This guide on how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou covers everything you need — from must-book-in-advance sights, to attractions with on-site tickets, to free spots worth visiting. Let’s make your trip easy, exciting, and unforgettable.
Guangzhou, a dynamic city blending ancient Lingnan culture with modern energy, is a top destination for foreign travelers in China. From historic gems like the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and Museum of the Nanyue King to modern icons like Canton Tower and Zhujiang New Town, there’s plenty to explore. Don’t miss the famous Cantonese dim sum and buzzing night markets either!
1. What You Should Know Before Booking Tickets in Guangzhou
First, many attractions in Guangzhou use a real-name reservation system. This is especially common for museums and cultural venues like the Guangdong Museum or Guangzhou Cultural Center. During busy seasons like Chinese New Year, spots like the Canton Tower and Chimelong Parks can sell out fast. So, try to book tickets at least three days ahead.
👉 Top Guangzhou Tickets & Passes
Next, check the payment options. Most online platforms accept Visa, Mastercard, Alipay, or WeChat Pay. However, some official websites only take Chinese payment methods. In that case, use third-party platforms like Klook, Trip.com, or Viator. They support foreign cards and offer English interfaces.
Also, remember to use your passport when booking. You’ll need to show it at the entrance. Children under 1.2 meters usually enter for free, but must be with an adult.
Opening hours are usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Many museums close on Mondays, so plan accordingly. For night experiences like the Pearl River Cruise, expect hours between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
Finally, avoid peak crowds by going on weekday mornings or late afternoons. This works especially well for popular sites like Canton Tower and Chimelong Safari Park.
Learning how to buy tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou will save you time and make your journey smoother. Next, let’s look at which attractions need advance booking!
🎟️ Must-Book-in-Advance Attractions in Guangzhou
If you’re planning your own trip, here’s how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou that require online reservations. These places are popular and often sell out, especially on weekends or holidays.
1. Guangdong Museum 广东省博物馆
This top-level museum combines history, art, and science. The marine life and dinosaur halls are especially popular. Don’t miss the intricate Chaozhou woodcarving — it’s a true masterpiece.
🔗 Booking: Search “广东省博物馆” on WeChat (tickets released daily at 22:00, 7 days in advance)
🕒 Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:00), closed Mondays
📍 Address: No. 2 Zhujiang East Road, Tianhe District
🚇 Transport: APM Line, Grand Theatre Station, Exit B
📞 Phone: +86 20 38046886
🌐 Official Site: www.gdmuseum.com
🎫 Ticket: Free (special exhibitions may charge)
2. Guangzhou Cultural Center (New Hall) 广州市文化馆新馆
This modern cultural hub hosts exhibitions and hands-on craft events. During Chinese New Year, its “Fun Canton” folk fair features street food, local art, and festive shows.
🔗 Booking: Search “广州市文化馆” on WeChat (tickets released daily at 16:30, 3 days in advance)
🕒 Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:30 (last entry at 16:30), closed Mondays
📍 Address: No. 288 Xin’jiao Middle Road, Haizhu District
🚇 Transport: Line 3, Datang Station, Exit B, then 15-min walk
📞 Phone: +86 20 28832896
🌐 Official Site: www.gz-arts.com
🎫 Ticket: Free
3. Bai’etan Greater Bay Area Art Center 白鹅潭大湾区艺术中心
Opened in 2025, this riverside landmark includes three top venues: the Guangdong Art Museum, the Heritage Museum, and the Literature Museum. It’s also a great place for waterfront views.
🔗 Booking: Use the official mini-program (tickets open daily at 18:00, 7 days in advance)
🕒 Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30), closed Mondays
📍 Address: South Changdi Street, Liwan District
🚇 Transport: Line 1, Fangcun Station, Exit D, 10-min walk
📞 Phone: +86 20 81208120
🌐 Official Info: Follow “广东美术馆” on WeChat
🎫 Ticket: Free
4. Museum of the Nanyue King 南越王博物院(王墓展区)
Here you can step inside a 2,000-year-old royal tomb from the Western Han dynasty. Recently, rare treasures from the Haihun Marquis’s tomb — including solid gold bars — have been on display.
👉 Book 3-Hour Private Tour to Museum of Nanyue King Tomb in Guangzhou
🔗 Booking: Search “南越王博物院” on WeChat (5-day advance booking)
🕒 Hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:30 (ticket sales end at 17:00), closed Mondays
📍 Address: No. 867 Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District
🚇 Transport: Line 2, Yuexiu Park Station, Exit E, 3-min walk
📞 Phone: +86 20 36182920
🌐 Official Site: www.nywmuseum.org.cn
🎫 Ticket: ¥10 (half-price ¥5)
5. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall 陈家祠
This iconic site is a highlight of Lingnan architecture. The carvings in wood, brick, and stone are stunning. The rooftop statues — especially the ones with trendy hand gestures — are must-sees.
👉 Book Chen Clan Academy (Chen Jia Ci) Tours and Tickets
🔗 Booking: Search “广东民间工艺博物馆” on WeChat
🕒 Hours: Daily 9:00–17:30 (last entry at 17:00), closed Tuesdays
📍 Address: No. 34 Enlongli, Zhongshan 7th Road, Liwan District
🚇 Transport: Line 1, Chen Clan Academy Station, Exit D
📞 Phone: +86 20 81814559
🌐 Official Site: www.gacjc.com.cn
🎫 Ticket: ¥10 (half-price ¥5; free on selected days)
Knowing how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou helps you skip the lines, plan ahead, and enjoy every moment stress-free. Next, let’s explore attractions where booking isn’t required — but still worth doing in advance.
🎟️ Attractions That Allow On-Site Tickets (But Online Booking Recommended)
Some attractions in Guangzhou let you buy tickets at the entrance. However, long lines are common — especially on weekends and holidays. So, to save time and secure the best spots, it’s still smart to book online. Here’s how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou where on-site purchase is allowed, but early booking is better.
1. Canton Tower (广州塔)
Known as the “Slim Waist,” this is Guangzhou’s most iconic landmark. It stands 600 meters tall and offers incredible views. At 460 meters, the sky-high horizontal Ferris wheel gives you a full 360° look over the city and Pearl River.
👉 Book Canton Tower Tours and Tickets
🔗 Booking: Official website, WeChat, or third-party platforms like Viator, Klook or Trip.com (Ferris wheel tickets sell out fast)
🕒 Hours: 9:30–22:30 (hours vary by viewing level)
📍 Address: No. 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District
🚇 Transport: Line 3/APM, Canton Tower Station
📞 Phone: +86 20 89338222
🌐 Official Site: www.cantontower.com
🎫 Ticket: From ¥150 (433m view deck); ¥228 (450m outdoor); ¥298 (460m Ferris wheel)
2. Chimelong Tourist Resort (长隆旅游度假区)
This is Guangzhou’s top family destination. It includes a safari park, amusement park, water park, and the famous Chimelong International Circus. The safari park features the world’s only panda triplets and allows close-up animal encounters by car.
👉 Book Chimelong Safari Park Tours and Tickets
🔗 Booking: Official site, WeChat, or platforms like Viator, Klook/Trip.com (book 3–7 days ahead during holidays)
🕒 Hours: 9:30–18:00 (varies by park)
📍 Address: No. 299 Hanxi Avenue East, Panyu District
🚇 Transport: Line 3 or 7, Hanxi Changlong Station
📞 Phone: +86 400 883 0083
🌐 Official Site: www.chimelong.com
🎫 Ticket: From ¥350 (safari weekdays), ¥380 (holidays); amusement park from ¥250
3. Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游)
Cruising the Pearl River is one of the best ways to see Guangzhou at night. The ride offers views of the Canton Tower, Liede Bridge, and the shimmering Zhujiang New Town. Some luxury boats include dinner and live performances.
👉 Book Pearl River (Zhujiang) Tours and Tickets
🔗 Booking: Buy at the pier or book online via official site or third-party platforms like Viator, Klook/Trip.com(VIP seats often sell out)
🕒 Hours: 19:00–22:00 (departure times vary by pier)
📍 Address: Multiple piers; Canton Tower Pier is the most popular
🚇 Transport: Line 3, Canton Tower Station, Exit A
📞 Phone: +86 20 34377422
🌐 Official Site: ykz.zjyeyou.com
🎫 Ticket: From ¥78 (standard), ¥128 (VIP with drink)
Even though these places allow walk-ins, learning how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou in advance can help you skip lines and enjoy a smoother trip. Next, let’s check out the best free spots in the city!
🏞️Free Attractions in Guangzhou (No Booking Needed)
While knowing how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou is important, not everything needs a reservation. In fact, some of the city’s best spots are totally free — and just as memorable. These places are perfect for relaxed visits and spontaneous exploring.
1. Yuexiu Park (越秀公园)
This is the largest urban park in Guangzhou. It’s home to the famous Five Rams Statue, the city’s symbol. You’ll also find the ancient Ming Dynasty city wall and the historic Zhenhai Tower, which now houses the Guangzhou Museum. Every Spring Festival, the park lights up with a colorful Lantern Fair.
🕒 Hours: 6:00–22:00
📍 Address: No. 988 Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District
🚇 Transport: Line 2, Yuexiu Park Station, Exit B1
📞 Phone: +86 20 83551576
🌐 Official Site: None
🎫 Ticket: Free
2. Yongqing Fang (永庆坊)
This revitalized neighborhood blends tradition and trend. It keeps classic features like narrow alleys and wooden gates, while adding modern shops like Zhongshuge Bookstore and hands-on workshops for printing and crafts. During full moons, the reflection under Moon Bridge creates a beautiful photo spot.
🕒 Hours: Open all day (shops 10:00–22:00)
📍 Address: No. 99 Enning Road, Liwan District
🚇 Transport: Line 1 or 6, Huangsha Station, Exit B
📞 Phone: Not available
🌐 Official Site: None
🎫 Ticket: Free
3. Haixin Bridge (海心桥)
This is the world’s longest arch footbridge. It links Ersha Island with Canton Tower. You’ll find three viewing platforms along the bridge — ideal for sunset walks or catching the city’s skyline lights in the evening.
🕒 Hours: 7:00–23:00
📍 Address: Footbridge over Pearl River, between Canton Tower and Ersha Island
🚇 Transport: Line 3, Canton Tower Station, Exit A. Walk 10 minutes
📞 Phone: Not available
🌐 Official Site: None
🎫 Ticket: Free
4. Sacred Heart Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂)
The Sacred Heart Cathedral, also known as the “Stone House,” is one of only four all-granite Gothic churches in the world. Built in 1863, it features soaring twin spires, colorful stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings. Located in Guangzhou’s Yuexiu District, this peaceful landmark offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s colonial-era architecture and Christian heritage.
Its stained glass windows and soaring stone columns create a solemn and awe-inspiring space. It’s a peaceful spot right in the heart of the city.
🕒 Hours: 8:00–17:30, closed Mondays
📍 Address: No. 56 Yide Road, Yuexiu District
🚇 Transport: Line 2 or 6, Haizhu Square Station, Exit B1
📞 Phone: +86 20 83336761
🌐 Official Site: None
🎫 Ticket: Free
5. Shamian Island (沙面岛)
This charming island shows off over 150 preserved colonial buildings from the British and French periods. Pastel doors, red-brick villas, and quiet walkways give it a European vibe. The Starbucks Reserve in a restored mansion is a popular photo spot.
🕒 Hours: Open all day (building exteriors viewable anytime)
📍 Address: No. 59 Shamian Street, Liwan District
🚇 Transport: Line 6 or 8, Culture Park Station, Exit E
📞 Phone: Not available
🌐 Official Site: None
🎫 Ticket: Free (some exhibitions charge a small fee)
6. Former Site of Whampoa Military Academy (黄埔军校旧址纪念馆)
Founded by Sun Yat-sen in 1924, this military school shaped modern China’s early leaders. The exhibits, photos, and multimedia displays bring history to life. In 2025, the academy celebrates its 100th anniversary with special events.
🔗 Booking: Scan QR code on-site or use WeChat account (recommended for holidays)
🕒 Hours: 9:00–17:00, closed Mondays
📍 Address: No. 170 Junxiao Road, Changzhou Island, Huangpu District
🚇 Transport: Line 7, Changzhou Station, Exit C, then taxi or bus
📞 Phone: +86 20 82202278
🌐 Official Site: www.hpma.cn
🎫 Ticket: Free
💳 Booking Channels and Payment Tips for Guangzhou Attractions
Wondering how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou as a foreign visitor? You have plenty of options. Some are simple and traveler-friendly, while others are better suited to those comfortable using Chinese apps.
✅ Booking Channels
First, try the official sources:
- WeChat Official Accounts (search the attraction’s Chinese name + “官微”).
- Official websites — many offer English pages.
- On-site QR codes also work well for last-minute visits.
Next, consider these popular third-party travel platforms:
- Klook – English-friendly, accepts Visa/Mastercard.
- Trip.com – Ctrip’s global version, great for China travel.
- Viator – A trusted global site offering tours and ticket packages.
- Meituan/Dianping – Mostly in Chinese; some services support international cards.
Additionally, many 4-star and above hotels offer ticket booking help. Local travel agencies also arrange day trips with entrance fees included.
💰 Payment Options
- Visa and Mastercard work on major booking sites.
- Alipay or WeChat Pay may require linking a card or help from a friend.
- Cash (RMB) is still accepted at some locations but may involve long waits.
- UnionPay cards are commonly accepted on official Chinese sites.
🌟 Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Save your booking QR code or confirmation number. Some places check passports at entry.
- Read cancellation rules carefully — discounted tickets are often non-refundable.
- During holidays, book 3–7 days early.
- Download the “Guangzhou Metro” app to check crowd levels and avoid rush hours.
👉 Top Guangzhou Tickets & Passes
Guangzhou is a city full of surprises — and well worth exploring in depth. One moment you’re standing atop the Canton Tower, taking in the skyline. The next, you’re admiring fine carvings at the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Then, perhaps, you’re wandering Yongqing Fang, where tradition meets trendy cafés.
With a bit of planning, especially for tickets, you can skip the long lines and enjoy more of the city. Knowing how to book tickets for top attractions in Guangzhou lets you travel smarter and stress-free.
Don’t forget the food! Set aside time for Cantonese dim sum, clay pot rice, and sweet local desserts. After all, a visit to Guangzhou isn’t complete without a taste of its rich culinary culture.
Finally, whether it’s history, modern architecture, art, or street snacks — Guangzhou offers it all. We hope your journey here is full of wonder, flavor, and unforgettable memories.
Safe travels — and enjoy every bite and moment in Guangzhou!
📌 Further Reading
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Beijing
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Xi’an
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Shanghai
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Guilin
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Suzhou
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Chengdu
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Hong Kong
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Hangzhou
