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Picture of Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China

Travel Guide for
Shenzhen

China

Subtropical, humid, mild winters

Introduction

Shenzhen is a dynamic metropolis in southern Guangdong, just north of Hong Kong. Once a humble fishing village, it has rapidly grown into a tech hub and modern city, known for its innovation and youthful energy.

Visit in mid-November for pleasant, mild weather—perfect for exploring coworking spaces, vibrant cafes, or lush parks. The city blends sleek skyscrapers with traditional Cantonese culture, offering delicious cuisine and lively markets. For digital nomads, it’s affordable, convenient, and bursting with creative opportunities.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates14-20 November 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventuressightseeing and toursgastronomyfestivals and eventsarts and culturenightlife and entertainment

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Picture of Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China

Key Facts

Location

Guangdong Province, China

Currency

Renminbi (Chinese Yuan) (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Folk religions

Population

17,600,000

Language

Mandarin, Cantonese

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C/I

Time zone

UTCChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widely available; fast 4G/5G, affordable

Climate

Subtropical, humid, mild winters

See More China Facts

Language:

Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)
  • goodbye

    再见 (dzye jyen)
  • yes

    (shir)
  • no

    不是 (boo shir)
  • how much

    多少钱 (dwaw shao chyen)
  • please

    (ching)
  • thank you

    谢谢 (shyeah shyeah)
  • excuse me

    对不起 (dway boo chee)

Map

Logistics

Shenzhen is easily reached by air via Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, which has connections across China and Asia. Many digital nomads fly into Hong Kong International Airport and cross the border using the convenient MTR train or shuttle buses. High-speed trains also link Shenzhen to major Chinese cities like Guangzhou and Beijing.

For an average budget, trains and long-distance buses are affordable and efficient options from within Guangdong province and nearby cities. Ferries connect Shenzhen with Hong Kong, Macau, and Zhuhai. In mid-November, weather is pleasant and mild, so travel remains smooth with no major seasonal disruptions. Remember your visa requirements and plan border crossings accordingly.

Weather

Shenzhen has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, wet summers and mild, drier winters. From March to October, expect heavy rain, occasional typhoons, and high humidity. November to February is cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and tours.

From November 14 to November 20, Shenzhen typically enjoys mild and pleasant weather, with daily highs around 20–25°C (68–77°F) and lower humidity. Rain is uncommon, and extreme weather events are rare during this period, offering great conditions for city explorations, street food, arts festivals, and the vibrant nightlife.

Food & Drink

Shenzhen’s cuisine draws from Cantonese traditions, featuring dim sum, seafood, and local street snacks like cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) and baozi (steamed buns). You’ll find a vibrant food scene at Dongmen Food Street, while Xiasha and Coco Park offer popular international eats, cool cafes, and cozy noodle shops ideal for working or meeting friends.

Trendy spots such as Baia for Italian or Braceria Pala for pizza are favorites among expats, while Heytea and Nayuki serve inventive tea drinks. Tipping isn’t customary in Shenzhen’s restaurants—your bill usually includes service. Many eateries offer vegetarian options, though explaining dietary needs clearly is a good idea; English menus are common in major districts.

A picture of Peking Duck

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish featuring crispy duck skin, tender duck meat, and thin pancakes, all...

A picture of Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed bun (baozi) originating from Jiangsu province. Filled with hot soup and a...

A picture of Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans, all...

A picture of Hot Pot

Hot Pot

Hot Pot is a communal dining experience involving a simmering pot of flavorful broth into which various raw...

A picture of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chunks of chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and...

Accommodation

For a digital nomad on an average budget, Futian District is ideal, offering easy access to tech hubs, coworking spaces, and public transport. Visit Hotels.com to find highly-rated hotels like Fraser Suites or Shenzhen Marriott, both with reliable Wi-Fi, workspaces, and modern conveniences. Luohu is another great option, with budget-friendly hotels such as Novotel and Sunon Hotel.

Busy travel dates from November 14 to 20 mean booking early is crucial—rooms fill quickly during tech conferences and trade fairs. For the best rates, filter reviews for amenities important to remote work, like Wi-Fi speed and desk space. Explore Hotels.com for deals and free cancellation options to stay flexible.

Itinerary

Begin your Shenzhen adventure by immersing yourself in the dynamic blend of modern architecture and bustling city life, setting the tone for an energetic digital-nomad experience.

Skyline Stroll in Futian CBD

Start your Shenzhen journey in Futian Central Business District, marveling at its cutting-edge skyscrapers and bustling city plazas. Snap photos of iconic sites like the Ping An Finance Centre, and soak in the city’s energetic pace to prime you for your digital-nomad adventure.

Lunch at Coco Park Urban Village

Dive into Shenzhen’s cosmopolitan spirit with lunch at Coco Park, renowned for its trendy restaurants and lively outdoor terraces. Enjoy global cuisines and people-watching while surrounded by modern architecture in this favorite expat and digital-nomad hangout.

Private Night Tour: Discover Beijing in Bustling Lights

Private Night Tour: Discover Beijing in Bustling Lights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This is an evening private tour with English speaking guide from your hotel to many city landmarks and attractions. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful sightseeing of Beijing during the night. Your driver take you around to see through Beijing CBD, SOHO Business Street, Changan Street, Tiananmen Sqaure, Birdnest, Watercube Olypmpic park, Houhai Lake Bar Street and much more to be offered. You will find this capital city in a combination of modern and ancient.

4.9 (67 reviews)

From $88 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (1 reviews)
Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival Evening Adventure-With Ticket

Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival Evening Adventure-With Ticket

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Plan your Beijing winter tour? Don’t miss the Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival, an annual ice spectacle beloved by locals and tourists alike. Wander among 400+ intricately carved ice sculptures by Chinese and foreign artists — when illuminated at night, these frozen masterpieces turn the gorge into a glittering winter wonderland, with lit-up surrounding mountains as a stunning backdrop. Not ready for Harbin’s biting cold? This is your closer, cheaper, more comfortable alternative. Choose from two flexible packages: Driver + Entrance Fee Package: Round-trip private transport and festival entry — explore at your own relaxed pace. Guided Package: Private transport, entrance fee, and a professional English-speaking guide who accompanies you inside the scenic area to share its rich history and lead you to the best photo spots. Exclusive seasonal offer: January to late February — book now!

From $99 USD

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3.5 (87 reviews)
Beijing Roast Duck Banquet and Acrobatics Show with VIP Seats Evening Tour

Beijing Roast Duck Banquet and Acrobatics Show with VIP Seats Evening Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Dine on exquisite Chinese cuisine at a Peking Duck banquet dinner then enjoy traditional entertainment from a Chinese acrobat troupe in VIP Seat on this Beijing evening excursion.

From $144 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Beijing Private Evening Food Tour with Great Leaping Brewery Taproom Hopping

Beijing Private Evening Food Tour with Great Leaping Brewery Taproom Hopping

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience Beijing's history, best local food and a western-style brewery bar hop on a 4-hour private gourmet tour that explores the city’s most popular night life zone, traditional foods and cutting-edge cuisine. Accompanied by a tour guide, admire the night view of the Houhai lake area, explores the historical area at Shichahai, Yandaixie Street, Gulou East Street and Nanluoguxiang Allay. Savor the rich flavor of local delicacies like Traditional Beijing Noodle, "Tea Soup", Pancake, Soup Dumplings and more, gain fascinating insight into the culinary and cultural traditions of the country from your expert guide. Then Stroll around the quite Hutong neighborhood head to Great Leaping Brewery Taproom, the most famous brewery bar in town where you can enjoy aromatic craft beer on tap and meet new friends. Come hungry: your tastings amount to dinner.

From $99 USD

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5.0 (13 reviews)
Beijing Evening Tour: Chaoyang Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner

Beijing Evening Tour: Chaoyang Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a night show has become one of the most important things to do in Beijing, especially for the first time visitors. Acrobatic is one of the oldest performing arts practiced in China, and the spectacular skills honed over centuries are on display in this entertaining show. The young acrobats perform astonishing stunts and feats of dexterity that you will definitely have to see to believe. You will be watching the best Acrobatic show in Chaoyang Theater Beijing (60 minutes). In addition, have famous Peking Duck for dinner.

From $138 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Private Evening Hutong Walking Tour with Mongolia Hotpot Dinner

Private Evening Hutong Walking Tour with Mongolia Hotpot Dinner

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the hidden gems on a 3-hour private tour of the local Hutong Street, which represents an important cultural element of the city of Beijing. Visit the Only Hutong Museum to capture images of Ming and Qing Dynasties. Learn about how the city was formed. Walk along two Hutong allays where the local people live to explore markets and restaurants. Eat a Mongolian Hotpot dinner at a local restaurant along Hutong. Take home history of the Hutong culture, community, food and their life.

From $108 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)
Private Guangzhou Evening Food Tour with Pearl River Night Cruise

Private Guangzhou Evening Food Tour with Pearl River Night Cruise

MANUAL

Experience two of Guangzhou’s must-dos when you try traditional Cantonese dim sum and go for a cruise along the Pearl River. This is a private tour only for you(your group) with personal attentive care and full escort by a knowledgeable local English-speaking tour guide, hotel pick up/drop off and round way transportation between hotel and the wharf is included. Enjoy a classic Cantonese feast dinner at a traditional Cantonese "tea house" restaurant for yummy Cantonese dim sum, with the assistance from your guide, to learn about the tea culture and ordinary people's life. With your guide on hand to point out and explain important landmarks as you glide pass Guangzhou bridge, Liede bridge, Haixinsha Island(Asian Games Park), Guangzhou Opera House and more on the night cruise with top deck VIP seats on Pearl River. You can also have a stroll at Flower City Square and Haixin pedestrian bridge across the Pearl River for this night tour, and visit inside Guangzhou Library.

From $140 USD

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4.9 (10 reviews)
Private Evening Tour to Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

Private Evening Tour to Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Want to see the Great Wall under the Sunset? Come and spend your lovely evening on beautiful Simatai Great Wall. Moreover, relax yourself in the ancient Gubei Water Town (in Miyun County, Beijing). You will be surrounded by the beautiful Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir. You surely will have a very unique experience in this rare natural old town with a combination of mountains, water, ancient villages and hilly-area quadrangle dwellings. In addition, enjoy the amazing water dancing show in front of Wangjinglou.

From $188 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Beijing Evening Tour: Illuminated Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

Beijing Evening Tour: Illuminated Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour is a rare opportunity to experience two of Beijing’s most enchanting nighttime attractions in one evening. Witness the golden-lit Simatai Great Wall under starlight and immerse yourself in the vibrant nighttime energy of Gubei Water Town, complete with high-tech drone imagery and captivating water performances. Perfect for photographers, couples, or those seeking an intimate and unforgettable Chinese cultural adventure. Book now to secure your spot on this private, illuminated Great Wall & Gubei Water Town evening tour!

From $320 USD

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4.0 (1 reviews)
Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall & Chaoyang Acrobatic Show in the Evening

Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall & Chaoyang Acrobatic Show in the Evening

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This private day highlight tour will show you the UNESCO site in Beijing, one of the seven wonders in the world Mutianyu Great Wall. In addtion, you will enjoy the famous acrobatic in the envening. Private transfer, entrance fee, round way cable car or toboggan tickets on the Great Wall, Acrobatic show ticket and lunch are inclusive. Come and enjoy this wonderful day trip to get to know some interesting stories about this amazing city.

From $212 USD

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5.0 (33 reviews)
Private Summer Palace Walking Tour + Custom Scenic Route Add-Ons

Private Summer Palace Walking Tour + Custom Scenic Route Add-Ons

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

As one of Beijing’s most iconic and essential tourist landmarks, the Summer Palace perfectly fuses stunning natural scenery with profound historical heritage, offering an unmissable glimpse into China’s imperial past. Our private guided Summer Palace tours are led by a professional English-speaking guide throughout. A knowledgeable guide unlocks hidden stories of key historical figures you’d never find on your own, as you explore major architectural wonders, learn ancient gardening wisdom, and hear the legendary tales of Empress Dowager Cixi, who ruled for 48 years. We offer 8 distinct tour packages with durations from 2 to 8 hours, tailored to all your travel needs. Our flexible options cover not only the Summer Palace, but also Beijing’s top attractions including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven etc. You can choose between public transportation or private car transfers for your trip, ensuring a fully customized Beijing journey centered on the Summer Palace.

From $62 USD

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4.9 (34 reviews)
4-Hour Private Illuminated Beijing Tour with Authentic Chinese Dinner on Hutong Street

4-Hour Private Illuminated Beijing Tour with Authentic Chinese Dinner on Hutong Street

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

There's nothing quite like spending a magical evening in Beijing. On this private 4-hour evening tour, you will delight in seeing the amazing city sights all aglow. Prior to scouring the city in search of the city's illuminated beauties, experience an authentic Chinese dinner in the lively neighborhood of Hutong Street. Highlights during your panoramic tour include CCTV building, Birds Nest, Water Cube, The Place Mall, National Theatre and Tiananmen square. Finally, enjoy a stroll around the handsome Houhai Lake area. Hotel pickup within the 4th ring road and transport by private vehicle are included.

From $115 USD

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3.8 (6 reviews)
3-Hour Private Walking Tour including Monk Blessing Ceremony at Lama Temple

3-Hour Private Walking Tour including Monk Blessing Ceremony at Lama Temple

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Would you like to have a special spiritual experience in Beijing? Come and join this interesting culture walking tour. Your friendly private guide showcases you both Lame Temple and Temple of Confucius (Imperial Collage), two most iconic temples of Beijing. In the Lama Temple, experience a Monk Blessing Ceremony for good wishes, luck, happiness and etc. In additions, you will visit Wudaoyin Hutong to see the Beijing local neighborhood area.

From $85 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
3-Hour Private Shopping Tour at Panjiayuan Market from Beijing

3-Hour Private Shopping Tour at Panjiayuan Market from Beijing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a private shopping tour to one of the most unique shopping market in Beijing- Panjiayuan Flea Market, the mother of all "antique" markets, home to over 3,000 dealers who scour the countryside in search of antiques, family heirlooms and curios. Travel by subway to this popular market, shopping like a local. Your tour guide will show you how to use bargaining skills to snag items at a cheaper price.

From $68 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
3-Hour Private Hutong Walking Tour with Drum Show at Drum Tower and Tea Tasting

3-Hour Private Hutong Walking Tour with Drum Show at Drum Tower and Tea Tasting

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take a morning or afternoon 3-Hour walking tour at ancient Beijing Hutongs. Stroll around the Houhai Lake area, walk along small alleys, explore the Tobacco Street (Yandaixie Street) with interesting stores, clime up to the Drum Tower to watch a 20-minute drumming performance. Then sit down and enjoy a Tea Ceremony at a tea house inside Bell Tower.

From $72 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Explore the Hutongs at Houhai Lake area with the imperial afternoon Tea.

Explore the Hutongs at Houhai Lake area with the imperial afternoon Tea.

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Visit the best-preserved Hutongs area with a unique Royal Afternoon Tea experience. Professional licensed English tour guide has been included; Hotel pick-up & Hotel drop-off included; Stress-free with a flexible schedule as your request

From $75 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Beijing Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and 798 Art District

Beijing Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and 798 Art District

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this full-day Beijing Private tour, you will see the most popular attractions in China: the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall and the new landmarks of Beijing Urban Culture--798 art district. Mutianyu section of the Great Wall enjoys less tourists making it easier to access and enjoy. Drive from the Wall to the 798 you will enjoy beautiful countryside view of the city. The 798 art district, the famous for its unique art exhibition and special creation workshop. Galleries, design studios, art exhibition spaces, artists' studios, fashionable shops, restaurants, bars etc.. This is a private tour so the tour is at your own pace.

From $71 USD

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4.8 (12 reviews)
Beijing Exclusive Private Shopping Tour: Curated Just for You

Beijing Exclusive Private Shopping Tour: Curated Just for You

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join this private, customized, 5-6 hour shopping tour with a personal shopper in Beijing. This massive, capital city of China is not only famous for historical and cultural sights, it's also well know for its fantastic shopping opportunities. A local, personal shopper will design a creative shopping itinerary based on personal interests and budget. Choose a shopping destination, such as the Panjiayuan flea market, Beijing Glasses City, Liulichang Antique Street, Xi Dan Shopping Area, and much more.

From $118 USD

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4.7 (12 reviews)
All Inclusive Private Beijing Tour: Ming Tombs, Sacred Way and Summer Palace

All Inclusive Private Beijing Tour: Ming Tombs, Sacred Way and Summer Palace

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Looking to soak up authentic Beijing imperial history and culture in one unforgettable day? Book our all-inclusive private tour — and explore the Ming Tombs, Sacred Way, and Summer Palace, hassle-free. Step back into the Ming Dynasty as you wander the hauntingly beautiful Ming Tombs, the final resting place of 13 emperors, where ancient architecture and serene landscapes whisper tales of imperial grandeur. Then stroll the Sacred Way, flanked by imposing stone statues of mythical beasts and royal officials, crafted to guard the tombs for eternity. Cap off your day at the magnificent Summer Palace — a sprawling imperial retreat of lush gardens, ornate temples, and tranquil lakes, where emperors once escaped the summer heat. With a knowledgeable local guide by your side, you’ll uncover hidden stories and fascinating insights at every turn, turning a simple tour into a deeply immersive dive into Beijing’s imperial past.

From $151 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Beijing Private Customized Shopping and City Sightseeing Tour

Beijing Private Customized Shopping and City Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Crave a Beijing trip that blends iconic sights, top-tier shopping, and authentic flavors—all on your terms? Our private customized tour is tailored just for you and your group, letting you craft the perfect day without compromises. Pick 1-2 must-visit landmarks that spark your interest: choose from the Forbidden City (tickets require 7-day advance booking), the majestic Summer Palace, or the sacred Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple or charming hutongs. Immerse in culture with a thrilling acrobatics show, Kungfu performance, or classic Peking Opera. Between sightseeing, dive into Beijing’s vibrant shopping scene: hunt for luxury brands in Sanlitun, trendy fashion in Xidan, or bargain for pearls, silk, and souvenirs at Hongqiao Market. Fuel your adventure with local delicacies—savor Peking duck, savory hot pot, or other local dishes. With a dedicated chauffeur and professional guide by your side, we handle all logistics. This is your Beijing—see it, shop it, savor it, exactly how you want.

From $113 USD

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