Dali

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

About Dali

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Things to do in Dali

What to do

Looking for things to do in Dali? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.

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Where to stay

Discover the most popular places to stay in Dali, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

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What to eat

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Dali dishes and foodie spots.

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Dali Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

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#Recommended

#yunnan

#dali

#chinatravel

Dali ~ Perfect place to Chill

Dali ~ Perfect place to Chill

SCT7316

SCT7316

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2 days in Dali 🌲 short stay

2 days in Dali 🌲 short stay

Ángela Barón

Ángela Barón

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Nature's Natural Aircon in these cities throughout the year

Nature's Natural Aircon in these cities throughout the year

Sheryl Wanders

Sheryl Wanders

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Chillin’ at Xi Zhou Mai Tian: Yunnan Eats & Breezy Vibes

yunnan

Chillin’ at Xi Zhou Mai Tian: Yunnan Eats & Breezy Vibes

Travelwith.et

Travelwith.et

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🌄 Discover Yunnan: China’s Land of Eternal Spring 🇨🇳✨

yunnan

🌄 Discover Yunnan: China’s Land of Eternal Spring 🇨🇳✨

To See The World

To See The World

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I Flew Over 8,700 km Just to Ride This Cute Electric Scooter in Dali!

I traveled over 8,700 km to visit Dali, and riding this cute electric scooter around Erhai Lake was one of the highlights of my trip.

The rental cost 60 RMB for one hour, with a 200 RMB WeChat deposit. It was easy to ride and a fun way to explore the famous S-Curve, lakeside cafés, and the beautiful scenery along Erhai Lake.

The cool breeze, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere made every moment feel relaxing. After an hour, we switched to a flower basket bicycle and continued exploring at a slower pace.

If you’re visiting Dali, I highly recommend renting a scooter or bicycle.

I Flew Over 8,700 km Just to Ride This Cute Electric Scooter in Dali! I traveled over 8,700 km to visit Dali, and riding this cute electric scooter around Erhai Lake was one of the highlights of my trip. The rental cost 60 RMB for one hour, with a 200 RMB WeChat deposit. It was easy to ride and a fun way to explore the famous S-Curve, lakeside cafés, and the beautiful scenery along Erhai Lake. The cool breeze, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere made every moment feel relaxing. After an hour, we switched to a flower basket bicycle and continued exploring at a slower pace. If you’re visiting Dali, I highly recommend renting a scooter or bicycle.

AnhQuynh91

AnhQuynh91

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Dali, Yunnan is the ultimate throwback to old-school China — ancient city vibes, crazy photogenic alleys, and a mash-up of history and street food heaven 🏯✨ Here’s your hit list for Dali City, with all the local flavor and can’t-miss experiences lined up.

Top Spots to Visit in Dali City

🏮 Dali Ancient City (No. 42, Yita Road, Gucheng District) – Open all day, all year
Wander through perfectly preserved old houses, snap those traditional tiled roof shots, and soak up the unique Bai culture at every turn. Each alley feels straight out of a period drama! Early morning or late afternoon is prime time: less crowds, more chill.

🍡 Snacks Street
Trust me, do NOT miss this — from grilled cheese milk fans (dairy made cool) to flower cakes and sweet rice cakes, this street is a smorgasbord for curious foodies. Bring cash and sample everything in half portions for max variety.

Epic Practical Tips
– If you’re in Zizhong, the easiest way in is by local bus or a Didi taxi straight to the ancient city’s East Gate.
– Wear comfy kicks — you’ll clock up steps faster than you’d think on those cobblestones.
– History buffs: Read up on Dali’s role as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Nanzhao to really appreciate the vibes.

Getting Around
Biking in Dali is 🔥 and definitely part of the experience. Rent a city bike near the main gates for a few RMB and glide through the ancient streets at your own pace.

Bonus: Weather flips quickly in mountain towns! Layers are life.

#DaliAncientCity #EatLikeALocal #ChinaTravel #YunnanAdventures

daliancientcity

Dali, Yunnan is the ultimate throwback to old-school China — ancient city vibes, crazy photogenic alleys, and a mash-up of history and street food heaven 🏯✨ Here’s your hit list for Dali City, with all the local flavor and can’t-miss experiences lined up. Top Spots to Visit in Dali City 🏮 Dali Ancient City (No. 42, Yita Road, Gucheng District) – Open all day, all year Wander through perfectly preserved old houses, snap those traditional tiled roof shots, and soak up the unique Bai culture at every turn. Each alley feels straight out of a period drama! Early morning or late afternoon is prime time: less crowds, more chill. 🍡 Snacks Street Trust me, do NOT miss this — from grilled cheese milk fans (dairy made cool) to flower cakes and sweet rice cakes, this street is a smorgasbord for curious foodies. Bring cash and sample everything in half portions for max variety. Epic Practical Tips – If you’re in Zizhong, the easiest way in is by local bus or a Didi taxi straight to the ancient city’s East Gate. – Wear comfy kicks — you’ll clock up steps faster than you’d think on those cobblestones. – History buffs: Read up on Dali’s role as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Nanzhao to really appreciate the vibes. Getting Around Biking in Dali is 🔥 and definitely part of the experience. Rent a city bike near the main gates for a few RMB and glide through the ancient streets at your own pace. Bonus: Weather flips quickly in mountain towns! Layers are life. #DaliAncientCity #EatLikeALocal #ChinaTravel #YunnanAdventures

Loree

Loree

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Ready to discover Dali’s ancient art vibes? Let’s get into the coolest part: Bai Tie-Dyeing — a tradition with serious color and cultural roots 🌀. On my recent trip to Zizhong, I dove into the world of traditional dyeing and learned how the Bai people keep this craft alive.

Must-See Experience: Bai Tie-Dyeing Workshop
📍 Where: Dali Old Town, at local studios (most are open from 9:00–17:00, check trip.com for exact spots!)
🕰️ Plan to spend 2–3 hours for a hands-on workshop (trust me, time flies when you’re making art!)

Why It’s Special:
This isn’t just tie-dye — the Bai techniques use natural dyes sourced from plants and minerals. The patterns all hold cultural meaning and family stories. My tip? Chat with the artisans! They love sharing the symbolism of each color and motif.

Cultural Hack: Wear comfy clothes (the dye will try to leave its mark) and buy a scarf or shirt as a souvenir. Not only is it unique — it’s also a way to support local artists.

How to Get Around:
Getting to Dali Old Town from Zizhong is simple: grab a bus or book a local driver (especially convenient through trip.com). Once in the old town, just wander on foot — the studios and shops are clustered close together.

Food Tip:
Hungry after dyeing? Try “Bai-style rice cakes” at roadside kitchens; crispy, savory, and perfect for a quick bite.

Travel Details:
Dali is visa-friendly for most travelers. Bring cash since a lot of artisans don’t take cards. The weather is mild, but dye workshops are indoors, so you’re good rain or shine.

#DaliCulture #BaoTieDye #TripChina #TravelTips

daliculture

Ready to discover Dali’s ancient art vibes? Let’s get into the coolest part: Bai Tie-Dyeing — a tradition with serious color and cultural roots 🌀. On my recent trip to Zizhong, I dove into the world of traditional dyeing and learned how the Bai people keep this craft alive. Must-See Experience: Bai Tie-Dyeing Workshop 📍 Where: Dali Old Town, at local studios (most are open from 9:00–17:00, check trip.com for exact spots!) 🕰️ Plan to spend 2–3 hours for a hands-on workshop (trust me, time flies when you’re making art!) Why It’s Special: This isn’t just tie-dye — the Bai techniques use natural dyes sourced from plants and minerals. The patterns all hold cultural meaning and family stories. My tip? Chat with the artisans! They love sharing the symbolism of each color and motif. Cultural Hack: Wear comfy clothes (the dye will try to leave its mark) and buy a scarf or shirt as a souvenir. Not only is it unique — it’s also a way to support local artists. How to Get Around: Getting to Dali Old Town from Zizhong is simple: grab a bus or book a local driver (especially convenient through trip.com). Once in the old town, just wander on foot — the studios and shops are clustered close together. Food Tip: Hungry after dyeing? Try “Bai-style rice cakes” at roadside kitchens; crispy, savory, and perfect for a quick bite. Travel Details: Dali is visa-friendly for most travelers. Bring cash since a lot of artisans don’t take cards. The weather is mild, but dye workshops are indoors, so you’re good rain or shine. #DaliCulture #BaoTieDye #TripChina #TravelTips

Loree

Loree

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Popular Restaurants in Dali

李胖娃·大荔水盆羊肉(大荔店) | 曹雄杰葫芦头·小炒煮馍(大荔总店) | 老薛家米皮店(大荔店) | 老管家继红羊肉泡(同州路) | 正新鸡排(大荔中学店) | 正新鸡排·炸鸡烧烤(北大街店) | 爵士牛排西餐厅(大荔店) | 轩记老潼关肉夹馍(西库道店) | 华莱士·全鸡汉堡(同州店) | 正新鸡排·炸鸡烧烤(大荔店) | 正新鸡排·炸鸡烧烤(同盛店) | 华莱士·全鸡汉堡(大荔店) | Lixiangdaxia (dali) | JIU YANG CHUN FAN DIAN | DA TANG XIAO CHU HA DAO GUAN | CHUAN XIANG GE JI GONG BAO | 清真老白家牛羊肉主题餐厅(东府店) | 嗜老柴家葫芦头 | 五泉面馆(北新街) | 关中咥饺子(黄河大厦店) | 580@Hongbei | 牛曾曾·鲜切牛肉串串(大荔店) | 朝邑尚记水盆羊肉 | 小蒙铜锅涮(大荔店) | Wugushifang (nanhuanlu) | 李麦季卤肉炉齿面扯面馆 | 骨香大盆骨(三河明珠店) | 晓辉辣子鸡 | 秒秒福米线(大荔店) | 马家水盆

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Popular Trip Moments

Dali ~ Perfect place to Chill | 2 days in Dali 🌲 short stay | Nature's Natural Aircon in these cities throughout the year | Chillin’ at Xi Zhou Mai Tian: Yunnan Eats & Breezy Vibes | 🌄 Discover Yunnan: China’s Land of Eternal Spring 🇨🇳✨ | A Basket Full of Memories: Mushroom Picking in Dali | Shaxi Ancient Village: Dali’s Chill Secret Spot 🌾✨ | Giving up on Weinan, this place is too amazing! | Dali: The Perfect Place to Slow Down 🌿 | China’s Most Beautiful Places for a Slow Escape 🌸 | Prep for a holiday in China | Top 5 UNDERRATED food in China | Discover the Magic of Erhai S Bay, Dali! | Shaanxi-style mutton soup is a hidden gem among locals! The broth is clear, the meat is tender, and it gets more and more addictive with every bite. | Dali - Beautiful lake and ancient City | Dali Ancient Town | Dali Bai Culture✨ | Dali Cafe Vibes☕️ Nature Views Await 🍃 | Sanhe's belt moistens Tongzhou, a millennium of culture nourishes the dusty heart.

More Things To Do in Dali

Travel photo shoot in Dali[Photography and Videography at Fuyou Ancient Village and Fengtu Granary on the Yellow River + Multilingual Translation with Local Photographer] | Mainland China 5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Data Package | ChatGPT Available | 24-Hour Billing | 1-365 Days | QR Code | Mainland China 5G eSIM | Supports Google Maps / ChatGPT | Daily/Total Data Plans | 24-Hour Billing | 1–365 Days | QR Code | Mainland China/Hong Kong/Macau 5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Data Package | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | Global (77 Countries) 5G/4G eSIM | Supports Google Maps/TikTok/ChatGPT | Data Plan | 24-Hour Billing | 1–7 Days | QR code | Mainland China 5G eSIM | Dual Network • All AI & TikTok | 1–365 Days | QR Code | Asia 8 countries 5G/4G eSIM | Daily/Total | 500MB/day - 50GB total | 1-30 days | 24-Hour Billing | QR code | Mainland China · Hong Kong · Macau 5G eSIM | All AI & TikTok | 1–365 Days | QR Code | Mainland China/Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan 5G/4G eSIM | Supports Google Maps / ChatGPT | Daily/Total Data Plans | 24-Hour Billing | 1–30 Days | QR Code | Asia 10 Regions 5G eSIM | Multi-Network • ChatGPT | 1–30 Days | QR Code | Mainland China 5G eSIM | Daily/Total Package | 500MB/Day - 100GB Total | 1-60 Days | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | Mainland China/Hong Kong/Macau 4G/5G eSIM | Daily Package/Data Package | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | Asia & Oceania 4G/5G eSIM | Daily/Total Data Package | 1–30 Days | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | Mainland China 5G eSIM | Dual Net | Daily/Total Data Package | 1–30 Days | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | Mainland China 5G eSIM | 2GB/day - 50GB total | Some plans include voice calls | AI & TikTok available | 1-365 days | Natural | QR Code | All-Inclusive Private Tour: Top 3 Highlights with Tickets & Lunch Included | 1-day private chartered tour to Mount Hua · pure play no shopping · free door-to-door transfer (admission ticket not included) | Small group tour for 8 | Emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum site museum + emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum site museum - Lishan garden (includes: transportation, admission tickets & English guide) | Xi'an Terracotta Warriors and Big Wild Goose Pagoda Day Tour (Optional Car+Ticket) | Yijun Trip Moments[Microfilm promotional videos/documentaries/commercial photography & videography/wedding portrait photography/multilingual translation] | 6-Person Premium Group | Xi'an Terracotta Warriors+ Lishan Garden (Bronze Chariot) & Romance of a Thousand Years Day Tour | Huaqing Palace+"Song of Everlasting Sorrow" Performance Half-Day Tour(Self-Guided) | Xi'an Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Army) + Chinese/English-speaking Guide + Song of Everlasting Sorrow Performance 1-day Tour | Hancheng Trip Moments[Photographer Services: Following Shots, Aerial Photography, Scheduled Shoots, Candid Photography, Street Photography, Portraits, Wedding Photography, Micro Films/Multilingual Translation] | Xi'an World Heritage Day Tour-Terracotta Warriors&Huaqing Palace | Multi-language Options | Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum + Han Yangling National Archaeological Site Park: pure play no shopping, private 1-day tour | Exclusive 8-Person Small Group Tour with No Shopping - Terracotta Warriors & Huaqing Palace Day Trip | Tongchuan Travel Photography[Driver and director + aerial microfilm + makeup and clothing + itinerary customization + free negatives + unlimited number of people] | Yaowang Mountain + Cotton Warehouse + Chenlu Ancient Town Day Tour in Tongchuan, Shaanxi with Bilingual Service | Xi'an Huaqing Palace Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show Ticket + Round-Trip Transfer from Xi'an City Center