Yuexiu District (越秀区)

Yuexiu is Guangzhou's oldest district and remains its cultural and political center. As the historic heart of the city, it offers a window into traditional Cantonese life with numerous cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and authentic local experiences.

• Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall – honoring the "Father of Modern China"
• Yuexiu Park – home to the iconic Five Rams Sculpture, the symbol of Guangzhou
• Beijing Road Pedestrian Street – vibrant shopping with archaeological ruins beneath
• Sacred Heart Cathedral – stunning Gothic architecture from the 19th century
• Guangzhou Museum – comprehensive history of the city's development

Best For: History lovers, first-time visitors, central access to all attractions

Transport: Multiple metro lines (1, 2, 6) provide excellent connectivity

Insider Tip: Stay near Dongfeng Road for easy access to both business hubs and heritage sites

Liwan District (荔湾区)

Known for its Lingnan heritage architecture, antique shops, and colonial-era Shamian Island, Liwan is perfect for experiencing old-world Guangzhou. This district preserves the authentic Cantonese culture with traditional teahouses, historic residences, and some of the city's best dim sum restaurants.

• Shamian Island – colonial-era district with European architecture and leafy streets
• Chen Clan Ancestral Hall – exquisite Cantonese architecture and intricate carvings
• Xiguan Residences – historic homes reflecting traditional Lingnan design
• Lychee Bay – scenic area with traditional buildings and cultural performances
• Hualin Temple – one of Guangzhou's oldest Buddhist temples

Best For: Heritage tourism, cultural experiences, historic architecture enthusiasts

Food to Try: Authentic dim sum teahouses and traditional Cantonese snacks

Insider Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds at popular teahouses

Panyu District (番禺区)

Panyu is one of Guangzhou's fastest-growing districts, popular with families, tourists, and long-term expats thanks to its world-class theme parks, historic villages, and modern residential communities. The district successfully blends entertainment, culture, and comfortable living, making it a preferred choice for those seeking balance between urban amenities and quality of life.

• Chimelong Safari Park & Paradise – China's premier family theme parks with animals, rides, and shows
• Shawan Ancient Town – well-preserved historic village showcasing Lingnan architecture and culture
• Lotus Hill Scenic Area – natural attraction with lotus ponds, hiking trails, and panoramic views
• Panyu Square – commercial center with shopping, dining, and entertainment
• Guangzhou University Town – campus area with multiple universities and youthful energy

Best For: Families with children, long-term expats, leisure and entertainment, quality residential living

Accommodation: Numerous international hotel chains near theme parks

Transport: Metro Line 3, 4, and 7 serve major attractions and residential areas

Huadu District (花都区)

Huadu, located north of Guangzhou's urban core, serves as the gateway to northern Guangdong Province while maintaining strong connections to the city center. Known for its manufacturing base, wholesale markets, and proximity to Baiyun International Airport, Huadu offers practical advantages for business travelers and those seeking more affordable living options.

• Huadu Lake Park – extensive green space perfect for weekend escapes and family outings
• Leather Market – major wholesale leather hub offering products at competitive prices
• Huadu Square – modern shopping and commercial area with international brands
• Huadu People's Park – central park with recreational facilities and cultural events
• Manufacturing zones – various industrial parks hosting local and international companies

Best For: Business trips, airport stopovers, manufacturing visitors, budget-conscious travelers

Location: Approximately 30-40 minutes from airport and 1 hour from city center

Development: Rapid infrastructure improvements with new metro connections planned

Nansha District (南沙区)

Guangzhou’s rising star with free trade zones and eco-tourism.

• Nansha Marina
• Wetland Park
• Hengli Ancient Village

Conghua District (从化区)

Conghua is Guangzhou's premier wellness and nature destination, famous for its natural hot springs, forest parks, and eco-tourism resorts. Located in the northeastern part of the municipality, this district offers a peaceful retreat from urban life while providing world-class spa facilities, hiking opportunities, and agricultural experiences that showcase the region's natural bounty.

• Conghua Hot Springs – numerous resorts and spas offering mineral-rich thermal waters
• Liuxi River National Forest Park – protected area with hiking trails, waterfalls, and biodiversity
• Shimen National Forest Park – scenic area known for autumn foliage and mountain views
• Lychee orchards – agricultural areas producing famous Conghua lychees (seasonal May-July)
• Wenquan Town – hot spring town with multiple resort options and traditional therapies

Best For: Wellness tourism, weekend getaways, hiking enthusiasts, nature photography

Accommodation: Range from luxury hot spring resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses

Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours from Guangzhou city center by road

Zengcheng District (增城区)

Zengcheng is known as the "Hometown of Lychees" and represents an interesting blend of agricultural heritage and new urban development. This eastern district maintains strong connections to its farming roots while embracing modern infrastructure projects, industrial parks, and residential communities that cater to both local residents and newcomers seeking more spacious living options.

• Lychee orchards – extensive agricultural areas offering seasonal fruit picking (best May-July)
• Zengcheng Square – modern commercial center with shopping, dining, and entertainment options
• Nanxiang Hot Spring Resort – wellness destination with thermal springs and resort facilities
• Zengjiang River – scenic waterway with parks and recreational activities along its banks
• Industrial parks – developing zones attracting manufacturing and technology companies

Best For: Nature experiences, agricultural tourism, industrial investment, spacious residential living

Specialty: Zengcheng lychees are considered among China's finest, with annual festivals

Development: New metro connections and infrastructure improving accessibility