Dali

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

About Dali

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Attractions & Tours

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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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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A Basket Full of Memories: Mushroom Picking in Dali

china

A Basket Full of Memories: Mushroom Picking in Dali

Markus With His Camera

Markus With His Camera

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Shaxi Ancient Village: Dali’s Chill Secret Spot 🌾✨

Shaxi Ancient Village: Dali’s Chill Secret Spot 🌾✨

_TI***3h

_TI***3h

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Giving up on Weinan, this place is too amazing!

Giving up on Weinan, this place is too amazing!

123Ruby~Rivera^

123Ruby~Rivera^

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Dali: The Perfect Place to Slow Down 🌿

Dali: The Perfect Place to Slow Down 🌿

Markus With His Camera

Markus With His Camera

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China’s Most Beautiful Places for a Slow Escape 🌸

chinatravel

China’s Most Beautiful Places for a Slow Escape 🌸

_Iris

_Iris

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Best of Dali

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Popular Instagrammable Hotels Near Dali

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Popular Types of Attractions in Dali

Popular Attractions in Dali

Dalixian Longshou Hot Spring Resort | Fengtu Yicang Warehouse

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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) | 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 | 秦源早晚羊肉 | 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

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Popular Trip Moments

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. | 3 Days 2 Nights Exploring Weinan｜A Detailed Guide to Experience the Perfect Blend of History and Nature | One-Day Ancient Site Tour in Dali! This Off-the-Beaten-Path County Hides So Many Surprises | Shaanxi's Hidden Ancient Architecture Cluster! The Ming Pagoda and Ancient Tower Hold a Millennium of Charm | Snow-Covered Ancient Pagoda: A Stunning Hidden Gem | “Qilin Descends” Hidden on the Yellow River Cliff! Take the Kids to Explore the Ultimate Mountain Dwelling Aesthetics

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 | Mainland China · Hong Kong · Macau 5G eSIM | 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/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 | Global 77 Countries 4G/5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Data Package | 24-Hour Billing | QR Code | 1-day tour to Xi'an emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum site museum + city wall + family-friendly Huaqing palace tour with admission ticket custom trip | Xi'an Day Tour:Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace & The Song of Everlasting Sorrow | English Speaking Guide & Lunch Included | Shanxi Yuncheng Hedong palace banquet (immersive dining show + imperial divided meal + banquet performance + rainbow and feather dance) | [Late departure!]Xi'an Terracotta Warriors Half-Day Tour(Direct Bus+Ticket) | Discovery more Xi'an Terracotta Warriors tour | Private One Day In-depth Terracotta Museum&DIY mini Terracotta&Local Cave Dwellings Visit | Private Group - Xi'an Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum Half-Day Tour (Morning/Afternoon) with Chinese/English Guide | Terracotta Warriors Museum in-depth Tour + Song of Everlasting Sorrow | Xi'an Terracotta Warriors + Huaqing Palace Day Tour: Ticket Booking + Direct Bus | Global 108 Countries 5G eSIM | All AI & TikTok | 1–30 Days | QR Code | Shanxi Yuncheng Yongle Palace + Ruicheng Shengtian Lake + Temple of Prince Guangren private charter 1-day tour with Chinese and English service | Mount Hua Adventure Day Tour + Cable Car + Pick-up | Small Group Departing from Xi'an | Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum + Han Yangling National Archaeological Site Park: pure play no shopping, private 1-day tour | [Mainland China / Hong Kong / Macau] 5G & WiFi Rental | Unlimited Data | High-speed Network | Pick-up & Return at Hong Kong Airport | Supports Google Maps | Multi-user Sharing | 24-hour Customer Service | "Legend of the Camel Bell" Show private half-day tour (dedicated transfer per booking + buy 2 show/concert tickets get 1 free)