Top 10 Best Things to Do in Shantou
left-leaf
trip-best

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Shantou

right-leaf
Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
2026 Global 100
2026 Global 100 image
Innovation Award
Innovation Award image
Contact Us
facebook icon
instagram icon
tiktok icon
󰴉
Theme filters
District
Theme filters
District
  • Nan'ao Islandtop_1
    󰺂7.6
    Nan'ao.Nan'ao Island Houzhai town39.8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 50 - Cool Water Escapes
    Highlights:
    󰀆Golden sunset at lighthouse
    󰋄Eastern Hawaii & bridge crossing
    󱨠Saved by 571 users󱨠1001 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    beauty of lovebeauty of love

    Nan'ao Island, a place full of tropical style, the island is tree-lined, the beach is white as snow, the sea is crystal clear, like a pearl embedded in the South China Sea. Here, you can enjoy the fun of the sun beach, feel the magic of nature, you can also taste the fresh and delicious seafood dinner, experience the simplicity of the fishing village. Nan'ao Island is undoubtedly an ideal place for vacation and leisure.

  • Queshi Scenic Spottop_2
    󰺂6.4
    Shantou.Chaoshan Lishi Wenhua Bolan Center/Queshi Scenic Area2.5 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Unique granite formations inside cave
    󱨜Panoramic view of Shantou
    󱨠Saved by 138 users󱨠325 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    雷雷菲菲鲁鲁雷雷菲菲鲁鲁

    This is the Tashan Scenic Area within the Queshi Scenic Area. You can take the cable car up and down, which takes about five minutes. After that, you can stroll around for about half an hour. From the top of the mountain, you can see the Queshi Bridge; the scenery is quite nice!

  • Shantou Old Towntop_3
    󰺂6.1
    Shantou.Little Park/Coast Promenade1.1 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Night Attractions in Shantou
    Highlights:
    󰋄Taste snacks & Kung Fu tea
    󰀆Arcade architecture marvel
    󱨠Saved by 277 users󱨠547 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    玩童无界行者无疆玩童无界行者无疆

    Some days did not go to Shantou Old Town to sway, after the New Year, I went for a walk, found that the ancient style of Yazhuyou, new beauty Jingtian, some changed to look good hotels, homestays...

  • Chen Ci Hong
    4
    󰺂6.1
    1239
    Shantou24.6 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoThe spectacular Yingge Dance continues at the Former Residence of Chen Cihong
    Highlights:
    󱨜Chaozhou wood & stone carvings
    󱓊Built in late Qing dynasty
    󱨠116 positive reviews
    4.2/5
    王燕子王燕子

    Taking photos at Chen Cihong's former residence is incredibly photogenic. Every brick and tile tells a story of time. Although it's over a century old, the eaves, doors, windows, stairs, and floors still retain their former charm. I recommend wearing earth-toned clothing for the photos.

  • Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center
    5
    󰺂5.7
    Shantou.Chaoshan Lishi Wenhua Bolan Center/Queshi Scenic Area5 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Shantou
    Highlights:
    󱨜Chaoshan Architecture Embodies Mountain-Sea Harmony
    Enjoy the Shantou Inner Bay view from the Cross-sea Platform
    󱨠59% positive reviews
    4.1/5
    玩童无界行者无疆玩童无界行者无疆

    The Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center (referred to as Chaobo Hall) located in the middle section of Nanbin Road on the south bank of Shantou Inner Bay (referred to as Chaobo Hall) has a strong tidal wind from Yazhu to the interior. There are new exhibitions from time to time. This is a recent boutique.

  • Mayu Island
    6
    󰺂5.4
    Shantou.East Coast Area7.4 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Shantou
    Highlights:
    󱨜Tianhou Ancient Temple's Goddess Statue, pray for peace
    Visit ancient architecture at Lama Palace in Eastern Guangdong
    4.6/5
    卡皮巴拉游世界卡皮巴拉游世界

    Mayu Island, located in Shantou, hides the secret of Guangdong East. The blue sea and blue sky are intertwined with the fishing village style. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the city to the Bay Bridge. General drivers will ask for an additional fee when entering the island, 10-15 yuan. Mayu Island must visit Mazu Temple to pray for blessings, stroll on the seaside plank road to watch the tide, pick up shells on the reef beach, taste the fresh sea fish porridge and wontons. You can swim in the sea in summer, ride around the island in spring and autumn, and enjoy the colorful graffiti village.

Best things to do in Shantou (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Shantou? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Shantou offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Shantou

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Shantou experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Nan'ao Island

• Nan'ao.Nan'ao Island Houzhai town | 39.8 km from downtown

• : Golden sunset at lighthouse,Eastern Hawaii & bridge crossing

Queshi Scenic Spot

• Shantou.Chaoshan Lishi Wenhua Bolan Center/Queshi Scenic Area | 2.5 km from downtown

• : Unique granite formations inside cave,Panoramic view of Shantou

Shantou Old Town

• Shantou.Little Park/Coast Promenade | 1.1 km from downtown

• : Taste snacks & Kung Fu tea,Arcade architecture marvel

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Shantou

If you want to explore attractions just outside Shantou, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Shantou, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Shantou special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Shantou

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Shantou

Ready to explore the best of Shantou? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Shantou?
These are all Best Things to Do in Shantou:Nan'ao Island, Queshi Scenic Spot, Shantou Old Town, Chen Ci Hong, Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Shantou?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Shantou include:Nan'ao Island:4.5, Queshi Scenic Spot:4.5, Shantou Old Town:4.5, Chen Ci Hong:4.2, Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center:4.1
At what locations in Shantou can Best Things to Do in Shantou be found?
The Best Things to Do in Shantou are mainly located in:Nan'ao Island:Nan'ao, Queshi Scenic Spot:Shantou, Shantou Old Town:Shantou, Chen Ci Hong:Shantou, Chaoshan History and Culture Expo Center:Shantou
󰴉