

Description: The largest park in downtown Guangzhou, featuring beautiful lakes, pagodas, and the famous Five Rams Sculpture — a city symbol representing good fortune. It’s a refreshing green space for a morning walk.

How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Yuexiu Park Station, Exit B.

Qingping Market

[caption id="attachment_1182" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Qingping Market[/caption]

Address: No. 26 Shamian North Street, Liwan District

Description: This traditional market is famous for herbs, dried seafood, and exotic ingredients used in Cantonese cooking. A fascinating spot for cultural immersion and souvenir hunting.

How to get there: From Yuexiu Park, take Line 2 to Gongyuanqian Station, transfer to Line 1 to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Station, then walk 8 minutes.

Huacheng Square

[caption id="attachment_1183" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Huacheng Square[/caption]

Address: Huaxia Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District

Description: A modern urban plaza surrounded by impressive skyscrapers, museums, and shopping centers. The area is perfect for evening strolls and catching the iconic Canton Opera performance at the Guangdong Museum.

How to get there: From Qingping Market, take Line 1 to Gongyuanqian Station, transfer to Line 3 South Extension to Liede Station, then walk 10 minutes.

Daily Transport Tips:

The Yang Cheng Tong card can be purchased and recharged at metro stations, buses, and convenience stores for hassle-free travel on public transport.

Guangzhou metro operates roughly from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM., plan accordingly.

2. Food & Restaurant Recommendations

Panxi Restaurant

[caption id="attachment_1187" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Panxi Restaurant[/caption]

Address: No. 151 Enning Road, Liwan District (Near Chen Clan Ancestral Hall)

Signature Dishes: Classic Cantonese dim sum, crispy roast pigeon, shrimp dumplings (Har Gow)

Price Range: Around $15–30 per person

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Why Visit: Set in a traditional garden-style environment, Panxi offers an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine with a charming cultural atmosphere.

How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 to “Chen Clan Academy Station,” exit A. It’s a 5-minute walk from the station.

Tiger Shrimp Vietnamese Restaurant

[caption id="attachment_1188" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Tiger Shrimp Vietnamese Restaurant[/caption]

Address: Near Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (Close to Guangzhou Opera House)

Signature Dishes: Tiger shrimp hotpot, Vietnamese spring rolls

Price Range: Around $20–40 per person

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Why Visit: A unique blend of Cantonese and Vietnamese flavors with fresh seafood in a lively atmosphere, popular among both locals and tourists.

How to Get There: Take Metro Line 3 to “Liede Station,” exit B. Walk 8 minutes to reach the restaurant.

Guangzhou Restaurant

[caption id="attachment_1189" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Guangzhou Restaurant[/caption]

Address: Beijing Road, Yuexiu District

Signature Dishes: Char siu (barbecue pork), wonton noodles

Price Range: Around $10–25 per person

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Why Visit: A century-old establishment offering classic, authentic Cantonese dishes with friendly service—ideal for a quick and delicious meal.

How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 to “Gongyuanqian Station,” then walk about 5 minutes to Beijing Road.

3. Accommodation & Hotel Guide

Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou

[caption id="attachment_1184" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Luxury Hotel:The Ritz-Carlton[/caption]

Address: No. 3 Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou (Central Zhujiang New Town)

Geographic Coordinates: 23.1081° N, 113.3207° E

Location Highlights: Situated in the heart of Zhujiang New Town, the hotel is about 1.2 km (15-minute walk) from the iconic Canton Tower. It’s conveniently accessible via Metro Line 3 at “Liede Station” Exit B, just a 5-minute walk away. Nearby landmarks include Huacheng Square and the Guangdong Museum.

Room Types & Price Range: Deluxe rooms start at around $250 per night, with spacious suites available. Ideal for business travelers and luxury seekers.

Facilities: Indoor swimming pool, full-service spa, multiple upscale dining options, fitness center, and conference facilities offer a premium, comfortable stay.

Budget Hotel: Guangzhou Baiyun Hotel

[caption id="attachment_1185" align="alignnone" width="500"]

Budget Hotel:Guangzhou Baiyun Hotel[/caption]

Address: No. 633 Yuexiu South Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Geographic Coordinates: 23.1262° N, 113.2705° E

Location Highlights: Located in the central Yuexiu District, about an 8-minute walk from Yuexiu Park and near Metro Line 2 at “Yuexiu Park Station” Exit B. The hotel is close to the Guangzhou Library and the bustling Beijing Road shopping area, making it perfect for budget travelers.

Room Types & Price Range: Standard rooms are around $50 per night, suitable for backpackers and independent travelers.

Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, 24-hour front desk, clean and comfortable, with great value for money.

4. Transportation & Practical Tips

Airport to City Center: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is about 28 km from downtown. Take the Airport Express Line (Metro Line 3) for about 30-40 minutes (fare 8 RMB / $1.2), or taxis cost roughly 150 RMB ($22).

City Transport: The metro system is extensive, clean, and affordable. Get a Yang Cheng Tong travel card for easy access to the metro, buses, and taxis.

Payment: Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used but may require a Chinese bank account. Cash and international credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.

Local Customs: Politeness is valued, so greet shopkeepers and staff with a smile. English proficiency varies, so learning basic Mandarin or Cantonese phrases is helpful. Avoid loud conversations on public transport.

Image Suggestions

Photos of Chen Clan Ancestral Hall’s intricate architecture, Shamian Island’s colonial streets, and the illuminated Canton Tower at night.

Restaurant interiors or signature dishes, with TripAdvisor or Google ratings screenshots to boost credibility.

Hotel lobby and pool images for both luxury and budget options.

Metro maps and airport transfer visuals, all sourced from official or royalty-free collections to avoid copyright issues.

Call to Action

Ready to explore Guangzhou’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant city life in 2025? Use this guide to plan your perfect trip today!

Top Attractions and China Travel Tips: Your Ultimate 2025 Guangzhou Travel Guide

About Go2

Business

Contact Us

Follow us on