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Guangzhou’s energy is infectious, but just beyond its skyline lies a treasure trove of escapes waiting to be discovered. Within 50 to 100 kilometres, you’ll find charming ancient towns, lush mountains, hot springs, and even UNESCO World Heritage Sites,all perfect for day trips or weekend retreats. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, these places to visit near Guangzhou offer something for every kind of traveller. Ready to trade the urban buzz for tranquil lakes, colonial towers, or thrilling skywalks? Let’s take a journey through the top 10 must-visit destinations near Guangzhou!
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Guangzhou
Here are the top 10 best places to visit near Guangzhou, each with its own vibrancy and cultural tradition for travellers:
1. Foshan
Photo: xiquinhosilva / Wikimedia Commons
Foshan, located approximately 40 kilometres from Guangzhou, is a city steeped in tradition, famed for its ceramics, martial arts, and Lingnan culture. A must-visit is the Ancestral Temple, a cultural treasure dedicated to the god Beidi, where visitors can witness traditional architecture and lively lion dance performances. The Nanfeng Ancient Kiln offers a fascinating look at centuries-old pottery-making. Foshan is also home to martial arts legends like Wong Fei-hung and Ip Man, whose legacies are celebrated throughout the city. The fusion of craftsmanship, history, and artistry makes Foshan a rewarding cultural getaway.
Location: Foshan, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: Approximately $20 – 40 / ₹1660 – 3320 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Attractions: Ancestral Temple, Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, Liang’s Garden
Must-Try Activities: Witnessing lion dance performances, exploring Shiwan Ceramics Museum
Must-Try Food: Foshan Clay Pot Rice, Double-Skin Milk Dessert
2. Shenzhen
Photo: Oskar Kadaksoo / Unsplash
Shenzhen, lying about 100 kilometres from Guangzhou, is a dazzling blend of innovation, art, and entertainment. Once a sleepy fishing town, it has transformed into a modern metropolis known for its tech hubs and creative neighbourhoods. Highlights include the Window of the World, a theme park showcasing miniatures of famous global landmarks, and the Dafen Oil Painting Village, where artists create and sell replicas of iconic artworks. The city’s vast shopping avenues, high-energy nightlife, and fusion food scene add to its appeal. Whether you’re into tech, travel, or art, Shenzhen delivers a global experience with a Chinese twist.
Location: Shenzhen, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: Approximately $40 – 80 / ₹3320 – 6640 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Attractions: Window of the World, Dafen Oil Painting Village, Huaqiangbei Electronics Market
Must-Try Activities: Shopping for electronics, visiting theme parks
Must-Try Food: Shenzhen Seafood, Cantonese Dim Sum
3. Dongguan
Photo: Dinkun Chen / Wikimedia Commons
Situated about 70 kilometres from Guangzhou, Dongguan offers a compelling mix of history, tradition, and modern flair. It’s most well-known for the Opium War Museum, where visitors can learn about China’s resistance during colonial times. The city also features the elegant Keyuan Garden, a prime example of Lingnan architecture, adorned with ponds, pavilions, and lush flora. Beyond its cultural gems, Dongguan has a buzzing nightlife scene and numerous shopping outlets, making it perfect for both learning and leisure. Its strategic location and diverse attractions make it a convenient and enriching day trip from Guangzhou.
Location: Dongguan, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: Approximately $20 – 40 / ₹1660 – 3320 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Attractions: Opium War Museum, Keyuan Garden, Humen Bridge
Must-Try Activities: Exploring historical sites, shopping in local markets
Must-Try Food: Dongguan Rice Noodles, Sugarcane Juice
4. Huizhou
Photo: Dinkun Chen / Wikimedia Commons
Huizhou, located approximately 100 kilometres from Guangzhou, offers a serene blend of cultural charm and natural wonders. The city’s crown jewel is West Lake, often compared to Hangzhou’s, with willow-lined paths, charming pagodas, and scenic boat rides. It’s a favourite spot for poets, painters, and photographers. Huizhou is also home to rejuvenating hot springs and coastal areas, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking both peace and pampering. Ancient bridges, centuries-old towers, and temples add depth to its laid-back ambience. Whether you’re after wellness or inspiration, Huizhou provides a scenic, soul-soothing escape.
Location: Huizhou, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: Approximately $30 – 60 / ₹2490 – 4980 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Attractions: West Lake, Huizhou Hot Springs, Huamao Complex Towers
Must-Try Activities: Boating on West Lake, relaxing in hot springs
Must-Try Food: Huizhou Salt-Baked Chicken, Dongjiang Tofu
5. Zhaoqing
Photo: John Martin Perry / Wikimedia Commons
Zhaoqing, around 110 kilometres from Guangzhou, is a gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It’s famed for the Seven Star Crags, a group of karst peaks rising dramatically above Star Lake, offering incredible photo opportunities and boat rides. Dinghu Mountain, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, provides a tranquil hiking experience through waterfalls, bamboo forests, and ancient temples. Zhaoqing is a great place to escape the city’s chaos and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. Ideal for a full-day trip, this city combines outdoor fun with serene, spiritual moments, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and mindful travellers alike.
Location: Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: Approximately $30 – 60 / ₹2490 – 4980 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Attractions: Seven Star Crags, Dinghu Mountain, Star Lake
Must-Try Activities: Hiking, boating, exploring caves
Must-Try Food: Zhaoqing Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf, Freshwater Fish Dishes
6. Nansha Wetland Park
Photo: Ncysea / Wikimedia Commons
Nansha Wetland Park, often called the “Kidney of Guangzhou,” is a tranquil ecological escape located in the Nansha District, about 60 kilometres from the city. This man-made wetland reserve spans a vast area and plays a vital role in protecting biodiversity. It is particularly popular among birdwatchers, as over 140 species of migratory birds stop here annually. The park also features lush vegetation, lotus-covered ponds, and scenic walking paths. Boat tours allow visitors to navigate the waterways, though only 150 people per day are allowed to minimize disruption to wildlife.
Location: Nansha District, Guang zhou shi
Cost / Person: Entrance fee is modest; boat tours may have additional costs
Attractions: Wetlands, diverse bird species, water lilies
Must-Try Activities: Bird watching, boat tours, nature photography
Must-Try Food: Steamed River Fish, Lotus Root Soup
7. Qingyuan
Qingyuan, located approximately 90 kilometres from Guangzhou, is a natural haven renowned for its mountainous terrain, crystal-clear rivers, and mineral-rich hot springs. It’s an excellent spot for both relaxation and adventure. The Gulong Gorge offers adrenaline-pumping experiences like glass bridge walks, ziplining, and waterfall trekking, while Feilai Temple presents a peaceful spiritual retreat with sweeping cliffside views. The hot springs in the area are perfect for unwinding after an adventurous day. Visitors can also enjoy bamboo rafting and scenic boat rides along the rivers.
Location: Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province
Cost / Person: $30 – 70 / ₹2490 – 5810 (including transport, entrance, and hot springs)
Attractions: Gulong Gorge, Feilai Temple, Qingyuan Hot Springs
Must-Try Activities: Glass bridge walk, hot spring bath, cliff climbing
Must-Try Food: Qingyuan Chicken, Bamboo Rice
8. Kaiping Diaolou / UNESCO Site
Photo: xiquinhosilva / Wikimedia Commons
Kaiping, situated around 100 kilometres from Guangzhou, is famous for its Diaolou—fortified multi-storied towers that fuse Chinese and Western architectural styles. These structures, built by overseas Chinese in the early 20th century, served as protective homes and symbols of wealth. The UNESCO-listed Diaolou clusters in Zili, Jinjiangli, and Majianglong are the most well-preserved and photogenic. Exploring these villages offers a unique glimpse into a cultural past rich in migration, defense, and innovation. Surrounded by rice fields and tranquil countryside, the area is ideal for walking tours, photography, and appreciating architectural heritage in a quiet, scenic environment.
Location: Kaiping, Jiangmen City
Cost / Person: $35 – 60 / ₹2905 – 4980 (including entry tickets and transport)
Attractions: Zili Village, Li Garden, Majianglong Diaolou Cluster
Must-Try Activities: Village walks, photography, cultural tours
Must-Try Food: Kaiping Pork Bun, Beef Brisket Noodles
9. Shunde
Photo: EditQ / Wikimedia Commons
Located just 60 kilometres from Guangzhou, Shunde is hailed as the culinary capital of Guangdong Province and a treasure trove for food enthusiasts. Beyond its rich gastronomy, the area is dotted with cultural and scenic spots. Qinghui Garden is a classical southern Chinese garden with intricate pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds. Fengjian Water Town offers gondola rides through ancient bridges and alleyways, giving a glimpse into old-world China. Shunde is also home to museums and cultural centres showcasing local arts and heritage.
Location: Shunde District, Foshan
Cost / Person: $25 – 50 / ₹2075 – 4150 (transport + food + entry fees)
Attractions: Qinghui Garden, Fengjian Water Town, Shunde Museum
Must-Try Activities: Food tours, boating in the water town, garden strolls
Must-Try Food: Shunde Fish Soup, Double Skin Milk, Steamed Minced Pork
10. Humen / Battlefield History & Shopping
Photo: Pubuhan / Wikimedia Commons
Humen, located roughly 65 kilometres from Guangzhou, is a destination steeped in history and modern vibrancy. It was a key site during the First Opium War, with the Humen Opium War Museum and Weiyuan Fort offering compelling insights into this turbulent period in Chinese history. These well-preserved sites provide educational tours and exhibitions. Apart from its historical importance, Humen is also known as a clothing manufacturing and wholesale hub, drawing shoppers from all over for affordable fashion. This dual identity makes Humen a compelling visit for both history buffs and bargain hunters seeking an offbeat day trip.
Location: Humen Town, Dongguan
Cost / Person: $20 – 40 / ₹2075 – 3320 (entry, transport, and meals)
Attractions: Opium War Museum, Weiyuan Fort, Humen Naval Battle Museum
Must-Try Activities: Visiting historical forts, shopping at wholesale markets
Must-Try Food: Humen Roast Duck, Cantonese Rice Rolls
As you return to the heart of Guangzhou, the memories from these nearby gems linger,be it the aroma of Shunde cuisine, the misty views from Dinghu Mountain, or the historical echoes of Kaiping’s Diaolou. These places to visit near Guangzhou, though close in distance, are vast in experience. So next time you crave a break from the cityscape, don’t book a flight,just hit the road. The perfect getaway with TripXL might be just an hour from your doorstep.
Cover Photo: Lycheeart / Unsplash
