Boutique Hotels Guangzhou

Ready to feel the vitality of Guangzhou? Thanks to China's sweet 144-hour (six whole days) visa-free transit deal, hopping on the adventure train here has never been smoother. This city's got it all – from its soaring skyscrapers to its markets buzzing with life and color, Guangzhou is a non-stop thrill ride. Don't miss out on exploring its historic Pearl River, Cantonese opera performances, and world-famous dim sum!

Getting Around Guangzhou

Most international travelers opt to fly into Guangzhou, landing at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the city's one and only airport.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

Location: Situated in the northern outskirts of the city, roughly 26 miles (42 kilometers) from the city center.

How to get to the city center:

- The Metro stations, operating from 6 am–11 pm, are located directed under the airport terminals. It takes about 40 minutes from Baiyun Airport to Tiyu Xilu (Tianhe), costing around $0.97 (7 RMB) depending on distance.

- The Airport Express buses run frequently from T1 and T2 terminals to various downtown locations. Download the "Baiyun Airport Express" app for schedules and routes.

- If you're after speed, a taxi or ride-hailing service like Didi Chuxing can take you downtown in no time. But it's advisable for you to avoid the morning rush hour (7:30-9:00 AM) and the evening commute (5:00-7:00 PM).

Tips: Taking a red-eye flight? Consider booking a stay at one of the nearby hotels offering airport shuttle services for a hassle-free experience.

During your adventure in Guangzhou, you can navigate the city with these convenient options:

- Metro: Runs from approximately 6:00 AM to midnight, with fares starting at $0.28 (2 RMB) for short trips and going up to over $1.24 (9 RMB) for longer distances. （Note: It's recommended to use the Guangzhou Metro QR code within the Alipay app for direct gate scanning, saving your time spent queuing for tickets.）

- Taxis: Plentiful and ready to serve, with a base fare of $1.66 (12 RMB) for the first 2 miles (3 kilometers). Rates increase per mile thereafter, with an additional charge for rides during peak hours and late nights.

- Buses: A budget-friendly choice, offering fares ranging from $0.14 (1 RMB) to $0.55 (4 RMB), depending on the distance traveled.

Want to visit nearby cities from Guangzhou? Just go to the train station. Guangzhou South Railway Station stands out as a major transportation hub, easily accessible via Metro Lines 2, 7, and 22, surrounded by shopping centers and business districts. Another key station is Guangzhou East Railway Station, accessible via Metro Lines 1 and 3.

What to do in Guangzhou

Pearl River Night Cruise

If you're a fan of water views, you gotta check this out! The Pearl River Night Cruise is a fantastic ride that lets you soak in Guangzhou's dazzling skyline all lit up at night. As you glide along the Pearl River, you'll catch sight of awesome landmarks and some stunningly lit-up bridges. This evening adventure is perfect for taking in the city's vibrant lights and snapping some great photos.

Operating Hours: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (varies by season)

Canton Tower

Come and meet Guangzhou Tower, standing tall and proud, it's got views that'll make your jaw drop. Panoramic cityscapes? Check. Awesome observation decks? Absolutely. Plus, at night, it twinkles with lights, making it feel like you're floating in a sci-fi dream. Whether you're into heart-pounding rides or just want to soak up some serious urban vibes, Guangzhou Tower's got you covered.

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort

Wanna a wild ride of fun and wonder? Chimelong is your must-visit place! Think towering roller coasters, splashy water parks, and animals up close. Walk through lush jungles to see tigers roar and pandas munch bamboo. Ride thrilling rides that'll make your heart race and your adrenaline pump. And don't miss the epic evening shows – fireworks lighting up the night sky like a dream.

Operating Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (varies by season)

Where to Stay: Since Chimelong is far from the city center, if you're looking for a hassle-free trip, consider staying at these hotels near the park that offer free shuttle service, like Chimelong Xiangjiang Hotel (Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park), Chimelong Hotel (Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park) and Chimelong Panda Hotel.

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is like a hidden gem right in the heart of the city! It's got this old-world charm with its European-style buildings from the 19th century, making you feel like you've stepped into another time. Stroll down the cobblestone streets, snap some Insta-worthy photos, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Operating Hours: Open all day

Better to know before visiting Guangzhou

Currency: The local currency in Guangzhou is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). Visitors can easily exchange their foreign currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices. ATMs are abundant throughout the city and accept international cards for convenience.

Payment Methods: Guangzhou is highly advanced in digital payments. Besides cash, mobile payment platforms such as Alipay are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and even street stalls. Larger businesses and establishments typically accept credit cards as well.

Language: Although many younger locals, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, can communicate in basic English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases can greatly enhance your experience.

Emergency Contacts: In case of emergencies, here are the important numbers to know: Police: 110; Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 120; Fire: 119.

Time in Guangzhou

Guangzhou operates on China Standard Time (GMT+8) and doesn't observe Daylight Saving Time.

Note: The time difference is calculated based on the standard time zones and does not account for Daylight Saving Time (DST), which may affect the actual time difference depending on the specific dates. When planning a trip, it's advisable to check the current time difference and DST status for accurate scheduling.

Must-Try Foods in Guangzhou

Guangzhou, the heart of Cantonese cuisine, offers a rich array of flavors and dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Here are some must-try foods with detailed descriptions:

Dim Sum (点心): A variety of small dishes typically enjoyed during brunch. Common items include shrimp dumplings (虾饺), BBQ pork buns (叉烧包), and rice noodle rolls (肠粉).

Char Siu (叉烧): Barbecued pork that is marinated in a sweet sauce and roasted to perfection.

Wonton Noodles (云吞面): A comforting bowl of wontons and noodles in a flavorful broth, often garnished with chives and green onions.

Double-Skin Milk (双皮奶): A creamy dessert made from milk, egg whites, and sugar, known for its dual layers of skin.

Guangzhou Weather Guide

Guangzhou, located in southern China, experiences a subtropical climate with high humidity and distinct seasons. The city has hot, humid summers and mild winters, with a considerable amount of rainfall throughout the year.

Seasonal Weather & Clothing

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Guangzhou is from October to December when the weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

To avoid large crowds and potential overcrowding, it's recommended to steer clear of major Chinese holidays such as Labor Day (May 1st-5th) and National Day (October 1st-7th). These periods can see a significant increase in tourist numbers, leading to longer wait times at attractions and busier public transportation. Planning your trip away from these dates will help ensure a more enjoyable and less crowded experience in Guangzhou.