Tianhe District (Zhujiang New Town)

Tianhe is Guangzhou’s gleaming modern heart. Skyscrapers dominate the skyline in the Zhujiang New Town CBD, showcasing the city’s futuristic side. This area is packed with luxury malls, trendy restaurants, and international businesses, giving travelers a taste of contemporary Guangzhou life. It’s well-connected by multiple metro lines and even hosts Guangzhou East Railway Station with direct trains to Hong Kong, making it extremely convenient for city exploration and beyond. While Tianhe offers a wide range of accommodations from hostels to five-star hotels, do note that prices here tend to be higher than other districts due to its upscale development.

• Best Suited For: Business travelers, upscale tourists, shopaholics, and anyone who loves a modern city vibe. First-time visitors who prefer convenience and families who want a central, safe area also find Tianhe ideal.
• Best Areas to Stay: Around Zhujiang New Town (near Huacheng Square/Flower City Plaza) for iconic skyscraper views and landmarks like the Opera House. The Tianhe Sports Center and Tiyu Xilu area are great for shopping and dining, with many hotels and malls in walking distance. Staying near Guangzhou East Railway Station is convenient for travelers heading to Hong Kong, though the immediate surroundings are more business-oriented.
• Areas to Avoid: The far outskirts of Tianhe that are not near metro stations – Tianhe is large, and lodging in poorly connected areas (e.g. beyond Chebei or Tangxia) can leave you facing long commutes. Also avoid areas near busy expressways or construction sites where noise and traffic could be an issue.
• Pros: Ultra-modern district with gleaming malls, international restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. Excellent public transport links (multiple metro lines, BRT buses) make it easy to get around. Plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options at your doorstep. The area is clean, safe, and very accustomed to international visitors.
• Cons: Can be crowded, especially during rush hours and weekends at the malls. Hotels and dining here are usually more expensive than in older parts of the city. Lacks the historic charm of Guangzhou’s old town – it feels more like a generic modern metropolis. Traffic can be heavy on main roads, and the sheer size of the district means some attractions are spread out.
• Average Prices (per night):
  
  • Budget: ~200 CNY (≈$30) for simple guesthouses or local 2-3 star hotels.
  • Mid-range: ~600 CNY (≈$90) for comfortable 4-star hotels.
  • Luxury: ~1200 CNY (≈$180) for high-end 5-star hotels in Zhujiang New Town.

Yuexiu District (Downtown & Beijing Road)

Yuexiu is the historic core of Guangzhou, offering an authentic glimpse into the city’s past. It was the old walled city and remains the cultural heart of Guangzhou. Here you’ll find many of Guangzhou’s top historical attractions: the tree-lined Yuexiu Park with remnants of the old city wall, the grand Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, and the Museum of the Nanyue King Mausoleum, among others. Beijing Road, the famous pedestrian shopping street, runs through Yuexiu and is bustling with shops and local eateries late into the night. Staying in Yuexiu means you can easily walk or take short rides to classic sites, while soaking in the traditional Cantonese atmosphere of old streets and arcades. Accommodation is plentiful and generally more affordable, with everything from backpacker hostels to established hotels available at moderate prices.

• Best Suited For: History buffs and culture lovers who want to be surrounded by Guangzhou’s heritage. Great for first-time visitors interested in sightseeing, as many museums and monuments are nearby. Foodies will also enjoy Yuexiu for its authentic Cantonese restaurants and street food (this district is famous for traditional dim sum tea houses). Budget travelers often find good value here since prices are lower than the new CBD.
• Best Areas to Stay: Beijing Road Pedestrian Street area is highly recommended for its central location – you’ll have endless food options, shopping, and easy access to metro stations (Gongyuanqian and Beijing Lu) right there. The Haizhu Square vicinity (on the Pearl River north bank) is also convenient, placing you close to both the river promenades and the old town sights. Around Yuexiu Park/Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is ideal if you want to be near historical sites and green space; there are several hotels in this area and a metro stop for easy transit. For nightlife, the Huanshi East Road (Ouzhuang) area in eastern Yuexiu has a cluster of expat pubs, bars, and late-night eateries, as well as mid-range hotels – a good choice if you want some evening entertainment in an otherwise historic district.
• Areas to Avoid: Guangzhou Railway Station and its immediate surrounds (on the western edge of Yuexiu) – this area can be chaotic and has a reputation for petty crime, especially at night. The streets around there (near Sanyuanli or Renmin North Road) are often crowded with travelers and market traders and not very tourist-friendly, so it’s best not to base yourself right by the main train station. Also avoid overly remote residential pockets of Yuexiu that are far from metro stops, as the convenience of this district is best experienced when you stay near transit and attractions.
• Pros: Rich in historical and cultural attractions – you’re never far from a museum, temple, or park steeped in history. Central location in the city, making it easy to reach other districts and the riverfront. Bustling local life: traditional shops, street markets, and eateries give an authentic Cantonese feel. Beijing Road and nearby streets offer great shopping and endless dining options, from street food to time-honored restaurants. Accommodations are abundant and often more reasonably priced; you can find good mid-range hotels that won’t break the bank.
• Cons: Yuexiu is an older district, so it isn’t as sleek or modern – don’t expect the luxury malls or polished skyscrapers found in Tianhe. Some hotels and infrastructure are a bit dated (though serviceable). There are fewer high-end luxury hotels here, so upscale travelers have limited choices within the district. The busy shopping areas can get very crowded (especially Beijing Road on weekends). Traffic on some narrow older streets can be congested. Additionally, English is less widely spoken in small shops and restaurants compared to the expat-heavy areas, so you’ll be doing more pointing and gesturing – part of the authentic experience, but something to note.
• Average Prices (per night):
  
  • Budget: ~150 CNY (≈$22) for guesthouses or basic 2-3 star hotels.
  • Mid-range: ~400 CNY (≈$60) for comfortable 3-4 star hotels.
  • Luxury: ~800 CNY (≈$120) for the few top-end hotels in the area (e.g. upscale heritage hotels).

Liwan District (Xiguan Old Town & Shamian Island)

Liwan is the old Canton (Guangzhou) at its most charming. Located to the west of Yuexiu, Liwan (also known historically as Xiguan) preserves the city’s past with its traditional architecture and leisurely pace. Here you’ll find Xiguan Old Houses – beautiful old Cantonese courtyard residences with classic designs, some of which are open as museums or teahouses. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street runs through Liwan, a lively shopping street lined with heritage architecture and street food stalls, embodying the everyday bustle of old Guangzhou. In contrast, Shamian Island, also in Liwan, offers a peaceful escape: this former colonial enclave is filled with European-style mansions, churches, and tree-lined avenues recalling 19th-century Guangzhou. Strolling around Shamian feels like stepping into a different era, and it’s a favorite for photographers and those seeking a quiet retreat. Liwan is also famous for its traditional Cantonese eateries – this is the place to sample honest local food like wonton noodles, roast meats, and morning dim sum at historic restaurants. Overall, Liwan gives travelers a rich cultural experience and tends to be easier on the wallet than the newer districts.

• Best Suited For: Travelers interested in history, architecture, and local culture. If you want to see the old Guangzhou and experience authentic Cantonese life, Liwan is perfect. It’s especially great for budget travelers and backpackers, as accommodations here are often cheaper. Foodies will love the area too – Liwan is renowned for Cantonese street food and traditional snacks (try the longstanding eateries around Shangxiajiu and specialty foods on Dizhi Road). Photographers and those seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced stay will appreciate Shamian Island and the scenic canals around Liwan Lake Park.
• Best Areas to Stay: Shamian Island is a highlight – staying here means quiet nights under ancient banyan trees and mornings in colonial-era cafes. It’s ideal if you value a peaceful atmosphere and historic ambiance; hotels on Shamian give you beautiful river or garden views and you can explore the island entirely on foot. Another great area is around Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street / Xiguan: you’ll be right in the heart of local markets and street food – perfect for soaking up the lively streetlife and shopping for souvenirs. The Changshou Road and Chen Clan Academy vicinity is also convenient: Changshou Road metro connects you easily, and you’re close to the stunning Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and Xiguan old house alleys. This area has several budget hotels and guesthouses.
• Areas to Avoid: Try not to stay too far west beyond the touristy parts – once you go past the popular Shangxiajiu/Shamian area deeper into Fangcun or the outskirts of Liwan, it becomes very local and residential with few tourist conveniences (and you’ll be far from metro stations). Also, as with Yuexiu, avoid the immediate Guangzhou Railway Station area on the Liwan/Yuexiu border. While Liwan itself is generally safe, some small alleys can be very quiet at night – stick to accommodations on well-trafficked streets for comfort.
• Pros: Rich cultural and historical heritage everywhere you turn – from colonial churches on Shamian to Qing-dynasty guild halls and traditional markets. Liwan offers a truly authentic Cantonese atmosphere, with vibrant street life and locals doing tai chi or playing chess in the parks. The food scene is a major plus: famous for snacks and traditional Cantonese dishes, you can eat very well (and cheaply) in this district. The area’s central enough that you can reach other parts of Guangzhou (there are multiple metro lines through Liwan), yet it feels a world apart from the skyscrapers. Accommodation costs are lower, so you get better value – ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Shamian Island, in particular, adds a unique charm with its picturesque environment perfect for leisurely walks and photos.
• Cons: Infrastructure is older – expect classic low-rise buildings rather than modern towers, which also means some hotels might have older facilities. It can be crowded in certain areas like the markets and Shangxiajiu pedestrian street, especially on weekends. There are limited luxury hotel options (aside from one or two upscale hotels like the historic White Swan, most are 3-4 star or lower). Nightlife is modest here; aside from a few local bars or night markets, you won’t find the big clubs – those are in other districts. Also, getting to the new downtown (Tianhe) or across the city will take longer from Liwan, though still manageable by metro (around 20-30 minutes).
• Average Prices (per night):
  
  • Budget: ~150 CNY (≈$22) for small local hotels or guesthouses.
  • Mid-range: ~300 CNY (≈$45) for mid-tier hotels or boutique inns in renovated historic buildings.
  • Luxury: ~700 CNY (≈$105) for the limited high-end hotels (Shamian’s top hotels or riverside luxury like the White Swan).

Haizhu District (Canton Tower & Pazhou)

Haizhu occupies the southern bank of the Pearl River, directly across from Tianhe, and blends modern attractions with a more local vibe. The district’s skyline is defined by the Canton Tower, Guangzhou’s iconic 600-meter tall TV tower, famed for its twisting design and rainbow nighttime illumination. Visiting the Tower’s observation deck gives a jaw-dropping bird’s-eye view of the city, and adventurous travelers can even ride the bubble tram around its roof for a thrill. Haizhu is also home to Party Pier, a lively riverfront entertainment zone of bars and clubs where you can enjoy Guangzhou’s skyline by night while socializing at trendy pubs. Another key feature of Haizhu is the Pazhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, which hosts the bi-annual Canton Fair – the biggest trade fair in China, drawing visitors from around the globe. During Canton Fair season, Haizhu becomes the hotspot for business travelers, and many global hotel brands (Shangri-La, Westin, etc.) operate near the Pazhou complex to cater to this crowd. Outside of these highlights, much of Haizhu is residential, with tree-lined streets and a slightly quieter feel than the city center. It offers a nice balance for travelers who want modern amenities and great views, without being in the thick of downtown chaos.

• Best Suited For: Business travelers attending the Canton Fair or other expos – staying in Haizhu (Pazhou area) means you are minutes from the exhibition halls, which is a huge plus. It’s also great for nightlife enthusiasts and young travelers who want to check out Guangzhou’s bars and clubs – Party Pier’s venues and the riverside bar scene in Haizhu are among the coolest in the city. Photographers and couples will love the scenic factor: being near Canton Tower and along the Pearl River offers plenty of romantic and photographic moments, especially with the tower’s light show at night. In short, Haizhu suits those looking for a trendy, scenic stay with a mix of business and leisure.
• Best Areas to Stay: The Canton Tower vicinity (around Canton Tower station and Haixinsha Park) is prime – you get easy access to the tower, river cruises, and vibrant nightspots, plus a metro interchange (Lines 3 and APM) to reach other areas. For nightlife convenience, staying near Party Pier (Xingang East Road area) is ideal; there are a few hotels around here and you’ll be steps away from bars and breweries with a panoramic river view. If you’re visiting for the trade fair, the Pazhou area is where you’ll want to stay – there are several high-end hotels literally adjacent to the Canton Fair complex, which is extremely handy for attending events (some hotels even run shuttle services to the fair). Pazhou is a bit far from other attractions, but the metro (Line 8) connects it to central Haizhu and beyond.
• Areas to Avoid: Inner residential areas of Haizhu that are far from the river and metro. If you stray deep into the district (southward away from the river or east into industrial zones), you’ll find yourself in purely local neighborhoods without tourist sights or easy transport – not very useful for a traveler. Unless you have a specific reason (like visiting someone at Sun Yat-sen University or a business in the area), avoid staying far from the main Line 8 or Line 3 metro corridor. Also, if you’re not attending the Canton Fair, staying right next to the Pazhou complex is less appealing (the area can feel sterile when no events are on, and dining options there cater mostly to convention-goers).
• Pros: Stunning river and skyline views – Haizhu’s riverfront locations offer postcard panoramas of the city, especially looking across to the Zhujiang New Town skyline. The presence of Canton Tower means world-class panoramic experiences and a must-see attraction right at your doorstep. The district has a modern, clean feel with new developments around the tower and expo center. It’s relatively less hectic than core downtown areas; aside from event times, you can enjoy riverside parks and promenades without huge crowds. Excellent for the Canton Fair – you can’t beat the convenience if you’re here for business, plus many hotels in this area are geared towards international guests and maintain high standards. Transportation is still good: Line 8 and the APM mini-metro line serve the area, and taxis are readily available. Lastly, Haizhu boasts some top-notch hotels (often with river views) but also a decent selection of mid-range stays, especially in the sections closer to the city center.
• Cons: Not as central as north-of-river districts – you’ll need to cross the river (by metro or taxi) to reach many tourist sites in Yuexiu or Tianhe. Apart from Canton Tower and the occasional museum (like the Guangdong Museum of Art on Ersha Island nearby), there are fewer tourist attractions within Haizhu itself, which means you might commute out for sightseeing. Some parts of the district feel a bit isolated for tourists (e.g. the area right around the convention center is quiet when no fair is happening). During Canton Fair periods, hotel rates skyrocket and availability tightens, so plan accordingly if visiting in those times. Conversely, outside of event times, Pazhou’s luxury hotels may feel eerily empty and the surrounding might lack the buzz. While there are a few mall complexes (like TeeMall in southern Haizhu) and local shopping streets, high-end shopping and dining are limited compared to Tianhe. Finally, budget travelers have fewer options here; many Haizhu hotels cater to business travelers, so cheap hostels are harder to find than in Liwan or Yuexiu.
• Average Prices (per night):
  
  • Budget: ~200 CNY (≈$30) for simple local hotels (limited selection; you might need to look in adjacent districts for hostels).
  • Mid-range: ~400 CNY (≈$60) for standard hotels or serviced apartments in the district.
  • Luxury: ~1000 CNY (≈$150) for high-end hotels near Canton Tower or Pazhou (prices can be higher during trade fairs).

Panyu District (Chimelong & Suburban Retreat)

Panyu is a district in the far south of Guangzhou, known primarily as the city’s entertainment and leisure hub thanks to the Chimelong Tourist Resort. This massive complex includes the Chimelong Safari Park, Amusement Park, Water Park, International Circus, and more – a paradise for families and theme park enthusiasts. Staying in Panyu, especially near Chimelong, allows travelers to fully enjoy these attractions over a couple of days (which is hard to do on a day-trip, given their size). The area around the resort feels almost like a mini-vacation town of its own, with themed hotels and family-friendly restaurants. Beyond Chimelong, Panyu offers a quieter, green suburban atmosphere compared to Guangzhou’s inner city. There are a few cultural sites, such as Baomo Garden (a beautifully landscaped traditional garden) and Shawan Ancient Town (known for its old Cantonese architecture and music heritage), which can be interesting detours if you have extra time. Overall, Panyu is removed from the downtown hustle, making it a good base for those who don’t mind the commute or have specific plans in the area. It’s especially popular with travelers coming specifically for the parks or those who have been to Guangzhou before and want a different experience.

• Best Suited For: Families with children – Panyu is hands down the best choice if you’re traveling with kids, thanks to the Chimelong Parks and family-oriented hotels. It’s also great for theme park lovers or animal lovers who want to visit one of Asia’s top safari parks. Travelers who prefer a more laid-back stay, perhaps those on a longer trip who want to split time between city and suburb, will appreciate the quieter nights here. If you’ve done Guangzhou’s main sights before, basing in Panyu for a new experience (and maybe a bit of countryside feel) can be rewarding.
• Best Areas to Stay: Chimelong Resort area (around Hanxi Changlong metro station) is the focal point – staying here means you can often walk or take a very short shuttle to the Safari Park or amusement park entrance. There are a couple of large resort hotels (including Chimelong’s own hotel) plus many smaller hotels and apartments just outside the park gates. This area has eateries and convenience stores catering to park-goers. If you’re interested in local culture, you might consider a stay near Shawan Ancient Town (southwest Panyu) – the selection of accommodations is smaller, but a boutique guesthouse there would immerse you in traditional Cantonese charm away from crowds. Otherwise, Panyu Square or Shiqiao (Panyu’s city center) have more local hotels, but unless you have business there, they’re not particularly interesting to tourists besides being relatively close to metro Line 3. For most travelers, Chimelong’s vicinity is the reason to stay in Panyu.
• Areas to Avoid: Far-flung parts of Panyu that have no tourist interest – Panyu is huge, and some areas are essentially rural or industrial. If you stay far from a metro station, you will find it difficult to get around (taxis can also be harder to find in remote spots). In particular, avoid booking a stay in Panyu just for cheap prices if you plan to sightsee in Guangzhou proper every day – the commute from Panyu to downtown (Tianhe or Yuexiu) can easily take 45 minutes to an hour each way, which becomes tiring. So, unless your focus is the Chimelong resort or local Panyu sites, you might not want to base yourself here.
• Pros: Chimelong Resort – a world-class set of theme parks all in one place, offering days of fun (it’s a major draw that you won’t find elsewhere in Guangzhou). Panyu’s atmosphere is more relaxed and less congested than the city center; you’ll likely experience cleaner air and see more open spaces. Many hotels in this area are resort-style, meaning larger rooms and more on-site amenities (some have pools, gardens, etc.) ideal for unwinding. Panyu also has its own local charms – if you venture out, you can discover water town scenery in areas like Lianhua Mountain or traditional cuisine unique to the district (Panyu is known for roast pigeon, for example). It can be quite enjoyable to see a different, slower side of Guangzhou’s region. Prices for food and small hotels in Panyu tend to be lower than in the city as well, and if you drive, parking is generally easier and cheaper.
• Cons: Distance from central Guangzhou – if your aim is to visit attractions like the Canton Tower, museums, or markets in the city, staying in Panyu will add significant travel time to your itinerary. The district is connected by the metro (Line 3 runs through it), but even so, it’s a solid ride to get north. This makes it less ideal for short stays where city sightseeing is a priority. Limited nightlife and dining variety compared to downtown – after the theme parks close, the Chimelong area itself quiets down, and you won’t find the broad range of international restaurants or bars that districts like Tianhe have. Also, outside of the resort area, few locals speak much English, which could be a hurdle (though hotels will assist as needed). Fewer luxury options: aside from the Chimelong Hotel and perhaps one or two others, high-end accommodations are not common in Panyu. Most are mid-range or local hotels. Lastly, if you’re visiting in the cooler months, note that some of Chimelong’s attractions (like the water park) may be seasonal, which could reduce the appeal of staying nearby – something to consider when deciding to stay in Panyu.
• Average Prices (per night):
  
  • Budget: ~150 CNY (≈$22) for local inns or chain motels in Panyu’s town centers.
  • Mid-range: ~300 CNY (≈$45) for standard hotels or apartments, including those near Chimelong.
  • Luxury: ~800 CNY (≈$120) for the resort-style 5-star hotels (Chimelong Hotel or similar), which often have package deals including park tickets.

Summary