Guangzhou
Your guide to a vibrant layover in the capital of Cantonese cuisine.
Visa-Free Transit Guide
Guangzhou is part of the 144-hour visa-free transit scheme for the Guangdong region.
- Available at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).
- Follow the dedicated “144-hour Visa-Free Transit” signage.
- Requires a valid passport and a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
- The permit allows travel throughout the entire Guangdong Province.
Getting Around Guangzhou
Guangzhou Metro (Subway)
Approx. 50 minutes from CAN Airport to city center (e.g., Tiyu Xilu Station) | Around ¥7-9
Metro Line 3 is the main artery connecting Baiyun Airport (Terminal 2) to the city center. It’s affordable and efficient.
Best Apps for Transit
DiDi Chuxing: For ride-hailing (similar to Uber).
Download on Google Play
Download on Apple Store
MetroMan (or similar Guangzhou Metro app): For navigating the subway system.
What to Do & Eat: Guangzhou Layover Plans
If you have 6-8 Hours:
Very tight. A quick trip for a taste of the city is possible if you’re efficient.
- Take Metro Line 3 to Canton Tower Station.
- Marvel at the Canton Tower from below (going up takes too much time).
- Walk through the adjacent Haixinsha Asian Games Park for great views of the Zhujiang New Town skyline.
- Find a local restaurant for a quick, authentic Dim Sum meal.
If you have 8–12 Hours:
Explore the blend of old and new Guangzhou.
- Head to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (Metro Line 1), a masterpiece of traditional Cantonese architecture and folk art.
- Afterward, take the metro to Shamian Island. Stroll through its peaceful, tree-lined streets with colonial European architecture.
- Enjoy a leisurely Dim Sum (Yum Cha) lunch at a renowned restaurant like Guangzhou Restaurant or Dian Dou De.
If you have 12–24+ Hours:
Dive deep into the culture and lights of Guangzhou.
- Combine the 8-12 hour plan with an evening activity.
- Go up the Canton Tower for breathtaking night views of the cityscape.
- Take a Pearl River Night Cruise to see the glittering skyline from the water.
- Explore Beijing Road Pedestrian Street for shopping and to see ancient paved roads preserved under glass.
Recommended Layover Hotels
Budget Friendly (≈ ¥200-400)
Vienna Hotel Guangzhou Airport
Often provides free shuttle bus to CAN airport. Clean, no-frills, and perfect for a quick overnight stay.
7Days Inn Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
A reliable choice for basic accommodation with essential amenities and airport proximity.
Hanting Hotel Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
Another solid budget chain offering clean rooms and convenient shuttle services for transit passengers.
Mid-Range Comfort (≈ ¥500-900)
Pullman Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
The ultimate convenience, located directly opposite the Terminal 1 departure hall. Great amenities and comfortable rooms.
Novotel Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
A short walk from Terminal 1. Known for good service, modern rooms, and a reliable airport shuttle.
Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Huadu
A bit further out but offers a resort-like feel with excellent facilities, ideal for a more relaxing layover.
Luxury & Style (≈ ¥1000+)
Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou
Located in the iconic IFC tower in the city center. For those with a long layover wanting to experience peak luxury with incredible city views.
The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou
Situated in Zhujiang New Town, offering legendary service, opulent rooms, and fantastic dining options.
Park Hyatt Guangzhou
Occupies the top floors of a skyscraper, providing a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere with stunning river and city views.
