Refer China: Where to Stay in Guangzhou?

Discover the best places to stay in Guangzhou, with our detailed accommodation guide.

Planning a trip to Guangzhou, China? Whether you're visiting for business at the renowned Canton Fair or exploring the city, finding the right place to stay is key to a successful visit. As one of China's largest and most dynamic cities, Guangzhou offers a wide range of accommodations.

This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city's top neighborhoods and accommodations based on your travel needs. Read on to discover the best places to stay in Guangzhou and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

1. Top Hotel Recommendations by Travel Type

Guangzhou offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. You can find everything from 5-star luxury seekers to backpackers on a budget. Below, you'll find our top pick list of hotel recommendations, organized by travel needs and preferences.

Luxury Hotels in Guangzhou (5-Star Stays)

For travelers seeking top-tier comfort and exceptional service with prime locations. The luxury hotels listed below offer everything from panoramic views to fine dining and spa experiences.

Top Picks

Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou (Tianhe District): A striking skyscraper hotel with spectacular Pearl River views, Michelin-starred dining, and world-class amenities. Perfect for business and leisure travelers.
The Ritz-Carlton Guangzhou (Tianhe District): Classic elegance meets modern luxury near the Zhujiang New Town CBD. Features a full-service spa, rooftop pool, and fine dining.
White Swan Hotel (Liwan District): A riverside retreat on Shamian Island, offering traditional Chinese charm and five-star elegance with cultural flair.
Langham Place Guangzhou (Haizhu District): Ideal for Canton Fair attendees. This contemporary hotel offers sleek rooms, a rooftop bar, and easy access to the exhibition center.

Best Hotels for Business Travelers

Business travelers will appreciate these hotels for their convenient locations, fast Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and professional services.

Top Picks

Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou (Tianhe District): Luxury and functionality in one. Offers direct access to Taikoo Hui Mall and metro stations, plus an executive floor and meeting spaces.
InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center (Haizhu District): Steps from the Canton Fair complex, featuring spacious work-friendly rooms, multilingual staff, and top-tier facilities.
Fraser Suites Guangzhou (Tianhe District): Ideal for extended business stays, offering apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, laundry, and business support services.
Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun (Baiyun District): Located near corporate parks and the airport. This upscale hotel is great for short business stays with airport shuttle service.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Guangzhou

Traveling with kids? These hotels offer spacious rooms, kid-friendly facilities, and convenient access to attractions and parks.

Top Picks

The Garden Hotel Guangzhou (Yuexiu District): A spacious resort-style property with a pool, playground, and family dining options in a central location.
Fraser Suites Guangzhou (Tianhe District): Family suites with full kitchens and living areas. Close to shopping malls and subway lines.
White Swan Hotel (Liwan District): Offers family packages, beautiful outdoor areas, and proximity to Shamian Island's parks and cafes.
Pullman Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Hotel (Baiyun District): Ideal for families with early flights. Features large rooms, in-room dining, and an outdoor pool.

2. Best Areas to Stay in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a sprawling city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and accommodation options. Here are the best areas to stay in Guangzhou, based on your travel purpose and preferences.

Tianhe District: Best for Business Travelers & Shoppers

If you're looking for modern convenience and connectivity, Tianhe is the place to be. As Guangzhou's financial and commercial hub, Tianhe is home to international office buildings and expansive malls. It has easy access to the Guangzhou East Railway Station, making commuting to Hong Kong or Shenzhen a breeze. However, you can still find green spaces like Tianhe Park and Zhujiang Park, offering a refreshing break from city bustle.

Highlights

Proximity to Guangzhou East Railway Station.
Upscale shopping at Taikoo Hui and Grandview Mall.
Easy access to offices, conference centers, and metro lines.

Top Hotels in Tianhe

Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou: Iconic skyline views and five-star service.
Fraser Suites Guangzhou: Great for extended business stays.
Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou: Luxury and business facilities in the heart of the city.

Haizhu District: Best for Canton Fair & Convention Visitors

Located on the south bank of the Pearl River, Haizhu is the preferred area for business travelers attending the Canton Fair. The Pazhou International Exhibition Center sits right in this district, and many nearby hotels offer free shuttles and business services catered to fair attendees. With well-connected metro lines and modern amenities, Haizhu balances practicality with comfort.

Highlights

Walking distance or shuttle access to the Canton Fair.
Peaceful riverside promenades and green spaces.
A good mix of business hotels and serviced apartments.

Top Hotels in Haizhu

Langham Place Guangzhou: 5-star luxury right next to the exhibition center.
InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center: Designed with business in mind.
Shangri-La Guangzhou: Upscale comfort and stunning Pearl River views.

Yuexiu District: Best for First-Time Visitors & Culture Lovers

Yuexiu is the historic soul of Guangzhou. Rich with traditional architecture, historic landmarks, and a more "authentic" urban atmosphere. If you're a cultural explorer, this area will charm you with temples, museums, and more. The location makes it easy to explore the city's heritage on foot. The district also offers a wide range of hotels as well as excellent transport access via metro lines and is well-located for exploring other parts of Guangzhou.

Highlights

Scenic Yuexiu Park and the Zhenhai Tower.
A mix of mid-range hotels and local eateries.
Home to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees.

Top Hotels in Yuexiu

Dong Fang Hotel Guangzhou: Classic and centrally located.
The Garden Hotel Guangzhou: A landmark 5-star hotel with resort-style amenities.
Ocean Hotel Guangzhou: Comfortable and affordable with great city access.

Liwan District: Best for Local Life & Foodies

If your goal is to immerse yourself in traditional Cantonese culture, Liwan is the district you're looking for. You can find ancient streets, restored heritage buildings, and buzzing local markets that offer a deep dive into the city's cultural roots. Stroll through Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street for tasty food, visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, or relax on the charming Shamian Island. Hotels here range from budget inns to elegant heritage hotels, often housed in historic buildings.

Highlights

Explore Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and Qingping Market.
Visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and old Cantonese architecture.
Great for travelers on a budget or those looking for a cultural stay.

Top Hotels in Liwan

Guangdong Victory Hotel: Charming European-style architecture in Shamian Island.
Yimi Hotel Guangzhou: Affordable and centrally located.
White Swan Hotel: A riverside luxury option with cultural flair.

Baiyun District: Best for Airport Access & Nature Escapes

Baiyun District is close to Baiyun International Airport, making it a top choice for travelers with late-night arrivals and early departures. But beyond its logistical appeal, Baiyun also offers peaceful green escapes like Baiyun Mountain, one of the city's best hiking and viewpoint spots.

Highlights

Close to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
Access to Baiyun Mountain for hiking and panoramic views.
Budget-friendly hotels and convenient transport options.

Top Hotels in Baiyun

Pullman Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Hotel: Right next to the airport, perfect for stopovers.
Vienna Hotel Baiyun Airport: Great value and airport shuttle available.
Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun: A solid choice with modern amenities.

3. Travel Tips for Staying in Guangzhou

If it's your first time visiting the city or navigating it for business. To make your stay in Guangzhou smooth and stress-free, here are some essential travel tips.

When to Book Your Hotel: The Canton Fair takes place in April-May and October-November, please book at least 1-2 months in advance. Summer (July–August) tends to be hot and humid; therefore, the hotel rates are lower compared to other seasons.

Transportation & Getting Around: Guangzhou's metro is fast, cheap, and tourist-friendly. Most major districts and attractions are easily accessible by subway.

Airport Access: The Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is about 30–45 minutes from central districts like Tianhe and Yuexiu. Baiyun and Huadu districts are closest.

Check Hotel Policies: Not all hotels in China are licensed to host foreign guests. Be sure to check for the "Foreigner Friendly" or email to confirm it.

Check-In Requirements: You'll need your passport for check-in, and hotels will register your stay with local authorities. This is standard procedure for all travelers.

We hope this guide has helped you narrow down where to stay in Guangzhou based on your travel style and goals. Chat with one of our local travel consultants for personalized hotel recommendations via WeChat: Expatsholiday or Email: [email protected].