Top 12 Best Things to Do in Guangzhou: Walking, Eating, Cruise, etc.

Guangzhou is a year-round destination with a pleasant climate, making it perfect for family trips, parent-child vacations, or leisure getaways. In addition to the must-see top attractions, we’ve compiled a list of the top 12 fun things to do in Guangzhou that are definitely worth experiencing. If you're looking to customize your Guangzhou trip, feel free to contact us!

Top 1: Experience the iconic Canton Tower

If you come to Guangzhou and don't visit the Canton Tower, it means you haven't truly been to Guangzhou. Canton Tower is an iconic tower that offers panoramic views of Guangzhou city. The tower's unique shape, with a broad base and a slender waist, has earned it the nickname "Little Waist." When the rainbow lights on the entire tower are on, it looks like a giant colorful floor lamp illuminating the Pearl River and Zhujiang New Town at night.

You can take a high-speed elevator to the observation platform for a panoramic view of the entire city of Guangzhou. You can also experience the high-altitude Ferris wheel, enjoy the thrilling sky roller coaster, watch 4D movies, dine, and more.

Top 2: Explore the fascinating Chimelong Resort

Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort is one of the top attractions chosen by 99% of families visiting Guangzhou with children. Experience a unique adventure by exploring Chimelong Safari Park, where kids can observe over 500 species and more than 20,000 rare animals from around the world in a natural setting. Here, without traveling to Sichuan, you can see China’s national treasure, the giant panda—12 of them in total—as well as 57 koalas from Australia. During showtime, enjoy the world’s largest professional circus performance and participate in a wide range of entertainment activities. It's the perfect place where education meets fun.

Chimelong Tourist Resort is China's largest and most comprehensive theme park resort, boasting the highest number of theme parks and attractions. The resort includes the Chimelong Safari Park, Chimelong Happy World, International Circus, Water Park, Bird Park, and a range of themed hotels.

Top 3: Admire the exquisite Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

A historic temple and one of the best examples of traditional southern Chinese architecture，the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a must-visit cultural landmark in Guangzhou. It was originally constructed as a place of worship to honor the ancestors of the Chen family，was built in the late 19th century. Even if you don’t fully understand Chinese traditions, you can still appreciate its unique Cantonese architecture and craftsmanship. The hall is renowned for its intricate wood carvings, ceramic sculptures, and exquisite decorative elements, all of which showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Top 4: Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral

Standing in the heart of Guangzhou, the Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the four major Gothic stone churches in the world. The cathedral blends Chinese and Western styles, appearing as though it is wearing a Western-style 'coat,' yet this 'coat' incorporates many traditional Chinese elements. When you visit, you will see that Chinese tung oil and glutinous rice paste were used to bind the stones. A stone from Jerusalem and soil from Rome lie beneath the foundation, with engraved stones marking 'Jerusalem 1863' and 'Rome 1863.' The roof’s water outlets are shaped like Chinese lions, and the locally sourced floor tiles are designed for moisture resistance. The grand wooden doors are adorned with intricate Cantonese-style carvings.

Top 5: Visit the Iconic Statue of the Five Goats

Visit the Statue of Five Goats in Yuexiu Park, one of Guangzhou's most iconic landmarks. This famous statue, symbolizing the city’s legend of the Five Immortals who brought prosperity to the region, stands proudly in the heart of Yuexiu Park. The five goats, intricately sculpted in bronze, are a testament to Guangzhou's rich cultural heritage and history. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the park and offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient myths and traditions.

Top 6: Experience the rich culture of Guangdong's morning tea (yum cha)

Across all of China, only Guangdong has elevated breakfast into a cultural experience, and as the capital of Guangdong, Guangzhou offers an unmissable morning tea experience. Known locally as 'Yue-style morning tea' or 'yum cha,' it is an essential part of daily life for locals. Enjoy a wide variety of dim sum, from delicate steamed dumplings to crispy spring rolls, all served with fragrant Chinese tea. In this rapidly developing region, morning tea is more than just a meal; it is a cultural ritual where friends and family gather to savor delicious flavors, chat, and enjoy a leisurely moment of relaxation.

Top 7: Hiking Baiyun Mountain Park

Hiking at Baiyun Mountain Park offers a refreshing escape into nature, with scenic trails, lush greenery, and panoramic views of Guangzhou city. As one of the city's most popular outdoor destinations, the park provides you with a chance to explore its winding paths, towering peaks, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're seeking a challenging climb or a leisurely stroll, Baiyun Mountain has something for every nature lover.

Top 8: Experience the local culture at the Museum of the Nanyue King's Mausoleum

Explore the rich cultural history of Guangzhou with a visit to this museum, which is dedicated to the Nanyue King's Mausoleum, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the city. The museum showcases the tomb of the Nanyue Kingdom's second king, Zhao Mo, and features over 1,000 exquisite artifacts, including Nanyue King's "silk-thread jade burial suit," gold jewelry, and pottery. You can learn about the rich history and culture of the ancient Nanyue Kingdom, which thrived over 2,000 years ago.

Top 9: Go shopping at the Beijing Road Pedestrian

Guangzhou has long been a key economic hub, both historically and today, serving as a major center for trade where a wide variety of goods can be found. Go shopping at Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, Browse the many shops, street vendors, and malls along this busy shopping street and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Guangzhou's retail scene. In the heart of the city, Beijing Road Pedestrian Street plays a vital role in this bustling commercial district. making it the perfect place to experience the city's dynamic shopping culture.

Top 10: Visit the Six Banyan Temple & Flower Pagoda

A Buddhist temple complex with a distinctive, nine-storied tower that is one of Guangzhou's most recognizable landmarks. Visit the Six Banyan Temple, this ancient Buddhist temple dates back to the 6th century and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere. The Flower Pagoda, with its nine visible levels and eight hidden internal layers, features a total of seventeen levels. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a symbol of the temple's deep cultural and spiritual significance. With its rich cultural heritage and serene surroundings, the Six Banyan Temple is a must-see destination for those interested in Guangzhou’s history and spirituality.

Top 11: Take a river cruise on the Pearl River

Enjoy scenic views of Guangzhou from the river, including the Canton Tower and other iconic buildings. Experience the spirit and charm of Guangzhou, a national central city and a thousand-year-old commercial capital. Take a river cruise on the Pearl River, one of Guangzhou's most scenic and relaxing experiences. The cruise offers a unique perspective of the city. As you glide along the river, you can enjoy the stunning views of both traditional and contemporary structures, making it the perfect way to admire the city’s vibrant charm, especially at night when the lights create a dazzling display.

Top 12: Visit Lingnan water town

In a bustling metropolis like Guangzhou, is it all just towering skyscrapers? Not at all. Guangzhou is not only home to thriving economic development but also rich in historical landmarks. If you're tired of the modern cityscape and want to experience an ancient village, a visit to Xiaozhou Village is a great choice. Xiaozhou Village is an ancient village full of Lingnan water town charm. Founded in the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty.

Customize Your Unique Guangzhou Tour

If you are interested in one of the Guangzhou itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Guangzhou Tour, please visit our Guangzhou Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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