Dali

Dali has strong UV rays and a noticeable temperature difference between morning and evening. It is a place that suits a slower pace: there is often a breeze by Erhai Lake, and the lanes of the old town still carry the everyday warmth of local life. Below is a city travel reference organized by itinerary, accommodation, transport, and practical notes to help you plan your time and reduce unnecessary back-and-forth.

Classic 3–5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1 Arrival and First Look at the Old Town: After arriving in Dali, check in at your hotel first, then head to Dali Old Town in the afternoon or evening. You can listen to folk music on Renmin Road, try grilled rushan cheese and cold chicken rice noodles, and feel the everyday atmosphere of the old town.

• Day 2 Cycling the West Side of Erhai Lake: There is no need to set out too early. You can rent an electric scooter and go to the Erhai Ecological Corridor. A possible route is from Longkan Wharf to the S-bend at Panxi Village or to the covered bridge, enjoying lake views, the breeze, and photos along the way before returning to the old town to rest in the evening.
• Day 3 Sunset on the East Side of Erhai Lake: Choose a chartered car or rental car to travel around Haidong. During the day, you can visit Ideal Land to see Santorini-style architecture, then go to Wenbi Village for the rainbow road and cafés. In the evening, wait for sunset at Shuanglang Ancient Town or Yunxiang Mountain.
• Day 4 Xizhou Countryside and Cangshan Mountain: In the morning, go to Xizhou Ancient Town to see the rice fields and try Bai tie-dye. In the afternoon, take a cable car up Cangshan Mountain for panoramic views of Erhai Lake, or enjoy the cool air brought by the alpine rhododendron blooms.
• Day 5 Slow Life in Shaxi Ancient Town (Optional): If you have enough time, you can arrange a trip to Shaxi Ancient Town to experience an even slower old-town rhythm. Alternatively, visit the Sanyue Street market before preparing for your return journey.

Where to Stay

• Near Dali Old Town: This area offers a good balance of budget and convenience, with plenty of dining, shopping, and transport options. It suits travelers who want activities available at night as well. Staying just outside the old town, such as near the South Gate or North Gate, is more recommended, as it reduces the inconvenience of carrying luggage in areas where motor vehicles are not allowed.

• Longkan Wharf/Cai Village: Close to Erhai Lake and suitable for those planning to watch the sunrise in the early morning. However, it is relatively quiet at night, and some road sections have no streetlights.

• Shuanglang Ancient Town: Suitable for those who want to stay in a sea-view room and watch the sunset, with better waterfront scenery. However, accommodation is relatively more expensive, and it is also farther from the city center and the old town.

• Xizhou Ancient Town: The commercial atmosphere is relatively light, and the sense of local life is more obvious. The environment is quiet, making it suitable for travelers who prefer rural scenery and a slower pace.

Must-Try Food Recommendations

Transport Guide

• Getting to Dali: After taking the high-speed train to Dali Station, you can take Bus 18 or a taxi to the old town. If you arrive by plane at Dali Fengyi Airport, you can take a bus or taxi into the city.
• Getting Around Erhai Lake:
  • Haixi (Ecological Corridor): You can rent an electric scooter for about 60–80 yuan per day. Note that externally rented e-scooters cannot enter the Ecological Corridor itself. They should be parked outside the entrance, after which you can walk or switch to a shared bicycle inside the corridor.
  • Haidong: The distances are longer and there are more slopes, so renting a car, hiring a car, or taking taxis is more suitable. If you ride an electric scooter, it can be physically tiring and the battery range may not be enough.
  • Travel Reminder: During peak season, self-driving around Erhai Lake is not recommended, as traffic jams and parking difficulties are common. The informal “5 yuan per person” vehicles soliciting passengers near the railway station are also not recommended, as they may take you to remote places or involve shopping promotions.

Practical Notes

• Sun Protection and Temperature Difference: UV rays in Dali are very strong, so sunscreen is recommended, along with sunglasses and a hat. The temperature difference between day and night is noticeable, so even in summer it is useful to bring a light jacket for the evening.
• Cycling Safety: On some village roads in Haixi, vehicles and riders share the road. Ride electric scooters slowly and wear a helmet. Do not stop in the middle of the road just to take photos.
• Photo Fees: People who actively approach you for photos inside scenic areas may ask for a high fee afterward. If you need the service, confirm the price in advance, or take your own photos. Be cautious as well with low-priced “one-day tours” advertised by the roadside.
• Altitude Sickness: Dali is about 2,000 meters above sea level, and most people will not experience serious altitude sickness. If you go to Ximatan on Cangshan Mountain, which is above 3,900 meters, move slowly and avoid strenuous exercise.
• Bargaining Habits: When buying fruit at markets, purchasing handicrafts in ancient towns, or trying tie-dye, it is acceptable to bargain to a reasonable extent.