Dali Itineraries: Your Perfect Yunnan Trip Planner
Tailoring Your Dali Adventure
Planning a trip to Dali, China? This guide offers several Dali itinerary options to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you have 2 days, 3 days, or 4 days, we’ll provide a Dali travel plan to suit your interests and budget. For a complete overview, see our main guide to Dali: A Tranquil Escape in Yunnan.
When crafting your perfect Dali itinerary, consider these factors:
- Interests: Are you interested in history, culture, nature, or a combination of everything? Dali offers diverse experiences, from exploring ancient towns to hiking in the mountains.
- Time: How many days do you have? This will determine how much you can see and do. A 2-day Dali itinerary will focus on the highlights, while a 4-day trip allows for more in-depth exploration and side trips.
- Budget: Dali offers options for all budgets, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Consider your accommodation preferences, dining choices, and transportation costs.
2-Day Dali Highlights Itinerary
This Dali 2 day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the main attractions.
Day 1: Dali Old Town, Three Pagodas
Start your day exploring Exploring Dali Old Town: A Guide to Ancient Charm. Wander through the ancient streets, admire the traditional Bai architecture, and browse the local shops. In the afternoon, visit The Three Pagodas of Dali: A Historical Landmark Guide, a symbol of Dali’s rich history.
Day 2: Erhai Lake Cruise, Cangshan Mountain
Take a morning cruise on Erhai Lake: A Scenic Journey Around Dali’s Jewel. Enjoy the stunning scenery and learn about the local culture. In the afternoon, ascend Cangshan Mountain: Hiking and Cable Car Adventures in Dali by cable car for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.
3-Day Erhai Lake & Culture Itinerary
This Dali 3 day itinerary combines the highlights with a deeper dive into the local culture.
Day 1: Dali Old Town
Spend a full day exploring Dali Old Town. Visit the Foreigner Street, Renmin Road, and the South Gate. Enjoy the local cuisine and soak up the atmosphere.
Day 2: Erhai Lake Cycling, Xizhou Village
Rent a bicycle and cycle along the shores of Erhai Lake. Stop at Xizhou Village, a traditional Bai village known for its well-preserved architecture.
Day 3: Bai Culture Experience, Local Markets
Immerse yourself in Bai Culture in Dali: Traditions, Festivals, and Villages. Visit a local market to experience the vibrant colors and flavors of Dali. Consider taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Bai dishes.
4-Day Dali & Surrounding Areas Itinerary
This Dali 4 day itinerary allows you to explore beyond Dali and discover the surrounding areas.
Day 1: Dali Old Town
Explore Dali Old Town at your own pace. Visit the local museums and art galleries. Enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the many cafes or bars.
Day 2: Erhai Lake
Spend the day exploring Erhai Lake. Take a boat trip to one of the islands, go fishing, or simply relax on the beach.
Day 3: Shaxi Ancient Town
Take a day trip to Shaxi Ancient Town: A Hidden Gem Near Dali, a well-preserved ancient trading post located about 2.5 hours from Dali. Explore the town’s ancient streets, temples, and bridges.
Day 4: Lijiang (optional)
Consider an optional day trip to Lijiang, another popular tourist destination in Yunnan Province. Lijiang is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Note that the journey to Lijiang takes approximately 2-3 hours by bus or train.
Customizing Your Itinerary
These are just suggested itineraries. Feel free to customize them to fit your own interests and preferences. You can spend more time in one place or add other activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, or visiting local farms. Don’t forget to check out our Dali Food Guide: Exploring Yunnan Flavors and Accommodation in Dali: Hotels, Guesthouses, and Lakeside Retreats for more inspiration.
