night of guangzhou
The night out in Zhujiang New Town was laced with the aroma of roasted peanuts with urban fatigue. Neon lights reflected on wet pavements that made one think that the city did not stop. I heard that bars in Guangzhou are good or bad, so I was curious. I heard bass, out of the corner of my eye, throbbing in a near-by street, with the mingling clatter and glass clink.
Rushing through the rooftop bars, the air of the Pearl River was a relief of the sticky evening air. In Fei Bar Guangzhou, one couple could not take a selfie with the skyline and burst into laughter, with all the soft electronic music. Drinks ranged between 80-120 on Ctrip, and this may change depending on the season or occasion. The blend of locals and foreigners made the night look real and the rhythms of the city appeared to touch one.
I was hiding in Cages Guangzhou, a tiny hole between office buildings. Darkness, the cover of the walls, and a slight odor of hops drew me in. The bartender recommended a domestic IPA, acrid but cool. It was not merely a drink it was a taste of the night life in Guangzhou. There are no bars in Guangzhou, and that night made me realize this.
Why Guangzhou's Nightlife is a Must-Experience
Does Guangzhou Have Nightlife?
The nightlife in Guangzhou is not an activity of visiting night clubs, but rather, a blend of music, food, and socialization. As you walk along Beijing Road, you will find that there are neon lights in both English and Pinyin and the almost audible snippets of K-pop in the background bars. During the weekends, the citizens congregate along the river banks, laughing at small beers, and sometimes pouring on the pavements. The air has a faint tincture of smouldering skewers, wet wet concrete and jasmine. The best thing I did this week is listening to a busker as I sipped a pale ale and I realized that night life in this city is multi-layered and available. There are bars in Guangzhou all kinds of bars - rooftop high-rise, low-key craft bars, even a speakeasy-y style bar that nearly goes unnoticed by the street.
Where Do Foreigners Hang Out in Guangzhou?
The areas that the foreigners tend to drift include Zhujiang New Town and the areas along the Pearl River. English menus, international cocktails and staffs knowing basic greetings are usual. I also had an opportunity to talk to Spanish travelers at Morgan in Guangzhou drinking a grapefruit IPA. The feel is swept away even in the absence of Cantonese. It is not as touristy as it would be in a tourist trap but more of a rhythm together over glasses. Guangzhou bars are quite hospitable as long as you find a corner and sit down.
Want to pair your drinks with local flavors? Discover the best Guangzhou foods to try with your night out drinks here for an authentic culinary experience.
Rooftop Bars in Guangzhou: Sip with a View
Cages Guangzhou
Nestled in Zhujiang New Town, Cages is a lively roof-top scene set against the backdrop of panoramic city views. With live music, pinball and even motor racing video games on hand, the hotspot is known for bustling activity. Guests can nosh and drink on a varied menu as they overlook the city skyline. The service is excellent as well and all around its a memorable night out.
cages bar
Omma Lounge Bar
Omma Lounge Bar adds Bali flavor to Guangzhou’s evening world of doing and drinking. Located in Zhujiang New Town, the place is famous for its stylish Balinese decorations and lively atmosphere. The bar is stocked with a variety of cocktails and shisha, together with lively DJ sets that will have revellers partying late into the night. A favorite among locals and tourists alike to get a bit of a club experience at night.
omma bar
The Roof Bar (Park Hyatt Guangzhou)
Continuing their guest chef program, the Park Hyatt’s Rooftop has become a go to place for top chefs to showcase their dishes high above the city.
Sitting on the 70th floor of Park Hyatt Guangzhou, The Roof Bar boasts dramatic vistas of the city skyline and Canton Tower. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the bar also has an open-air terrace for sunset cocktails and evening drinks. You’ll find a variety of vintage wines, champagnes and creative cocktails on the menu along with Western and Asian snacks. Upmarket live entertainment further uplifts the atmosphere, drawing a mix of hotel guests and local residents.
Tian Bar (Four Seasons Guangzhou)
Perched on the 99th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou, Tian Bar offers incredible panoramas of Guangzhou and the Pearl River. The bar takes pride of place in the space, thanks to its bold agate stone counter-top guaranteed to provide plenty with which to talk about. In a modern, stylish setting you can also look forward to live music over some of the best cocktails and quality wines. Tian Bar has a stylish atmosphere and great service.
The Happy Monk
Nestled in the heart of Guangzhou, The Happy Monk is a bustling bar and restaurant that serves an array of international cuisine and drinks. Its warm interior and sunny terrace offer a great place for casual breakfast, lunch or dinner and also after-dinner-drinks. On the menu are chili burgers with avocado and sweet potato fries. The bar is also recognized for welcoming services and energetic ambiance.
Fei Bar
Tucked away inside decadent W Guangzhou, Fei Bar is beautiful reminder that there’s more to life than lounging on silk pillows. This lively location provides the perfect setting for a night to remember, with its opulent furnishings. Guests can be transported by the contagious energy and engage in live DJ sessions alongside expertly mixed cocktails. There is no place like Fei Bar – the concept, the energy – it’s attention grabbing and glam.
Nightclubs in Guangzhou: Dance the Night Away
Fei Bar
As mentioned above, Fei Bar is a luxury night club in terms of quality and ambiance. The club is famed for it’s high profile DJ’s and themed nights, pulling in a glam crowd. The fact that it's set inside the W Guangzhou hotel is part of its charm – a go-to for anyone looking to let their hair down in style.
fei bar
Kama Club
A club of the international repute set in Guangzhou featuring a signature sound system and intense light shows. The club has international DJ’s and themed parties, attracting a very large party crowd. It provides an asthetically pleasant modern design with cutting-edge sound system and features.
Blue Feruz
Blue Feruz is a more intimate night club with its snug setting and varied musical repertoire. The place’s relaxed ambience and friendly service makes it an ideal crowd-pleaser, for locals as well as visitors, keen on a decent drinking den, in the venturous Party Pier district. It’s a great place to enjoy good music and drinks without the massive crowds.
Club Catwalk
Club Catwalk is an overseas-themed club in Guangzhou with luxurious decoration and diverse music. The club consists of several different sections, such as a dance floor and lounge areas, offering something for everyone. Club Catwalk has received global recognition, listed at position #77 worldwide among others by DJ Mag. And it's still favored among adrenaline-fueled nightlife seekers.
Craft Beer & Pub Bars for a Laid-back Evening
Morgan's Public House
Morgan’s Public House is a favourite that is close to consulate in the Zhujiang New Town area, situated on Huali Road. Fancy places like Shooters aren’t prevalent but there are certainly more and more expats wanting a westerner feel to night-life in China. The food and drink are well received, with a range of options available. The Morgan's staff is friendly and help ensure guests feel at home when they swing by.
morgan's public house
The Goat
The Goat is the true home of North American sport in Guangzhou, fusing sports viewing with live music, craft beers and a fully equipped smokehouse all into Four Seas Walk. The pub covers all angles of the American Sports Bar, from our vibrant atmosphere and exciting decor to wall-to-wall sports action. It’s a perfect place for sports lovers and people who just want to have a chilled evening with good food and drink!
goat
Hill Bar
Feel like home in Hill Bar Specialize for cocktails, imported beers and Western foods. A range of local and international beers can be enjoyed from the bar, as well as a hearty pub menu. There is an outdoor seating area to drink with friends.
Elephant Castle Bar
Notting Hill in Guangzhou, Elephant Castle Bar is a favorite place to hang out for its cheap drinks and fun times. With a selection of cocktails and beers, the bar is popular among locals and expatriates. A lovely vacation spot that offers many attractions, getting drunk alone at Cassidy's is not one of them.
Tipsy Craft Beer Restaurant
Tipsy Craft Beer Restaurant is a restaurant in the Yuexiu District of Guangzhou and also provides more than 20 beers brewed at the restaurant. The menu will contain a mixture of international cuisine and the interior will consist of the British sports bars and pubs. The location offers a comforting environment to have craft beers and dine.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bars in Guangzhou
Choosing the Right Bar for Your Mood
Arriving in Guangzhou you’ve never seen so many bars. Rooftop bars like The Roof Bar or Tian Bar are great if you're searching for expansive city views and sunset drinks, and nightclubs such as Fei Bar and OMMA satisfy those who want to dance the night away. Whether it’s an informal hang with friends, you’re in the right area for a pub or craft beer bar like Morgan’s Public House or The Goat. I remember my first night at a rooftop bar — I was worried it would be too formal, but the casual crowd and smooth jazz immediately put me at ease.
How to Get There and What to Expect
In Guangzhou, most of the city’s bars are in Zhujiang New Town and Tianhe; they’re accessible by subway or taxi. Expect cover charges, or minimum spends, at swankier places — they’ll be something like ¥150-250 per person (less for more humble joints). For rooftops, doors generally open at 5–6PM and for nightclubs, around 9–10PM — weekends being the most crowded. One time I arrived at the place a little too late, and standing near the crowded bar didn’t afford even a complete sight line — but what an atmosphere.
Curious about more vibrant night scenes in Guangzhou? Check out the lively night markets here for a true local experience.
Local Etiquette and Safety Tips
Tipping is not mandatory, but being nice is So let’s lay down some basics beforehand: there isn’t a need for tipping. Dress codes are as pictures and nightclubs can be smart-casual. In more tourist-friendly bars, English is widely spoken, but you can also get away without speaking any — you just need to point. Watch personal belongings, especially in packed nightclubs. Speaking just a few Chinese phrases or the simple “nǐ hǎo”, when you meet bartenders can give your initial visit added glide.
FAQ: Visiting Bars in Guangzhou
Q: How Much is a Beer in Guangzhou?
A pint of beer generally goes for ¥40-120, depending on what you're drinking and where. Craft beers or rooftop cocktails tilt higher, local lagers cheaper. Prices can vary by season, special events or happy hour specials. For the budget, just plan ¥70-90 per beer. Pricing is often listed on Ctrip or social media for many bars. Smaller, street-side bars and pubs can tend to have quite an affordable selection.
Q: Is Guangzhou Good for Foreigners?
Yes, particularly in nightlife districts. English menus and basic English speaking staff are available in most bars of Guangzhou. Pickup Inhabitants and tourists intermingle on the streets and along the riverbanks in areas such as Zhujiang New Town, where visitors have been known to find friends for the night. It is generally quite safe, but always carry ID and a bit of cash. And while Cantonese isn’t spoken, the combination of locals and travelers makes getting around manageable. You can relax and enjoy bars in Guangzhou with some preparation.
Q: What Are the Best Bars in Guangzhou for Rooftop Views?
For rooftop experiences, scrambling up are Fei Bar, Cages, Zhujiang Deck, The Roof Bar & Lounge and Octave Sky Bar. Sunset is best for photos and late evening brings out the neon skyline. Drinks are typically ¥70-150 depending on the venue, or time. Reservations can be useful, especially on weekends. Guangzhou’s rooftop bars come with a combination of booze, beats and city views that separate the barflies from the tourists stinking up street level.
Q: Where Do Foreigners Usually Hang Out in Guangzhou?
Most converge at the pubs of Zhujiang New Town, Pearl River districts and Tianhe area. Expats often frequent bars in Guangzhou that have bilingual menus and a selection of international cocktails. Social events often take place at rooftop bars, craft pubs or nightclubs. In even the tiniest clandestine bars, locals can be found mixing with foreign guests. It’s a blend of casual conversation and club-like energy. Strolling into and around these neighborhoods, it doesn’t take long to reach spots that blithely cater to travelers as much as locals, easily bookable via Trip.com.
Q: Are Bars in Guangzhou Expensive Compared to Other Cities in China?
Moderately. Sky bars in Guangzhou may be a little expensive than small pubs, but the price is almost similar to that of Shanghai or Beijing. Average cocktails ¥80-120, boutique beers ¥60-100, nightclub cover charge ¥150-200. Some tiny local pubs or alley bars offer drinks for fewer than ¥60. Your budget planning is adjusted depending on If you value view, music or craft. A lot of bars list updated pricing on Ctrip or their own social media.
Q: What Are the Dress Codes for Bars in Guangzhou?
Guangzhou bars are mostly casual-friendly, but high-end rooftop ones will require smart casual. Nightclubs may have dress codes; no sandals or dirt-washed clothes. Sneakers are generally accepted. Some spaces are more flexible towards day time or early evening. Dress for comfort but consult the bar’s social media and listing on Ctrip for advice. We should also enter when cued as it avoids problems and makes for a relaxing time.
Q: Is It Safe to Go Clubbing Alone in Guangzhou?
Yes, especially in nightlife-heavy areas of town. ID is required even for routine security checks. Visitors traveling alone should be vigilant of their surroundings, belongings and opening hours. Guangzhou Bars have lively atmospheres, particularly in and around Zhujiang New Town area and Pearl River. The atmosphere is generally welcoming to locals and staff, which also helps solo travelers blend in relatively easily; popular clubs frequently promote mixed expat/local spaces and can help ensure safer social encounters.
Q: When do bars in Guangzhou Normally Get Busy?
Bars on rooftops in Guangzhou tend to be quite popular between 6-7 PM before the sun goes down because people are interested in seeing the city. Nightclubs are busy after 10PM, max energy is before 12. Smaller pubs and craft beer bars begin to fill at about 8-9 pm, although they are not as tense. Weekdays are not busy whereas weekends are. The earlier you come the better seating and view you get and when it gets late the better party ambience.
Q: Are Guangzhou Bars Costly as a Foreigner?
Guangzhou has varying prices of bars according to type and location. Upscale nightclubs and rooftop bars typically cost 150-250 per drink and the cheaper craft beer pub costs 50-100 per beer. There are minimum spend policies, particularly in hotel bars. I observed that it is possible to order local beers or house cocktails to make the budget that is not too high. In general, the bars in Guangzhou are cheaper than those in Berlin, otherwise in Beijing or Shanghai, particularly when you are not busy.
Q: Do Foreigners Find it easy to have Drinks without speaking Chinese?
Yes, the majority of bars in Guangzhou are meant to serve the foreigners, particularly in Zhujiang New town and Tian He. Menus are usually either in English or bilingual and bartenders know some basic English. Clicks on the menu are okay, and such payment options as WeChat Pay or cash are very common. I have once placed an order in a small pub where Chinese is zero, and the bartender smiled and suggested a local craft beer- it was simple and pleasant.
