Guangzhou Night Out: Bars You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit

When you think of Guangzhou night out, you probably picture dim sum, Canton Tower, and Pearl River night cruises. But after the sun sets, this modern metropolis transforms into a lively playground of music, cocktails, and neon lights.

For a first-time foreign visitor, Guangzhou’s bar scene can be both exciting and overwhelming. From chic rooftop lounges overlooking the Pearl River, to underground speakeasies hidden in alleys, to buzzing expat-friendly pubs — the city has something for every kind of night owl.

In this guide, we’ll take you through a storytelling journey and 1-night bar-hopping itinerary, exploring costs, transportation, the best bar districts, and insider tips. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to go for a memorable night out in Guangzhou.

Why Experience Guangzhou’s Bar Scene?

Imagine sipping a craft cocktail while gazing at the Canton Tower glowing in rainbow lights, or clinking beer glasses with new friends at a lively expat pub. Guangzhou’s nightlife is not as wild as Hong Kong or Bangkok, but it’s stylish, diverse, and surprisingly affordable.

For foreigners, the biggest appeal is that you can explore different styles of nightlife all in one night — luxury rooftop lounges, cozy speakeasies, live music bars, and casual beer gardens.

Costs: How Much Does a Night Out Cost in Guangzhou?

Guangzhou’s bars are quite affordable compared to other global cities:

• Local beer (Tsingtao, Zhujiang): ¥25–40 RMB ($4–6 USD)
• Imported beer: ¥40–60 RMB ($6–9 USD)
• Cocktails: ¥60–100 RMB ($9–15 USD)
• Wine by the glass: ¥60–120 RMB ($9–18 USD)
• Cover charge (clubs only): ¥50–100 RMB ($8–15 USD)

A full night of bar hopping will cost around ¥200–400 RMB ($30–60 USD) per person.

Transportation: Getting Around at Night

• Metro: Runs until around 11:30 PM. Fares: ¥2–6 RMB ($0.30–$1 USD).
• Taxi/DiDi: Best for late-night travel. Short rides: ¥15–40 RMB ($2–6 USD).
• Walking: Many popular bars are clustered in areas like Zhujiang New Town and Party Pier, so you can bar-hop on foot.

Highlights: Best Bar Districts & Bars in Guangzhou

Here’s your bar-hopping itinerary for a perfect night in Guangzhou:

1. Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城) – Upscale & Modern

The financial district by day, Zhujiang New Town becomes a nightlife hotspot by night. Expect rooftop lounges, sleek cocktail bars, and expat-friendly pubs.

Top Picks:

• Jojo’s Riverside – Popular with expats, great beer selection.
• Revolucion Cocktail – Trendy Cuban-inspired cocktail bar.
• Hooley’s Irish Pub – Lively expat pub with Guinness and live music.

Traveler Story: An expat I met said Jojo’s was “the first bar everyone visits when they move to Guangzhou — it feels like home.”

2. Party Pier (琶醍) – Riverside Nightlife Hub

Located by the Pearl River, Party Pier is famous for its brewpubs, live music venues, and clubs. The views of Canton Tower at night make it extra special.

Top Picks:

• Zapfler German Craft Brewery – Authentic German beer and sausages.
• Bravo Brewery – Local craft beer with a stylish vibe.
• Hangover Bar – A mix of cocktails, DJs, and a young crowd.

Itinerary Tip: Arrive before sunset to enjoy a beer by the river, then stay for live music.

3. Shamian Island Area – Historic Charm with Cozy Bars

If you want a quieter, more romantic vibe, head to Shamian Island. Colonial-era buildings have been turned into wine bars and coffee-cocktail hybrids.

Top Picks:

• French Wine Cellar – Great for wine lovers.
• Seesaw Coffee & Bar – Coffee by day, cocktails by night.

Traveler Story: A couple from France told me they loved Shamian because it reminded them of Europe — “but with Chinese warmth.”

4. Tianhe District – Local Favorites & Speakeasies

Away from tourist crowds, Tianhe has hidden bars and speakeasies perfect for cocktail lovers.

Top Picks:

• Hope & Sesame – Guangzhou’s first speakeasy, award-winning cocktails.
• The Happy Monk – Casual bar chain popular with both locals and expats.

5. Binjiang East Road – Chill Riverside Drinks

For something relaxed, grab a cold beer or cocktail along Binjiang East Road. The Pearl River views are unbeatable, especially after a Pearl River Night Cruise.

Suggested 1-Night Bar-Hopping Itinerary

7:00 PM – Dinner
Start with Cantonese dinner near your hotel — dim sum or roast goose rice.

8:30 PM – Rooftop Drinks in Zhujiang New Town
Enjoy cocktails with a city view.

10:00 PM – Party Pier
Grab craft beer and enjoy live music.

12:00 AM – Late Night Pub / Club
Choose between a lively expat pub (Hooley’s) or a club (Hangover Bar).

2:00 AM – Nightcap on Binjiang East Road
Finish with a quiet riverside drink before heading back.

FAQs About Bars in Guangzhou

1. Do Guangzhou bars have dress codes?
Most bars are casual. Only upscale rooftop bars may require smart-casual.

2. Is tipping required?
No, tipping is not common in China.

3. Do bartenders speak English?
In expat-friendly bars, yes. In local bars, English may be limited, but menus often have pictures.

4. Is Guangzhou safe at night?
Yes, Guangzhou is generally safe. Stick to busy areas, use DiDi taxis late at night.

5. Can foreigners enter all bars?
Yes, but bring your passport or ID — some bars check.

Exploring Guangzhou’s nightlife is about more than just drinking. It’s about experiencing the city’s modern energy, meeting people from around the world, and seeing the Pearl River skyline sparkle at night.

Whether you prefer sipping fine wine on Shamian Island, tasting craft beers at Party Pier, or dancing in Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou’s bar scene offers the perfect mix of local flavor and international style.

So — dress comfortably, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a night out you won’t forget.