2-Day Travel Itinerary: 10 Attractions You Can't Miss in Guangzhou

This travel itinerary will guide you through the top attractions in Guangzhou, one of Southern China’s most dynamic and captivating cities. I visited Guangzhou for the first time in the Summer of 2024, and I am ready to share with you the best tips and things to see in this amazing, lively city!

If this is your first time in China, check out my China Travel Guide for First-timers! It’s packed with tips and tricks to avoid those last-minute emergencies!

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Planning Your Trip to Guangzhou

General Tips for First-Timers in China

1. Download Alipay and Add Your Credit Card (but bring some cash with you!): Everything in China works with digital payments, even in more remote areas. Alipay will be your lifesaver. It allows you to add your country credit or debit card quickly and is immediately ready to be used.

2. Purchase an E-SIM with VPN Included: If your phone is recent, you can consider purchasing an E-SIM for your stay. It is very convenient, as you will not have to pay for a VPN and will have unlimited internet data. If you can’t use an E-SIM, download a VPN in your home country and then purchase a local SIM at the airport.

3. Download Pleco & DIDI App: Pleco is a helpful dictionary you can use during your stay in China. It is handy when ordering food at restaurants. DIDI is the Chinese Uber.

4. Licensed Taxis Only!: Upon arrival or anywhere else, you will be bombarded by “drivers” asking if you need a ride. Please don’t go with them! They see you as a foreigner, and if you don’t speak a word of Chinese, they will try to charge you more than they should. Stick to licensed taxis only! It’s easy to recognize them.

5. Book Your Visits in Advance: In China, you will find few foreign tourists. However, Chinese tourism is wild! Book your entry tickets to sites in advance on trip.com or GetYourGuide.com. Make sure to book your tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou

6. Avoid National Holidays To Travel to China: national holidays in China are not the ideal period to visit this beautiful country (unless you want to get stuck in queues). Periods such as the first week of October and the Chinese New Year are a no!

Guangzhou At a Glance

📍 Where to Stay: Yuexiu area is a great location, with nearby metro stations (Yuexiu Park station) that can take you anywhere in the city. Close by, you will find top attractions in Guangzhou, such as Yuexiu Park, Beijing Road, and the Guangzhou Museum.

🚄 How To Get To Guangzhou: High-speed train is the way if you are in the South of China – It’s a 3-hour journey from Guilin.

✈️ Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport: This southern city is a great place to land or depart from in China. From there, many direct and domestic flights depart. This is the best option if you arrive in Guangzhou from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Xi’an.

🗓️ Best Time To Visit Guangzhou: Southern China is great to visit all year around (besides Summer). Winter and Autumn are mild allowing you to enjoy the city without the Summer heat.

⚡ Rainy Season Warning: from April to September. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re keen on experiencing days of pouring rain and wind.

The beautiful skyline of Guangzhou on the Pearl River

Hotels in Guangzhou

Regarding accommodation, I highly recommend exploring various listings on Booking.com and Trip.com. Many hotels and hostels frequently offer discounts and promotions, so you can find the best deals that suit your budget and preferences.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a huge city, like many in China. However, depending on your availability, I recommend spending two or three days in the city. Two days are great if you want to stay downtown and visit the city’s most important attractions. If you have a third day available, you can plan a day trip to a nearby location to give you another perspective on the city.

General Facts About Guangzhou

Before traveling to Guangzhou, I didn’t know what to expect. Of course, I expected a massive and busy mega city like Hong Kong and Shanghai, but I was not ready for such a vibrant place, with many more foreign tourists than I had seen in Beijing and Shanghai (thanks to the Internationa Baiyun airport, which offers so many international flights!).

Downtown Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong province in southern China. It is located on the Pearl River, northwest of Hong Kong and North of Macau. Today, the three cities (with surrounding smaller cities) make up the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Greater Bay Area, which is, as of today, the most populous built-up metropolitan area in the world. Guangzhou is well-known worldwide today for its annual Canton Fair, the country’s oldest and largest trade fair. Of course, Guangzhou will offer you all you can expect from a central economic hub. However, you will be surprised at this city’s rich historical and religious landmarks!

Suggested 2-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1

Visit the Chen Clan Academy, initially built for the Chen family to prepare for the imperial exams. Now, it serves as the Guangdong Folk Art Museum.
Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall – landmark honoring the man who led the movement abolishing imperial rule and paved the way for a new republic
Temple of the Six Banyan Trees – The temple dates back over 1,400 years and is a Buddhist site filled with rich history.
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street—This road is a shopper’s paradise, and if you’re looking to buy some last-minute souvenirs, this is the place to be.
Canton Tower—The panoramic view from up there is jaw-dropping and gives you a full appreciation of this metropolis’s sheer size.

Day 2

Visit Yuexiu Park – largest park in the city and an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for a spot that combines nature, culture, and history
Guangzhou Museum – You’ll find ancient artifacts such as pottery, paintings, and relics that tell the story of Guangzhou’s role as a major trade hub
Shamian Island in the afternoon – a peaceful oasis with a distinctly European flair right in the middle of China
Cruise on the Li River – the perfect way to appreciate the Guangzhou skyline from another perspective

Things To Do in Guangzhou

Now that you know what you can expect, discover how to enjoy all the fantastic attractions in Guangzhou!

1. Get Inspired at the Chen Ancestral Hall

If you’re in Guangzhou, a visit to the Chen Ancestral Hall is an absolute must! Also called Chen Clan Academy, this academic temple is an example of traditional Chinese architecture.

Visiting it will transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the late Qing Dynasty. Full of historical significance, it was originally built in the late 19th century as a place for members of the Chen family to prepare for the imperial exams, it has since been transformed into the Guangdong Folk Art Museum.

What will you love the most?

The intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and ceramics decorate every inch of the hall. Each corner is a masterpiece, from the colorful rooftop sculptures to the wood and stone carvings that tell ancient Chinese tales.

Beyond the beautiful architecture, you’ll find exhibits showcasing Guangdong’s folk architectural art, from embroidery to pottery, and even some seriously impressive ivory carvings. It’s a peaceful and inspiring space that highlights both the history and cultural heritage of the region. If you’re into history, or art, or just love exploring places that feel like hidden gems, the Chen Ancestral Hall will not disappoint.

💡PRO TIP – This academic temple opens at 9am. You can buy tickets directly there, without worrying about booking in advance. The entrance fee is ￥10 per ticket.

2. Soak In Chinese History at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

Ⓜ️ Subway Instruction: from the Chen Clan Academy subway station you can take line 1 to Gongyuanqian. From there it is around 12-minute walk to the Memorial Hall. Or if you prefer, you can take a 34m stroll from the Chen Clan Academy to the Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is an impressive piece of architecture and a deep dive into China’s revolutionary past. Dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the father of modern China, this landmark honors the man who led the movement that abolished imperial rule and paved the way for a new republic.

Inside, you’ll walk through exhibits that showcase his life, his ideas, and the significant role he played in shaping China’s future. The building itself blends traditional Chinese design and Western architectural elements, giving it a unique look and feel.

💡PRO TIP – grab an audio guide or, even better, book a guide! Everything is written in Chinese without English subtitles. You’ll get so much more out of your visit with that extra context!

3. Stroll Around the Peaceful Temple of Six Banyan Trees

Just a quick 10-minute stroll from the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, tucked on the other side of the road, you’ll come across the Six Banyan Trees Temple. Honestly, this was one of the highlights of my trip and one of my favorite attractions in Guangzhou!

The temple is a peaceful escape, surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful plants, and the iconic banyan trees that give it its name. The atmosphere here is calm, spiritual, and truly special.

The temple dates back over 1,400 years and is a Buddhist site filled with rich history. At its heart is the Flower Pagoda, an impressive structure standing 57 meters tall over the courtyard. Its colorful design immediately draws your eyes, and the energy around it is simply captivating. Although the temple grounds aren’t massive, the experience feels intimate and meaningful.

Best part? The entrance is free, making it an absolute must-see, whether you’re looking for a spiritual moment or just a quiet retreat in nature.

4. Get Your Last Minute Souvenirs at Beijing Road

Ⓜ️ Instruction: There is no subway instruction here because the easiest way to reach the Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is by taking a 20-minute walk towards the south of the temple.

After enjoying lunch with local food, it’s time to dive into the heart of Guangzhou’s shopping scene: Beijing Road Pedestrian Street. This road is a shopper’s paradise, and if you’re looking to buy some last-minute souvenirs to wrap up your China trip, this is the place. All you can think about is there! Beyond shopping, it’s also the perfect spot to soak in the city’s energy. You’ll see locals going about their daily routines, families strolling together, and teenagers hanging out after school—one of my favorite things to witness when I travel!

What makes this street special is the blend of old and new, representing the spirit of Guangzhou at its core – a modern Chinese city with a rich history behind! Beneath glass panels in the pavement, you’ll find ancient stone paths dating back to the Song Dynasty. It’s also packed with street food stalls, local snack shops, and quirky finds, making it a fun, must-visit place for your shopping strolls!

5. Soak in the Energy of the Canton Tower Area

The Canton Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Guangzhou and the tallest in the city. The area surrounding it is another highlight of my trip. The energy there is electric—constantly buzzing with locals and tourists alike.

One of the best parts of this area is the white pedestrian bridge connecting the two sides of the Pearl River. It’s often packed with people, but there’s something magical about standing on that bridge, feeling like you’re part of the city’s pulse. The view from the bridge is stunning, with the modern skyline of Guangzhou rising behind you and the city lights reflecting off the river as the evening falls.

I’d recommend visiting the area in the late afternoon or evening, when Guangzhou comes alive with bright lights. Despite being one of the most popular attractions in the city, the green parks on either side of the river provide a peaceful balance of buzz and calmness. You’ll see families strolling, kids playing, and people working out, bringing a sense of calm in the middle of the urban rush.

6. Cruise on The Pearl River

If you are looking for the perfect way to enjoy the skilyine of Guangzhou, you can think of cruising the Pearl River. It is the perfect way to relax for a while, while enjoying the view of the city from the river. I personally didn’t do it in Guangzhou, but in Shanghai. I bet Guangzhou will gift you with the most amazing experience, while passing over the white pedestrian bridge.

7. Morning Stroll at Yuexiu Park + Guangzhou Museum Visit

Yuexiu Park is the largest park in the city and an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for a spot that combines nature, culture, and history. This massive park has something for everyone, whether you’re into peaceful strolls in nature, historical sites, or just relaxing and discovering the local vibe. The park is best known for its Five Rams Statue—representing the city’s legend of being saved from famine by five celestial rams. It also hosts beautiful artificial lakes, colorful flower gardens, and traditional pavilions where you can relax under the Southern sun.

But the highlight for history nerds is definitely the Guangzhou Museum, housed inside the ancient Zhenhai Tower. This museum witnesses the city’s fascinating history and rich culture, from its ancient beginnings to its development into a modern metropolis. You’ll find ancient artifacts such as pottery, paintings, and relics that tell the story of Guangzhou’s role as a significant trade hub. It’s a great way to understand the city’s roots, and trust me, knowing this history will make you appreciate the place even more as you explore.

Yuexiu Park is also full of surprises—like the remnants of the ancient city walls, small temples, and even a sports stadium! It’s a great place to spend the morning outdoors!

8. Afternoon at Shamian Island

Shamian Island feels like stepping into another country in Europe! It is a peaceful oasis in the Liwan district in Guangzhou. That is the least Chinese among all the attractions in Guangzhou. Once a foreign concession, this small island is filled with colonial architecture that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city (or in China, I would say).

If you’re a fan of people-watching, head to the riverside, where you’ll often find locals, especially older folks, gathering to sing, dance, and just enjoy life. It’s a great way to get a glimpse of the local culture. And while you’re there, why not grab a coffee or tea at one of the cozy cafes along the way? It’s the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing.

Other Must-See Attractions in Guangzhou

1. Chimelong Safari Park

Ⓜ️ Getting there is straightforward—hop on Line 3 of the Guangzhou Metro and get off at Hanxi Changlong Station, which is just a short shuttle ride from the park. The park is busy, especially on weekends, so plan ahead to make the most of your visit.

Chimelong Safari Park is a must-visit for wildlife lovers and one of the best attractions in Guangzhou. Located about 40 minutes from the city center, this massive park is one of the largest wildlife parks in Asia and offers zoo experiences and more natural safari-style encounters. You can explore the park on foot or take the safari train for a closer look at animals in open habitats. Expect to see everything from pandas (a major highlight!) to giraffes, elephants, and rare species like white tigers.

Beyond the animals, there are interactive shows, feeding experiences, and even an opportunity to learn more about wildlife conservation efforts. If you’re traveling solo, it’s still a fantastic day trip to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a break from the city. Make sure to dedicate a full day here.

2. Day Trip to Baiyun Mountain

A trip to Baiyun Mountain is an adventure you won’t want to miss while in Guangzhou! Located about 18 kilometers from downtown, this scenic spot is easily accessible by taking the metro to the Baiyun Mountain station. Once you arrive, prepare to immerse yourself in nature with stunning views.

One of the best ways to experience Baiyun Mountain is by taking the cable car to the summit. This is the perfect way to enjoy panoramic city views. At the top, you can explore various hiking trails, visit the temples, or simply take a moment to breathe in the fresh air. Don’t forget to check out the various pavilions and viewpoints scattered around the mountain.

Even though I stayed in Guangzhou for only two days, this amazing city left a long-lasting positive impression on me. Thanks to its beautiful Southern energy and vibe, I felt so inspired!

I hope this article gave you the information you need to plan your stay in Guangzhou. We covered tips and tricks for first-time travelers and all the visit attractions in Guangzhou.

And you? Are you planning your trip to Guangzhou? I’m so jealous of you! Be ready for a good dose of Chinese adventure! 🇨🇳

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2-Day Travel Itinerary: 10 Attractions You Can’t Miss in Guangzhou