Metro Line 3 is the most efficient way to reach Guangzhou city center from the airport.

About Guangzhou City Center (Tianhe)

Tianhe district is the beating commercial heart of Guangzhou, anchored by the Zhujiang New Town CBD where the 600-meter Canton Tower dominates the skyline. The area around Tianhe Sports Center and Tee Mall is packed with international brands, restaurants, and nightlife. Zhujiang New Town\'s waterfront promenade along the Pearl River is a popular evening stroll.

Beyond shopping, Tianhe offers cultural attractions like the Guangdong Museum, Guangzhou Opera House (designed by Zaha Hadid), and the Guangzhou Library—all clustered in a striking architectural ensemble. The district is also a tech hub, housing many of China\'s major tech companies. For dining, the area around Tiyu Xilu metro station has everything from Cantonese dim sum to international cuisine.

Nearby Landmarks

Canton Tower Guangzhou Opera House Guangdong Museum Flower City Square Zhujiang New Town

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost CNY 120-150 ($17-21)
Time 45-80 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost CNY 80-120 ($11-17)
Time 45-80 minutes

Designated rideshare area at arrivals

Train (Metro Line 3)

Cost CNY 7
Time 45 minutes
Frequency Every 5-8 minutes, 6:10 AM - 11:00 PM

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Metro Line 3 (Airport South or North) to Tiyu Xilu for Tianhe district.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi CNY 120-150 ($17-21) 45-80 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare CNY 80-120 ($11-17) 45-80 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train CNY 7 45 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Guangzhou Metro runs until about 11:30 PM. After that, airport buses operate designated routes until the last flight lands (Night Bus Line 1 goes to Tianhe). Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport with metered fares (about ¥150–200 to Tianhe). DiDi ride-hailing also works late at night.

Luggage Tips

The metro Airport Express has luggage racks in each carriage. Escalators and elevators are available at all stations. If you have oversized luggage, taxis or airport buses offer more space. Tianhe's shopping malls have luggage lockers if you need to store bags while exploring.

Accessibility

Guangzhou Metro is fully accessible with elevators, tactile guide paths, and priority seating at every station. Canton Tower and Zhujiang New Town's public spaces are wheelchair-friendly with smooth pavements and ramps. Major malls in Tianhe all have barrier-free access.