Plan the perfect family trip to Guangzhou! This guide highlights iconic sightseeing spots suitable for visitors (especially with kids), plus a handpicked list of the city’s best vegetarian restaurants.
Canton Tower is the landmark of Guangzhou, famous for its futuristic look and breathtaking views. Both day and night visits are stunning, but visit on a clear day for the best experience. Features include a horizontal Ferris wheel, skywalk challenge, and plenty of photo ops — a must for every visitor!
Rising to 604 meters, the tower is one of the world’s tallest TV towers and offers a 360-degree observation deck from which you can spot the winding Pearl River and the ever-changing city skyline. The light show at night is especially mesmerizing; families with older children might enjoy the thrill of the world’s highest outdoor sky drop ride here.
Tip: Both daytime and night views are worth experiencing, especially for families who love taking photos.
A massive, world-class theme park–like zoo. Chimelong is truly enormous; you’ll need stamina (or two days!). It’s ideal for children, with animal shows, free trains and cable cars, movie experiences, and a fantastic kids’ play area. The animals are well cared for and many roam in natural settings, making it educational and fun.
Chimelong is home to over 500 species and 20,000 rare animals, including giant pandas and white tigers. The African Savannah zone is a hit with kids, where giraffes, zebras, and antelopes graze freely, viewable from the park’s unique train. Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the most popular animal shows from good seats.
Family Friendly: The best spot in Guangzhou for younger kids who love animals and adventure.
Budget-friendly and easy to navigate, with animals in more concentrated areas. Both Chimelong and Guangzhou Zoo have pandas!
It’s in the city center, perfect for an easy half-day out. Besides the pandas, kids love the penguin house and the gentle pace. It’s less overwhelming for toddlers while still offering a surprising variety of animals.
Explore Guangzhou’s historic district filled with craft workshops, Lingnan architecture, and vibrant local culture. Don’t miss the Moon Bridge at night, Cantonese cuisine displays, and even workshops for Canton embroidery or movable type printing. It’s strongly cultural but may not captivate very young children (2-year-olds).
The immersive setting of Yongqing Fang is excellent for families wanting a taste of old Canton—children might enjoy spotting traditional lion dances or sampling classic snacks (try the sugar figurines). The adjacent Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a masterpiece of southern China folk art, with elaborate wood, brick, and ceramic carvings.
A lively walking street that combines ancient history with modern shopping and some of the city’s best street food — the place for snack lovers!
Walk on glass panels above ancient road relics from the dynastic era while enjoying modern stores. Beijing Road is stroller-friendly and children are often fascinated by the underground archaeological sites visible right beneath their feet. Don’t miss the mango desserts and traditional herbal teas.
Guangzhou is known for its outstanding vegetarian cuisine, ranging from Michelin-rated establishments to hidden local gems.
Experience true Cantonese dim sum culture — vegan style! This place is highly recommended for its fully plant-based selection and authentic tea house vibe. Average: ¥80/person.
A dinner-only spot that dazzles with creative, multi-course vegetarian menus. Expect innovative dishes like seaweed rolls with lotus root, wild rice shoot, and water chestnut. The house-fermented specialty tea drinks round out a unique meal. Average: ¥500/person.
Part of Guangzhou’s famous Bing Sheng group, this vegetarian offshoot is Michelin-rated, affordably priced, and renowned for its flavor and tranquil, Zen-inspired ambiance. Window seats are extra atmospheric; book ahead to reserve. Average: ¥130/person.
Ready to experience Guangzhou’s best family attractions and top vegetarian cuisine?
