Guangzhou, a bustling metropolis in southern China, is a city steeped in history, with a vibrant culture and a reputation for being the food capital of the country. For those pondering things to do in Guangzhou, exploring the Canton Tower, a landmark offering panoramic views of the city, and visiting the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, an academic temple turned museum showcasing exquisite traditional Chinese architecture, are top activities.

The city’s bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street offers a lively shopping experience, with numerous stores, restaurants, and street food stalls. Nearby, the Shamian Island, a historical area that reflects the city’s colonial past, provides a peaceful retreat with its tree-lined streets and European-style buildings.

Beyond its urban attractions, Guangzhou is also renowned for its culinary scene, with numerous restaurants serving Cantonese cuisine, famous for its dim sum and seafood dishes. For those seeking the best places to visit in China, Guangzhou’s blend of historical richness, cultural diversity, and gastronomic delights makes it a must-visit destination.

Attractions & Things to Do in Guangzhou, China

1. Canton Tower

Canton Tower is a TV tower in Guangzhou, China. It's the tallest TV tower in China and the third tallest in the world. It's also the tallest tower in the People's Republic of China. The tower is 450 meters tall, with a 150-meter antenna that's 492 feet long. It has 37 floors and a gross floor area of 114,000 square meters.
Canton Tower is a TV tower in Guangzhou, China. It’s the tallest TV tower in China and the third tallest in the world. It’s also the tallest tower in the People’s Republic of China. The tower is 450 meters tall, with a 150-meter antenna that’s 492 feet long. It has 37 floors and a gross floor area of 114,000 square meters.

Rising above the Pearl River, the Canton Tower dominates the Guangzhou skyline. As one of the tallest towers in the world, it offers breathtaking views of the city, especially from its famous Bubble Tram at the top.

Travel Tip: Visit at night when the tower is lit up with LED lights, creating a spectacular light show that can be seen across the city.

2. Shamian Island

Guangzhou, China - November 7, 2015: Scenic buildings of colonial architecture on Shamian Island. Guangzhou is a popular tourist destination of Asia.
Guangzhou, China – November 7, 2015: Scenic buildings of colonial architecture on Shamian Island. Guangzhou is a popular tourist destination of Asia.

Shamian Island is a historical area that serves as a tranquil escape from Guangzhou’s bustling city life, with tree-lined streets, European architecture, and quiet gardens. Once a strategic trade center, it now hosts a variety of cafes and boutiques.

Travel Tip: Grab a coffee from one of the quaint cafes and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the island, taking in the mix of colonial European and traditional Chinese architectures.

3. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

The Chen Clan Ancestor Hall is a symmetric complex of 19 buildings with nine halls and six courtyards. Everywhere you find rich decorated beams, ridges, walls and columns inside and outside.Wood carvings, stone carvings, brick carvings, pottery and engravings are also everywhere. The content of the decorations are mostly flowers,birds and Cantonese fruits.In this picture you see an example of these rich decorations.
The Chen Clan Ancestor Hall is a symmetric complex of 19 buildings with nine halls and six courtyards. Everywhere you find rich decorated beams, ridges, walls and columns inside and outside.Wood carvings, stone carvings, brick carvings, pottery and engravings are also everywhere. The content of the decorations are mostly flowers,birds and Cantonese fruits.In this picture you see an example of these rich decorations.

The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is an impressive example of traditional Chinese architecture and was once a place for members of the Chen family to gather. Now it serves as the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, showcasing various forms of folk art and traditional crafts.

Travel Tip: Look out for the intricate ivory carvings and embroidery, some of the best examples of Guangdong’s rich artisanal heritage.

4. Baiyun Mountain

Guangzhou Baiyun Mountain overlooking the city of Guangzhou.
Guangzhou Baiyun Mountain overlooking the city of Guangzhou.

Baiyun Mountain offers a natural oasis with fresh air and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for hiking or simply enjoying a panoramic view of Guangzhou.

Travel Tip: Take the cable car to the summit for stunning views of the city below, but also explore the walking trails that offer more serene and less crowded paths.

5. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat-sen or Zhongshan Memorial Hall is an octagon-shaped building in Guangzhou, capital of China's Guangdong Province. The hall was designed by Lu Yanzhi and was built with funds raised by local and overseas Chinese people in memory of Sun Yat-sen.
The Sun Yat-sen or Zhongshan Memorial Hall is an octagon-shaped building in Guangzhou, capital of China’s Guangdong Province. The hall was designed by Lu Yanzhi and was built with funds raised by local and overseas Chinese people in memory of Sun Yat-sen.

Built to honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, this octagonal building is an architectural landmark and features exhibitions about his life and impact on Chinese history.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to witness the changing of the guards ceremony, which is a popular attraction here.

6. Yuexiu Park

Yuexiu Park is the largest park in downtown Guangzhou and is famous for its beautiful scenery and historical monuments, including the ancient Zhenhai Tower and the iconic Five Rams Sculpture.

Travel Tip: Visit the park in spring when the flowers are in bloom for a picturesque experience.

7. Guangzhou Opera House

Guangzhou Opera House.
Guangzhou Opera House.

Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, the Guangzhou Opera House is a modern architectural wonder, with a striking design inspired by river pebbles. It’s a hub for performing arts in the city, hosting a variety of operas, plays, and musical performances.

Travel Tip: Even if you don’t catch a performance, the architecture itself is worth exploring, so consider a guided tour of the facility.

8. Qingping Market

Guangzhou China - November 13, 2016: People visit Qing Ping street market in Guangzhou China.
Guangzhou China – November 13, 2016: People visit Qing Ping street market in Guangzhou China.

This bustling market is known for its wide array of goods, from traditional Chinese medicine to seafood and exotic pets. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come for a taste of Guangzhou’s lively street-market scene.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for a sensory overload and don’t forget to bargain if you decide to buy souvenirs.

9. Guangdong Museum

Guangzhou, China – October 23, 2018 : The Guangdong Museum in Guangzhou, China on October 23, 2018. The building design refers to the antique Chinese lacquer box used to keep valuable treasures.
The Guangdong Museum in Guangzhou, China on October 23, 2018. The building design refers to the antique Chinese lacquer box used to keep valuable treasures.

This state-of-the-art museum in Zhujiang New Town offers an in-depth look into the history, art, and culture of Guangdong province. Exhibits range from ancient ceramics and traditional artworks to natural history and innovative displays on Cantonese opera.

Travel Tip: Admission is free, but you may need to reserve a ticket in advance during peak times.

10. Liurong Temple

December 2019 Guangzhou China landscape urban design in city with scenic of high-rise building and main tourist attraction named The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees or Liurong Temple.
December 2019 Guangzhou China landscape urban design in city with scenic of high-rise building and main tourist attraction named The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees or Liurong Temple.

Liurong Temple, also known as the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, is a historic Buddhist temple founded in 537. The temple is famous for its Flower Pagoda, which features a beautiful exterior adorned with colorful statues and a stunning interior that houses Buddhist relics.

Travel Tip: Climb the pagoda for a different perspective of the temple grounds and the surrounding cityscape.

11. Guangzhou Library

Guangzhou, China-January. 30, 2016: Guangzhou Library and square. The new Guangzhou Library covers a gross area of 100 thousand square meters and holds 3.82 million million books.
Guangzhou, China-January. 30, 2016: Guangzhou Library and square. The new Guangzhou Library covers a gross area of 100 thousand square meters and holds 3.82 million million books.

An architectural marvel in its own right, the Guangzhou Library houses a vast collection of books and is a hub of knowledge and learning. Its sleek, modern design makes it an iconic part of the city’s skyline.

Travel Tip: Check out their schedule for cultural events or exhibitions that often take place in the library, offering more than just books.

12. Haizhu Wetland Park

For those seeking a natural retreat within the city, Haizhu Wetland Park offers a biodiverse environment with walking paths, observation platforms, and a quiet place to observe local wildlife and plant life.

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you’re into birdwatching, as the park is home to many bird species, especially during the migration seasons.

13. Guangzhou’s Food Streets

This is an alley with local restaurants and street food vendors near Sanxiajiu Pedestrian Street at night on October 22, 2018 in Guangzhou.
This is an alley with local restaurants and street food vendors near Sanxiajiu Pedestrian Street at night on October 22, 2018 in Guangzhou.

No visit to Guangzhou is complete without diving into its world-famous culinary scene. Areas such as Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and Huifu Gourmet Street are lined with restaurants and street vendors offering everything from dim sum to stir-fried noodles.

Travel Tip: Be adventurous with your food choices—try the local specialties like Cantonese roast duck or the infamous stinky tofu!

14. Sacred Heart Cathedral

Guangzhou, China – December 23, 2017: Sacred Heart Cathedral in Guangzhou, China.
Guangzhou, China – December 23, 2017: Sacred Heart Cathedral in Guangzhou, China.

Also known as the Stone House by locals, the Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was completed in 1888. Its all-granite gothic architecture is a unique sight amidst Guangzhou’s cityscape.

Travel Tip: Attend a mass to experience the vibrant local Catholic community, or visit during quiet hours to appreciate the serenity of the space.

15. Redtory Art and Design Factory

Once a canned food factory, Redtory has been transformed into a creative arts and design district, featuring galleries, studios, and cafes. The area celebrates Guangzhou’s industrial past while supporting contemporary artistic expression.

Travel Tip: Check out the district’s event calendar before visiting, as there are often interesting art exhibitions, markets, and festivals taking place.

16. South China Botanical Garden

This expansive garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, offering a peaceful escape with its diverse plant collections, beautiful landscapes, and conservatories.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the tropical greenhouse and the rare plant garden, which contain species you might not see anywhere else.

FAQ About Things to Do in Guangzhou, China

What are must-visit places in Guangzhou for first-time visitors?

For first-timers, essential places to visit in Guangzhou include Canton Tower, the historic Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, the beautiful Shamian Island, and Yuexiu Park which is the largest park in the city.

Can visitors explore traditional Cantonese architecture in Guangzhou?

Yes, you can explore traditional Cantonese architecture at sites like the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, which is now the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, and the Liwan District, known for its historical buildings and ancient streets.

Is there a recommended place for shopping in Guangzhou?

Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is highly recommended for shopping enthusiasts. It’s a bustling area filled with a variety of shops, ranging from traditional goods to modern fashion.

Does Guangzhou have any famous gardens or parks?

Yes, the city boasts several, such as Yuexiu Park which features the Five Rams Sculpture and Zhenhai Tower, and the South China Botanical Garden, one of the world’s largest botanical gardens.

What cultural experiences should not be missed in Guangzhou?

Don’t miss the Guangzhou Opera House for modern cultural experiences, or a traditional Cantonese opera performance at the Xiguan Residence. The city is also famous for its tea houses, where you can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Are there any unique museums to visit in Guangzhou?

The Mausoleum of the Nanyue King offers a unique glimpse into the history of the Nanyue Kingdom, and the Guangdong Museum showcases a range of exhibits from art to natural history.

Can tourists experience the nightlife of Guangzhou?

Absolutely, Guangzhou’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse. From the lively bars and clubs in Zhujiang New Town to the stunning night cruises on the Pearl River, there’s something for everyone.

Are there any nature-related activities in or near Guangzhou?

Nature lovers can visit Baiyun Mountain, also known as White Cloud Mountain, for hiking and spectacular views of the city. For a more relaxed experience, take a day trip to the nearby Dafushan Forest Park.

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guangzhou
https://www.getyourguide.com/guangzhou-l184/