Where to stay in Guangzhou For First-Timers 2024 - 6 best areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Guangzhou for first-timers.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Guangzhou for first-timers?
Where to stay in Guangzhou with family?
Where to stay in Guangzhou for shopping?
Where to stay in Guangzhou for food?
Where to stay in Guangzhou for Canton Fair?
Where to stay in Guangzhou for nightlife?
Where to stay in Guangzhou cheap?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Guangzhou for first-timers
| Name of the area in Guangzhou | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
.... Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This is Guangzhou’s modern commercial and financial hub. It’s an incredibly convenient area where you can easily reach the Tianhe Sports Center, Zhujiang New Town, and several high-end shopping malls like Taikoo Hui and Tee Mall. And in the evening, you can enjoy a good variety of restaurants and nightlife options. When it comes to convenience, the Tianhe District is absolutely incredible. *You can click on the purple link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
.. Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This is the cultural and historical heart of Guangzhou, with several major highlights at your doorstep, including the Yuexiu Park, the Five Rams Statue, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King. Especially if you’re interested in historical and cultural attractions, it’s a great area to stay at. |
. Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. | The Liwan District is particularly known for its traditional Cantonese charm and colonial architecture. While other areas come with more modern amenities, this area takes you back in time. A completely opposite experience compared to Tianhe District and ideal for those interested in traditional culture and architecture. |
... Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | The Haizhu District offers the perfect mix between modernism and traditionalism. Here, you can find attractions such as the Canton Tower, Haizhu Lake, and Pazhou Complex (home of the Canton Fair). As it’s located south of the Pearl River, you can enjoy quite some spectacular views over the city. As it attracts many business travelers to attend the Canton Fair, hotels here are mostly upscale and full of comforts. |
.…. Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Named after Baiyun Mountain, this district offers natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a great option for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Keep in mind that you’re located further away from the major highlights and the city center, but with public transport, you can easily reach these popular parts of Guangzhou. |
.…. Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is known for its scenic spots and family-friendly attractions such as Chimelong Paradise, Chimelong Safari Park, and Lotus Hill. It’s particularly popular among families. Just keep in mind that it’s located south of Haizhu District, which means further away from the city center. |
Where to stay in Guangzhou for first-timers
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou for the first time are the Tianhe District, Yuexiu District, Liwan District, and Haizhu District.
When it comes to convenience, the Tianhe District is the ideal area as it’s a great base for further exploring the city while staying in a modern area full of restaurants and nightlife options.
Yuexiu District is the cultural and historical heart of the city with several major attractions nearby. This is the ideal area for sightseeing purposes but isn’t as modern and convenient as Tianhe District.
If you want to stay in an area full of colonial and traditional Cantonese charm and architecture, Liwan District is the best option.
If you seek a mix of both worlds, Haizhu District is the area you’re looking for, with great access to historical sites, modern architecture as well as magnificent views over the city. Keep in mind that this area is more upscale.
There are two alternative options worth considering.
The first one is Baiyun District, an area that offers natural beauty and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, ideal for nature lovers.
The second one is Panyu District, an area known for its family-friendly attractions and a popular destination for those traveling with kids.
Just keep in mind that these two alternative areas are located further away from the city center.
Where to stay in Guangzhou with family
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou with family are Haizhu District and Panyu District.
Haizhu District is a convenient area that offers both modern and traditional parts of the city.
Although it’s not as convenient as Tianhe District, Haizhu District is not known for its nightlife scene, meaning it’s an excellent base for families to explore the city in a not-too-loud area.
Panyu District is the perfect area for families who are looking for entertainment and leisure activities.
The area is home to Chimelong Paradise, one of China’s largest amusement parks, and Chimelong Safari Park, a world-class zoo and safari park with a variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
Just keep in mind that Panyu District is located further away from the city center.
Where to stay in Guangzhou for shopping
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou for shopping are Tianhe District and Yuexiu District.
Both districts offer a wide variety of shopping options, from high-end malls to local markets, making them ideal for shopaholics.
Tianhe District is home to several shopping options.
Taikoo Hui is a luxury shopping mall featuring high-end international brands, fine dining, and entertainment options.
The Tee Mall is one of the largest and most popular shopping malls in Guangzhou, offering a diverse range of stores, from fashion to electronics.
Another major shopping destination with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and an indoor amusement park is Grandview Mall.
Zhujiang New Town is a modern area with upscale boutiques and designer stores.
Overall, Tianhe District is ideal for those looking for luxury shopping and international brands.
Yuexiu District is home to Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, a popular shopping street with a mix of modern retail stores and historic sites, offering everything from fashion to local specialties.
The China Plaza is a large shopping mall with a wide range of shops, including fashion, electronics, and household goods.
Haizhu Square is known for its wholesale markets, where you can find a variety of products at competitive prices
Overall, Tianhe District is ideal for those looking for good deals.
Where to stay in Guangzhou for food
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou for food are Liwan District and Yuexiu District.
While primarily known for its colonial architecture, the Liwan District also has charming cafes and restaurants offering both local and international cuisines.
Around Xiguan Antique Street, you can particularly find great traditional Cantonese snacks, and also great local eateries.
For authentic Cantonese food, head over to Changshou Road.
Especially when you want to try traditional Cantonese cuisine and local street food, this district is fantastic.
Another great option is staying in Yuexiu District.
The Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is not only a shopping haven but also home to numerous restaurants and street food stalls offering a variety of Chinese and international foods.
At Huifu East Road, you can find a lot of local food stalls and small restaurants serving local delicacies.
Those who prefer a more upscale experience should head over to Zhujiang New Town.
Where to stay in Guangzhou for Canton Fair
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou for the Canton Fair are Haizhu District and Tianhe District.
Haizhu District is home to the Pazhou Complex, the main venue for the Canton Fair so that automatically makes it the most convenient area.
You can find plenty of great hotels in several budget classes here and many offer shuttle services to the fair.
The area is also well-connected to public transport, making it convenient to visit other parts of the city.
One of the metro lines, Line 8, goes directly to the Pazhou Complex.
Guangzhou East Railway Station in Tianhe also offers easy access for those traveling by train.
The other great option is the Tianhe District.
This is Guangzhou’s commercial and financial hub and offers a wide range of business-oriented hotels with amenities such as meeting rooms, business centers, and high-speed internet, which are beneficial for fair attendees.
With public transport, you can easily reach the fair while in the evening, you have access to plenty of dining options.
Tianhe is a more suitable option for those seeking some relaxation after a day at the fair.
Where to stay in Guangzhou for nightlife
The best area to stay in Guangzhou for nightlife is Tianhe District.
Here, you can find Zhujiang New Town, an area that is known for its modern skyline.
There are many upscale bars, nightclubs, and lounges.
The Pearl River nightlife along the waterfront is particularly popular.
The Party Pier is a lively spot with a collection of bars, pubs, and nightclubs, offering great views of the Pearl River and Canton Tower.
Lastly, Taikoo Hui is also a great spot as besides shopping, this complex has high-end restaurants and chic bars perfect for an evening out.
There are other nightlife areas to discover in the city, but Tianhe District is by far the most complete one.
Where to stay in Guangzhou cheap
The best areas to stay in Guangzhou cheap are Yuexiu District and Liwan District.
These districts offer affordable accommodations, a variety of budget-friendly dining options, and easy access to many of the city’s major attractions without the need for expensive transportation.
Yuexiu District is home to Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, which offers a range of affordable dining options and budget-friendly shopping.
Street food stalls and local eateries provide delicious food at low prices.
You’re well-connected by metro and bus services, making it easy to explore the city inexpensively.
Liwan District is home to Shamian Island, which offers picturesque surroundings with affordable cafes and local eateries.
Many budget hotels and guesthouses are available in the area.
Xiguan Antique Street is a great spot to find affordable dining options.
Liwan District is also well-connected by public transportation.
1. Tianhe District
The most convenient area to stay in Guangzhou is the Tianhe District.
Tianhe is well-connected by public transportation, including multiple metro lines and the Guangzhou East Railway Station, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
You’re close to major attractions like Zhujiang New Town, Canton Tower, and the Guangdong Museum.
There are several high-end shopping malls, like Taikoo Hui and Tee Mall.
The district features impressive modern architecture, including the iconic Guangzhou International Finance Center and other skyscrapers that define the city’s skyline.
During the evening, you can explore one of the many restaurants here, that offer local Cantonese cuisine as well as international food.
The district is home to many bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, particularly in areas like Party Pier and Zhujiang New Town.
If you want to explore the city’s nightlife scene, then definitely pick a hotel here.
With great connectivity, many modern amenities, a great food and nightlife scene, and major attractions nearby, it’s hard to beat Tianhe District.
But there are a few things that are worth noting.
First of all, Tianhe District is not a per se budget-friendly area. Many eateries, shopping malls, and nightlife options are simply more expensive than elsewhere.
Secondly, the area doesn’t feel authentic but commercialized.
If you’re looking for more authenticity, there are far better options.
And lastly, the area feels crowded and loud.
Again, there are alternative options.
Also when you’re looking for a peaceful environment.
With that being said, for the majority of tourists, Tianhe District is the perfect area full of conveniences.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Yuexiu District
Yuexiu District is another great area to stay in, especially when you want to explore Guangzhou’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Places like the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Yuexiu Park, the Five Rams Statue, and the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King are all located nearby.
The district features traditional Lingnan architecture, which provides an authentic experience of Guangzhou’s past and present, which is completely the opposite of the previously recommended area.
Yuexiu is well-connected by public transportation, including several metro lines and bus routes.
Its central location makes it easy to explore other parts of the city.
You can also find Beijing Road Pedestrian Street here, which is a bustling shopping street and a favorite among travelers for its lively atmosphere, shopping options, and street food.
Yuexiu offers a range of accommodation options, including budget hotels and hostels, making it accessible for travelers with varying budgets.
The district is filled with affordable dining options, from street food stalls to local eateries, allowing you to enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine without breaking the bank.
Overall, travelers choose to stay here when they want to have a more authentic and immersive experience of Guangzhou.
Keep in mind that this is a tourist hot spot, so it does get crowded, and it feels sometimes overwhelming.
Also, the area is home to much older infrastructure, while the previously recommended area offers modern amenities everywhere.
Lastly, there is far less nightlife compared to Tianhe District.
But for an authentic experience, there is no better option than Yuxdiu District.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Liwan District
Liwan District is an area on the west side of the city.
What sets this district apart from the rest is that you can find colonial European architecture in this area and it’s particularly a tranquil part of the city.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy a stroll around and enjoy historical buildings and scenic views.
But the area is also home to stunning traditional Cantonese architecture, with the Chan Clan Ancestral Hall as the perfect example.
You can explore traditional markets, such as the Qingping Market, but also go on a culinary adventure.
This part of the city is namely also known for its Cantonese food, simply because it’s an authentic area.
Especially around Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, you can find plenty of local things to do and eat.
Because you’re in a less central and more local area, you can find plenty of affordable accommodation options, and the somewhat premium hotels located next to the river offer far more value for money compared to districts like Tianhe and Yuexiu.
This brings us to the disadvantages of this area.
You’re located less centrally.
The heart of the city offers far more entertainment and things to do.
Its older infrastructure causes more traffic jams and the older hotels come with fewer modern amenities, especially the budget ones.
But in return, you stay in a more authentic and calmer area compared to the bustling city center.
And many tourists prefer to stay in an area with an authentic vibe for a more unforgettable experience.
If that’s your preference too, Liwan District won’t disappoint!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Haizhu District
The Haizhu District is located west of the heart of the city and is known for its proximity to the Canton Fair.
This world-famous fair is held twice a year at the Pazhou Complex and attracts over 400,000 visitors each year.
As you can expect, good (public) transportation to and from the fair is essential and that automatically brings us to the best advantages of staying in this district, even when you’re just a tourist.
From here, you have access to several metro lines to all the important tourist spots of the city.
But there are also other great things when staying here that are worth noticing.
For example, one of Guangzhou’s most iconic landmarks, the Canton Tower, is located here as well and offers panoramic views of the city and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
The district is also home to modern infrastructure, large shopping centers, top-notch hotels, waterfront walks, river cruises, and the Haizhu Wetland Park.
In the evening, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and lounges to discover for a nice evening out.
But keep in mind the following somewhat disadvantages.
First of all, during events, this area gets extremely crowded.
Not just the area around the Pazhou Complex, but restaurants and hotels are often fully booked.
Hotel prices are higher compared to the less central areas but during the events, Haizhu District is the most expensive part of the city.
The district also feels commercialized, even when no fairs are being held.
So if you’re looking for something more authentic, there are better options.
But if you’re a business traveler, or when you’re the type of traveler that loves having great access to modern amenities and great connectivity to public transport, the Haizhu District is an excellent option!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Baiyun District
The Baiyun District is one of the two somewhat alternative areas that we recommend in this article.
Baiyun Mountain (White Cloud Mountain) is one of the main attractions in the district and having access to this natural beauty is the main reason why tourists choose to stay here over the more central and convenient areas.
The area around Baiyun Mountain is home to parks, lakes, and gardens, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Another benefit is that the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is located nearby.
It’s a far less crowded area compared to the central areas and with the metro, you can easily reach other parts of Guangzhou, including key tourist attractions and business centers.
Baiyun has various recreational facilities including sports centers, gyms, and public parks, making it a great area for those who enjoy staying active during their travels.
If you’re looking for a quiet experience with outdoor activities and nature, the Baiyun District is a great option.
But keep in mind that it’s not always a first choice for the majority of tourists for several reasons.
First of all, you’re located much further from the city center than other districts.
Secondly, there is not much nightlife.
Thirdly, the area has fewer tourist-focused services and amenities.
And lastly, you totally depend on the metro as it’s not really a district that you explore on foot and visit one attraction after the other.
If the advantages overweight the disadvantages, the Baiyun District is an excellent stay for you.
Especially when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city center, the Baiyun District won’t disappoint.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Panyu District
The last area that we recommend is the Panyu District, another somewhat alternative area.
It’s located south of the Haizhu District, which means it’s located even further away from the heart of the city.
So why do people still choose a hotel here?
One of the main reasons is that the area is home to several family-friendly attractions.
For example, the Chimelong Tourist Resort is a massive resort that includes Chimelong Safari Park, Chimelong Paradise (an amusement park), and Chimelong Water Park.
You can also find the Changlong International Circus here, which is part of the Chimelong complex.
But there are also cultural and historical sites to discover.
The Shawan Ancient Town is a historical area that provides a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
The Baomo Garden is a beautifully preserved garden showcasing traditional Lingnan architecture, with classical Chinese landscaping, including ponds, pavilions, and intricate stone carvings.
Another exquisite garden in Panyu, Yuyin Garden, is known for its elegant design and tranquil environment.
Most importantly, Panyu is well-connected to the rest of Guangzhou via metro lines and highways.
It is relatively easy to reach the district from Guangzhou’s city center and the Guangzhou South Railway Station, which is a major transportation hub.
And the last reason why people tend to stay here is because it’s a less crowded area.
As always, there are also disadvantages.
The area lacks nightlife, and it mainly focuses on families.
If you’re not traveling with kids, there are better options to choose from.
And of course, the distance to the city center plays an important role.
If you have limited time in the city, it doesn’t make sense to pick a hotel here.
A more central area makes more sense in that case.
But families who prefer to stay in a quieter area with family-friendly activities at your doorstep should consider staying in this part of Guangzhou.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Guangzhou first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.