Morning: Arrive in Chongqing and check into your hotel. Begin your day with a stroll along the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, a bustling shopping and dining area known for its lively atmosphere and local shops.
Afternoon: Visit the Three Gorges Museum to learn about the history and culture surrounding the Yangtze River and the monumental Three Gorges Dam project. Afterwards, explore the nearby Ciqikou Ancient Town, a charming old neighborhood featuring traditional architecture and local crafts.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant featuring local hot pot cuisine. End your day with a scenic Yangtze River Cruise to see the dazzling city lights reflecting on the water.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a trip to Eling Park for panoramic views of Chongqing’s urban skyline and the Yangtze River. The park is a peaceful green space offering photo opportunities of classic Chongqing scenery.
Afternoon: Visit the Great Hall of the People, an impressive building inspired by traditional Chinese palatial architecture. Later, explore the vibrant Hongya Cave area, a multi-level complex built along the riverbank featuring shops, eateries, and cultural performances.
Evening: Head to the Jiefangbei Night Market to sample street food delights such as spicy skewers, dumplings, and other Sichuan-Chongqing specialties.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel from Chongqing to Chengdu by high-speed train (approximately 2 hours). After arrival, head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see pandas in a naturalistic environment and learn about conservation efforts.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the famous Three Kingdoms strategist Zhuge Liang. Nearby, explore the Jinli Ancient Street, a lively area full of traditional architecture, souvenirs, and snacks.
Evening: Experience authentic Sichuan cuisine at a local restaurant and enjoy a traditional Sichuan Opera performance featuring the famous face-changing act.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a day trip to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, carved out of a cliff face overlooking the river.
Afternoon: Return to Chengdu and relax at People’s Park, where you can join locals in tai chi or enjoy tea at one of the traditional teahouses. It’s a great place to experience everyday Chengdu life.
Evening: Conclude your stay with a leisurely walk and dining in the lively Kuan Zhai Alley, a historic district with narrow lanes lined with cafes, bars, and boutique shops.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: ¥885 (excluding optional shopping and dining expenses)
If you prefer a shorter trip, consider focusing either on Chongqing or Chengdu alone to avoid travel time between the two cities. For an extended visit, add more days to explore nearby natural attractions like Dazu Rock Carvings near Chongqing or the Tibetan villages around Chengdu. Additionally, schedule free time for spontaneous local experiences or relaxation.