7 days in Guangzhou, China: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Guangzhou, a vibrant gem in Southern China, is a bustling metropolis that exudes a perfect balance of modern skyscrapers, beautiful nature, and ancient history. Wandering through the city, you’ll stumble upon awe-inspiring architecture like the Canton Tower, taste some of the finest Cantonese cuisine, and delve into the rich cultural heritage at the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Guangzhou, also known as Canton, will keep you engaged and entertained with its lively atmosphere and warm-hearted locals.
Things to consider before arriving in Guangzhou
Amazing food scene: Savor the flavors of the world-renowned Cantonese cuisine.
Cultural immersion: Explore the city’s ancient temples, historical sites, and local markets.
Language barrier: English is not widely spoken, so picking up a few basic Mandarin phrases will come in handy.
Ideal for history buffs, foodies, and budget travelers
What to bring with you
– Comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring the city on foot.
– A reliable translation app to help you navigate the language barrier.
– Light clothing for the hot and humid weather, but also pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Guangzhou is during the autumn months between October and December. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F), offering the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration.
How to get into the city
1. Fly into Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport: The airport is well-connected with flights from around the world. From the airport, you can take the metro, airport express bus or taxi to reach the city center.
2. Train: Guangzhou has several railway stations that connect it to other major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. The main stations are Guangzhou East, Guangzhou South, and Guangzhou Railway Station.
3. Bus: The city’s extensive long-distance bus network allows you to reach Guangzhou from nearby cities and regions, such as Hong Kong, Macau, and Shenzhen. Guangdong Provincial Bus Station and Tianhe Coach Terminal are two major bus stations in Guangzhou.
7 day city guide trip to Guangzhou
Day 1 – Arrival and Dim Sum Delight
Welcome to Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province! Start your day by taking a walk around the Shamian Island, a beautiful pedestrian area with colonial buildings. Then, go to the famous Canton Tower, the highest tower in China, to get a panoramic view of the city. In the evening, head to a local restaurant to try the traditional Cantonese dim sum, a must-try when visiting Guangzhou.
Day 2 – Explore the Local Markets
Start your day by visiting the Liwan District, a famous food and shopping destination. Walk along the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, a bustling commercial area lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors. Then, head to the Qingping Market, a large traditional market selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. End your day by taking a night cruise along the Pearl River.
Day 3 – Discover the Cultural Heritage
Visit the Guangdong Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Guangdong Province. Then, explore the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a traditional Chinese complex featuring exquisite artwork and architecture. Take a stroll around the Yuexiu Park and visit the iconic Five Rams Statue, a symbol of Guangzhou’s cultural heritage.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Foshan
Take a short train ride to Foshan, a city famous for its ceramics and martial arts. Visit the Ancestral Temple, a historical complex with beautiful architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. Then, head to the Foshan Pottery Museum, which displays an impressive collection of pottery and ceramics. End your day by watching a traditional lion dance performance.
Day 5 – Cantonese Opera and Local Cuisine
Start your day by visiting the Guangzhou Opera House, a spectacular venue featuring contemporary architecture. Then, head to the Cantonese Opera Art Museum to learn about the history and art of Cantonese opera. In the evening, visit a local restaurant to taste Cantonese-style roasted meats and seafood.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Kaiping Diaolou
Take a scenic drive to Kaiping Diaolou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique defensive towers and multi-story buildings. Learn about the history and culture of the region by visiting the museum at the Zili Village. Then, take a walk around the Li Garden, a beautiful garden featuring traditional Chinese architecture.
Day 7 – Guangzhou Tower and Pearl River Night Cruise
End your trip by revisiting the Canton Tower, this time going up to the observation deck for a different view of the city. Then, take a walk along the Pearl River and soak up the beautiful night views of the city. End your trip by having dinner at a local restaurant and reflecting on your wonderful experiences in Guangzhou.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Guangzhou
If you have time after exploring Guangzhou, consider visiting nearby cities like Shenzhen or Zhuhai. Shenzhen is a modern city with attractions such as the Window of the World theme park and the Splendid China Folk Village. Zhuhai, on the other hand, is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic areas like the Jintai Temple and Meixi Archipelago. Both cities are easily accessible by bus or train from Guangzhou.
