The Best Chongqing Tour Itinerary

3-Day Chongqing Tour

Plan your Chongqing tour? Embark on an unforgettable journey through Chongqing, a city teeming with cultural vibrancy and scenic splendor. This comprehensive guide, the Best Chongqing Tour Itinerary, is specially crafted for first-time international travelers.

It balances cultural immersion with breathtaking natural experiences. You’ll find tips to optimize your adventure. From navigating the city’s historical landmarks to savoring its culinary delights, this itinerary ensures a well-rounded and enchanting exploration of Chongqing’s treasures.

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion

Morning

Begin your Best Chongqing Tour Itinerary with Ciqikou Ancient Town （磁器口古镇）. This historic area, with its roots in the Ming and Qing dynasties, offers a picturesque walk-through time.

Wander its narrow streets, lined with charming teahouses and artisan shops. Discover the rich tapestry of local history and culture, embodied in every turn. Temples here reveal stories of the past, inviting a deeper understanding of Chongqing’s heritage.

Lunch ( On your own )

Experience the authentic taste of Chongqing with a Sichuan cuisine lunch. These dishes, with their bold flavors, epitomize the local culinary spirit. Relish this meal in Ciqikou, surrounded by the town’s historical ambiance.

Afternoon

Visit the Chongqing Three Gorges Museum in the afternoon. This museum is a treasure trove of regional history and culture. Explore exhibits that tell the story of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges Dam.

The museum’s artifacts and multimedia presentations offer a unique insight into the area’s past and present.

Next, head to Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street （解放碑步行街）. This bustling hub pulses with the life of Chongqing. It’s a shopper’s paradise, filled with stores, local snack stalls, and captivating street performances. Absorb the energy of the city as you stroll through this vibrant area.

Dinner (Chongqing Hotpot) Paid on your own

Dine at a renowned restaurant in Hongya Cave （洪崖洞） for an authentic Chongqing hotpot experience. Choose from a wide array of meats, vegetables, and spices. This meal is not just about the food; it’s a cultural immersion, offering a taste of local life and customs.

Evening

Conclude your day at Hongya Cave（洪崖洞） This enchanting area, with its traditional stilted houses, comes alive at night.

The area offers an atmospheric blend of cultural experiences and beautiful riverfront views. Street performances add to the charm of the evening, providing a perfect backdrop to the panoramic city vistas.

After the dinner, you are transferred back to your hotel in Chongqing.

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Day 2: Nature and Scenic Explorations

Morning

Embark on an enchanting one-day side trip from the bustling metropolis of Chongqing to the serene and culturally rich Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey begins with a scenic two-hour drive, approximately 100 kilometers through the rolling hills and tranquil countryside, offering glimpses of rural life along the way.

Amidst serene natural surroundings, explore the various clusters of these ancient sculptures, each telling a unique spiritual story.

Lunch ( Paid on your own )

Enjoy a traditional countryside-style lunch near the Dazu Rock Carvings. Savor local flavors, with dishes prepared from fresh, regional produce. This meal offers a delightful taste of rural Chongqing cuisine, highlighting the simplicity and authenticity of local cooking.

Afternoon

After lunch, immerse yourself in the spiritual and artistic wonder of the Dazu Rock Carvings. These ancient sculptures, dating back to the 9th century, are intricately carved into the cliffs, depicting Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist deities, along with scenes of daily life. Marvel at the craftsmanship and the stories etched into stone, reflecting the rich spiritual history of China.

Late Afternoon

As the day draws to a close, take a leisurely drive back to Chongqing, carrying with you memories of a day steeped in culture, history, and the tranquil beauty of China’s ancient art. This private tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration, all within a day’s journey.

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Day 3: River Discovery and Cultural Encounters

Morning

Experience the majestic Yangtze River with a morning cruise. This journey offers stunning views of Chongqing’s skyline and the surrounding natural beauty.

The cruise highlights the unique landscapes and riverside scenes, including impressive karst formations, providing a picturesque start to your day.

Lunch ( Paid on your own )

Enjoy lunch aboard the cruise, with panoramic views of the river. The menu features a variety of Chinese specialties and international options. This dining experience, set against the backdrop of the Yangtze, offers both culinary delight and scenic pleasure.

Afternoon

Your afternoon starts with the Chongqing Zoo. This visit allows you to witness a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic giant panda.

The zoo is a window into China’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Observe red pandas, and various species of indigenous and exotic animals in well-maintained habitats.

Today’s tour ends with a visit to Eling Park（鹅岭公园） for panoramic city views.

Witness the unique sight of a train passing through a residential building at Liziba Metro Station (李子坝站). These experiences offer a unique perspective of Chongqing’s urban layout and architectural ingenuity.

After the trip to Eling Park, you are transferred back to your hotel in Chongqing.

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Booking or Inquiry Form

If you are interested in this tour or have any questions, please fill out the form below to submit your booking or inquiry. Our travel consultants will contact you within one business day to provide further details and personalized service.

Submit the form now to plan your “Chongqing 3-Day Tour” adventure!

General Tips for Visiting Chongqing

• Best Time to Visit: Ideal visiting months are March to May and September to November. During these times, the weather is mild, perfect for exploring.
• Tourist Scams: Stay alert for potential scams, especially in tourist hotspots. Avoid unofficial tour guides and verify prices beforehand.
• Meals: Dive into the world of Sichuan cuisine. The famous Chongqing hotpot is a must-try, as are street foods like dan dan noodles.
• Accommodation: Stay in Jiefangbei or Yuzhong district for convenient access to most attractions. The city offers diverse lodging options.
• Transportation: Chongqing’s metro and taxi services make city navigation easy. Consider private transportation for outskirt attractions.
• Airport and Railway: Jiangbei International Airport is your gateway to Chongqing. The city’s high-speed rail network, particularly Chongqing North Station, connects you to the rest of China.

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By following this Best Chongqing tour itinerary, first-time international travelers can fully experience Chongqing’s cultural and natural offerings, making for a truly enriching travel experience.