Shenzhen travel is a journey that takes you to famous tourist destinations in Guangdong to experience the unique cultural features of this land. Let’s explore this vibrant city through this Ultimate Shenzhen Travel Guide: Best Things To Do, Must-East Food & Travel Tips as follows!
- The ULTIMATE Lijiang travel guide: Top things to do, where to visit, stay, eat & MORE
- The FULLEST guide to Fenghuang Ancient Town: Top things to do, Eat, Tips & MORE
- Macau itinerary 2 days: How to spend 2 days in Macau perfectly from Hong Kong
- Must do in Macau: 11+ best things to do in Macau for First-Time Travelers
- Hangzhou itinerary 1 day: Slow Living in the Tech City with 1 day in Hangzhou
5G eSIM China | China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom
Shenzhen is not only an attractive destination for its ancient architectural beauty, but also a place where unique cultural experiences converge. With small streets, bustling markets and many historical relics imbued with tradition, Shenzhen travel is an adventure through time and culture.
Let’s explore the wonders of this city with Living Nomads, where the past and the present blend together, creating a wonderful picture of Chinese culture.
Where is Shenzhen in China?
Shenzhen is located in the southernmost part of Guangdong province, China, right next to the border with Hong Kong. From a small fishing village, Shenzhen has dramatically “transformed” into one of the most developed cities in Asia with the fastest modernization speed in the world. Thanks to its strategic location, you can easily combine your Shenzhen exploration with neighboring destinations such as Guangzhou, Hong Kong or Zhuhai – all conveniently accessible by high-speed train or ferry.
Ping’an International Financial Center in Shenzhen
This city is famous for its high-class technology parks such as the headquarters of Huawei, Tencent, modern shopping malls, magnificent theme parks and unique street art. With a blend of modern life and local culture, Shenzhen is a new choice for those who want to explore a dynamic and equally surprising “corner of China”.
Shenzhen Travel Guide: When is the best time to visit Shenzhen?
The best time to explore Shenzhen is from November to early January. This is when the city’s temperature fluctuates at a moderate level, from 15-25 degrees, creating ideal conditions for you to explore tourist attractions and immerse yourself in Shenzhen’s unique culture. For more convenience, you can book the customized Private Tour to visit Shenzhen at Klook.
How to Travel to Shenzhen from Vietnam
Travel to Shenzhen
Going to Shenzhen by plane from Vietnam is always the top choice when you can save travel time. Currently, there are many airlines operating routes to this city such as Vietnam Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, AirAsia, China Southern, Air China,… Flights to Shenzhen will land at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport ((Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport) so you will not have to transit anywhere!
Shenzhen and Surrounding Areas Private Car Charter
The common round-trip ticket price from Ho Chi Minh City ranges from 3.8 – 4.4 million VND, and from Hanoi around 4.6 – 4.7 million VND. When booking tickets, you should note that economy class tickets often do not include checked baggage, you need to check the information carefully to avoid unexpected costs.
Getting around Shenzhen
Traveling by Metro in Shenzhen
Private City Transfers between Shenzhen and Hong Kong Island, Kowloon & New Territories
Getting around Shenzhen is quite easy thanks to the modern and widespread transportation system. If you want to save time and money, the metro is the top choice. Shenzhen has a metro line, connecting most of the famous attractions such as Huaqiangbei, Coco Park, Window of the World or the ferry terminal to Hong Kong. The trains are clean, run on time and have English signs, very friendly to international tourists.
Traveling by Inner City Bus
Shenzhen Bay Port to Hong Kong Airport Bus Ticket
Taking the bus in Shenzhen is quite simple and economical, especially suitable if you want to explore the city at a slow pace. The fare for inner city routes is usually only 2–3 RMB (~6,500 – 9,800 VND), some short routes or minibuses are even only 1 – 2 RMB. For long routes, the price will be calculated by distance, up to about 7 RMB for non-air-conditioned vehicles and 10 RMB for air-conditioned vehicles.
Hong Kong – Shenzhen Bay Port Shared Bus by Trans-Island Chinalink
If you use the “Shenzhen Tong” card, you will also get a 20 – 35% discount and a 90-minute bus or metro transfer discount of 0.4 RMB. Payment is also very convenient, in addition to cash (should prepare coins), most buses accept QR codes QR via WeChat Pay or Alipay. Thanks to the system covering the whole city, you just need to choose the right route to easily move to most attractions without worrying about getting lost.
Traveling by Taxi/ Technology Application
If you are traveling in a group or carrying a lot of luggage, Grab China (Didi) or traditional taxis are easy to catch, have reasonable prices and can be booked via the app. In Shenzhen, Didi fares are generally cheaper than traditional taxis and vary depending on the type of service. With Didi Premier, the opening price is around 13 RMB (~42,000 VND), plus about 2.7 RMB/km (~8,700 VND/km) and 0.6 RMB/waiting minute (~1,900 VND/minute).
Shenzhen Shekou – Macau Ferry Ticket
Traditional taxis have an opening price of 10 RMB (~32,000 VND), 2.6 RMB/km (~8,400 VND/km) and 0.8 RMB/waiting minute (~2,600 VND/minute). VND/min). If you want to save more, Didi Express has an opening price of about 2 RMB (~6,500 VND), 2 RMB/km (~6,500 VND/km) and 0.55 RMB/minute waiting time (~1,800 VND/minute). However, the actual price may increase during peak hours, rainy days or when booking during high demand times.
Private trasnfer between Shenzhen and Hong Kong
In addition, if you want complete freedom in your schedule, you can also rent a private car by the hour or by the day through Klook to be more proactive when traveling between distant areas.
What to Do in Shenzhen? List of Famous Tourist Attractions
Window of the World Park
Window of the World Park, located on Shennan Avenue, is a unique and wonderful destination in Shenzhen. With an area of up to 480,000 square meters, this park is a miniature world with famous monuments and prominent tourist attractions from all over the world, realistically simulated in miniature scale.
Window of the World Ticket in Shenzhen
You can walk through different countries in just one day at Window of the World, exploring famous symbols such as the Eiffel Tower of France, the Parthenon of Greece, to famous works such as the Taj Mahal of India or Mount Fuji of Japan, … Each statue and structure is reproduced with exquisite and accurate details, creating a very vivid and impressive experience.
Splendid China Folk Village
An attractive destination right in the center of Shenzhen, Splendid China Folk Village is a place for you to better understand the cultural diversity of Chinese ethnic groups. With an area of about 30 hectares, this place owns more than 100 large and small village models simulated at a scale of 1/15 compared to reality.
Splendid China Folk Village in Guangdong
Private City Transfers between Shenzhen and Hong Kong
Stepping into Splendid China Folk Village, you will begin an interesting journey through village models that are carefully cared for in every detail. In addition, you can also understand the customs, traditions and traditional arts of this country of billions of people.
Dafen Oil Painting Village
Known as the “factory” specializing in copying oil paintings on a large scale in the world. Dafen Oil Painting Village was established in 1980 by artist Huang Jiang. Today, this place has become a unique destination that attracts many tourists who love art and want to explore the oil painting production process in Shenzhen.
When you come here, you will witness the process of making oil paintings with sophistication and professional techniques. In particular, you can buy these unique works of art at extremely reasonable prices.
Chinese Ethnic Culture Village
In the midst of the bustling life of Shenzhen, the Chinese Ethnic Culture Village opens up a quiet space imbued with tradition, where 56 ethnic groups converge. The large campus is arranged like a journey through different lands, each turn is a new scene.
Sometimes you encounter curved tiled roofs hidden under the shade of bamboo, sometimes you see sturdy stilt houses with wooden stairs and rice baskets hanging on the porch, then suddenly you see a terracotta wall dyed in the old sunlight. The wind carries the smell of kitchen smoke mixed with the scent of spices, the sound of festival drums echoing from afar blends with the laughter and bright colors of the dancers passing by.
Shenzhen Museum
Located in the heart of the city, Shenzhen Museum is a place to preserve and tell the story of this young but culturally rich land. The interior space leads through regularly changing galleries, sometimes featuring rare historical artifacts, sometimes featuring innovative contemporary artworks.
Even the building is an artistic highlight, with an impressive design bearing the mark of Coop Himmelb(L)Au – a bold and different “block play” architectural style. This is where you can both broaden your horizons and fully feel the cultural pulse of Shenzhen.
TeamLab Future Park
Large and full of creativity, the Co-Creation TeamLab Future Park in Shenzhen brings an art world where the boundary between the viewer and the work almost disappears. Here, you not only stand and watch, but also touch, move and interact to become part of the living painting.
Mainland China Bus & Metro Card
The space is filled with digital effects, light, sound and color that are subtly programmed, creating scenes that change with every move or step you take. The exhibitions are regularly updated, each visit is a different journey of discovery, making TeamLab an ideal destination for those looking for an artistic experience that is both modern and engaging.
Happy Valley Park
Happy Valley Park is a diverse and attractive entertainment venue, attracting a large number of visitors with interesting entertainment experiences. With a large area of up to 350,000 square meters divided into 9 different themes and 100 unique rides, games, this amusement park offers a colorful and exciting entertainment space.
One of the unique features of Happy Valley Park is its rich entertainment. You can experience roller coasters to exciting water games. Each area of this park promises to bring you unique and memorable experiences.
Shenzhen Safari Park
Spreading over an area of about 1.2 million square meters and located next to the poetic Xili Lake, Shenzhen Safari Park is the first zoo in China to apply the natural release model, allowing more than 10,000 individuals of over 300 species to live in an environment close to nature.
It is divided into three main areas: Herbivore Area with China’s largest Swan Lake, where white and black swans leisurely swim with many gentle species such as pandas, camels, giraffes, hippos; Carnivore Area with Siberian tigers, South China tigers, lions, leopards, wolves, bears and rare hybrids such as ligers and tigons; and Performance & Entertainment Area with about 10 animal shows every day, large-scale parades and many impressive performances.
The park also owns Ocean World, a miniature ocean world with spotted dolphins, sharks, sea lions and the “Happy Ocean” show combining aerial acrobatics and underwater circus, promising to bring a vivid experience for all ages.
Fairy Lake Botanical Garden
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Fairy Lake Botanical Garden when traveling to Shenzhen. This is a wonderful natural oasis with more than 3,000 species of plants, flowers and leaves. This is not only a beautiful destination but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature.
Stepping into the garden, you will be immersed in a vast space with fresh green, mixed with the scent of flowers and leaves. The delicate scenery, from small paths to areas of blooming flowers, all create a vibrant space for you to explore.
Happy Harbor Ferris Wheel
Located on the southern coast of Bao’an, the Happy Harbor Ferris Wheel is a destination not to be missed when you want to explore the city from a height of 128 meters. With this height, you will be immersed in a large space, admiring the wonderful view of the blue sea and the whole city of Shenzhen. In particular, Happy Harbor is an integrated entertainment facility area with many exciting games and famous shopping centers.
Nanshan Mountain
Located in the south of Shenzhen, Nanshan Mountain is a destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the fresh, quiet air of the mountains and forests. With an altitude of 336 meters (at Danahan Peak), you can immerse yourself in the peaceful and relaxing space of nature.
Aqila Hot Spring Life |Diving, Games, Fruits |Near Shenzhen Bay Port
In addition, Nanshan Mountain is also famous for its paths leading to the top of the mountain, suitable for mountain climbing and trekking. At the top of the mountain, you will see a panoramic view of Shenzhen and the sea in the distance.
Dongmen Pedestrian Street
Dongmen Pedestrian Street is a unique and vibrant place in Shenzhen and always attracts visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, diverse shopping and unique culinary experiences. Located in the city center, this place is an area where you can comfortably enjoy the beautiful city scenery, shopping and enjoy unique cuisine. In addition, Dongmen Walking Street also regularly organizes art and entertainment events, creating a vibrant and attractive space.
In Gankeng Ancient Town/Directly connected to Futian Port Line 10
Shenzhen Specialty Dishes and Store Suggestions
Chang Fen – Soft and Smooth Cantonese Noodles
Shenzhen Nanyao Yijing·Palace Dining Show
Chang Fen is a thin noodle dish rolled with shrimp, meat or beef, then drizzled with a light sweet soy sauce, creating a delicate flavor that is still filling. This dish often appears in Shenzhen people’s breakfast, served with a cup of hot tea is the right way. Each portion costs only about ~70,000 VND, both delicious and affordable.
Delicious Claypot Rice
Shenzhen Xuyan – Immersive Chinese Ancient Palace Banquet
Cantonese-style claypot rice is cooked directly in a clay pot with chicken, Chinese sausage, mushrooms or dried fish, making the rice grains fragrant and firm. The crispy golden layer of burnt rice at the bottom is the “highlight” that everyone loves. When eating, drizzle a little special soy sauce to make the flavor explode. Prices usually range from ¥25 – 50 RMB (~80,000 – 160,000 VND).
Dim Sum – The Art of Exquisite Dim Sum
Dim sum in Shenzhen is a combination of dozens of types of steamed, fried, and crispy dumplings such as shrimp dumplings, char siu buns, radish cakes, etc. Each piece is compact, beautiful, and has a strong Cantonese flavor. Enjoying dim sum with hot tea is an experience not to be missed. Prices range from ¥30–80 RMB (~100,000 – 250,000 VND).
Shajing Oysters – Shenzhen’s Sea Pearl
Shajing oysters are famous for their thick meat, rich sweetness, and almost no sand. This dish can be made into fried oyster cakes, oyster porridge, grilled or fried oysters. Every year, the Shajing area also organizes the Golden Oyster Festival with a series of creative oyster dishes, attracting a large number of diners.
Durian Pancake
[Self-Service Offer] Hilton Shenzhen Futian
This dessert has a thin, soft crepe layer that wraps around the smooth, fragrant durian cream. Take a bite and the durian flavor spreads throughout your taste buds. This is the perfect choice to end a full meal. Price range: ¥25 – 40 RMB (~80,000 – 130,000 VND).
The above dishes are just a small part of the diverse and rich list of Shenzhen cuisine. Therefore, when you come here, explore more delicious dishes to fully experience the flavors of this city.
Recommended Delicious Restaurants in Shenzhen
- Laurel Restaurant (Luohu, near Dongmen/Laojie Station): Famous for its premium dim sum and crispy roast duck. Price: 450–720 RMB (~437,500–700,000 VND).
- Fan Lou (Huaqiangbei, Futian): All-day dim sum joint, with highlights like Har Gow, steamed rice rolls, and roast duck. Price: ~100 – 200 RMB (~350,000 – 700,000 VND).
- Lei Garden (MixC, Luohu): Upscale Cantonese restaurant, famous for its crispy roast pork, lobster porridge, and stewed soups. Price: ~300 – 600 RMB (~1,050,000 – 2,100,000 VND).
- Run Yuan Four Seasons Coconut Chicken (multiple branches): Local culinary icon with its sweet and fragrant coconut chicken hotpot. Price: ~100–180 RMB (~350,000–630,000 VND).
- No.79 Fisherman’s Boat Seafood Restaurant (Science Park, Nanshan) is famous for its fresh seafood, with signature dishes being deep-sea bass and salt-roasted crayfish. Price: ~180–350 RMB (~630,000–1,225,000 VND).
More local recommendations:
- Ryseasons (Run Yuan Four Seasons) – rated as the best place for coconut chicken.
- Danguixuan (丹桂轩), Libaoge (利宝阁), Liyuan (利苑) specialize in high-quality dim sum.
Cheap, Convenient, and Central Hotels in Shenzhen
- CYBO Station (klook, agoda)
- Four Points By Sheraton Shenzhen Bao’An (klook, agoda)
- Crowne Plaza Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center (klook, agoda)
- Shenzhen Luohu Dongmen SSAW (klook, agoda)
- Grand Yuntian Yue Hotel Shenzhen Shekou (klook, agoda)
Traveling to Shenzhen is not only about exploring a city but also about exploring the unique culture and history of a rapidly developing country.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Shenzhen you can refer to
- Tangzaki. Tangquan Life TENZ (Futian Port Store)
- [Shenzhen’s largest ski resort] Karoo Ice and Snow World
- [Limited time offer] Shenzhen Wildlife Park Tickets
- Tickets for Shenzhen Mission Hills Ocean World
- Lollypet Cute Pet Paradise (the cute pets come from Shenzhen Wildlife Park)
- Window of the World Ticket in Guangdong
- Happy Harbor Ferris Wheel
- Shenzhen – Hong Kong Ferry Ticket
- Glass Hammer Brewing Co. in Shenzhen, Guangdong
- Private One Way City Transfers between Shenzhen and Surrounding Areas
- Shenzhen Shekou – Macau Ferry Ticket
Read more Shenzhen travel guide here and China guide here.
