Stopover in Guangzhou with China Southern

Most long-haul flights to Europe are a blur of terminals, connections and quick pit stops between boarding calls. But flying with China Southern Airlines via Guangzhou offers something different.

With three daily departures from Sydney to Guangzhou, travellers have the flexibility to shape the journey their way. If you prefer to keep things moving, you can connect seamlessly onwards to cities like London, Amsterdam or Madrid with a short, convenient layover.

Or, if you have a little more time, you can choose to turn your stop into something more, stepping out to experience a city that blends rich culture, striking skylines and world-class cuisine, with added perks like a complimentary hotel stay and guided city tour.

Stopover Perks with China Southern Airlines

Touching down in Guangzhou, the process feels smooth from the start. Transfers are well organised, the airport is modern and easy to navigate, and if you’ve opted for a stopover, everything is taken care of.

With China Southern Airlines, eligible travellers with a layover of more than 6 hours can enjoy a complimentary hotel stay, which means you can swap airport seating for a comfy bed, a shower and a relaxing reset before your next flight. There’s also a free guided city tour, which takes the pressure off planning and lets you see the highlights without overthinking it.

Australian passport holders can take advantage of visa-free transit for up to 30 days until 31 December 2026. No complicated process, no stress, just an opportunity to refresh, relax and experience the sights of Guangzhou before your next flight.

What to Do in Guangzhou

For longer layovers (over eight hours), travellers can join a complimentary small-group city tour, departing daily at 8:30am from the International Services counter in Terminal 2 Arrivals and returning by 2pm. It’s an easy, guided way to explore the city, with places available on a first come, first served basis.

Even on a short stopover, Guangzhou has plenty to offer, whether you’re joining a guided tour or heading out to explore at your own pace. From iconic landmarks and historic sites to some of the best food experiences in China, it’s a city that’s easy to explore in just a few hours.

Start with the Canton Tower, one of the city’s most popular attractions, where you can take in sweeping views of the skyline and the Pearl River below. It’s especially striking at sunset, when the city lights begin to flicker on. If you’re drawn to history and culture, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture, with intricate carvings and detailed craftsmanship. For something slower-paced, Shamian Island is perfect for a wander. Tree-lined streets, colonial-era buildings, and a more relaxed atmosphere make it easy to explore on foot.

And then there’s the food. Guangzhou is known as the home of Cantonese cuisine, so even a short stopover is a chance to try authentic dim sum, fresh seafood, or local street snacks. Head to Beijing Road, where the energy of the city comes alive with bustling shops, street eats, and glimpses of ancient road ruins beneath your feet.

Flying China Southern Airlines

As one of Asia’s largest hubs, Guangzhou offers excellent connectivity to major European destinations, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Frankfurt, Budapest, Belgrade and Istanbul. Flying with China Southern Airlines means enjoying a seamless long-haul journey, with comfortable seating, thoughtful service and a smooth onboard experience designed to help you arrive feeling refreshed.

From streamlined connections at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to efficient boarding and transfer processes, every step is designed with ease in mind.

Your Gateway to Europe

What sets this journey apart is the sense of discovery. Rather than racing between flights, you’re adding a new destination to your itinerary, one that blends stunning cityscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable food experiences.

It’s a chance to stretch your legs along the Pearl River, admire the iconic skyline, or enjoy a moment of calm before continuing on to Europe.

With complimentary stopover perks, visa-free access and a smooth, effortless journey, flying with China Southern Airlines via Guangzhou feels less like a stopover and more like an unexpected highlight.