Dalian Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Things to do & Itinerary | Trip.com | January, 2026

About Dalian

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Dalian Local Travel Guide 2026

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Dalian Brief Guide

Dalian, located at the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula amid the mountains and beside the sea, has sunny beaches and an abundance of natural and cultural landscapes. It is also the financial center of Northeast Asia and was voted the country’s most livable city. In Dalian, you can't help but come to love the delicious seafood and lively International Beer Festival at the end of July. There is also the beautiful scenery of Binhai Road, the geological wonders at Golden Pebble Beach, the historical ruins of Lushunkou and the Tiger Beach Ocean Park, a favorite for children.

Dalian Must-try local experiences

1. Explore the Seaside Charm of Dalian Discover Dalian's must-visit landmarks like Xinghai Square, Binhai Road, Lvshunkou District, Dalian Forest Zoo, and Dalian Shell Museum. Enjoy coastal views, historical sites, and diverse animal species. 2. Discover Dalian's Artistic Heritage Explore Dalian's vibrant art scene at the Dalian Haichang Discoveryland Theme Park, Dalian Modern Museum, and Russian Style Street. 3. Experience Authentic Dalian Culture Attend a performance by the Dalian Acrobatic Troupe, visit the Dalian Museum and Dalian Natural History Museum, and immerse yourself in local life at Zhongshan Park Residential Distric. 4. Celebrate Dalian's Vibrant Festivals Experience Dalian's annual events like the Dalian International Beer Festival, Dalian International Fashion Festival, and Spring Festival Lantern Fair. 5. Indulge in Dalian's Culinary Delights Sample fresh seafood, Dalian Caviar, and sea cucumbers at coastal restaurants. Don't miss local street food like grilled squid and seafood dumplings. 6. Shop for Souvenirs and Local Products Explore TianJin Jie, and Xingwang Russia Boutique Shopping Mall for unique treasures and local specialties. 7. Capture Unforgettable Moments in Dalian Capture stunning photos at Xinghai Bay Bridge, Lotus Hill Viewing Tower, Binhai Road, Bangtao Island Park, and the Dalian Shell Museum. 8. Enjoy a Relaxing Beach Getaway Relax on the sands of Fujiazhuang Beach, enjoy water sports at Xinghai Park, and take a scenic walk at Dalian Jinshitan Tourism. 9. Explore the Lush Countryside Visit Cherry Blossom Valley in Lushun, explore the Dalian Botanical Garden, and take a scenic drive along the coastal road. 10. Experience the Thrill of Water Activities Enjoy swimming, water sports, boat trips, and fishing in the Yellow Sea. Explore nearby islands for scenic views. 11. Experience the Dalian Tram Ride the Dalian Tram for a nostalgic city exploration experience. The trams have been in operation since the early 20th century.

Dalian Must-see Attractions

Dalian is a vibrant coastal city in China, renowned for its diverse attractions including the world-class Tiger Beach Ocean Park, the immersive Dalian Forest Zoo, the serene Bangchui Island, the educational Sun Asia Ocean World and Polar World, and the picturesque Jinshitan Scenic Area with its unique geological formations and amusement park.

Dalian Food Guide

The culinary scene in Dalian is dominated by seafood, featuring dishes such as nutrient-rich hairtail fish dumplings, succulent sea urchins, and esteemed abalone, celebrated as the pinnacle of seafood flavors. Another highlight is the "Seafood Family Feast," a vibrant and carefully arranged medley that captures the unique oceanic essence of the Dalian area.

Dalian Transportation

Dalian's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with its airport and passenger ports being crucial for intercity and international connectivity. Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport (IATA: DLC, ICAO: ZYTL) is the primary airport serving Dalian, located approximately 3.7 km northwest of the city center in Ganjingzi District. It is a hub for Dalian Airlines and a focus city for China Southern Airlines and Hainan Airlines. To reach the city from the airport, passengers can take the Dalian Metro Line 2 or choose from several bus lines that connect to central Dalian. Taxis are also readily available at the airport. The Port of Dalian is the largest passenger port in China, handling over 5 million passengers annually. It offers domestic services to cities like Shanghai, Weihai, and Tianjin, as well as international services to Incheon, South Korea. The port is a significant distance from the city center, but taxis are available, and a free shuttle service is provided to Zhongshan Square. Additionally, Metro Line 2 has a stop near the cruise ship pier, offering a connection to the city.

Dalian Where to Stay

Dalian is a city that offers a diverse range of accommodation options, with its hotels spread across various districts, each with its own unique characteristics. The city's accommodation scene is a reflection of its regional diversity, providing options for every type of traveler.

Dalian Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit Dalian is from May to September. During this period, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for enjoying the city's outdoor attractions, such as its beautiful beaches and coastal parks. This time frame also coincides with several popular events, including the Dalian Chinese Scholar Tree Blossom Affairs and the Dalian International Fashion Festival. However, it is worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so it can be crowded.

Dalian Useful Guide

The official language in Dalian is Mandarin Chinese. However, the local dialect known as Dalian-hua is also prevalent, which might pose comprehension challenges for travelers. Translation and interpretation services in the city are not extensively detailed, but English is increasingly spoken, albeit not widely understood. For effective communication, tourists are advised to learn basic Mandarin phrases and use translation apps. Simple gestures and visual aids like maps can also facilitate smoother interactions in Dalian.