Where to Stay in Guangzhou: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Travelers and Business Visitors

Guangzhou is not a one-size-fits-all city. From futuristic skylines in the CBD to colonial-era gems and sprawling theme parks, every district offers a unique atmosphere. Staying in the right neighborhood can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you prefer walkable historical streets, easy access to trade shows, or world-class shopping and dining, this guide helps you narrow your search.

If you’re visiting Guangzhou for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than Tianhe. Known as the city’s financial and commercial center, Tianhe is home to luxury hotels, skyscrapers, modern malls, and a dynamic international vibe. It’s also where Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou’s Central Business District (CBD), is located.

Why stay in Tianhe:

• Direct metro access to most parts of the city (Lines 1, 3, 5, APM)

• Walking distance to Canton Tower, Guangzhou Opera House, and Guangdong Museum

• Ideal for attending meetings, trade shows, or working remotely

• Proximity to upscale shopping centers like Taikoo Hui, Grandview Mall, and Parc Central

Recommended Hotels:

• Four Seasons Guangzhou – luxury in a sky-high tower with river views

• Ascott IFC Guangzhou – perfect for extended stays and business guests

• Fraser Suites – stylish serviced apartments in the heart of the CBD

• Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou – high-end amenities with world-class dining

👉 Great for: Business travelers, first-time visitors, digital nomads

For those who want to immerse themselves in Guangzhou’s rich history and traditional Cantonese culture, Yuexiu District is the place to be. This is where old meets new, and you can enjoy both ancient temples and modern amenities.

Highlights:

• Home to Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with shops, street food, and archaeological sites under glass

• Visit Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Zhenhai Tower, and Yuexiu Park

• Affordable accommodation and excellent access to local eateries and transit

Recommended Hotels:

• Dongfang Hotel – heritage-style hotel near Yuexiu Park

• Hotel Canton – budget-friendly and close to cultural landmarks

• Ocean Hotel – centrally located and convenient for shopping

👉 Great for: History lovers, budget travelers, photographers

Liwan is where traditional Guangzhou truly comes to life. This charming district is known for Lingnan-style architecture, bustling local markets, and narrow alleys filled with local life.

Must-See Attractions:

• Shamian Island – a peaceful colonial-era island perfect for walking and sightseeing

• Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street – for bargain shopping, local food, and souvenirs

• Chen Clan Ancestral Hall – one of Guangzhou’s finest examples of traditional Cantonese design

Recommended Hotels:

• White Swan Hotel – a 5-star gem on Shamian Island with riverside views

• Guangdong Victory Hotel – historic, charming, and well-priced

• Guangzhou LN Hotel Five – boutique hotel on the Pearl River with rooftop views

👉 Great for: Cultural explorers, backpackers, local food lovers

If you’re attending the Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair), Haizhu District is your best base. It’s where the fairgrounds are located, and staying nearby will save you hours of commuting.

Why Haizhu Works:

• Close to Pazhou Complex, where the Canton Fair takes place

• Easy access to the Pearl River and Guangzhou Tower

• Excellent ferry rides and scenic waterfront strolls

Recommended Hotels:

• Langham Place Guangzhou – luxury hotel directly connected to Canton Fair

• Shangri-La Hotel Guangzhou – riverside elegance with a tropical garden feel

• Lavande Hotel Pazhou – a budget-friendly option for fair attendees

• InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center – upscale and walking distance to fair halls

👉 Great for: Canton Fair visitors, business travelers, riverside luxury seekers

Planning a family trip to Guangzhou? Head south to Panyu District, a quieter, more suburban area packed with theme parks and family-friendly attractions.

Top Attractions:

• Chimelong Paradise – one of China’s largest amusement parks

• Chimelong Safari Park – see pandas, koalas, and tigers up close

• Lotus Hill Scenic Area – perfect for hiking and flower viewing

Recommended Hotels:

• Chimelong Hotel – safari-themed hotel with direct park access

• Vienna International Hotel – clean, quiet, and close to the metro

• James Joyce Coffetel – affordable boutique-style stay for families

👉 Great for: Families, travelers with kids, outdoor enthusiasts

If you're skimming for the right area to base your stay, here’s a quick summary in paragraph form:

• Tianhe District is the most convenient and modern part of Guangzhou—perfect for first-time visitors and business travelers. You’ll find luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental here.

• Yuexiu District is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to be immersed in the city’s history. With local eats and cultural attractions nearby, hotels like Dongfang and Hotel Canton offer great access.

• Liwan District brings you back to old-world Guangzhou. Think local markets, historical streets, and boutique hotels like the White Swan and LN Hotel Five.

• Haizhu District is best suited for Canton Fair visitors or travelers wanting scenic river views. Top hotels here include Langham Place and InterContinental.

• Panyu District is the go-to for families and kids thanks to its many theme parks and green spaces. Hotels like Chimelong Hotel and Vienna International are family-friendly and well-rated.

• Book early during Canton Fair months (April & October) – Hotels sell out fast and prices spike.

• Use metro access as your guide – Guangzhou’s metro is extensive and efficient. Choose accommodation near stations on Lines 1, 3, or APM for best coverage.

• Check Trip.com or Booking.com for local deals – These platforms offer competitive prices and flexible cancellation policies.

• Consider serviced apartments if you’re staying longer than a week—they’re more affordable and spacious.

Q: Is Guangzhou safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Guangzhou is generally very safe, even at night. As always, use common travel sense in crowded areas.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Guangzhou?
A: October to December offers cooler weather and coincides with the Canton Fair.

Q: Can foreigners use local booking platforms?
A: Yes. Platforms like Trip.com and Booking.com are foreigner-friendly and widely used in China.

Q: Is English widely spoken in hotels?
A: In international hotel chains and business hotels, yes. Smaller or local hotels may have limited English-speaking staff.

Whether you're exploring ancient temples, networking at a trade show, or simply savoring dim sum by the Pearl River, knowing where to stay in Guangzhou is key to a successful visit.

🏨 For a full list of hotel recommendations by district, amenities, and price range, check out ourGuangzhou Hotel Directory.

And if you’re attending the Canton Fair, don’t miss our complete Buyer’s Guide to the Canton Fair with visa tips, metro maps, and insider advice.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, hotel availability, pricing, and local conditions in Guangzhou may change at any time. We recommend confirming all travel details with official sources or booking platforms before making decisions. The inclusion of specific hotels or districts does not imply endorsement.