City in Guangdong, China
Getting around Guangzhou
How to get around Guangzhou
The metro is extensive and the easiest way to move; use DiDi for late nights. High-speed trains reach Hong Kong in about 50 min and Shenzhen in 30 min.
Ways to get around Guangzhou
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou Metro | 2–10 CNY by distance | Use Alipay QR or the Yang Cheng Tong app; English signage |
| DiDi | About 15–28 CNY for 5 km | Pay via Alipay |
| Pearl River night cruise | About 60–150 CNY | Evening boat past Canton Tower |
| High-speed rail to Hong Kong | About 200–300 CNY | Guangzhou South to West Kowloon, about 50 min |
Ride-hailing apps in Guangzhou
A 5 km ride costs about ¥15–28 ($2.2–4.2).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| DiDi | Dominant; pay via Alipay |
- Use DiDi or metered taxis; avoid unlicensed drivers at Baiyun and railway stations.
Arriving in Guangzhou
Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN)
Metro Line 3 north extension to Tianhe about 8–10 CNY, 45–60 min; taxi or DiDi 90–150 CNY, 40–60 min.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the right. IDPs aren't recognised. Visitors need a temporary Chinese driving permit (up to 90 days) or a Chinese licence.
- Onward travel in China: High-speed trains link nearly every big city, often faster than flying; book with a passport on 12306 or Trip.com. Cheap domestic flights and sleeper trains cover long distances.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Guangzhou?
No. Use DiDi instead.
What's the best way to get around Guangzhou?
The metro is extensive and the easiest way to move; use DiDi for late nights. High-speed trains reach Hong Kong in about 50 min and Shenzhen in 30 min.
How do I get from the airport to Guangzhou?
Metro Line 3 north extension to Tianhe about 8–10 CNY, 45–60 min; taxi or DiDi 90–150 CNY, 40–60 min.
Is Guangzhou walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Guangzhou
Going to Guangzhou solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Guangzhou meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.