Written by Maren Hamilton |
Sometimes called Canton, Guangzhou is not just one of southern China’s largest cities, it’s also one of the most storied. The city has seen the rise and fall of countless dynasties, served as a major trade destination since the time of the Silk Road, and now, it’s become a popular tourist destination for people all over the world. If you’re planning to stop in Guangzhou on your next trip to China, here are the top 14 places we recommend you check out.
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- 1. Seek Adventure at Canton Tower
- 2. Explore Your Wild Side at Chimelong Safari Resort
- 3. Take Life Slow on Shamian Island
- 4. Appreciate Art at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
- 5. Enjoy Nature at Baiyun Mountain
- 6. Learn about Guangzhou’s History at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
- 7. Float Down the Pearl River on a Night Cruise
- 8. Close Deals at the Canton Fair
- 9. Discover Ancient China at the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
- 10. Catch a Show at Guangzhou Opera House
- 11. Heal Yourself at Qingping Market
- 12. Get to Know the Province at Guangdong Museum
- 13. Go Shopping in Zhujiang New Town
- 14. Chow Down on Guangzhou’s Food Streets
1. Seek Adventure at Canton Tower
If you’re looking for a unique adventure, the best thing you can do in Guangzhou is checking out Canton Tower. Whether you want to test your acrophobia on the observation deck, test out the world’s highest ferris wheel, or ride the world’s tallest free-fall ride, there’s fun thrills for everyone. Once you’re done, you can also catch a romantic meal in the tower’s restaurant – and don’t forget about the nightly light show!
- Location: 222 Yuejiangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou
- Price: Starting at ¥120
- When to go: Rides open at 10 AM; the light show starts between 6 PM and 7:30 PM, depending on time of year
2. Explore Your Wild Side at Chimelong Safari Resort
Taking your kids with you to Guangzhou? Then you have to visit Chimelong Safari Resort. Chimelong Safari park is Asia’s largest safari park and offers an experience that’s as educational as it is fun… But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The resort also contains Chimelong Paradise and Chimelong Water Park, where you can pass the time shrieking with laughter on amusement park rides. Truly, it’s a can’t-miss attraction in Guangzhou for any family.
- Location: Panyu Avenue, Panyu, Guangzhou
- Price: Starting at ¥300
- When to go: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM on weekends
3. Take Life Slow on Shamian Island
Originally the residence of foreign merchants during the 18th and 19th centuries, Shamian Island offers an escape from the chaos of the city. Full of diverse European-style architecture, cafes, and trees, it’s the perfect place to visit in Guangzhou when you want to slow down a little.
- Location: Shamian Island, Liwan District, Guangzhou
- Price: Free
- When to go: Open 24 hours, but it’s best during the day
4. Appreciate Art at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
For those hoping to enjoy traditional Chinese art, the best thing to do in Guangzhou is visit Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Built in 1894 as a place for Chen Clan members to study for the imperial examinations, this traditional Chinese temple now houses carvings, pottery, embroidery, and more, making for a rich cultural experience.
- Location: 34 En Long Li, Zhongshan 7 Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥10
- When to go: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
5. Enjoy Nature at Baiyun Mountain
Also known as White Cloud Mountain, Baiyun Mountain is a popular tourist attraction in Guangzhou among foreigners and locals alike. With lush nature and stunning scenery, it’s the perfect place to take a hike and get some fresh air – though there are also cable cars available for those who just want to take in the vista as well.
- Location: 801 Guangyuan Middle Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥5
- When to go: Open 24 hours
6. Learn about Guangzhou’s History at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
If you’re a history buff who wants to learn more about the Republic of China and the complex political landscape of 20th century China, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall is the best place to visit in Guangzhou. Located in the same place as the revolutionary’s one-time Presidential Palace, it’s a great place to gain a better understanding of how China became the country it is today.
- Location: 259 Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥10
- When to go: 8 AM to 6 PM
7. Float Down the Pearl River on a Night Cruise
Looking for something romantic to do in Guangzhou? Well, there are few things more romantic than taking in the city lights as you drift down the Pearl River. Not only is it a great chance to relax and snap some pictures, you’ll also get to see many of Guangzhou’s iconic landmarks along the way. It really is the perfect way to spend an evening in the city.
- Location: Canton Tower Pier, Tianzi Pier, or Dashatou Pier
- Price: Starting at ¥68
- When to go: 7 PM to 10 PM
8. Close Deals at the Canton Fair
Whether you’re looking to expand your business or just want to be in the room where it happens, the Canton fair makes for an interesting stop in Guangzhou. Held twice a year, this event hosts over 60,000 booths and 25,000 exhibitors, attracting business people from all over the world. It’s a great place for anyone who wants to get a better sense of the behind-the-scenes of international commerce.
- Location: 380 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥100 RMB for first time visitors without an invitation, free for returning visitors or visitors with an invitation
- When to go: April or October
9. Discover Ancient China at the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
Only discovered in 1983, this 2,000-year-old tomb belonged to Zhao Mo, a king who ruled parts of Vietnam and southern China from 137 to 122 BCE. Full of over 1,000 cultural relics, including bronzeware, ceramics, murals, terracotta figures, and more, visiting this museum is one of the best things to do in Guangzhou for anyone interested in ancient Chinese history.
- Location: 867 Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥10
- When to go: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Related reading: Guangzhou Visa-Free Transit & Visa on Arrival Policies (2025 Guide)
10. Catch a Show at Guangzhou Opera House
Everyone should experience Chinese opera at least once in their life, but luckily for those who aren’t fans, Guangzhou Opera House offers all kinds of performances, including ballet, international operas, modern dance, and more. If you’re looking to get off your feet for a bit but want a deeper cultural experience than a movie, the Guangzhou Opera House is a perfect place to spend a few hours.
- Location: Zhujiang W Rd, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
- Price: ¥80–¥1,400 depending on seat location and show
- When to go: Tours are weekends from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM; for performance showtimes, see the Opera House’s website
11. Heal Yourself at Qingping Market
Once known for being a place where you could buy almost anything, including exotic animals, Qingping Market is now known for its stocks of traditional Chinese medicine (also known as TCM) ingredients and dried foods. Even if you aren’t interested in trying TCM yourself, it’s one of the best places to visit in Guangzhou if you want to learn more about the unique remedies that have been passed down for generations.
- Location: 55 Qingping Rd, Liwan District, Guangzhou
- Price: Free to visit
- When to go: 9:00 AM to 10 PM
Related reading: Where to Stay in Guangzhou: District & Hotel Guide
12. Get to Know the Province at Guangdong Museum
Covering art, history, nature, and more, Guangdong Museum is the best attraction in Guangzhou for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the province they’re visiting. Better yet, it’s one of the most interesting free things to do in the city! Only 5,000 visitors are allowed per day, so make sure you turn up early if you want to go on a journey from the age of dinosaurs to the modern day.
- Location: 2 Zhujiang East Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
- Price: Free
- When to go: 9 AM to 5 PM every day except Mondays and holidays
13. Go Shopping in Zhujiang New Town
If you love shopping, nightlife, and riverside dining, Zhujiang New Town is the place to be in Guangzhou. Full of cultural activities, international restaurants, upscale malls, and more, it’s a perfect place to go at night in Guangzhou, especially if you’re hoping to snap some pictures to remember your trip.
- Location: Zhujiang New Town metro station
- Price: Free
- When to go: Open 24 hours
14. Chow Down on Guangzhou’s Food Streets
After running around town trying to make sure you don’t miss any of the amazing attractions Guangzhou has to offer, you’ll no doubt have worked up an appetite, which makes Guangzhou’s food streets the perfect stop to round out our list. Whether you want to try traditional Cantonese dishes or explore all the variety Chinese food has to offer, you’re sure to leave more than just satisfied – you’ll be craving more.
- Location: Xiguan Food Street, Tianhe South, and more
- Price: Depends on the food!
- When to go: Open 24 hours, but best for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks
Explore Guangzhou with China Xian Tour
Having explored the 15 top things to do in Guangzhou, now it’s clear that this dynamic city offers an unparalleled blend of ancient heritage, delectable Cantonese cuisine, and modern innovation. Ready to start your Guangzhou trip? Please let us help you craft the perfect Guangzhou itinerary to explore all the best this Pearl River Delta metropolis has to offer. China Xian Tour‘s expert team is confident and dedicated to creating personalized and hassle-free travel experiences for your.
