Central Guilin lies on the western bank of the south-flowing Li River, though its suburbs spread in all directions. Various peaks are scattered around the centre, but tall buildings render them invisible from ground level and of no use for orientation. Parallel with the river and about 500m west, Zhongshan Lu is the main street, running north for 4km or so from the train station past a knot of accommodation and services, the long-distance bus station and on through the centre. The main roads which cross it are Nanhuan Lu, Ronghu Lu and adjoining Shanhu Lu, and Jiefang Lu, all of which stretch for at least 1km west across town from Binjiang Lu, the riverside promenade.

Guilin's busy Liangjiang International Airport is 20km west of the city, connected to the CAAC office on Shanghai Lu by airport bus (¥15) and taxi (about ¥75). The train station is very central, set at the back of a large square off Zhongshan Lu, within striking distance of accommodation and places of interest. Minibuses from Yangshuo also congregate at the front of the train station, though this is illegal and police sometimes move them on to other drop-off points. Most of Guilin's sights are close enough to walk to, others can be easily reached on public buses, or by taxi (a fixed ¥10-12 fare within the city limits).

The city is unusual in China in having an independent, English-speaking tourism advice service, which offers general information as well as making bookings for tours, transport and accommodation. They have booths at the airport and outside the train station, or call 2827491.