When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Guangzhou?
For the best deals on cheap flights to Guangzhou, book your trip for the shoulder season from March-June and September-November. Airfares will be lower than in the busy summer months and over the Chinese New Year in February, and, when booked at the right time, airlines can offer some great deals on return flights.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Guangzhou?
As with most long-haul destinations, it’s best to book in well in advance of your desired departure dates. Consider booking your flights to Guangzhou three to four months prior and compare airfares across a few weeks to find the best deals. It’s important to be flexible on your dates because prices can vary quite significantly over the course of a month. However, midweek departures usually offer a reduced rate.
Flying to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
China’s third-busiest passenger airport, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) serves the city of Guangzhou, the capital of the Guangdong province. Currently there is one direct flight route departing from London Heathrow with China Southern Airlines. On average, a direct flight will take 11-13 hours. However, if a London departure isn’t convenient or doesn’t suit your budget, return flights are available from Manchester or Edinburgh. All other flights to Guangzhou will include one or more transfers or stopovers, but often this can produce significant savings on your airfare, even if it adds to your travel time. Stopover locations vary but can occur in Europe, the Middle East or Beijing. Carriers operating Guangzhou flights include Air China, Aeroflot, Asiana Airlines, Lufthansa and Emirates. You can also find great deals if you choose to fly with multiple airlines by switching to another carrier for a leg.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) currently operates a single passenger terminal, but 2018 will see the opening of the new Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is split into three sections: the Main Terminal, Area A and Area B. Arrivals is on the first floor with the main Arrivals Hall is one floor below. You will be able to access information points, a Wi-Fi connection and charging points for all your devices. There are plenty of options for food and drink, as well as shopping. The airport offers a variety of lounges, some of which have showers.
Getting to the City from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
There are plenty of available options for travelling from the airport into the city after your Guangzhou flights. Located on the basement level, there is a metro station operating Metro Line 3, which will run you straight into the city centre. There are several stops along the way and City buses are also available outside the Arrivals Hall. To find out which bus to take, head to the Airport Intercity Bus Ticket Counter upon arrival. Taxis are found outside the Arrivals Hall. There may be taxi touts, but pay no attention to them. All legal taxis are metered and it should take 45-60 minutes the complete the journey.
Why visit Guangzhou?
Coming in as one of China’s most popular tourist destinations, Guangzhou is full to the brim with amazing things to do and stunning sights to see. Be sure to take a day to explore the lush Baiyun Mountain. You can hike the well-paved paths or take a minibus or cable car to the summit; it’s a good idea to set aside a whole day to see all the different parks and exhibitions lining the route.
The city itself shouldn’t be underestimated. The thrum of modern life and the city’s ancient history blend together in a tantalising mix. Ascend the awe-inspiring Canton Tower and get a bird’s eye view of the cityscape. At 600 metres, it is the second tallest building in the whole country. Then, once night falls, watch as it lights up in a stunning light show. For a taste of the past, head to the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King or the Chen Clan Academy.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
You will need a visa before travelling to China. Submit your application to your nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Centre; there are centres in London, Manchester and Edinburgh. Be sure to begin this process well in advance of booking any last-minute flights in case any problems arise with your application. Your passport should also be valid for an additional six months from your arrival date. China uses the Chinese Yuan or Renminbi. To get the best rate, exchange a small amount before travelling to cover initial travel from the airport and withdraw funds from an ATM once in China.
