Guangzhou is the largest city in the Pearl Delta, in the south of China and is home to China’s most important port. Let me tell you, this city sees its fair share of boats!
For a long time, the city has been associated with unbreathable smog and sprawling urbanisation, but as things are starting to change, more tourists are flocking to the city and paying a visit during their trips to China.
Guangzhou is God’s gift to history enthusiasts, art fanatics and culture lovers… not to mention the food-obsessed (like me). This city holds a little piece of my heart as it blessed us with one of my favourite foods ever – dim sum!
Given the size of the city, figuring out where to stay in Guangzhou can be a daunting task if you’ve never been to the city before. The best place to stay depends on your budget and what you want to do while you’re in the city.
But never fear! That is exactly why I’ve put together this guide – to make your life a heck of a lot easier. I’ve compiled the best areas to stay in Guangzhou depending on your budget and style. You’ll also find the top places to stay and things to do in each (you’re welcome, friend!)
After reading this guide, YOU will be the expert on where to stay in Guangzhou, and figuring out which neighbourhood fits your style and budget best will be a piece of cake (or dim sum…).
Without further ado, let’s get started. Here is my guide on where to stay in Guangzhou.
Dongshan Gaga Hostel | Best Hostel in Guangzhou
The dongashan Gaga Hostel is located just between the two central neighborhoods of Yuexiu and Tianhe, in Guangzhou. It has been fully renovated in 2018 and offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as bunk beds in male only or female only dormitory rooms. All rooms are air conditioned and a free Wifi connection is provided.
Paco Hotel Guagzhou Zoo Metro Branch | Best Budget Hotel in Guangzhou
The Paco Hotel Guangzhou Zoo Metro Branch is located in Yuexiu, just in front of the Guangzhou Zoo. It offers modern rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a shower, soundproofing and a flat screen TV with international channels. A good breakfast is served in the morning.
Langham Place Guangzhou | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Guangzhou
The Langham Place Guangzhou is located in a modern building with an iconic architecture in Haizhu. The rooms are modern and spacious and include air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub, a flat screen TV with international channels and a view over the city. The hotel features an indoor swimming pool and a well-equipped fitness centre.
Modern zen studio in the city | Best Airbnb in Guangzhou
This open plan studio room is in a prime location for making the most out of your time in Guangzhou. You’ll find a mix of old and new on your doorstep, with museums and shopping right outside. Self-check-in means no time wasted, you be straight into exploring mode the moment the bags are down.
Yuexiu
Yuexiu is the oldest part of the centre of Yuexiu and used to be the old walled city of Guangzhou back in the day. As Guangzhou is the largest city in the Guangdong Province
Xiguan
Xiguan is considered to be the ancient Guangzhou town and used to be located just west of the walled city. In a sense, it was the first suburb of Guangzhou
Huanshi Lu
Huanshi Lu is one of the most popular spots in Guangzhou for nightlife. While Guangzhou is not shy when it comes to partying, Huangshi Lu is one of the liveliest areas with the best choice in the city
Tianhe
Tianhe is Guangzhou’s new city centre, filled with modern buildings and shopping centres. It is also the main business area of the city. As it is centrally located and provides easy access to all the main sights
Guangzhou is a sprawling city located on the Pearl Delta River, in the south of China. Not far from Hong Kong, Guangzhou has long been the Chinese manufacturing capital. As a consequence, it has mainly attracted business visitors for years, especially during the Guangzhou Fair organised every year in the spring. There are so many epic places to visit in Guangzhou and it’s best to base yourself in one of these prime locations when visiting.
Tianhe is the new city centre of Guangzhou and also the main business district. There, you will find many skyscrapers and grand shopping malls. The Guangdong Museum is also located in this neighborhood and covers the history and culture of the city. Tianhe is a convenient neighborhood to stay in as it is the main transportation hub in the city.
Yuexiu is also a centrally located neighborhood, and the oldest area in downtown Guangzhou. In the past, it used to be where the walled city was standing, although it has almost completely disappeared today. Visitors will find several parks and museums in Yuexiu, as well as political institutions.
Guangzhou is quite rich when it comes to nightlife, but one of the most popular areas is definitely Huanshi Lu. Both locals and expats come party around there and every style is represented, from bars showing football games to trendy nightclubs.
On the south bank of the Pearl River, visitors will find the iconic Canton tower which dominates the landscape. It is also one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Guangzhou, and hotels can tend to be pricier around there.
5 Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Guangzhou
At this point, you may still feel confused about where to stay in Guangzhou. Let’s take a closer look at each one of the 5 best neighborhoods to stay in Guangzhou.
1. Yuexiu – Where to stay in Guangzhou your first time
Yuexiu is the oldest part of the centre of Yuexiu and used to be the old walled city of Guangzhou back in the day. As Guangzhou is the largest city in the Guangdong Province, Yuexiu was the political and cultural powerhouse, and still is today.
Several museums are located in Yuexiu, including the Guangzhou City Art Museum. There, visitors will find pieces of calligraphy, traditional Chinese paintings, and sculptures. Other museums include the Guangdong Museum of Art exhibiting contemporary Chinese artists, and the Guangzhou Sculpture Park.
Beijing Road is one of the most popular shopping areas in Guangzhou. It is a pedestrian street where you can find virtually anything. Shops are usually open late, so be prepared to spend a few hours around here!
While the old city wall has been mostly destroyed during the 20th century, a short 1 kilometre-long portion can still be seen inside the Yuexiu Park.
Things to see and do in Yuexiu
- Shop til you drop on Beijing Road
- Head to Yuexiu Park to look at the remains of the old city wall
- Visit the Shishi Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral, the largest church in South China
- Learn more about Chinese culture at the Guangzhou City Art Museum
Dongshan Gaga Hostel | Best Hostel in Yuexiu
The dongashan Gaga Hostel is located just between the two central neighborhoods of Yuexiu and Tianhe, in Guangzhou. It has been fully renovated in 2018 and offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as bunk beds in male only or female only dormitory rooms. All rooms are air conditioned and a free Wifi connection is provided.
Paco Hotel Guagzhou Zoo Metro Branch | Best Budget Hotel in Yuexiu
The Paco Hotel Guangzhou Zoo Metro Branch is located in Yuexiu, just in front of the Guangzhou Zoo. It offers modern rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a shower, soundproofing and a flat screen TV with international channels. A good breakfast is served in the morning.
Guangdong Yingbing Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Yuexiu
The Guangdong Yingbing Hotel offers spacious rooms in Yuexiu. Each room is fitted with an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, a flat screen TV with international channels and a view over the garden. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
Modern zen studio in the city | Best Airbnb in Yuexiu
This open plan studio room is in a prime location for making the most out of your time in Guangzhou. You’ll find a mix of old and new on your doorstep, with museums and shopping right outside. Self-check-in means no time wasted, you be straight into exploring mode the moment the bags are down.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Xiguan – Where to stay in Guangzhou on a budget
Xiguan is considered to be the ancient Guangzhou town and used to be located just west of the walled city. In a sense, it was the first suburb of Guangzhou! Today, Xiguan has kept well preserved ancient houses you can see while walking around the neighborhood. Some can also be visited to get an idea of how people used to live here.
Xiguan is also a great place for shopping, especially if you are looking for cheap clothing and items. In addition, Xiguan is the perfect place for foodies, as a lot of traditional and authentic Cantonese food can be found here. Dishes include wonton noodles (noodles with pork dumpling in soup), or fish skin in chentianji.
Hualin Jade Street specialises in the jade trade and should be on your list if you are looking to bring back this iconic Chinese stone. Shops sell retail, wholesale, and can create some unique jewellery designs.
Things to see and do in Xiguan
- Walk around Xiguan and look at the old traditional houses
- Try a peanut and sesame filled cake at the Ronghua Teahouse
- Buy some jade in Hualin Jade Street
- Go shopping for cheap clothes in Shang Xia Jiu
White Swan Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Xiguan
The White Swan Hotel is located right next to the Pearl River and offers modern rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub, and a flat screen TV with international channels. The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool with views over the river and a great fitness centre.
Stylish room with a realistic price tag | Best Airbnb in Xiguan
Well below the average for the area, this apartment is a steal. There’s an awesome old-meets-new vibe with this place, which makes perfect sense gien where you’ll be staying. If you’re hear for the authentic sights, sounds and tastes of Guangzhou on a budget, you could do a lot worse than this.
Holiday Inn Shifu Guangzhou | Best Budget Hotel in Xiguan
The Holiday Inn Shifu Guangzhou is located near the Xiguan Ancient City and offers great service for an affordable price. Each room is modernly decorated and fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat screen TV with international channels and a view over the city. A good buffet breakfast is served in the morning.
3. Huanshi Lu – Best area to stay in Guangzhou for nightlife
Huanshi Lu is one of the most popular spots in Guangzhou for nightlife. While Guangzhou is not shy when it comes to partying, Huangshi Lu is one of the liveliest areas with the best choice in the city.
Around here, you can expect to find bars where beer flows freely, and a crowd that mixes locals, expats and tourists alike. Bars transmitting the local and international football games are particularly popular and can sometimes get rowdy when the stakes are high.
Popular clubs truly come to life on weekends and become so busy you could easily believe you are out in London or New York. However, many of the bars in the area are located in old houses, which gives them a special charm you will not find anywhere else.
During the day, the area is filled with little cafés where you can relax with a drink. Many upscale restaurants can also be found here.
Things to see and do in Huanshi Lu
- Mingle with the high society in Sleeper
- Dance the night away in one of the numerous bars
- Watch a football game with locals and expats in Guangzhou
Paco Hotel Guangzhou Ouzhuang Metro Branch | Best Budget Hotel in Huanshi Lu
The Paco Hotel Ouzhuang Metro Branch offers comfortable rooms a few steps away from Huanshi Lu. Each room is fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a shower or a bathtub, soundproofing and a flat screen TV. A free Wifi connection is available everywhere in the hotel.
The Garden Hotel Guangzhou | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Huanshi Lu
The Garden Hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub, and a flat screen TV with international channels. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and a well-equipped fitness centre. A free wifi connection is available everywhere in the building.
High rise apartment close to the party | Best Airbnb in Huanshi Lu
This beautiful light and airy space, looking down on the city is ideal if you’re here to make the most of Guangzhou’s nightlife. You’ll find a mix of local and expat bars within walking distance of the lobby. There’s a full kitchen for midnight snacks and cable TV right by the bed for morning after.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Haizhu – Coolest place to stay in Guangzhou
The Haizhu neighborhood is located on the southern bank of the Pearl River. It is a modern area where prices tend to be higher than in other central neighborhoods of the city.
With its iconic twisted shape, the Canton Tower is the coolest building in the whole city of Guangzhou, and the highlight of Haizhu. Standing tall at almost 600 metres, it boasts a great observation deck from which you can get a bird’s eye view of the city down below. If you like a thrill, you can also travel around a track on the tower’s roof, tucked inside a transparent cart. At night, the tower becomes even more beautiful as it lights up in the sky.
On the Pearl River bank, Party Pier is a lively area where you can find lots of bars and restaurants. The plaza is fully pedestrian and boasts incredible views over Guangzhou’s skyline around.
Things to see and do in Haizhu
- Look at the city from above on the Canton Tower observation deck
- Get on a cruise along the Pearl River
- Have dinner on the river bank in Party Pier
Chic designer pad by the river | Best Airbnb in Haizhu
If you want to soak in the artisan culture and cool city walks of the Haizhu district, this flat’s got you covered. Hot showers, kitchenette, your own projector movie theatre and a complimentary bottle of wine will make you feel like you living the high life in no time. The unique decor might end up informing some of your purchases at the local boutiques.
City Comfort Inn Kecun Railway Station | Best Budget Hotel in Haizhu
The City Comfort Inn Kecun Railway Station is s budget hotel conveniently located in Haizhou. Its rooms are comfortable and fitted with an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, soundproofing and a view over the city. A free Wifi connection is provided for guests. In the morning, the hotel serves a buffet breakfast in the restaurant.
Echarm Hotel Guangzhou Kecun Metro Station | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Haizhu
The Echarm Hotel Kecun Metro Station offers nice rooms in a residential part of Haizhu while being conveniently close to a metro station. Each room features a private bathroom, a flat screen TV with international channels and air conditioning. Room service is provided on request and a buffet breakfast is served in the morning.
5. Tianhe – Best neighborhood in Guangzhou for families
Tianhe is Guangzhou’s new city centre, filled with modern buildings and shopping centres. It is also the main business area of the city. As it is centrally located and provides easy access to all the main sights, Tianhe is a great neighborhood in Guangzhou for families.
Tianhe is particularly popular with shopping lovers, as the largest mall in Guangzhou, the Grandview Mall, is located here. Inside, you will mainly find large Western retailers and food chains, and, more surprisingly, an amusement park and an ice rink to keep the little ones entertained.
The new Guangdong Museum is also in Tianhe. Unlike the old museum, located in Yuexiu, the new museum focuses on the history and the culture of Guangzhou. Visiting it provides great insight on the city you are calling home for a few days and will teach you a lot! However, only 5 000 people can get in every day so it is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid disappointment.
Things to see and do in Tianhe
- Shop til you drop in Grandview Mall, the largest shopping centre in Guangzhou
- Learn more about Guangzhou’s history at the new Guangdong Museum
- Watch a show in the Guangzhou Opera House, designed by Zaha Hadid
Dongshan Gaga Hostel | Best Hostel in Tianhe
The dongashan Gaga Hostel is located just between the two central neighborhoods of Yuexiu and Tianhe, in Guangzhou. It has been fully renovated in 2018 and offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as bunk beds in male only or female only dormitory rooms. All rooms are air conditioned and a free Wifi connection is provided.
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Tianhe
The Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe offers 5-star accommodation in Tianhe. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat screen with international channels and a minibar. The hotel has a beautiful rooftop outdoor swimming pool and has a well-equipped fitness centre. I recommend the good buffet breakfast in the morning!
Cool condo for the kids | Best Airbnb in Tianhe
This entire condominium got multiple bedrooms, separate kitchen and dining room and a living room to boot. The bright decor and adorable furnishings will lift your mood after a long journey. If you’re worried about keeping the youngers entertained, don’t worry! The ice rink and theme park are right around the corner.
Overseas Chinese Friendship Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Tianhe
The Overseas Chinese Friendship Hotel is conveniently located near a metro station in the Tianhe neighborhood. It offers comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom with a bathtub. The hotel is clean and provides free Wifi access for its guests. A nice breakfast is served in the restaurant in the morning.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Guangzhou
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Guangzhou and where to stay.
What To Pack For Guangzhou
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts On Where to Stay in Guangzhou…
Guangzhou is truly opening up to tourism and offers more and more options to visitors each year. People come here to enjoy the parks, the museums and the great shopping and leave mesmerised by the daringly modern architecture.
My favourite neighborhood in Guangzhou is Yuexiu. It is centrally located, easily accessible and offers a ton of options to stay entertained and learn more about the sprawling city of Guangzhou.
My favourite hotel in town is the Langham Place Guangzhou. If anything, the architecture of the building and the views over the Pearl river should be enough to convince you!
For backpackers, my top choice is the Dongshan Gaga Hostel. It has been fully refurbished and provides clean and comfortable beds in the heart of the city.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments and I’ll add it to the list!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around China.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Guangzhou to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Guangzhou is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for China.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
