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 my tips-packed China Travel Guide for first-timers! 🇨🇳
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- Planning Your Trip to Guangzhou
- Suggested 2-Day Travel Itinerary
- Things To Do in Guangzhou
- 1. Get Inspired at the Chen Ancestral Hall
- 2. Soak In Chinese History at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall
- 3. Stroll Around the Peaceful Temple of Six Banyan Trees
- 4. Get Your Last Minute Souvenirs at Beijing Road
- 5. Soak in the Energy of the Canton Tower Area
- 6. Cruise on The Pearl River
- 7. Morning Stroll at Yuexiu Park + Guangzhou Museum Visit
- 8. Afternoon at Shamian Island
- Other Must-See Attractions in Guangzhou
Planning Your Trip to Guangzhou
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 to stay downtown and visit the city’s most important attractions are great.
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.
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 with a 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 this tower is jaw-dropping and fully appreciates the metropolis’s sheer size.
Day 2
- If you’re looking for a place that combines nature, culture, and history, visit Yuexiu Park, the largest park in the city.
- 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, you must visit the Chen Ancestral Hall. Also called the Chen Clan Academy, this academic temple is an example of traditional Chinese architecture.
Visiting it will transport you back in time and offer a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the late Qing Dynasty.
Initially built in the late 19th century as a place for members of the Chen family to prepare for 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 highlighting the region’s history and cultural heritage.
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 a 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 architecture piece providing a deep insight into China’s revolutionary past.
This landmark, dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the father of modern China, 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 blends traditional Chinese design and Western architectural elements, giving it a unique look and feel.
Grab an audio guide or, even better, book a guide! Signs are all written in Chinese without English subtitles.
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 nature retreat.
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!
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. Its energy is electric, and it is 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.

Although it’s often packed with people, standing on that bridge is magical. You feel 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.
6. Cruise on The Pearl River
If you are looking for the perfect way to enjoy the skyline of Guangzhou, you can think of cruising the Pearl River. It is the ideal way to relax while enjoying the city’s view from the river. I
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 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.
Yuexiu Park is also full of surprises, such as the remnants of 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
Stepping into Shamian Island feels like entering a completely different country. It is a peaceful oasis in the Liwan district of 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 to see animals in their natural habitats closer. Expect to see pandas (a major highlight!), 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.
Even 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 to it.
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 fantastic city left a long-lasting positive impression on me.
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.

This blog post was all about a 2-Day Guangzhou Travel Itinerary
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DISCLAIMER: These suggestions are purely based on my experiences and thoughts and are meant to inspire and provide advice. Feel free to adapt it to your preferences—there is no need to follow it in detail. All prices, transport options, and instructions mentioned reflect my knowledge at the time of writing and may have changed since. You must double-check all the information before your trip to ensure accuracy. All opinions and recommendations are my own, rooted in my unique journey through China.
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