Dalian Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-hour Layover Highlights

Morning: Arrive at Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport. Take Metro Line 2 directly to Dalian Train Station or Qingniwaqiao. Explore Zhongshan Square on foot, admiring its historic European-style architecture.

Wander through Russian Street and Japanese Street for unique photo opportunities and a glimpse into colonial history. Lunch: Enjoy local Dongbei cuisine or fresh dumplings at an eatery near Qingniwaqiao or Tianjin Street.

Afternoon to Evening

Afternoon: Take Metro Line 2 to Xinghai Square. Walk around Asia's largest city square, enjoy the coastal views, and stroll along parts of Xinghai Park.
Evening: Head to a seafood restaurant near Xinghai Square or back in the city center for a fresh Dalian meal.
Return to the airport via Metro Line 2 for your onward journey. Book short experiences on GetYourGuide.

Weekend & Week-Long Trips

Plan a comprehensive visit for a weekend or a full week.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Day 1 (Main Attractions of the city & History): Start at Zhongshan Square, explore Russian and Japanese Streets. Visit Dalian Modern Museum or Natural History Museum. Stroll Tianjin Street. Dinner in Qingniwaqiao. Consider Labor Park or KTV.

Coastal Exploration & Leisure

Day 2 (Coastal & Marine Life): Dedicate the day to Laohutan Ocean Park (5-6 hours).
Explore its various aquariums, animal shows, and the bird park.
Late Afternoon: Explore the charming Fisherman's Wharf, adjacent to Laohutan.
Evening: Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the restaurants near Tiger Beach.

Day 3: Leisurely morning at Xinghai Square and Xinghai Park. Consider renting a bicycle for a ride. Enjoy brunch. Depart.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

Combine the Weekend Getaway with extra excursions for seven days of exploration.

Extended Exploration

Day 4 (Lushun History): Full day trip to Lushun (Port Arthur), including museum, prison, and battlefield site.
Day 5 (Golden Pebble Beach Adventure): Metro Line 3 to Jinshitan. Explore Golden Pebble Stone Forest, Discoveryland Theme Park, or beach.
Day 6 (Culture & Local Life): Dalian Natural History Museum. Explore a local wet market. Ride historic Tram Line 201. Traditional Dongbei dinner.

Two-Week In-depth Exploration

For an extended stay, combine the comprehensive Dalian week itinerary with multi-day extensions to other Northeast China cities.

Dive into the Region

Combine with Shenyang and Harbin (especially in winter for the ice festival).
Within Dalian, spend more time exploring specific neighborhoods and trying different restaurants.
Venture into the surrounding natural areas.
This enables a deep exploration of the region's culture and history.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays of several weeks or months, a more local living experience is possible.

Immersive Living

Consider renting an apartment for a more local living experience.
Engage in courses in a language at a local university.
Explore local life by frequenting neighborhood markets, community parks, and casual eateries.
This permits a more immersive and less tourist-focused experience.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

Dalian makes a good starting point for a Northeast Heritage AND Culture Trail or a Seaside Relaxation & History route.

Northeast History

Day 1-3: Dalian. Day 4-5: Shenyang. Day 6-7: Changchun. Day 8-10: Harbin.

Coastal Relaxation

Day 1-3: Dalian. Day 4: Ferry to Yantai. Day 5-6: Qingdao. Day 7+: Further South.

Transportation Tips

High-speed rail connects Dalian to Shenyang, Changchun, Harbin, and Beijing. Overnight ferries go to Yantai/Tianjin.

Planning Remark

When planning multi-day extensions, especially during peak travel seasons, book your high-speed train tickets and accommodation well in advance. This prevents disappointment and helps secure better rates.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Dalian itinerary to your specific interests.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Explore Dalian's rich past and architectural layers.

Historical Sites

Spend ample time in Dalian City Center: Zhongshan Square, Russian Street, Japanese Street.
Dedicate a full day to Lushun (Port Arthur) and its poignant historical sites.
Visit the Dalian Modern Museum for context on the city's development.
Walk through older districts and observe the diverse architectural styles.

Lushun offers a distinct historical narrative contrasting with Dalian's commercial growth.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Savor Dalian's fresh seafood and Northeastern cuisine.

Culinary Exploration

Visit local seafood markets (e.g., near Dalian Port) and dine at places to eat that cook your fresh purchases.
Explore street food stalls at night markets for roasted squid, jianbing, and skewers.
Dine at various Dongbei cuisine restaurants to try dishes like Guobaorou and Di San Xian.
Consider taking a cooking class focusing on Dalian seafood or Northeastern dishes, if offered.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Embrace Dalian's coastal and natural landscapes for active pursuits.

Outdoor Exploration

Spend a full day walking or cycling along the extensive Binhai Road, exploring its viewpoints and beaches.
Discover coastal areas and beaches like Xinghai, Fujiazhuang, and Golden Pebble Beach for relaxation or water activities (in summer).
Consider hiking in nearby hills, like Qipanshan Scenic Area, for more challenging trails.
Visit Discoveryland Theme Park (at Golden Pebble Beach) for an adrenaline rush rides and amusement.

Discoveryland Theme Park offers amusement and thrills.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Organize a journey that delights travelers of all ages.

Family Fun in Dalian

Prioritize Laohutan Ocean Park and Dalian Forest Zoo for animal encounters and shows.
Enjoy Xinghai Park, which features amusement rides alongside its green spaces and beach.
Dedicate a day to Golden Pebble Beach, especially Discoveryland Theme Park, and beach time.
Look for hotels with family rooms or pools, and utilize serviced apartments with kitchenettes.

Art and Architecture Emphasis

Explore Dalian's unique blend of historical and modern structures.

Architectural Exploration

Focus on Zhongshan Square's colonial buildings, watching the details of each structure.
Explore Russian and Japanese Avenues for their distinct architectural styles.
Check the schedule for performances at Dalian Grand Theatre.
Visit the Dalian Art Gallery for Chinese art exhibitions.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Find tranquility and rejuvenation in Dalian's serene settings.

Wellness & Contemplation

Include going to see local Buddhist temples for quiet contemplation and observing local religious practices.
Indulge in traditional Chinese massage or foot reflexology sessions.
Consider a day trip to a hot spring resort like Anbo Hot During spring for relaxation and thermal baths.
Participate in early morning tai chi or qigong sessions in local parks alongside residents.

Budget-Based Plans

Tailor your Dalian trip to your monetary comfort.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize your experience while minimizing costs.

Cost-Saving Tips

Accommodation: Stay in hostels or budget chain hotels (Hanting, Home Inn).
Food: Rely on street food, local noodle/dumpling shops, and supermarket groceries.
Transportation: Exclusively use the Dalian Metro, buses, and trams (very affordable).
Activities: Focus on Dalian's plenty of free attractions: Xinghai Square, Zhongshan Square, Binhai Road walks, city parks. Many museums have free entry.

Prioritize free attractions and local eateries for savings.

Mid-range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort and exploration without overspending.

Balanced Travel

Accommodation: Stay in 3-4 star hotels (e.g., Hotel Nikko, Citadines).
Food: Enjoy a mix of mid-range restaurants offering various Chinese regional cuisines, supplemented by local eateries and occasional street food.
Transportation: Utilize public transport frequently, but use taxis or Didi Chuxing for convenience when needed.
Activities: Include major attractions with entrance fees like Laohutan Ocean Park and Golden Pebble Beach, alongside free sites.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive experiences.

Accommodation

Stay in 5-star hotels (e.g., Grand Hyatt, Shangri-La).
Enjoy premium services and amenities.
Access to hotel spas, pools, and concierge.

Dining & Transport

Dine at fine dining restaurants within luxury hotels and high-end seafood establishments.
Rely on private cars or taxis for most movements, or book chauffeured services.
Consider private guided tours, exclusive experiences, and activities like golf at Golden Pebble Beach.

Value-focused Recommendations

Maximize your Dalian experience without compromising on quality or budget.

Smart Saving Strategies

Travel during shoulder or low season to secure better prices for flights and accommodation.
Utilize public transport extensively; it offers excellent value.
Eat at local restaurants and try street food for authentic flavors at low cost.
Look for combined tickets or passes for attractions if offered; they offer savings.

Seasonal Specialties

Dalian changes with the seasons, offering unique experiences depending on when you visit.

Seasonal Experiences

Summer (July-August): Prime time for beach activities, swimming, and water sports at Xinghai, Fujiazhuang, and Golden Pebble beaches.
Winter (December-February): Embrace the crisp, dry air. Focus on cozy indoor activities like visiting museums and aquariums. Enjoy hearty hot pot meals.
Festival or Event-centered Visits: Plan your trip around specific happenings such as the Dalian International Fashion Festival (September) or Cherry Blossom Festivals (April-May).
Off-season Exploration: Traveling during the off-season (e.g., winter or early spring/late autumn) means smaller crowds and better deals.

Final Travel Consideration

Do Not Overschedule

Allow for spontaneous discoveries, relaxed meals, and time to simply observe local life.

Be Prepared

Dress warmly for winter visits and expect warmer, humid weather with potential for rain in summer.

Enjoy Your Journey

Dalian offers a variety of experiences tailored to different interests and budgets. Enjoy exploring this stunning city!

Dalian Itineraries