Hotels in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is really two cities for visitors: the old west, with food and heritage, and the modern east, with towers and offices. The metro links them well, so choose by whether you're here to eat or for business. In November 2026, listings started from about US$34 a night, but rates can jump sharply during the Canton Fair.

Where to stay

Yuexiu and Beijing Road. Central and well connected, close to the pedestrian street, Sacred Heart Cathedral and Yuexiu Park. It's a practical base for sightseeing, with plenty of mid-range hotels.

Liwan and Shamian Island. The old city's food streets and colonial-era buildings. Shamian is quiet and leafy, with a few historic hotels, while Liwan brings you close to morning tea, street food and Chen Clan Hall. It's the most atmospheric option.

Tianhe. Big malls, restaurants and hotels around Tiyu Xilu and Zhujiang New Town. It's modern and convenient, with the Canton Tower nearby, and it works well for business and shopping.

Haizhu and Pazhou. South of the river, around the Canton Tower and the fair complex. It's quiet between events, and a sensible base if you're attending the Canton Fair.

Guangzhou South Station. A huge high-speed rail hub far from the centre. Stay nearby only for an early train, since there's little else to do.

How to choose

Here for food? Stay around Liwan or Yuexiu, where you can walk to dim sum in the morning. Tianhe has great restaurants too, but less of the old-city atmosphere.

Check the metro. Line 1 runs through Liwan, Yuexiu and Tianhe, and it's especially useful for sightseeing. Line 3 connects Tianhe with the airport and Guangzhou East.

Know your station. Guangzhou has several stations. High-speed trains to Shenzhen and Hong Kong use more than one, so check your ticket before you choose a hotel for an early departure.

What to expect

Canton Fair. The trade fair runs in spring and autumn, usually in April to May and October to November. Prices can double or more, and rooms fill up, so check the dates before you plan a holiday.

Registration and payment. Bring your passport to check-in, confirm that smaller hotels accept foreign guests, and set up a mobile payment app before you arrive.

Heat and damp. Summers are hot and rainy, with possible typhoons. Spring can feel very damp, so check recent reviews for mentions of musty rooms.