- Metro passes:
- 1-day pass: ¥20 (unlimited rides).
- 3-day pass: ¥50 (72-hour access).
- Buses/APM line: Single rides cost ¥2-8.
- Avoid taxis: Use Didi (China’s Uber) for 30% cheaper rides.
Budget Accommodation**
Type |
Price/Night (¥) |
Best Areas |
Perks |
Hostels |
50-100 |
Beijing Road |
Free walking tours |
Budget hotels |
150-250 |
Yuexiu District |
Metro access |
Homestays |
200-300 |
Liwan District |
Kitchen access |
Free/Low-Cost Attractions**
- Free:
- Shamian Island (colonial architecture).
- Yuexiu Park (5-Ram Statue).
- Cheap:
Affordable Food Spots**
- Breakfast: Rice noodle rolls (¥8-15) at local dim sum stalls.
- Lunch: Claypot rice (¥25-50) at Huangjiao Claypot Rice.
- Dinner: Beef offal stew (¥30) at Niu Lao.
Discount Tricks**
- Alipay Tour Pass: Preload money for cashless payments (max ¥5,000).
- Student ID: 50% off at museums/attractions.
- Happy Hour: Bars in Zhujiang New Town offer 50% drinks 5-7PM.
Cost Comparison Chart**
Category |
Budget Option |
Mid-Range Option |
Splurge Option |
Transport |
Metro pass (¥50/3 days) |
Didi rides |
Private car rental |
Accommodation |
Hostel (¥50) |
Budget hotel (¥200) |
Luxury hotel (¥1,500+) |
Food |
Street food (¥10-20) |
Local restaurants (¥50) |
Michelin dining (¥300+) |
Attractions |
Free parks |
Museums (¥10-30) |
Canton Tower (¥150) |
More Guangzhou Travel Guides