• 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**

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)