Where to Stay in Guangzhou: The Ultimate Hotel Guide for Buyers

Guangzhou is a massive metropolis with heavy traffic. For Canton Fair attendees, choosing the right "Base Camp" is the most critical decision you will make. Picking the right zone can save you 2 hours of commuting time every day. Here is our breakdown of the three main zones.

Zone 1: Pazhou Area (Near the Fair)

This is the "Convenient but Expensive" choice. Pazhou is the island where the Canton Fair Complex is located.

Pros & Cons

• Zero Commute: You can literally walk to the exhibition halls.
• Zero Traffic Stress: No fighting for taxis or squeezing into the metro during rush hour.

• Very Expensive: Hotel rates triple or quadruple during the fair.
• Boring Nightlife: It's a business district; there isn't much to do after 7 PM except eat at the hotel.

Zone 2: Zhujiang New Town (CBD)

This is the "Business & Lifestyle" choice. It is the modern heart of Guangzhou, home to the skyscrapers and luxury malls.

Pros & Cons

• Best Views: Incredible views of the Canton Tower and city skyline.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Surrounded by the city's best bars, steakhouses, and luxury shopping.
• Modern Vibes: Clean streets and modern infrastructure.

• Commute Required: Takes about 20-30 minutes by Metro or Taxi to get to the Fair.
• Pricey: While cheaper than Pazhou, 5-star hotels here are still premium.

Zone 3: Haizhu District (General)

This is the "Budget Friendly" choice. Haizhu is the large district surrounding the fair complex, but further away from the expo center itself.

Pros & Cons

• Better Rates: Significantly cheaper than the CBD or Pazhou hotels.
• Authentic Local Life: Great access to local street food and markets.

• Traffic Issues: You will need to take a taxi or metro, and traffic can be heavy on the bridges crossing the river.
• Older Buildings: Hotels here tend to be older compared to the shiny towers in the CBD.