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July 25, 2025
7-Day Guilin Travel Guide for Couples: Nature, Culture & Romance
Explore Guilin's breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences for two
Nature LoversCouples TravelMid-Range Budget
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 桂林
Location: Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
Famous For: Karst mountain landscapes,Li River cruises,Lingui rice noodles
Daily Cost: $80-120 USD
Best Season: April-October
Introduction: Why visit Guilin?
Guilin stands as a paradise for nature enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Its iconic karst peaks rising from crystal-clear waters create a living Chinese painting. The city combines natural wonders with cultural experiences, offering couples both adventure and tranquility. From gentle river cruises to scenic cycling routes, Guilin provides perfect settings for memorable moments.
Best time to visit Guilin
Ideal Seasons: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer perfect weather
🌱Spring: Mild temperatures (18-25°C) with blooming flowers along the Li River, ideal for outdoor activities
☀️Summer: Hot and humid (28-35°C) with frequent rain showers, but great for rafting experiences
🍁Autumn: Cool breezes (20-28°C) and golden rice fields, offering optimal photography conditions
❄️Winter: Cool (10-18°C) with fewer crowds, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking romantic solitude
Arriving and leaving Guilin
Metro lines 1 & 2 cover key areas. Bike rentals (¥20/day) available near Li River. Ride-hailing apps like Didi cost ¥10-30 for short trips. River cruises require advance booking.
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport [Recommended]
40km northwest of city center, handles 200+ international flights weekly. Taxi to city: 30 minutes, ¥200-250. Airport Express buses available at ¥90
Guilin Railway Station
Mainline trains connect to Guangzhou (3.5h), Shanghai (10h), and Kunming (5h). Taxis available at station with fares ¥40-60 depending on destination
Where to stay in Guilin: Best Neighborhoods
Xiufeng District
Perfect for first-time visitors with proximity to Elephant Trunk Hill and 2-night river cruises. Offers mid-range boutique hotels and easy access to nightlife.
Lingui New District
Modern area near airport highway with 4-star hotels and wellness spas. Ideal for couples seeking comfortable bases with easy transportation links.
Top Things to do in Guilin
Li River Cruise
The 60km UNESCO-listed waterway journey from Guilin to Yangshuo reveals iconic sights like Nine Horseshoe Shoal and Yellow Cloth Reflection. Morning mist creates magical atmosphere.
Elephant Trunk Hill
Guilin's symbol features a natural rock arch resembling an elephant drinking water. The hill illuminates beautifully at night with seasonal light shows.
Longji Rice Terraces
23km southeast of Longsheng, these centuries-old terraced fields create stunning patterns. Visit Zhuang and Yao villages for cultural immersion and traditional tea ceremonies.
Tips
Book river cruises in advance during peak seasons. Bring waterproof phone cases for rafting adventures. Early morning excursions offer best photography opportunities.
What to eat: Guilin food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Yangshuo Beer Fish Restaurant
Riverside dining with Yangshuo-style beer-steamed fish. Enjoy sunset views from the second floor terrace. Reservations recommended for evening meals.
2. Guilin Ancient Mansion Restaurant
Dine in a restored traditional mansion with signature dishes like beggar's chicken and osmanthus duck. Offers private dining rooms for special occasions.
Signature Dishes
1. Guilin Rice Noodles
Soft rice noodles served in savory broth with pork, vegetables, and pickled toppings. Try morning bowls at locally recommended spots like Qingting Rice Noodles.
2. Bamboo-Tube Rice
Glutinous rice cooked with peanuts and red dates inside bamboo sections. Available from street vendors near West Street Market.
Guilin 7-Day Itinerary for Couples
DAY 1
Visit Elephant Trunk Hill:Explore Guilin's symbol with walking trails and observation decks
🥗Lunch at Guilin Rice Noodle Workshop:Authentic local dining experience
Stroll along Lijiang Waterside Walkway:Scenic riverside promenade with view of city landmarks
🍽️Dinner at Ancient Mansion Restaurant:Traditional mansion turned fine dining establishment
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at hotel followed by Li River Cruise boarding:4-hour scenic journey through karst landscapes
🥗Lunch in Yangshuo:Scenic riverside dining options
Bike rental and cycling along West Street:Charming shopping and dining street with local crafts
Guilin Travel FAQs
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