Looking for where to stay in Guangzhou? We visited Guangzhou right after Xingping, at the end of our 14-day China itinerary in early 2025. This was our last stop in the country before moving on, and we wanted to choose our accommodation carefully. Guangzhou is a vibrant metropolis where tradition and modernity intersect. But since it’s such a massive city, choosing the right area to stay makes all the difference in your experience.
Here are the three best areas to stay in Guangzhou and the hotels we recommend in each one.
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Safety in Guangzhou
Guangzhou is generally a safe city for travelers. As in any major metropolis, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, especially markets and public transportation. At night, tourist and commercial areas remain safe, but avoid poorly lit streets.
If traveling by metro, keep your backpack in front of you and be wary of overly persistent approaches. Otherwise, Guangzhou is a great destination to explore without major concerns.
Best areas to stay in Guangzhou
Guangzhou is a massive city, and choosing the right area to stay can make all the difference in your experience. After our visit, these are the three best areas we recommend.
Shangxiajiu (Liwan District): Culture and commerce
Shangxiajiu is one of Guangzhou’s oldest commercial areas, located in Liwan District. Here you’ll find a mix of traditional architecture and European colonial influences, plus streets full of historic shops and restaurants.
Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is the main attraction, with hundreds of shops and street food stalls. For those wanting to explore the more authentic side of the city and do some shopping, this is an excellent choice for where to stay in Guangzhou.
Where to stay in Shangxiajiu
- Budget: Paco Hotel – Comfortable and well-located hotel, ideal for those looking for an affordable option.
- Mid-range: Doria Home International Apartment – Modern apartments with excellent value for money.
- Luxury: Langham Place Guangzhou – One of the city’s most elegant hotels, with spa and indoor pool.
Beijing Lu (Yuexiu District): History and tranquility
Beijing Lu is one of Guangzhou’s most historic areas. The famous Beijing Road pedestrian street is a paradise for shoppers, but also hides archaeological relics from the ancient walled city.
This is a great area where to stay in Guangzhou for those wanting a quieter environment while still having easy access to downtown.
Where to stay in Beijing Lu
- Budget: Paco Hotel – Comfortable and well-located hotel, ideal for budget travelers.
- Mid-range: Grand International Hotel – Great option for those wanting comfort without overspending.
- Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou – One of the city’s best hotels with amazing panoramic views.
Tianhe (Zhujiang New Town): Modernity and convenience
If you prefer skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls and international restaurants, then Tianhe is the best choice for where to stay in Guangzhou. This is Guangzhou’s financial and modern district, full of life and well connected by metro.
Here you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic buildings, like Canton Tower and Taikoo Hui shopping mall.
Where to stay in Tianhe
- Budget: Paco Hotel – Affordable and well-located option. This is where we stayed.
- Mid-range: Oakwood Premier Guangzhou – Spacious apartments with great value and pool access.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Guangzhou – One of the city’s most sophisticated hotels with excellent service.
Extra tips for your Guangzhou trip
- How to get there: Guangzhou has one of China’s busiest airports and is well connected by high-speed trains to other cities like Hong Kong and Shenzhen. We arrived by train and also departed by train to Hong Kong.
- Transportation: The metro is the best way to get around the city. Fast, cheap and well signposted.
- Food: Try dim sum at one of the traditional restaurants, like Guangzhou Restaurant.
- Language: Mandarin is the main language, but Cantonese is also spoken. English isn’t common outside hotels.
- Unlimited internet: China blocks many Western apps. A Holafly eSIM guarantees unlimited internet without complicated VPNs.
- Travel insurance: China’s healthcare system can be expensive for foreigners. Insurance like Heymondo guarantees medical assistance without complications.
Guangzhou surprised us with its blend of tradition and modernity. Whichever you choose, these three areas guarantee an amazing stay in the city!
