What to See and Do in Canton City Over a Weekend?
Canton, also known as Guangzhou, is a Chinese city that, despite its modernity, has managed to preserve its authenticity. This sprawling city is home to numerous attractions
Canton, also known as Guangzhou, is a Chinese city that, despite its modernity, has managed to preserve its authenticity. This sprawling city is home to numerous attractions that will make your stay a truly memorable experience. If you're planning to visit over a weekend, here's a selection of must-see places.
Yuexiu Park and Its Surroundings
Yuexiu Park
If there's one place you shouldn't miss during your brief visit to Guangzhou, it's the Yuexiu Park. Located on Jiefang North Road, it stands as the city's largest urban park. Spanning 86 hectares, Yuexiu Park contains 7 hills, 3 artificial lakes, as well as numerous historical and cultural monuments.
Whether alone, as a couple, with family or friends, a stroll through this park allows you to escape the daily hustle of the city and enjoy a moment of relaxation in a charming natural setting. Organize a mini circuit to discover the numerous cultural and historical sites in the vicinity. Notable among these are the stone sculpture of 5 rams, the Zhenhai Tower, and the memorial built in honor of Dr. Sun Yat-sen.
Practical information:
The park is open daily.
It has 5 entrances, with the main one located on Metro Line 2.
Canton Tower
Canton Tower
Located on the banks of the Pearl River, in Canton's new business district, the Canton Tower proves to be an essential site during a stay in Guangzhou. Beyond its impressive height (600m), this edifice stands out for its spectacular architecture. Indeed, the exterior resembles a bird's nest with enormous twisted branches. From the 66th floor onward, the columns taper and add all their charm to the tower.
Open to the public, Canton Tower offers a panoramic view over the city and the Pearl River. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Ferris wheel perched on the roof promises to satisfy their craving. The tower also features an amusement attraction, an observation deck, a museum space, shopping centers, parking facilities, restaurants, gardens, and a 4D cinema.
Practical information:
Opening hours:
Daily from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
How to get there:
By metro: Line 3
By bus: Lines 121, 121a, 204 and 262
Admission fees vary depending on activities and the number of floors you wish to visit.
Shamian Island
During your weekend in Guangzhou, take time to visit Shamian Island. This former Franco-British concession located on the left bank of the Pearl River is renowned for the distinctiveness of its architecture, as well as for its vestiges of the colonial era. Spanning an area of 4 km², the island constitutes a peaceful spot, offering lovely walks along its narrow streets and through its shaded parks.
What enhances the charm of this small island are the renovations made to certain buildings. These have been converted into trendy restaurants, cafés, and even hotels. Shamian Island is particularly beloved by young couples who enjoy immortalizing their love by having their wedding photos taken there.
Practical information:
How to get there:
Metro: Take Line 1 to Hangsha Station. Exit at exit D and walk to the small bridge leading to the island.
Bus: Take Lines 3, 38, 105, 208, 219, 236, 270 or 556. Get off at Hangsha Station and walk to the island.
Pearl River Cruise
As night falls, embark on a pleasant ride on the Pearl River. Aboard a small boat, discover the vastness of Canton City. With its lively riverbanks and illuminated bridges and buildings, the cruise promises to be a visual feast.
Aboard, you can relax and enjoy a fine meal or simply position yourself on the upper deck and capture all these lights with your camera.
Frequently asked questions
The best time to visit Canton is spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November), with pleasant temperatures between 20 and 25°C. Avoid summer (June-August) which is very humid and hot, as well as the Canton Fair period (April and October) which drives up hotel prices.
The fastest and most convenient way is the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Guangzhou South Station, in just 48 minutes. Ferries also connect Hong Kong to Canton for a more picturesque option.
Yes, French nationals generally need a visa to enter Chine. However, Canton (Guangzhou) benefits from a visa-free transit policy of 72 to 144 hours for nationals of many countries, including France. Check with the consulate or your travel agency before departure.
Canton Tower admission fees vary depending on activities and the floors you wish to visit. Access to the observation deck costs around 150 CNY (approximately €20). The Ferris wheel on the roof is charged as a supplement. It is advisable to check current rates directly on the official website or on-site.
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to leisurely stroll through Shamian Island, admire its Franco-British colonial buildings, walk through its shaded parks and have a coffee at one of its trendy establishments. The island is particularly pleasant in late afternoon.
