7-Day Travel Guide to Dali

Dali, a poetic and romantic destination, captivates countless travelers with its enchanting natural scenery, unique ethnic culture, and leisurely pace of life. If you're planning a trip to Dali, this guide will provide detailed directions for your journey. Pre-Trip Preparation 1. Bring your ID card for convenient travel and handling various procedures. 2. Pack lightweight clothing along with a warm jacket to prevent catching chills in the morning and evening. If visiting in summer, don’t forget rain gear! It can start raining suddenly, and getting soaked is miserable [Cry][Cry]. 3. Dali has abundant sunshine and strong UV rays, so prepare HIGH-SPF sunscreen!!! External Transportation By Air: Dali Huangcaoba Airport is about 30 km from Dali Ancient Town. Upon arrival, you can take the airport shuttle to the city center—affordable and reliable. For more convenience, a taxi costs around ¥100. By High-Speed Rail: Dali Railway Station is the main high-speed rail station, about 17 km from the ancient town. After exiting, you can take a bus directly to the town (budget-friendly but check bus schedules). If you have heavy luggage or are in a hurry, a taxi (around ¥50) is more convenient. By Car: If driving, it takes about 3.5 hours from Kunming and 2 hours from Lijiang. The scenic route allows for stops to admire the views, but plan your route and check road conditions in advance. Local Transportation Renting an e-bike is recommended because traffic jams are common, and an e-bike gives you flexibility. Otherwise, you might get stuck in unbearable traffic, especially around Erhai Lake!!! Avoid taking buses—they have limited schedules, get stuck in traffic, and don’t cover many tourist areas. Must-Visit Attractions Erhai Lake: A iconic landmark of Dali and one of the "Four Famous Sceneries." Rent an e-bike or charter a car to ride along the lake and enjoy the views. Recommended spots: Longkan Dock (perfect for sunrise), Panxi S-Bend (great for photos), and Shuanglang Ancient Town (ideal for sunset). (Didn’t go—too crowded!!!) Dali Ancient Town: I chose to visit here. The cobblestone streets and ancient architecture create a charming atmosphere. Stroll through Renmin Road and Foreigner Street, and try local snacks like Xizhou Baba and grilled rushan. Cangshan Mountain: Also visited! Majestic and spectacular!!! It’s a great spot to overlook Dali and Erhai Lake. Take the cable car up for stunning views and hiking. Check the cable car schedule and weather in advance. Xingsheng Bridge: Came here too—super photogenic!!! This European-style bridge has an exotic vibe. Dress in retro outfits for photos that make you feel like you’re in Europe. Food Recommendations Ersi and Erkuai: Dali’s staple foods with a soft, sticky texture. Ersi can be boiled or stir-fried, while Erkuai can be grilled and served with sauces—sweet and flavorful. Rushan: Made from milk, crispy and sweet. Eat it plain or fried with sugar for a unique taste. Wild Mushroom Hotpot: A Yunnan specialty with a rich broth made from various wild mushrooms. Ensure they’re fully cooked to avoid poisoning. Sour and Spicy Fish: A traditional Dali dish made with Erhai fish, sour papaya, and chili—tangy, spicy, and tender. Xizhou Baba: Comes in sweet or savory versions, with a crispy crust and soft filling—fragrant and delicious. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Erhai Villa: Prime location, just 300 meters from Erhai Lake for easy walks. Only 4 km from Dali Ancient Town, with convenient access. The first-floor coffee area is perfect for relaxing afternoons. E-bike rentals are available for touring the lake. Rooms feature smart AI for a comfortable stay. 2. Pullman Dali Hotel: A luxury hotel with a sky bar offering panoramic views of Erhai Lake and sunset. Well-equipped with excellent service. 3. Luchun Garden Hotel in Dali Ancient Town: Family-friendly with children’s play facilities, ideal for families.