Guangzhou is a huge metropolis that combines old and new in southern China. Cultural buffs, historical buffs and fun seeks will have a piece of the big cake because the city has everything. If you’ve only got a chance transitting in Guangzhou, check the listed things to do during Guangzhou layover transit. 

1. Appreciate exquisite ancestral architecture in Lingnan area-Chen Clan Academy

Set up in 1894, this complex completely takes visitors back in time getting lost in the midst of stone and jade carvings, intricate wood pieces, works of art and pottery, embroidery and ancient handicrafts. In addition to all this, there is also the Guangzhou Folk Art Museum rich in profound history and culture ready to be explored.

2. Marvel at towering Canton Tower

This tower deserves a visit both during the day and at night. There is a queer bubble tram surrounding it with a thrilling ride sky dropping from a height of 455 meters. The tower is currently one of the tallest structures in the world but was once upon a time the tallest TV tower in the world.

3. Enjoy Pearl River Night Cruise during Guangzhou layover tour

With a length of more than 2,000 kilometers, the Pearl River is the third longest river in China and it flows right in the middle of Guangzhou. It is also the section where the city's most scenic spots are located. A cruise on this river either during the day or at night unfolds the best scenery of the landscape in a different dimension. Especially in the night, all the neon lights were illuminated and make this city more vibrant and breathtaking. If you have enough time during the Guangzhou layover tour, don't miss it!  

4. Five Rams Sculpture-the Symbol of Guangzhou

A fascinating sculpture symbolizing rams that carried rice for the starving population at that time and ever since then the city has never succumbed hunger representing good luck. The park is manicured by paths, waterways for boat riding and a pleasant environment away from the city skylines. There is also a small section of the old city wall and a 700-year-old building that now houses a museum. 

5. Learn colonial history at Shamian Island

This is a former French and British colony with picturesque tree-lined streets, quaint gardens awash with rich and fascinating European architecture from the colonial era creating the most exotic destination in Guangzhou. Its park is always a hangout destination for locals relaxing and practicing Tai Chi. Take some beautiful photos and surprise your friend who will think you went to Europe.

6. Experience pious Buddhist culture at Liurong Temple

Also known as the Temple of Six Banyan Trees, this temple holds the most peaceful and calm atmosphere with the most fascinating collection of old trees and the most magical flower pagoda. There are hundreds of Buddhists who gather to pray together during special Chinese festivals at this temple. Experience the pious Buddhist culture and temple history during your Guangzhou layover tour.

7. Explore southern China history from Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

Explore the south China history and marvel at exquisite excavated relics from the tomb, especially enjoy the wonderful collection of jade pieces that made up the King's burial garment, a must-see in the museum!

8. Shop at Shangxiajiu Walking Street or Beijing Road

Shangxiajiu was the first commercialized pedestrian street in Guangzhou with a variety of stores and shops lined on both sides of the streets with all sorts of goods from electronics, clothes, shoes, antiques and flowers. While Beijing road is full of malls and stores dedicated to selling all sorts of merchandise. It is also a must-see place when in Guangzhou to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and have fun while exploring historical destinations such as the Song Dynasty main street preserved under glass. 

9. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall has many different exhibitions set aside as a heritage memorial and a cultural relics Protection Unit encapsulated by unique ancient trees. Its striking octagonal shape is home to a lecture theatre and is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. Get to know the accomplishment made by Mr. Sun.

10. Sacred Heart Cathedral

This is the biggest gothic stone chamber that is the main church of the catholic parish in Guangzhou and is a throwback to the cities of colonial times giving visitors feelings of nostalgia in the heart of Europe in terms of architecture.

11. Lychee Bay

Experience authentic Lingnan culture at Lychee Bay and explore tasty local food. Enjoy the ancient well-preserved mansions which built by rich people and have a glimpse of the lifestyle in the ancient time.

12. Huacheng Square

Referred as the Flower City Square, this square is a heaven for shoppers and the best spot to get magnificent views of the city and the Canton Tower across the Pearl River. Underground on the Huacheng Square is a 150000 square meter shopping mall called the Mall of the World. The area comes alive at night with an emerging nightlife filled with bars and clubs and most are open until 3 am.

13. Haixinsha Island

Haixinsha island takes visitors way back in time to the splendid and glorious closing and opening ceremonies of the 2010 Asian Games that completely marketed resorts on this island. From the island nice views of attractions like the Canton Tower and Canton Opera House can be seen in a distance. 

14. Zhujiang New Town

Zhujiang New Town is the Central Business District of Guangzhou and is also known as Tianhe CBD. The area hosts a variety of activities such as shopping, sightseeing at the high skyscrapers and feasting of local meals and snacks. Over 140 of the world's top 500 companies have set their headquarters and agencies in this new town. The art center of Guangzhou is also located there comprising of the Guangzhou Opera House and Guangdong Contemporary Art Center.

15. Baiyun Mountain

Also known as the White Cloud Mountain standing at a height of 382m high. This is one hiking spot that shouldn’t be missed with a mix of both cultural and historic importance. Visitors can get great birds-eye views of the beautiful city of Guangzhou from the summit and see serene gardens of peach and plum blossoms.

16. Savor delicious Cantonese food on Guangzhou layover tour

Guangzhou is the world’s greatest culinary city and the cradle of Cantonese cuisine with many restaurants per capita than any other city in China. Ranging from yummy dim sum, fried rice, hot pot meals, delicious dumplings, roasted duck and some of the most unique and queer street food. And you can add some delicious food into your Guangzhou layover tour.

After checking so many wonderful things to do during Guangzhou transit, you must be exciting to explore! Please check the prepared Guangzhou layover tour we listed for you! And we can customize a wonderful Guangzhou layover tour according to your interests and Guangzhou layover time.