Enjoy a leisurely trip to Dali | 3 days 2 nights family-friendly itinerary, savor the slow pace of life at Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake.

Dali, a city nestled amidst the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, attracts countless families with its unique charm of "wind, flowers, snow, and moon." To ensure a relaxing and enjoyable family trip, we have specially designed this 3-day, 2-night itinerary, designed to allow you and your family to deeply experience Dali's natural scenery and cultural heritage. The relaxed pace is suitable for family members of all ages.

Day 1: First Impressions of the Ancient City, Exploring the Bai Ethnic Culture

Upon arrival in Dali, it is recommended to choose a hotel with family-friendly facilities in Dali Old Town or along Erhai Lake for the convenience of your subsequent itinerary. After checking in, you can enjoy local specialties such as Ersi (rice noodles) and cold chicken rice noodles for lunch around the hotel.

In the afternoon, we will explore Dali Ancient City . The South Gate is the iconic entrance, with its towering city walls, which you can climb with your children for panoramic views. Stroll along the stone-paved streets and experience the rustic architectural style. Renmin Road and Foreigners' Street are the heart of the ancient city, lined with handicraft shops, cafes, and specialty restaurants. You can bring your children to pick up some local souvenirs, such as tie-dye and silver jewelry. The Dali Museum is also located within the ancient city, helping children understand Dali's history and culture through artifacts and historical displays. As evening falls, the ancient city lights up, creating a unique atmosphere. Dinner can be enjoyed in the ancient city, featuring Bai ethnic cuisine.

Family-friendly highlights: The ancient city has many alleys and courtyards suitable for children to explore. The craft-making process in the handicraft shops can also attract children's interest.

Day 2: Cycling around Erhai Lake, getting close to the natural landscape.

Today's itinerary will revolve around Erhai Lake. Renting an electric scooter (please be mindful of driving safety as some sections have speed limits) or hiring a car to circle the lake is recommended to ensure a comfortable and convenient family trip. The eastern route of Erhai Lake offers expansive scenery, while the western route boasts a more culturally rich atmosphere.

In the morning, we'll first visit Xizhou Ancient Town . This is one of the important birthplaces of Bai culture, preserving a large number of well-maintained Bai ethnic residential buildings. You can take your children to visit typical Bai architecture such as the Yan Family Courtyard, learning about their exquisite wood carvings, stone carvings, and painted decorations. In Xizhou, be sure to try the local specialty snack— Xizhou Baba , crispy and delicious. Afterwards, you can head to Haishi Ecological Park , a long, narrow peninsula extending into Erhai Lake. With its excellent ecological environment, clear water, and lush trees, it's perfect for walks, taking photos, and letting children connect with nature.

Lunch can be enjoyed at a specialty restaurant in Xizhou Ancient Town or along Erhai Lake, where you can savor fresh Erhai fish.

In the afternoon, continue your journey around the lake. If time permits, you can choose to visit Longkan Wharf or Caicun Wharf to experience the leisurely pace of Erhai Lake, or take a small boat to enjoy the scenic views. The popular S-curve is a great spot for taking photos, but be mindful of safety and crowds. In the evening, return to the hotel. Dinner can be enjoyed at a restaurant along Erhai Lake, watching the sunset while savoring your meal.

Family-friendly highlights: The Bai ethnic architecture and Xizhou Baba (a type of flatbread) in Xizhou Ancient Town are full of local characteristics; the natural scenery of Haishi Park and the lakeside walks are excellent opportunities for children to get close to nature.

Day 3: Choose one of the following experiences: cultural exploration or mountain adventure.

Today's itinerary offers two options, which can be chosen based on the interests and physical condition of family members.

Option 1: Cultural Exploration – Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas

In the morning, we will visit the Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas Cultural Tourism Area . The Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas are a landmark of Dali and one of the oldest and most magnificent buildings in southern China. The scenic area is quite large, and you can tour it by electric cart. The temple complex is grand and magnificent, with a long history, making it an excellent place to learn about Buddhist culture and Bai ethnic architectural art. Children can feel the weight of history and the solemnity of culture here. At the same time, the temple's tranquil environment is suitable for a peaceful visit.

Option Two: Scenic Mountain Tour – Cangshan Mountain

In the morning, we will visit Cangshan National Geopark . We recommend taking the Gantong Cableway up the mountain, which provides direct access to the Jade Belt Cloud Trail. Along the Jade Belt Trail, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire Dali Basin and Erhai Lake – a truly magnificent sight. The Jade Belt Trail is gentle and easy to walk, perfect for family hikes. Along the way, you'll find clear streams and dense forests, allowing you to breathe fresh air and experience the charm of nature. If you are interested in martial arts culture, you can also choose to visit the Tianlong Babu Film City to experience the martial arts world depicted in Jin Yong's novels.

After lunch, depending on your flight or train schedule, proceed to the airport or train station to conclude your Dali trip.

Family-friendly highlights: The magnificent architecture of the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple can inspire children's curiosity; the Cangshan Cableway and the mountaintop walk can allow children to get close to nature and enjoy the fun of the outdoors.

Transportation and travel tips

• Arrival in Dali: You can choose to fly to Dali Fengyi Airport (DLU) or take a train to Dali Station. Both the airport and the train station have buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services to Dali Old Town or the Erhai Lake area.
• Transportation within the city: Within Dali Old Town, you can walk or take an electric cart. For a trip around Erhai Lake, it's recommended to hire a car, rent an electric scooter (driving experience is required and safety precautions must be taken), or join a local day tour. Ride-hailing services are widely available in Dali.
• Accommodation options: There are plenty of guesthouses and inns within the old town, offering convenient living; lakeside rooms along Erhai Lake offer expansive views, but are relatively expensive. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
• Climate and Clothing: Dali enjoys a spring-like climate year-round, but "four seasons in one day," with significant temperature differences between day and night. A long-sleeved jacket is recommended. UV radiation is strong, so be sure to take sun protection measures (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses).
• Food safety: When enjoying local specialties, choose restaurants with good hygiene and a good reputation. Eat light meals and avoid raw or cold foods to prevent stomach upset.
• Altitude sickness: Dali is at an altitude of about 2,000 meters. Most people will not experience significant altitude sickness, but it is still recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and ensure sufficient rest upon arrival. If you feel unwell, seek medical attention promptly.
• Environmental awareness: When visiting Erhai Lake and other scenic spots, please be sure to protect the environment, do not litter, and protect the local ecology.