Where to Stay in Guangzhou: Top Areas & Hotels [2025]

Some cities grow on you slowly—Guangzhou pulls you in from the first bowl of dim sum. From riverside strolls along the Pearl River to colonial-era charm on Shamian Island and futuristic skylines in Zhujiang New Town, this southern Chinese powerhouse is a vibrant mix of old and new that’s best experienced one district at a time.

Choosing where to stay in Guangzhou isn’t just about location—it shapes your entire trip. Want quick metro access and luxury malls? Head to Tianhe. Prefer morning walks through leafy parks and historic architecture? Yuexiu or Liwan might be more your style. Each neighborhood has its own rhythm, and picking the right one can mean the difference between a packed itinerary and a relaxing, local experience.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best neighborhoods in Guangzhou for every type of traveler—whether you're visiting for culture, food, family fun, or business. Let’s find the perfect base for your stay.

1. Shamian Island – Colonial Charm, River Views & Morning Calm

Once a foreign enclave during the Qing Dynasty, Shamian Island feels like a world apart from the chaos of modern Guangzhou. Think tree-lined promenades, 19th-century European mansions, and locals practicing tai chi by the riverside. If you’re craving a slower pace and historical ambiance, this is the spot.

Who Should Stay in Shamian Island?

✔ Couples & romantic travelers – With cobblestone streets, vintage buildings, and riverside cafés, it’s ideal for a quiet, picturesque escape.
✔ Families – Safe, walkable, and near peaceful parks—great for strollers and kids.
✔ History buffs & photographers – Every building tells a story, and you’ll find no shortage of photo ops.
✔ First-time visitors – A charming, gentle intro to old Guangzhou.
❌ Nightlife seekers – Bars here close early. If you're after loud clubs and late nights, check out Zhujiang New Town instead.

Best Hotels in Shamian Island

• Luxury: White Swan Hotel – A Guangzhou icon with sweeping views of the Pearl River and a legendary dim sum brunch.
• Mid-Range: Guangdong Victory Hotel – Classic architecture, family-friendly, and just steps from Shamian Park.
• Budget: Aiqun Hotel – Dated but atmospheric, with river views and unbeatable location for the price.

What to Do in Shamian Island

• Stroll Shamian Park – Watch locals dancing, practicing calligraphy, or playing erhu at sunrise.
• Visit Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel – A photogenic Gothic church with weekend Mass.
• Take a Pearl River Night Cruise – Departing just minutes from the island.
• Explore Qingping Traditional Medicine Market – Wild, weird, and 100% Cantonese.
• People-watch from a riverside café – Especially at Lucy's Café, a favorite of expats and families.

Food & Dining in Shamian Island

While not a street food hub, Shamian Island has elegant cafés and local gems:

• Lucy's Café – Great for Western brunch and watching the world go by.
• Tandoor – Surprisingly good Indian food in a heritage building.
• White Swan’s Jade River Restaurant – Arguably the best dim sum in Guangzhou—book early for a table with a river view.

👉 For more street eats and local snacks, hop across the canal to Liwan District.

Transportation & Accessibility

• 🚇 Nearest Metro: Huangsha Station (Line 1) – About 5–8 mins walk across the bridge.
• 🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥130)
• 🚌 Several public buses stop just across the bridge—great for exploring nearby Liwan and Yuexiu.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Shamian Island

• ✅ Quiet, relaxing, and beautifully historic
• ✅ Romantic walks and photo-perfect corners
• ✅ Close to river cruises and family-friendly spots
• ❌ Limited nightlife and modern malls
• ❌ Not ideal for business travelers or event attendees

2. Yuexiu District – Guangzhou’s Historic Core with Local Soul

You don’t just visit Yuexiu District, you feel it. This is where the roots of modern Guangzhou were planted—home to the Five Rams legend, wide leafy parks, and the kind of local street life that’s disappearing fast elsewhere.

Who Should Stay in Yuexiu District?

✔ First-time visitors – Close to historical sites and easy access to metro lines.
✔ Budget travelers – Plenty of affordable hotel and food options.
✔ Culture seekers – Temples, museums, and old alleys everywhere.
❌ Avoid if you want nightlife – bars are limited and most areas go quiet by 10 PM.

Best Hotels in Yuexiu District

• Luxury: Dongfang Hotel – Historic 5-star with a lovely garden and pool, close to Yuexiu Park.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Canton – Central, clean, and walkable to Beijing Road.
• Budget: Guangzhou Jinzhou Hotel – A solid base with basic comfort and good transport links.

What to Do in Yuexiu District

• Five Rams Statue & Yuexiu Park – The city’s symbolic origin story in a gorgeous park.
• Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall – A beautiful tribute to China’s revolutionary leader.
• Zhenhai Tower – Now a museum with skyline views.
• Beijing Road – Part shopping street, part archaeological site.

Food & Dining in Yuexiu District

Yuexiu is perfect for trying classic Cantonese street food. Don’t miss:

• Beijing Road night snacks – Try clay pot rice and roast goose.
• Panfu Road – Full of hidden noodle shops.
• For a real treat, visit Lianxianglou for traditional dim sum in an old-world setting.

Transportation & Accessibility

• 🚇 Nearest Metro: Yuexiu Park (Line 2), Gongyuanqian (Line 1 & 2)
• 🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥120)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Yuexiu District

• ✅ Full of history, museums, parks, and temples.
• ✅ Budget-friendly stays and meals.
• ✅ Centrally located with strong metro links.
• ❌ Nightlife is limited.
• ❌ Some parts feel older and less modernized.

3.Tianhe District – Guangzhou’s Shopping and Business Epicenter

Tianhe feels like a second city within Guangzhou. Glassy towers, mega malls, and fast-paced energy define this booming area—perfect if you love being in the center of modern action.

Who Should Stay in Tianhe District?

✔ First-time visitors – Easy transport, tons of restaurants, and all major conveniences.
✔ Business travelers – Steps away from offices and convention centers.
✔ Shoppers – Taikoo Hui and Grandview Mall are major attractions.
❌ Not ideal for culture hunters – Historic spots are few and far between.

Best Hotels in Tianhe District

• Luxury: Four Seasons Guangzhou – A stunning hotel perched atop the IFC Tower with river views.
• Mid-Range: Fraser Suites – Spacious serviced apartments ideal for longer stays.
• Budget: Paco Hotel – Stylish, efficient, and right near Shipaiqiao Station.

What to Do in Tianhe District

• Taikoo Hui – A luxury mall with global brands and Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Zhujiang New Town – Architecture, art galleries, and rooftop bars.
• Tianhe Sports Center – Catch a game or explore the area.
• Book City – Huge bookstore for a quiet afternoon browse.

Food & Dining in Tianhe District

• Bingsheng Mansion – Upscale Cantonese fare.
• Heytea and Nayuki – Popular tea chains.
• For quick bites, head to Taikoo Hui’s basement food court.

Transportation & Accessibility

• 🚇 Nearest Metro: Shipaiqiao (Line 3), Tiyu Xilu (Line 1 & 3)
• 🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥130)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Tianhe District

• ✅ Extremely modern, clean, and convenient.
• ✅ Excellent for shopping and dining.
• ✅ Strong metro access across the city.
• ❌ Lacks historic character.
• ❌ Traffic can be intense during peak hours.

4. Zhujiang New Town – Glamour, Skyscrapers, and Skyline Views

This is Guangzhou at its most futuristic. Zhujiang New Town is where you’ll find designer boutiques, rooftop bars, and some of the best views of the Canton Tower lit up at night.

Who Should Stay in Zhujiang New Town?

✔ Luxury travelers – High-end hotels and shopping options galore.
✔ Business travelers – Corporate towers and embassies nearby.
✔ Nightlife fans – Trendy bars and fine dining abound.
❌ Skip if you’re on a tight budget—this area leans upscale.

Best Hotels in Zhujiang New Town

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Guangzhou – Incredible service and a killer view of the Pearl River.
• Mid-Range: Oakwood Premier – Apartment-style suites with hotel perks.
• Budget: Lavande Hotel – Clean, comfortable, and wallet-friendly given the location.

What to Do in Zhujiang New Town

• Guangzhou Opera House – A striking Zaha Hadid design and regular performances.
• IFC Mall & Parc Central – Upscale shopping and dining.
• Huacheng Square – Cultural heart surrounded by museums and green space.
• Canton Tower (across the river) – Easily accessible for panoramic city views.

Food & Dining in Zhujiang New Town

It’s a fine-dining hub, but still has variety:

• The Roof (Park Hyatt) – Great cocktails and views.
• Bingsheng Pinwei – Elegant take on Cantonese cuisine.
• For something casual, try the food court in Parc Central.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Zhujiang New Town Station (Line 3 & 5)
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~40–50 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥130)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Zhujiang New Town

• ✅ Sleek, stylish, and cosmopolitan.
• ✅ Excellent dining and nightlife options.
• ✅ Modern architecture and attractions.
• ❌ Can be pricey.
• ❌ Less traditional charm or cultural depth.

5. Haizhu District – Local Life with Riverside Views

Haizhu feels like the part of Guangzhou where people actually live. You’ll find fewer tourists, more authentic markets, riverside parks, and some unexpected pockets of calm not far from the city’s buzz.

Who Should Stay in Haizhu District?

✔ Long-stay travelers – A more residential, slower-paced vibe.
✔ Budget-conscious visitors – Cheaper hotels and food than city center areas.
✔ Expo and event goers – Close to the Canton Fair grounds.
❌ Nightlife lovers – It’s quiet after dark, especially near the river.

Best Hotels in Haizhu District

• Luxury: LN Hotel Five – Boutique riverside luxury with a strong local art theme.
• Mid-Range: Insail Hotel Pazhou – Great value, near convention centers.
• Budget: City Comfort Inn – Clean, efficient, and great for short stays on a budget.

What to Do in Haizhu District

• Haizhu Wetland Park – Massive eco-park with birds, flowers, and biking trails.
• Canton Tower (just across the bridge) – Perfect photo ops and skyline views.
• Local produce and seafood markets – For a taste of everyday Guangzhou.
• Pazhou Complex – Hosts major exhibitions and trade shows.

Food & Dining in Haizhu District

It’s more residential than foodie-famous, but still delivers:

• Xinhe Street night market – Great for late-night snacks.
• Dongxiaonan area – Full of no-frills Cantonese diners.
• Head across the river to Zhujiang New Town for upscale choices.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Multiple stations including Kecun (Line 3 & 8) and Pazhou (Line 8)
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~45–50 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥130)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Haizhu District

• ✅ Local experience and fewer crowds.
• ✅ Lower hotel prices than downtown.
• ✅ Good access to Pazhou Convention Center.
• ❌ Fewer attractions within walking distance.
• ❌ Limited nightlife and English signage.

6. Panyu District – Theme Parks and Family-Friendly Escapes

If you’re traveling with kids or just want a break from the skyscrapers, Panyu District is the place. It’s a sprawling, green area known for its massive theme parks and open-air attractions.

Who Should Stay in Panyu District?

✔ Families – Tons of activities for children and large hotel resorts.
✔ Theme park lovers – Chimelong is one of China’s best.
✔ Relaxed travelers – Quieter and greener than central Guangzhou.
❌ First-time tourists – It's far from most major sightseeing spots.

Best Hotels in Panyu District

• Luxury: Chimelong Hotel – Resort-style, perfect for families visiting the parks.
• Mid-Range: Vienna International Hotel – Affordable comfort with good transport access.
• Budget: Yingshang Hotel – Reliable basic rooms, good for overnight stays near Chimelong.

What to Do in Panyu District

• Chimelong Safari Park – Giant pandas, koalas, and one of Asia’s best zoos.
• Chimelong Water Park & Circus – Top-tier water rides and dazzling performances.
• Lotus Hill – Scenic hiking spot with temples and flower gardens.
• Shawan Ancient Town – Traditional Lingnan architecture and food.

Food & Dining in Panyu District

Tourism drives the food scene here, so you’ll find everything from fast food to local gems:

• Chimelong Paradise dining zone – Kid-friendly restaurants.
• Local seafood near Shiqiao – Fresh and reasonably priced.
• For something authentic, explore mom-and-pop shops in Shawan.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Hanxi Changlong (Line 3) for Chimelong area, Shiqiao (Line 3) for town center.
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~60 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥150–180)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Panyu District

• ✅ Great for families and resort-style stays.
• ✅ Plenty of greenery and open space.
• ✅ Easy metro access to downtown.
• ❌ Far from most Guangzhou cultural landmarks.
• ❌ Limited options for nightlife or high-end shopping.

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7. Liwan District – Tradition, Temples, and Shopping Streets

Wander through Liwan and you’ll get a real sense of Old Canton. This district is known for its traditional architecture, buzzing pedestrian streets, and lively markets.

Who Should Stay in Liwan District?

✔ Cultural travelers – Home to Cantonese opera, temples, and historic buildings.
✔ Shoppers – Shangxiajiu is a dream for bargain hunters.
✔ Budget travelers – Great deals on hotels and local eats.
❌ Skip if you want modern amenities or peace and quiet.

Best Hotels in Liwan District

• Luxury: Guangdong Yingbin Hotel – Classic elegance with Lingnan-style gardens.
• Mid-Range: Guangzhou Hongcheng Hotel – Steps from Shangxiajiu Street and great value.
• Budget: Ejura Hotel (Guangzhou North Station Branch) – Basic but unbeatable location.

What to Do in Liwan District

• Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street – Famous for fashion, snacks, and people-watching.
• Chen Clan Academy – Stunning Lingnan architecture and traditional carvings.
• Liwan Lake Park – A tranquil spot to escape the crowds.

Food & Dining in Liwan District

If you want to taste old-school Guangzhou, this is the place:

• Guangzhou Restaurant – Historic and always busy with locals.
• Nanxin Milk Dessert Store – Legendary for double-skin milk pudding.
• Grab street snacks along Shangxiajiu or Wenchang Road.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Changshou Lu (Line 1), Huangsha (Line 1)
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (Approx. ¥140)

Pros & Cons of Staying in Liwan District

• ✅ Deep-rooted culture and heritage.
• ✅ Vibrant shopping and food scene.
• ✅ Lots of budget options.
• ❌ Noisy and crowded during the day.
• ❌ Fewer high-end accommodations.

8. Guangzhou Airport Area (Baiyun District)

If you’re catching a red-eye flight or arriving late, the Guangzhou Airport Area is a lifesaver. It’s not just convenient—it’s surprisingly developed, with modern hotels, shopping centers, and even hot spring resorts nearby. You’d never guess you’re just minutes from one of China’s busiest airports.

Who Should Stay in Guangzhou Airport Area?

✔ Business travelers – Super close to airport terminals and convention centers like Canton Fair Complex via metro or expressway.
✔ Transit passengers – Ideal for layovers or early/late flights.
✔ Families – Nearby resorts like the Dusit Devarana Hot Springs offer a calm retreat.
✔ Budget travelers – You’ll find clean, affordable stays with free shuttle service.
❌ City explorers – If you’re planning to spend most of your time in downtown Guangzhou, the 40–50 min commute may be a hassle.

Best Hotels in Guangzhou Airport Area

• Luxury: Pullman Guangzhou Baiyun Airport – Literally across the terminal, this 5-star stay is unbeatable for convenience and comfort.
• Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Guangzhou Airport Zone – Great value with comfy rooms and a free airport shuttle.
• Budget: Southern Airline Pearl Hotel – Basic, functional, and just 5 minutes from the airport.

What to Do in Guangzhou Airport Area

• Maofeng Mountain Forest Park – A hidden nature gem perfect for a relaxing hike or picnic.
• Baiyun Lake Park – Peaceful spot with paddle boats and local tai chi sessions.
• Qixinggang Hot Spring Resort – Recharge with a soak before or after your flight.
• Wanda Plaza Huadu – Shop, eat, and watch a movie if you're stuck on a long layover.

Food & Dining in Guangzhou Airport Area

Don’t expect street food heaven here, but there are some solid picks:

• Hakka cuisine and Cantonese clay pot rice at local joints around Huadu District.
• Jiangnan Noodles near Terminal 1 is a solid airport meal—try the wonton noodle soup.
• For upscale dining, head to Pullman’s Western buffet or Dusit’s Thai fusion.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Airport South Station (Line 3) – links straight to city center.
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: 5–10 mins by taxi to most hotels (~¥20); 40 mins to downtown (¥120).
🚌 Airport Express buses connect to Tianhe, Yuexiu, and Haizhu districts every 20–30 mins.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Guangzhou Airport Area

• ✅ Zero commute stress for early flights or layovers.
• ✅ Wide range of hotels, from budget to resort-style.
• ✅ Close to nature parks and less crowded than downtown.
• ❌ Limited nightlife or entertainment.
• ❌ Longer commute if you’re exploring the city daily.

9. Guangzhou East Railway Station Area (Tianhe District)

Ask any seasoned traveler, and they’ll tell you—Guangzhou East Station is one of the smartest bases for exploring the city and beyond. It’s a major transportation hub tucked inside Tianhe, Guangzhou’s cosmopolitan heart.

Who Should Stay in Guangzhou East Station Area?

✔ First-time visitors – Easy transit access + close to shopping and attractions.
✔ Train travelers – Direct lines to Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Dongguan.
✔ Shopping addicts – Close to malls like TaiKoo Hui and Grandview Mall.
✔ Food lovers – Surrounded by local eateries and global cuisine.
❌ Peace-seekers – It’s a transport hub, so expect a bit of hustle and bustle.

Best Hotels near Guangzhou East Railway Station

• Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou – Top-tier luxury meets Tianhe’s upscale vibes, just a short ride away.
• Mid-Range: Ji Hotel Guangzhou East Railway Station – Stylish, affordable, and steps from the train station.
• Budget: 7 Days Inn Guangzhou East Station – Great for short stays with clean rooms and low prices.

What to Do Near Guangzhou East Station

• CITIC Plaza – Once the tallest building in China, still iconic for architecture buffs.
• Tianhe Sports Center – Catch a football match or jog in the public space.
• Link City – Underground shopping heaven that connects you to other parts of Tianhe.
• Xinghai Concert Hall (10 mins away by metro) – For classical music lovers.

Food & Dining in Guangzhou East Station Area

• Diandude Dim Sum – Local favorite for Cantonese brunch classics.
• Taotaoju Tianhe Branch – Heritage restaurant with old-school Guangdong dishes.
• Korean BBQ Street near Linhe West – Popular with students and office workers alike.
• Street stalls on Tianhe North Road serve awesome late-night skewers.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Guangzhou East Railway Station (Line 1 & 3) – direct access to CBD and airport.
🚆 Train Access: High-speed trains to Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Dongguan.
🚕 To Airport: 45 mins by taxi (¥130); or take Metro Line 3 straight to Baiyun Airport (~60 mins).

Pros & Cons of Staying in Guangzhou East Station Area

• ✅ Incredibly well-connected—metro, train, airport bus all within reach.
• ✅ Tons of food, malls, and local activity.
• ✅ Great for short trips or cross-border travelers.
• ❌ Can get crowded during rush hours.
• ❌ Not as scenic as riverside areas or historical districts.

10. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

If you’re hunting for that perfect mix of old Guangzhou charm and nonstop street life, Shangxiajiu is the place. I’ve wandered these cobblestone lanes dozens of times, and the fusion of Qing dynasty architecture, neon signs, and sizzling street food never gets old. It’s one of the few places where you’ll see locals bargaining for dried seafood while TikTokers pose under lantern-lit balconies.

Who Should Stay in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street?

✔ First-time visitors – This is peak local culture, with easy access to heritage spots and authentic eats.
✔ Budget travelers – Tons of cheap hotels, local snacks, and budget shopping.
✔ Street food lovers – You’ll be surrounded by legendary Cantonese bites from dusk to midnight.
✔ Cultural travelers – Stay here for Lingnan architecture, traditional shops, and opera theaters.
❌ Luxury seekers – The area is gritty and lively—not the best for five-star pampering.
❌ Light sleepers – Night markets and noisy vendors can go on late into the evening.

Best Hotels in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

• Luxury: White Swan Hotel (10 mins away) – A riverside icon on Shamian Island, perfect if you want quiet elegance near the action.
• Mid-Range: Guangzhou Yuexiu Hotel – Walkable to Shangxiajiu, clean and comfortable, with good local dining nearby.
• Budget: 7 Days Inn Shangxiajiu Branch – No-frills and super central. Great if you just need a place to crash between food runs.

What to Do in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

• Shangxiajiu Street – Stroll past Lingnan-style arcades, neon lights, and endless boutiques.
• Chen Clan Ancestral Hall – Famous for its ornate carvings and Cantonese craftsmanship.
• Xiguan Residences – Peek into traditional homes that once belonged to wealthy merchants.
• Lychee Bay (荔枝灣景區) – A restored waterway with classical gardens and boat rides.

Food & Dining in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

• Try Zhuangyuan Milk Custard – a velvety dessert beloved by locals.
• Don’t miss Nanxin Double-Skin Milk – iconic Cantonese milk pudding.
• For something savory, go for Wenchang Chicken, cheong fun (rice noodle rolls), and beef offal skewers from street carts.
• Bonus: Walk toward Pantang Road Night Market for deep-fried oyster cakes and herbal jelly.

Transportation & Accessibility

🚇 Nearest Metro: Changshou Lu Station (Line 1) – Just a short walk from the main pedestrian zone.
🚕 From Baiyun Airport: 50 mins by taxi (¥130); or ~1 hour via Line 3 → Line 1.
🚌 Several bus routes stop right outside the shopping area if you prefer ground travel.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

• ✅ Deep cultural immersion and unbeatable local flavor.
• ✅ Excellent street food and cheap shopping.
• ✅ Walkable to top attractions like Liwan Lake, Xiguan, and museums.
• ❌ Crowded and noisy during peak hours.
• ❌ Limited upscale hotel choices and modern amenities.

📌 If you prefer riverside views and quieter vibes, check out nearby Shamian Island for a more refined stay within walking distance.

Find Your Perfect Stay in Guangzhou

Guangzhou has a neighborhood for every kind of traveler—whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Shamian, the buzz of Tianhe’s skyscrapers, or the street food energy of Shangxiajiu. Each area offers a different lens into the city’s vibrant character, so your stay really depends on what kind of experience you want.

Ready to lock in your trip? Start by booking the perfect hotel and grabbing a great deal on your flight to Guangzhou. Don’t miss the latest travel promotions, prep your eSIM for China, and check out the best time to visit Guangzhou. For more tips, browse our full Guangzhou travel guide.

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