Where to Stay in Shantou
China
|Pop. 3.8M
|3 neighborhoods covered
Shantou at a Glance
7 categories
Top Tips for Shantou
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Venture into the smaller alleyways off Guangming Road for authentic Chaoshanese snacks like oyster omelets (xΔ«yΓ‘o) and beef balls (niΓΊrΓ²u wΓ‘n).
Getting Around
Download a Chinese map app like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) and learn basic Mandarin phrases for bus directions, as English signage is rare.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or rideshare).
Solo Female Travel
Shantou is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of your surroundings are recommended.
Hidden Gems in Shantou
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Shantou Fuliang Street
FREEWander down Fuliang Street to experience a living museum of Shantou's architectural past, with beautifully preserved old buildings showcasing unique Teochew style.
Guangdong Chaoju Opera House
Catch a performance of the traditional Chaoju opera, a unique local art form that tells stories through song, dance, and dramatic expression. It's a truly immersive cultural experience.
Dongfeng Market
FREEExplore Dongfeng Market, a bustling local hub where you can find an incredible array of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and authentic Teochew snacks. It's a feast for the senses.
Qianhuangshan Park
FREEEscape the city bustle at Qianhuangshan Park, a verdant oasis offering peaceful walking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a tranquil escape with lush greenery.
Shantou Museum
Discover Shantou's rich history and culture at the Shantou Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits on local traditions, art, and the region's maritime heritage.
Laidong Street
Head to Laidong Street in the evening for a culinary adventure, sampling a variety of delicious and affordable Teochew street food from local vendors. Don't miss the oyster omelets and beef balls.
What It Costs in Shantou
Daily budget per person in CNY
π‘81% cheaper than London
CNY 250/day
CNY 500/day
CNY 1200/day
Where to Stay in Shantou
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Shantou University25 min
- Longhu Park15 min
Pros
- +Good infrastructure and modern facilities
- +Easier navigation for newcomers
- +Plenty of shopping and dining options
Cons
- -Can feel less historically authentic
- -May lack the charm of older areas
Top stays in Longhu District
Shantou International Hotel
$$$A prominent landmark offering upscale amenities and city views.
Hampton by Hilton Shantou Longhu
$$Reliable international chain with comfortable, modern rooms.
Jingtai Business Hotel
$A budget-friendly option for basic, clean accommodation.
Best for
Walk to
- Guangming Road Pedestrian Street5 min
- Shantou Museum20 min
- Old Shantou Port Area30 min
Pros
- +Heart of local cuisine and street food
- +Rich in local culture and history
- +Excellent public transport links
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Accommodation options are more basic
Top stays in Jinping District (Downtown)
Shantou Hotel
$$A long-standing hotel with a central location and decent amenities.
Home Inn Plus Shantou Jinxin
$Clean and functional budget hotel chain.
City Comfort Inn Shantou
$Offers reliable, no-frills accommodation in a convenient location.
Best for
Walk to
- Dapu Bay Beach30 min
- Coastal Scenic Area10 min
Pros
- +Relaxed atmosphere
- +Access to coastal views and parks
- +Less crowded than the city center
Cons
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options
- -Public transport can be less frequent
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial Zones on the outskirts: These areas offer little of interest to tourists and can be less safe due to heavy truck traffic and limited public services.
Insider tip: Venture into the smaller alleyways off Guangming Road for authentic Chaoshanese snacks like oyster omelets (xΔ«yΓ‘o) and beef balls (niΓΊrΓ²u wΓ‘n).
Safety in Shantou
SafeSolo Female Travel
Shantou is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of your surroundings are recommended.
At Night
Main commercial streets and well-populated areas are safe with adequate lighting and people around. Be cautious in quieter residential streets or parks after dark.
Emergency
110
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or rideshare).
- 2Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
Getting Around Shantou
Transport, connectivity, and costs
βοΈ
Airport to City
Taxi: 45-60 mins, approx. 80-120 CNY. Bus: Several lines available, approx. 10-15 CNY, 70-90 mins.
π«
Day Pass
Not commonly available for buses; single rides are cheap.
Single: 2-4 CNY for most bus routes.
πΆ
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Didi
πΆ
WiFi
Good25 Mbps
Public Transport
Bus network is extensive covering most of the city; metro system is under construction and not yet operational for tourists.
Ride-share
Didi (China's Uber); approx. 15-30 CNY for short to medium trips within the city.
Transport Tip
Download a Chinese map app like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) and learn basic Mandarin phrases for bus directions, as English signage is rare.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi (often requires a local phone number for verification). Public Wi-Fi hotspots are increasing.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; some cafes offer conducive environments for short periods.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Dec
Hotels & Accommodation in Shantou
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Who Is Shantou Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Foodies
This is the epicenter of Shantou's renowned Chaoshan cuisine, offering countless authentic local eateries and street food stalls.
First-timers
Its modern infrastructure and clear layout make it the easiest district for newcomers to navigate and find amenities.
Budget Backpackers
Offers the most affordable accommodation and food options, alongside vibrant local life.
Families
Provides a more relaxed environment with access to coastal parks and potential for beach activities, away from the city's intensity.
Shantou on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Shantou
Shantou, alternately romanized as Swatow and sometimes known as Santow, is a prefecture-level city on the eastern coast of Guangdong, China, with a total population of 5,502,031 as of the 2020 census (5,391,028 in 2010) and an administrative area of 2,248.39 square kilometres (868.11 sq mi). However, its built-up (or metro) area is much bigger with 12,543,024 inhabitants including Rongcheng and Jiedong districts, Jiexi county and Puning city in Jieyang plus all of Chaozhou city largely conurbated. This is de facto the 5th built-up area in mainland China between Hangzhou-Shaoxing (13,035,026 inhabitants), Xi'an-Xianyang (12,283,922 inhabitants) and Tianjin (11,165,706 inhabitants).
Frequently Asked Questions About Shantou
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Shantou Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel