Half-Day Guangzhou Old Town Tour with Food Tasting

Guangzhou , China

Half-Day Guangzhou Old Town Tour with Food Tasting

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About this experience

Explore Guangzhou’s historic Old Town on this half-day guided food tour, led by a local foodie expert who brings the city’s rich culinary culture to life. Taste 4-5 authentic Cantonese specialties, including Michelin-recognized rice noodle rolls, traditional snacks like bo zai gao, and classic Cantonese desserts. Sip on unique local drinks such as herbal teas that reveal Guangzhou’s centuries-old food traditions. Unlike other tours, we dive deep into hidden gems off the beaten path—from quiet snack stalls to the vibrant streets of Enning Road and Yongqing Fang. Along the way, enjoy cultural insights about local life, architecture, and even Bruce Lee’s family history. Perfect for food lovers seeking a genuine and flavorful Guangzhou experience.

Available options

Half-Day Guangzhou Old Town Tour with Food Tasting

What's included

Tasting 4 to 5 types of local snacks and desserts, plus 1 to 2 traditional drinks

A passionate local foodie English guide

Detailed itinerary

We'll take you on a walk through the heart of Guangzhou’s historic Old Town, where tradition lives on in every bite. Our first stop is a Michelin Bib Gourmand rice noodle roll (cheung fun) shop — a true local favorite known only to locals. Along the way, we’ll sample classic Cantonese street snacks that you can only find in the old neighborhoods, sharing them as we go. As we walk toward the vibrant Enning Road area, we’ll introduce you to the rich food culture of Guangzhou — from local snacks and childhood treats to the city’s unique herbal tea traditions. This is more than a tasting — it’s a flavorful journey into Cantonese culture.

Next, we’ll stroll along Enning Road, one of the most beautiful boulevards in Guangzhou, lined with traditional arcade buildings (qilou) and full of old-town charm. As we walk, we’ll taste more beloved local treats — like bo zai gao, a soft, sweet rice pudding made from water chestnut flour, and other popular snacks and traditional drinks from local vendors. We'll take a short break in a shaded corner of Yongqing Fang, where we’ll visit the former residence of Bruce Lee’s father and share some fun stories about Bruce Lee’s roots in Guangzhou. But don’t worry — the focus stays on food, and there’s always something tasty in hand as we go!

From Yongqing Fang, we’ll walk to a beautifully preserved Cantonese mansion to get a glimpse of traditional local architecture. Then we’ll continue to a nearby park, where you can see how locals relax and stay active in daily life. After a brief stop at a neighborhood temple to experience local beliefs, we’ll end the tour at a long-standing dessert shop — enjoying classic Cantonese sweets while learning a bit about Guangdong’s dessert culture. With that, our flavorful journey comes to an end.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total walking distance for this tour is about 4 kilometers, so please wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear just in case. Although the walk is a bit long, we’ll make sure to have plenty of rest breaks along the way.

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you at 10:00 AM at Exit A of Chen Clan Academy Metro Station in Guangzhou.

Important notes

On the day of the tour, simply open your booking page and show it to the guide at the meeting point.

About Guangzhou

Guangzhou, known as Canton, is a vibrant metropolis in southern China, renowned for its rich history, bustling markets, and iconic Cantonese cuisine. As a major commercial and cultural hub, it offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Canton Tower

The Canton Tower is an iconic landmark and one of the tallest towers in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city and has a variety of entertainment options, including a revolving restaurant and an observation deck.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is a historic area known for its colonial-era buildings and serene environment. It's a great place to learn about Guangzhou's past and enjoy a peaceful walk along the Pearl River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a beautifully preserved example of traditional Lingnan architecture. It houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of the Chen Clan, one of the most influential clans in Guangdong.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥10

Baiyun Mountain

Baiyun Mountain is a scenic area known for its lush greenery and panoramic views of Guangzhou. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty just outside the city.

Nature Half-day Free (cable car costs ¥25)

Shanghai Street

Shanghai Street is a bustling commercial area known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy some shopping.

Cultural 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dim Sum

A variety of small dishes served in bamboo steamers, including dumplings, buns, and rolls. Dim sum is a must-try for any visitor to Guangzhou.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian and vegan options available

Roast Duck

Cantonese-style roast duck is known for its crispy skin and tender meat, often served with a sweet and savory sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Wonton Noodle Soup

A comforting bowl of noodles with wontons, typically served in a clear broth made from pork or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Chai Ming

A traditional Cantonese dessert made from sticky rice, sugar, and various fillings, such as lotus paste or sesame paste.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Baiyun Mountain Cycling around Shamian Island Tea tasting at a traditional teahouse Beach relaxation in Zhuhai Exploring the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Watching a Cantonese opera performance Boat cruise on the Pearl River Visiting the Canton Tower for panoramic city views

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Cantonese, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Guangzhou is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like DiDi to avoid overcharging
• Be cautious of street vendors and markets, as prices may be inflated for tourists

Getting there

By air

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Guangzhou Railway Station, Guangzhou East Railway Station

By bus

Guangzhou Bus Station, Tianhe Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Guangzhou Metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It consists of multiple lines that connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tianhe Liwan Zhengjia Haizhu

Day trips

Shenzhen

120 km from Guangzhou • Full day

Shenzhen is a modern metropolis known for its futuristic architecture, vibrant shopping scene, and as the gateway to Hong Kong.

Zhuhai

140 km from Guangzhou • Full day

Zhuhai is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, scenic islands, and the famous Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue.

Foshan

30 km from Guangzhou • Half day

Foshan is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Cantonese opera, and the famous Ancestral Temple.

Festivals

Canton Fair • April and October (two sessions per year) Guangzhou International Light Festival • December Lunar New Year • January or February (based on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Use the Guangzhou Metro and public transportation system to get around the city efficiently and affordably.
Try local Cantonese dishes and street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Visit popular attractions during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines.
Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors and markets, as they may not accept large bills or credit cards.