As a few corners of the world become slightly more difficult to reach, Aussie travellers are on the hunt for destinations that offer ease, adventure, and plenty of wow-factor. Enter China.
With up to three direct China Southern Airlines flights from Adelaide to Guangzhou per week, South Australians can unlock one of the world’s most fascinating destinations without the usual travel headaches. Better yet, Guangzhou opens the door to more than 140 destinations across China and beyond, making it the perfect gateway to your next great adventure.
Whether you’re a history buff, on the hunt for some unforgettable food, looking for jaw-dropping natural beauty, or a little bit of everything, China delivers in abundance. While the big cities often steal the spotlight, some of the country’s most extraordinary experiences lie just beyond the obvious.
We’ve pulled together a list of some of our top picks. Here are four must-visit destinations that deserve a spot on your travel list.
Yum Cha, Guangzhou
As the home of Cantonese cuisine, Guangzhou is a dream destination for food lovers. Here, yum cha isn’t just a meal, it’s an institution.
Known for its steaming baskets of dumplings, fluffy barbecue pork buns, delicate rice noodle rolls, and tea, it’s the perfect way to ease into your Chinese adventure, one dumpling at a time.
Most recommended travel period: March to April and October to December.
Great Wall, Beijing
Some attractions earn their bucket-list status, and the Great Wall is absolutely one.
Covering more than 20,000 kilometres through northern China, this iconic landmark is one of the world’s most unforgettable travel experiences. Built over 2,000 years ago to protect the Chinese empire from northern invaders, most remaining structures date from the Ming Dynasty.
Whether this has been on your bucket list for years or has only just entered your radar, this is the ultimate destination to soak up centuries of history.
From Guangzhou, you can fly straight to Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Beijing Daxing International Airport is approximately a one-hour, 50-minute drive from the Great Wall.
Most recommended travel period: April to June and September to October.
Terracotta Army, Xi’an
Another pick for history buffs is Xi’an. Home to the world-famous Terracotta Army, this archaeological wonder has captivated visitors for decades. Thousands of life-sized clay warriors stand in silent formation, guarding China’s first emperor more than 2,000 years after they were created. It’s as rare as it is mindblowing.
Xi’an also offers a fascinating blend of ancient city walls, markets, and incredible local cuisine, making it a destination well worth visiting.
From Guangzhou, you can fly straight to Xianyang International Airport (XIY). Xianyang International Airport is approximately a 50-minute drive from the Terracotta Army.
Most recommended travel period: April to May and September to October.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
If the landscapes look familiar, there’s a reason. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park famously inspired the floating mountains of Avatar, and seeing it in person feels almost surreal.
Towering sandstone pillars rise dramatically through misty forests, connected by thrilling glass bridges and scenic cableways. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys having their jaw permanently glued to the floor.
From Guangzhou, you can fly straight to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG). Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport is approximately a 40-minute drive from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
Most recommended travel period: April to October.
From Guangzhou, seamless onward connections open up a world of possibilities, whether you’re travelling to Beijing, Xi’an, Zhangjiajie, or one of more than 140 destinations across the airline’s extensive network. And with fares from $998.70 including taxes, generous baggage allowance, plus free accommodation for eligible transit passengers, it’s also great value for money.
China has something for everyone, from history buffs and foodies to nature lovers and adventurers. And right now, getting there from Adelaide has never been easier.
Flights:
- CZ663: CAN to ADL, 22:25–08:55+1 (local time), every Wed/Fri/Sun
- CZ664: ADL to CAN, 10:30–18:05 (local time), every Mon/Thu/Sat
Flight schedules are subject to change and should be confirmed based on actual availability.
For more information, click here.
