Transport from Guangzhou to Shantou and hotels

Question

We are a group of 8 adults planning to go from Guangzhou to visit relatives in Shantou and then back to Guangzhou to take the flight back home. Please advise:

1. Where to stay in Guangzhou for 3 nights

2. How best to get from Guangzhou to Shantou

3. Where to stay in Shantou (my relatives live in Zhenghai) for 3 nights

4. How best to return to Guangzhou where we shall stay for another 2 nights then fly home.

Answer

For a group of 8 adults planning a round trip between Guangzhou and Shantou, careful planning for transport and accommodation will make the trip smoother. Here is a detailed suggestion:

1. Where to stay in Guangzhou for the first 3 nights:

It’s best to stay in a central location with easy access to transport hubs and attractions. Consider areas like:

Tianhe District – close to Guangzhou East Railway Station, shopping malls, and restaurants. Convenient for catching high-speed trains or buses to Shantou.
Yuexiu District – central, near Beijing Road shopping street and Yuexiu Park, offering a traditional Guangzhou city experience.
Haizhu District – close to the airport, suitable if you prefer proximity to flights.

Hotels that can accommodate a group comfortably include mid-range chain hotels or serviced apartments with multiple rooms or suites.

2. Best way to get from Guangzhou to Shantou:

There are a few options depending on your preferences for speed and comfort:

High-speed train: Guangzhou East Railway Station to Shantou Railway Station takes about 3.5–4 hours. Tickets should be booked in advance for 8 people.
Long-distance bus: Multiple daily buses depart from Guangzhou Provincial Bus Station to Shantou, taking around 6–7 hours. Buses are usually comfortable but slower than trains.
Private van or taxi: For convenience and flexibility, you could hire a private vehicle for the ~5-hour drive. This may be more expensive but allows door-to-door service, especially helpful if carrying luggage.

3. Where to stay in Shantou (Zhenghai area):

Since your relatives live in Zhenghai, staying nearby or in central Shantou is convenient. Options include:

Hotels near Shantou city center – convenient for dining, shopping, and local transport.
Guesthouses or small hotels in the Longhu or Jinping districts – these are reasonably close to Zhenghai depending on exact location.
If comfortable, consider booking a larger serviced apartment or villa for the 8-person group to stay together.

4. Returning to Guangzhou:

For the return leg, you can mirror your outbound transport choice:

High-speed train: Shantou Railway Station to Guangzhou East, taking ~3.5–4 hours. Book tickets in advance.
Long-distance bus: Slightly slower, ~6–7 hours.
Private van/taxi: Offers flexibility and comfort for the group, especially if you want to go directly to your hotel or the airport.

For the last 2 nights in Guangzhou before flying home, staying in the Tianhe District is practical, as it is near the airport and shopping areas, making it easy to shop or relax before departure.

Additional tips:

Book transport tickets (train/bus) in advance, especially for a group of 8, as peak travel days can sell out quickly.
If using private transport, confirm pricing and duration ahead of time to avoid misunderstandings.
Consider travel insurance and check the luggage allowances for trains or buses if you have heavy bags.

Transport from Guangzhou to Shantou and hotels

More China Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions