Chengdu Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights

If you have a short time in Chengdu, focus on its most iconic experiences.

Book fast-track tickets or tours for key attractions via GetYourGuide.

Quick Immersion

Morning: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Arrive early to see the pandas when they are most active during feeding time. (2-3 hours)
Afternoon: Visit Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alleys) for lunch and cultural exploration.
Enjoy the traditional architecture, teahouses, and boutique shops.

Extended Itineraries

Weekend and one-week plans offer engagement with Chengdu's culture and surrounding attractions.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A weekend has a good introduction to Chengdu's main attractions.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Day 1 Morning: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (arrive early).
Day 1 Afternoon: Explore People's Park, Hemming Teahouse.
Day 1 Evening: Attend a Sichuan Opera performance.
Day 2 Morning: Explore Wuhou Shrine and its adjacent Jinli Ancient Street.

Day 2 Afternoon: Wander through Kuanzhai Alley. Day 2 Evening: Experience an authentic Hot Pot dinner. Day 3 (optional): Half-day trip to Dujiangyan Irrigation System or Panda Valley. Book day trips through GetYourGuide.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A week provides ample time to explore Chengdu deeply and take a couple of rewarding day trips.

Immersive Exploration

Days 1-3: Follow the "Weekend getaway" itinerary.
Day 4: Dedicate a full day to a trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha.
Day 5: Enjoy a full day trip to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Qingcheng Mountain.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

For a longer stay, combine the one-week itinerary with multi-day extensions to other parts of Sichuan or major Chinese cities.

Regional Adventures

Follow the "One-week comprehensive experience".
Extension 1: 2-3 day trip to Jiuzhaigou Valley and/or Huanglong National Park (flight or long bus journey).
Extension 2: High-speed train trip to Xi'an (2-3 days) for Terracotta Army.
Extension 3: High-speed train trip to Chongqing (1-2 days) for hot pot culture. GetYourGuide features many multi-day tours.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to specific passions, cultivating a trip that resonates deeply with your preferences.

Diverse Interests

Historical: Wuhou Shrine, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Jinsha Site Museum, Qingyang Palace, Sichuan Museum, Kuanzhai/Jinli Alley.
Food: Hot Pot, Street Food Tours, Sichuan Cooking Class, Teahouses.
Adventure: Qingcheng Mountain (hiking), Mount Emei (trekking), Panda Valley.
Family: Panda Base, People's Park, Jinli/Kuanzhai Alley, Sichuan Opera, Global Center (indoor beach park).

Art & Architecture / Spiritual & Wellness Focus

For art and architecture enthusiasts, or those seeking spiritual renewal, Chengdu offers a wealth of tailored experiences.

Art & Architecture

Kuanzhai Alley & Jinli Ancient Street, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Sichuan Museum & Jinsha Site Museum, Taikoo Li/IFS.

Spiritual Journey

Qingyang Palace, Daci Temple, Qingcheng Mountain & Emei Mountain, Spa and wellness centers.

Customized Tours

Many tours on GetYourGuide match these specific interests.

Tailoring Your Itinerary

Beyond standard time-based plans, Chengdu accommodates diverse interests. For history enthusiasts, Wuhou Shrine and the Jinsha Site Museum present ancient tales. Culinary journeys revolve around authentic Hot Pot and street food tours, with cooking classes available. Adventure seekers ascend Qingcheng Mountain or explore Mount Emei. Families delight at the Panda Base and People's Park. Architectural admirers find beauty in traditional alleys and modern complexes. Spiritual reflection marks a visit to ancient temples. Explore a wide array of options to personalize your trip on GetYourGuide.

Budget-Based & Seasonal Plans

Tailor your spending to match your travel budget and adapt your itinerary to Chengdu's seasons and annual events.

Budget Planning

Explore Chengdu regardless of your budget, from backpacker savings to luxury experiences.

Accommodation & Food

Backpacker: Hostels/budget hotels. Street food/local eateries. Public transport.
Mid-range: 3-4 star hotels. Mix of local and mid-range dining. Didi/taxis + metro.
Luxury: 5-star hotels/boutique luxury. Fine dining/private hot pot. Private drivers.
Find suitable accommodations and activities on GetYourGuide, catering to various budgets.

Value-focused recommendations: Look for lunch specials. Combine geographically close attractions. Purchase local SIM cards.

Seasonal Specialties

Adapt your itinerary to Chengdu's seasons and annual events.

Weather & Events

Summer: Focus on indoor attractions during the hottest parts of the day. Plan early morning panda visits. Enjoy refreshing cold noodles and fruit.
Winter: Embrace hot pot as a comforting meal. Explore indoor museums and enjoy festive lights during Chinese New Year (if your visit aligns).
Festivals: Plan your visit around major Chinese holidays like Chinese New Year or National Day for cultural events and decorations. Be prepared for significantly larger crowds and higher prices for transport and accommodation during these times.
Off-season: Visiting during the low season (summer heat or winter dampness) fewer crowds and lower prices. Embrace indoor activities, museums, and culinary experiences during these times.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Maximize your budget with smart choices that don't compromise your experience.

Dining Smart

Look for lunch specials at restaurants.
Enjoy local street food for affordable meals.
Seek out family-run eateries.

Transport & Communication

Combine geographically close attractions to save on transport.
Utilize Chengdu's extensive public transport.
Purchase local SIM cards for cheaper communication.

Accommodation Options

A variety of lodging options exist to suit every budget and preference.

Diverse Stays

Hostels offer dormitory beds and social atmospheres.
Budget hotels include family-run guesthouses.
Mid-range hotels present comfort and amenities.
Luxury hotels boast premium services and facilities.

Transportation Tips

Navigating Chengdu and its surroundings with ease.

Getting Around

Metro system is efficient and covers main areas.
Buses operate routes throughout the city.
Didi (ride-hailing app) has a popular taxi alternative.
High-speed rail for inter-city travel.

Considerations

Currency & Payments

Local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are dominant.

Safety & Security

Chengdu is generally safe. Exercise caution in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure.

Optimal Itinerary & Booking

Whether on a tight budget or seeking luxury, Chengdu accommodates all travelers. Balance street food and local eateries with occasional mid-range or fine dining. Public transport a cost-effective way to navigate. Factor in seasonal specialties, embracing indoor activities in summer/winter and being aware of peak festival times. For a streamlined experience, Booking tours and attractions in advance via GetYourGuide simplifies your trip, securing your spots and often presenting better value.

Chengdu Itineraries