It takes only 2 hours by bullet train between Chengdu and Chongqing, so most travelers like to explore both. In Chengdu, you'll explore pandas, spicy food, history, and culture. Then head to Chongqing to enjoy this distinct cyberpunk 8D magic mountain city.
This article will help you plan a wonderful trip by offering travel information on each city's attractions, transportation, accommodation, and costs.
Content Preview
Must-Sees in Chengdu and Chongqing
In this section, you could obtain some ideas about things to do in Chengdu and Chongqing, based on my real travel experience to both cities.
1. Meet the Lovely Giant Pandas
The giant pandaAs the home of giant pandas, Chengdu is a must-visit for panda lovers. It offers you the world's best panda-watching experiences.
Based on our visits to four panda bases, Dujiangyan Panda Base and Panda Valley stand out. They're less crowded, easy to reach within 1.5 hours from the city center, and allow you to see active pandas without too much walking (best for a family tour).
And the best time to see pandas is 8-10 am when they're most active.
2. Sit down and Sip a Tea Like at People's Park
Relax and sip tea like a localChengdu is also known for its slow-paced lifestyle. At People's Park, you could discover the most authentic Chengdu lifestyle, like tai chi, mahjong, ear-pulling, and face-changing shows.
Drinking tea and chatting with friends at a teahouse has been a Chengdu tradition for millennia. You could order a cup of tea and relax, blending in with the daily lifestyle of the locals.
3. Learn About the Mysterious Sanxingdui Culture
Sanxingdui Museum in ChengduSanxingdui bronzeware is unique in the world. You could find some Chinese national treasures that are not exhibited in other countries, such as the bronze sacred tree andbronze mask.
So far, no written text has been found in the Sanxingdui ruins, so many people think this doesn't seem like a civilization on Earth. Would you like to go and see the artifacts for yourself and form your own unique interpretation?
4. Catch the Brilliant Night View of Hongya Cave
Hongya Cave in ChongqingAt night, Hongya Cave truly comes alive from 6-11 pm. You'll see ancient Chinese architecture lit up with neon lights, where traditional aesthetics meet a cyberpunk edge, creating Chongqing's iconic three-dimensional nightscape.
The best photo spots are across the road on the first floor of Hongya Cave, Qiansimen Bridge, Jiangtan Park, and Daijiaxiang Cliff Path.
Ready to start your panda and cyberpunk view filled trip? Just contact us for a tailored immersive trip to Chengdu and Chongqing.
5. Witness Light Rails Going through a Residential Building
Liziba Station in ChongqingYou must have seen it on social media, the light rail through residences, or somebody "eating" the light rail. Yes, when you arrive in Chongqing, you can also do that at Liziba Station.
Trains run every 2-3 minutes, so it's easy to snap great photos on your own. Don't trust the photographers around. The "perfect shots" they offer are usually photoshopped.
6. Discover Old Chongqing in Ciqikou Ancient Town
Ciqikou Ancient TownDon't know where to experience the traditional side of Chongqing? Ciqikou Ancient Town is the best place to start, to explore the traditional architecture, customs, and local lifestyle.
The stilted buildings, quaint lanterns, riverside views, tea house with Sichuan Opera shows, and revolving stage show in the 1949 Theater are all worth a visit.
Ciqikou is also the birthplace of two famous Chongqing snacks, mahua (twisted fried dough) and maoxuewang (boiled blood curd), so you can taste the most authentic versions here.
7. Challenge the Spicy Food like Hot Pot
Spicy Hot PotYour taste bud tour in Chengdu and Chongqing must be inseparable from chili peppers. In both cities, you'll find similar food, mostly spicy, such as hot pot, boiled skewers, red oil wonton, mapo tofu, and stir-fried spicy chicken.
If you can't handle spicy and oily food, just try egg baked cake, sweet skin duck, Qiaojiao Beef (herbal soup), or Chongqing small noodles.
Worried about missing out on the authentic flavors? Our local guide will take you to explore the best food streets, and you can even try your hand at making Sichuan cuisine yourself.
8. Explore around Chengdu and Chongqing
Jiuzhaigou in autumn, the most beautiful timeBoth Chengdu and Chongqing offer great options for day trips or longer stays. If you're interested, consider including them in your itinerary to make the most of your trip.
In Chengdu, you can go around Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Jiuzhaigou (colorful lakes), Siguniang Mountain (snow-capped peaks), and Daocheng Yading (Tibetan-like scenery).
While in Chongqing, Dazu Rock Carvings, Wulong (Transformers 4 filming location), the Yangtze River Cruise, and Wujiang Gallery are also popular choices.
Plan your Chengdu and Chongqing trip with the surroundings:
How Long to Spend in Chongqing and Chengdu
A trip to Chongqing and Chengdu usually takes 5–10 days with different arrangements.
Spend 4–6 days in Chengdu and Chongqing, with 2–3 days in each city, respectively. If you have extra time, consider adding 2 to 5 days to visit their surroundings.
How Many Days Are Needed in Chengdu?
Generally, your trip to Chengdu would take 2–7 days.
Two to 3 days are needed for the city highlights. If you want to explore Chengdu's surroundings, you would add 1 to 4 days, such as Jiuzhaigou for 1-2 days, Daocheng for 4 days, Leshan for 1 day, and Mount Emei for 2 days.
How Many Days Are Needed in Chongqing?
A trip to Chongqing would range from 2–5 days.
Two to 3 days are needed for the city highlights. If you want to explore Chongqing's surroundings, you would add 1 to 5 days, such as Wulong for 2 days, the Dazu Rock Carvings for 1 day, and a Yangtze River cruise for 3–4 days.
Suggested Chengdu and Chongqing Itinerary
If it's your first time traveling to these two cities, we suggest you spend 7-8 days there. Here is a suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Chengdu arrival, Chunxi Road IFS Panda Statues
- Day 2: Chengdu, visit the panda base, People's Park, wide and narrow alleys
- Day 3: Chengdu, Leshan Giant Buddha, food tour, face changing show
- Day 4: transfer to Chongqing, Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, 18 Steps
- Day 5: Chongqing, Ciqikou Ancient Town, Liziba, Shancheng Alley, Kuixinglou, Ring Mall
- Day 6: Chongqing, Wulong Karst day trip
- Day 7: Chongqing departure
In this itinerary, you'll not only explore the city highlights of Chengdu and Chongqing, but also visit the Leshan Giant Buddha and Wulong, both UNESCO sites, adding more depth to your trip.
All of our tours can be tailored to fit your interests and needs. Whether you want to add activities for kids, a slower pace for the elderly, or popular social media spots, just let us know what you're looking for.
Practical Transportation Tips Before You Start
Which to Enter First
If you are traveling from Southeast Asian countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, it is OK to go to Chengdu or Chongqing first, as both have direct flights.
If you are traveling from the Americas and Europe, it is advisable to go to Chengdu first, which has two airports and more international flights.
If you want to take a Yangtze River cruise, it's also recommended to visit Chengdu first. This way, your route is Chengdu→Chongqing (embark)→Yichang (disembark). It avoids backtracking, as it takes 7 hrs between Chengdu and Yichang.
How to Travel Between Chengdu and Chongqing
The bullet train is your best choice. It's the fastest and most convenient way, only taking 2-3hrs. And there are 100 + trains daily, really flexible for your transfer between the two cities.
Most trains in Chengdu depart and arrive from Chengdu East Railway Station. And if you want to be closer to Chongqing city center, choose Chongqing North or Shapingba Station.
How to Travel Around Chengdu and Chongqing
If you want to visit city highlights, buses and subways could meet your transportation needs. The subway would be faster and more convenient.
For most surrounding attractions, you can find direct shuttle buses from Chunxi Road in Chengdu or Jiefangbei in Chongqing. Jiuzhaigou is a bit far, so the bullet train is the most convenient.
Want a hassle-free transfer? A private tour helps!
When booking with us, we'll arrange all transportation, including airport, train stations, attraction transfers with a private vehicle, and the bullet train. Just contact us.
Where to Stay in Chengdu and Chongqing?
Chunxi Road area in Chengdu and Jiefangbei area in Chongqing are the most recommended spots to stay.
For first-timers, staying in these areas is ideal. They're in the city center, close to major attractions, with easy access to transport (subway and shuttle buses). Hotel and dining options here are also diverse, from high-end to cost-effective.
In Chunxi Road, you can catch the iconic city landmark, the IFS Panda Statue, and stroll around the Taikoo Li shopping district.
The IFS Panda Statue on Chunxi RoadIn Jiefangbei Area, it's best to enjoy a city walk, cyberpunk nightview, and Yangtze River view, shopping, and diverse nightlife activities.
Jiefangbei area, very lively at nightBest Times to Visit Chengdu and Chongqing
Being adjacent, Chengdu and Chongqing enjoy similar weather. Spring and fall are the best times because of the comfortable weather and fewer tourists.
Autumn: Recommended for Cool Weather and the Best Views
In autumn, Chengdu and Chongqing have cool and pleasant weather (around 17-33°C/63-91°F) with fresh air, which is suitable for outdoor activities.
The natural landscape of the two cities is at its best at this time. It is the best viewing period for red leaves, colored leaves, chrysanthemum, and ginkgoes, where you could see a splash of colorful paintings in Daocheng, Jiuzhaigou, and the Three Gorges.
Tips: If your time is flexible, you'd better avoid the National Day holidays from October 1st to 7th. During this time, you would experience a large crowd, and this may lead to a less comfortable travel experience.
Spring: A Budget-Friendly Time with Comfortable Weather
Spring offers nice weather for sightseeing in both Chengdu and Chongqing, with temperatures around 15–30°C (59–86°F)
From late March to early April, you'll also enjoy cherry and peach blossoms blooming on the streets.
It is also the shoulder season (except for the Labor Day holidays from May 1st to 5th). Therefore, you could have a better and freer experience.
Whether you want to taste food, explore culture, or enjoy outdoor activities, spring is very suitable.
Winter: A Cost-Effective and Less Crowded Time to Go
Average winter temperatures in Chengdu and Chongqing are generally about 7-15°C (45–59°F). But the cold weather is best for you to see more active pandas.
In winter, there are relatively fewer tourists visiting Chengdu and Chongqing, and the attractions are not crowded, so you would find the air tickets and hotels would have good discounts.
If you want to enjoy snow and skiing, consider Xiling Snow Mountain and Bipenggou in Chengdu as well as Fairy Mountain in Chongqing.
Summer: A Hot and Crowded Season
July and August are not ideal months to visit Chengdu and Chongqing. It's not only crowded but also extremely hot around 32-40°C. Airfares and hotel prices also tend to rise.
We recommend you visit in June, when it's cooler and less crowded, for a more comfortable experience. It's best to book at least one month in advance.
However, even though it's quite hot in downtown areas, you can escape the heat by visiting nearby cool spots such as Jiuzhaigou, Mount Emei, Qingcheng Mountain, or Wulong.
Alternatively, you can book a private tour. We can arrange a flexible itinerary to help you avoid crowds, with air-conditioned private transfers for a more relaxing trip.
How Much Does It Cost?
The level of tourist costs in Chengdu and Chongqing is similar.
Generally, the cost of a private tour for a group of 2–5 people is US$200–230 per person per day, and this price includes transportation within China, 4-star or 5-star hotels, attraction tickets, private transportation, and tour guides.
The above is just a reference price, and we will give you a more specific price according to the specific itinerary, travel time, number of travelers, hotel selection, etc. Book early to enjoy a good price.
Popular Chengdu and Chongqing Tours
- 14-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xiamen' and Shanghai Tour
- 20-Day Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, Silk Road, and Shanghai Tour
Our private customized travel services, with professional travel consultants and a full one-on-one service, dig deep into your preferences and expectations. We provide accurate planning of each day's itinerary in accordance with your preferred travel pace. Just contact us.
(10,000+ reviews)