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How to Get to Dalian

How to Get to Dalian

Dalian Liaoning, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport DLC

This is the primary airport serving Dalian, situated approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) northwest of the city center. It manages both domestic and international flights, working as a significant gateway to the region. The airport has undergone expansions to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.

Airlines & Routes

  • Domestic Flights: Major Chinese airlines run extensive routes to nearly all major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu).
  • International Flights: Direct flights mainly to regional hubs like Seoul (Incheon), Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, and Fukuoka.
  • Global Hubs: For travelers from North America, Europe, etc., a direct flight typically lacks availability. A layover in a major Chinese city (PEK, PVG) or East Asian hub (ICN, NRT) is usually necessary.

Airport Transfers & Facilities

Getting from Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport to the city center or your accommodation stands straightforward with several convenient options. Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport is a range of standard airport facilities for travelers.

Transfer Options

  • Metro: Metro Line 2 directly links the airport to city center stops (Qingniwaqiao, Zhongshan Square, Dalian North Railway Station). This ranks as the easiest and affordable option.
  • Airport Bus Buses: Several routes connect DLC to various locations in Dalian, including large hotels and the central railway station.
  • Taxis: Readily available outside arrivals. A ride to downtown usually costs ¥30-50. Present your destination written in Chinese characters.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices may shift considerably. They commonly rise during Chinese national holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Liberation Day) and domestic summer vacations (July-August). Booking flights well in advance carries strong suggestion for these peak travel seasons.

Airport Connectivity

Wi-Fi exists throughout the airport, though accessing international websites may call for a VPN. Currency exchange and ATMs are available, accepting international cards.

Flight Deals

Consider signing up for newsletters from services like Dollar Flight Club or using flight aggregators like Skyscanner to monitor price changes and find affordable fares.

Land Transportation: Trains & Buses

Train Connections

  • Dalian North Railway Station: Primary hub for high-speed trains (G/D-trains). Connections to Beijing (4-5 hrs), Shenyang (1.5-2 hrs), Harbin, Changchun.
  • Dalian Railway Station: Closer to city center, handles conventional and slower D-trains.
  • Booking: Purchase via Trip.com/Ctrip, railway stations (with a passport), or authorized agents. Booking in advance represents an absolute necessity.
  • High-speed rail brings comfort, speed, and reliability.

Long-Distance Buses

  • Bus Stations: Several long-distance bus stations for connections toin Liaoning Province and adjoining regions.
  • Alternatives: Buses are slower and less comfortable than high-speed trains but may serve as a beneficial another option for non-rail destinations or shorter regional trips.
  • Verification: Verify the specific bus station for your destination when you reserve.
  • Self-driving in China typically carries no suggestion for most foreign tourists due to licensing and traffic.

Road Conditions & Self-Driving

Driving License

A Chinese driving license is necessary to operate a car in China. Foreign driving licenses or International Driving Permits (IDPs) hold no validity. Obtaining a temporary Chinese license is a bureaucratic process.

Roads & Traffic

Major roads and expressways generally maintain good condition. Traffic congestion occurs frequently, especially in rush hours and on main arteries. Driving styles can differ considerably from Western norms.

Safety for Pedestrians

For pedestrians and cyclists, exercising a high degree of caution is necessary. Always observe for vehicles, even when crossing at designated pedestrian crossings. Parking may pose a challenge in central urban areas.

Sea & River Travel

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Dalian’s identity as a seaport city reaches its sea transportation options. Dalian Port, a significant port in Northeast China, manages both cargo and passenger traffic. It handles immigration procedures for people arriving internationally, similar to the airport.

Sea Connections

  • Ferry Services: Regular services link Dalian with coastal cities like Yantai (Shandong) and Tianjin. These often run as overnight journeys, supplying a scenic and relaxed alternative.
  • Cruise Ports: Dalian functions as a port of call for some international cruise lines, specifically those running itineraries in Northeast Asia.
  • Connections By land: Dalian Port holds good hyperlinks to the city’s land transportation network with bus stops and taxi stands directly outside terminals.

River Transportation

Dalian, a coastal city, stands on the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea. It holds no major navigable rivers for passenger transportation. Thus, river boat transportation do not apply here.

Note for Travelers

  • River boat services are not a mode of transport within Dalian.
  • Focus on coastal and land-based travel options.
  • Ferry services remain for inter-city sea travel.

Departure Information

China holds no separate airport departure tax for travelers on international flights; this fee is typically inside your airline ticket price. For international leaving from Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport, arrive a minimum of 2.5 to THREE hours beforehand to your scheduled flight.

Departure Timing

  • International Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours prior to allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration.
  • Domestic Flights: Get there at LEAST 1.5 to TWO hours ahead of time to departure.
  • Train/Ferry: Arrive at station or port at least 30-60 minutes prior. High-speed rail stations, specifically Dalian North, may be large.

Airport/Station Facilities

Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport holds similar facilities for departing travelers as for arrivals, including various restaurants, cafes, shops (duty-free for international departures), and comfortable waiting areas. Railway stations also furnish dining and retail options, along with waiting rooms for passengers.

Departure Checklist

  • Confirm your flight, train, or ferry schedule 24-48 hours prior to departure. This aids in staying informed of any last-minute changes or delays.
  • Bring any liquids or prohibited items adhering to airline and security regulations.
  • Keep your boarding pass or ticket accessible for multiple checks.

Important Travel Notes

  • Car Rental: Self-driving in China typically carries no suggestion for most foreign tourists due to licensing requirements.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Not frequent or easily reachable for tourists.
  • Always ensure your identification matches travel documents.
  • Language: Have destination names in Chinese characters for taxi drivers.
  • Payment: Mobile payment (WeChat Pay/Alipay) is prevalent; cash may not be accepted everywhere.
  • VPN: Activate your VPN before arrival for access to overseas apps.

Getting Around Dalian

Public Transportation

Dalian's public transportation system comprises a modern Metro, an extensive bus network, and unique historic trams, delivering comprehensive coverage.

Transit Options

  • Dalian Metro: Rapidly expanding subway, clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 12, 13 stand operational, linking airport, railway stations, commercial and tourist areas.
  • Buses: Extensive network reaching areas not covered by Metro. They run often and generally hold reliability. They permit a look into local life and prove beneficial for shorter trips.
  • Trams: Historic lines (201, 202) present a nostalgic and scenic way to observe parts of the city center and from the west suburbs.

Ticketing & Navigation

Payment for public transport in Dalian is handy and mostly cashless. Metro fares typically span ¥2-8, buses and trams generally ¥1-2 flat rates.

Payment & Tips

  • Dalian Mingzhu Card: Reloadable a smart pass for all public transport, offering slight discounts. Available at Metro stations.
  • Mobile Payment: WeChat Pay or Alipay are most common. Scan QR codes at turnstiles/driver for Metro/bus/tram.
  • Mapping Apps: Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are necessary for real-time navigation and public transport routes.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps supply convenient alternatives. Licensed taxis are identifiable by color and markings. Didi Chuxing is the prevalent ride-sharing app, operating akin to Uber. It delivers price estimates, monitors journeys, and aids communication.

Walking & Cycling

Dalian’s pedestrian-friendly areas and scenic coastal routes turn walking and cycling into appealing ways to explore. Binhai Road finds immense popularity for walking and cycling. Bike-sharing programs via Meituan and HelloBike are popular.

Specialized Transport

Dalian is a few specialized transportation options. City sightseeing bus tours, coastal sightseeing cruises, and cable cars at Laohutan Ocean Park or Dalian Forest Zoo heighten the visitor journey.

Public Transportation Details

Route Maps & Hubs

Metro stations clearly display route maps in Chinese and often in English. For bus and tram routes, consulting online maps, mainly Baidu Maps navigation or Gaode Maps, proves beneficial. These mobile apps give real-time bus places and detailed route information.

Important Hubs

  • Metro Hubs: Dalian North Railway Station, Dalian Railway Station, Qingniwaqiao, Xinghai Square.
  • Mapping Apps: Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Gaode Maps (高德地图) are essential for real-time navigation.
  • Bus Stops: Display route numbers and destinations.

Hours & Accessibility

Dalian Metro lines generally operate from around 6:FROM 12 am TO 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM. Buses and trams typically start earlier, around 5:00 AM, and run later, usually till 9 o'clock:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Frequencies vary by route and time of day.

Accessibility Notes

  • Newer Metro stations and trains are typically accessible, featuring elevators, escalators, and ramps. This betters travel for those with mobility challenges.
  • Older bus models and historic trams might have limited accessibility.
  • Sidewalks in some older parts of the city may be uneven, posing challenges.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Mobile Apps

Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are required for real-time navigation. Utilizing WeChat Pay or Alipay simplifies fare payment across all public transport, rendering your journeys seamless.

Avoid Peak Hours

When possible, avoid traveling on public transport during peak rush hours (typically 7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM on weekdays). Trains and buses may become very crowded.

Final Tip for Getting Around

For efficient navigation, always keep your phone charged and confirm your mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) hold sufficient funds.