3 to 5 Days Chongqing Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Plan your trip to Chongqing with this 3 to 5 days Chongqing itinerary, which includes all of the best attractions, restaurants, travel tips, and more.

Chongqing (Chinese: 重庆), located in the southwest of China, is a highly popular tourist destination that offers a wide variety of activities for every type of traveler. This ancient city is rich in cultural heritage, featuring numerous historical sites and attractions. It also features UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Dazu Rock Carvings and the Wulong Karst landscape, as well as its renowned spicy hotpot culture. From its abundant natural resources to encounters with giant pandas and explorations of its vibrant downtown area, Chongqing has something for everyone.

In this Chongqing Travel Guide blog, I have outlined everything you need to create your perfect Chongqing itinerary. With so much to see and do, I recommend spending at least three days in Chongqing, though five days would allow for a more thorough experience. This itinerary includes the main attractions that everyone should visit, as well as options for additional activities based on your preferences.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ultimate Chongqing itinerary!

Table of Contents

How To Get to Chongqing

When traveling to Chongqing, the most common options are flights and high-speed trains.

Getting to Chongqing by Flights:

Assuming Chongqing is your port of entry into China, you’ll likely arrive at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. This airport is well-connected with domestic flights to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Huangshan, and Guangzhou, as well as some international flights from destinations like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia.

There are several ways to reach Chongqing city from the Chongqing airport:

Private Transfer: For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a private transfer through Trip.com, especially if you are traveling with a group, elderly family members, or children.

Ride-Hailing Didi: Ride-hailing services like Didi are efficient and relatively inexpensive in China. You can book a Didi for travel between the airport and downtown Chongqing.

Taxi: Yellow taxis in China are reliable and safe. Make sure to choose a taxi with meter for your journey.

While we flew to Chongqing, there are other ways to reach the city depending on your location. I recommend checking Trip.com for the cheapest China flight options available to you. Taking a high-speed train to Chongqing is also popular from various cities in China.

Getting to Chongqing by High Speed Trains:

Frequent high-speed trains operate to and from Chongqing. Some common routes include:

Chengdu to Chongqing (approximately 2 hours)
Guilin to Chongqing (approximately 4-5 hours)
Xi’an to Chongqing (approximately 5.5 hours)
Beijing to Chongqing (approximately 12 hours)
Shanghai to Chongqing (approximately 11.5 hours)

Once you arrive in Chongqing, you can get around the city using taxis, Didi, metro, buses, or even guided tours.

Best Places To Stay in Chongqing

If you are first time travelers to Chongqing, we recommend the Jiefangbei Hongyadong and Guanyinquao as the best place to stay. These areas puts you closest to many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and metro stations, allowing you to enjoy a lively atmosphere during your visit. Here is our recommendation.

Popular Chongqing Hotel: Aspera High Altitude Garden Panoramic Hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views and an exceptional experience. The hotel is clean, stylish, and thoughtfully designed, creating a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere.

Another highly recommended is S-Island High Altitude River View Hotel. It is one of the highest-rated hotels in Chongqing. It boasts a great location near all the main attractions, with the food street just a few minutes’ walk away.

Lastly, Ramada Encore by Wyndham Chongqing Yubei is a popular choice for budget accommodation in Chongqing. The hotel boasts a great location with numerous restaurants nearby and is not far from the Guanyinqiao shopping district. Slightly dated but well-maintain.

For more detail Chongqing accommodation, read here: Where To Stay in CHongqing: Best Areas and Hotels.

3 to 5 Days Chongqing Itinerary

Here is the main highlight of this travel guide blog for Chongqing: a 3 to 5 days Chongqing itinerary detailing what to do in the city! Chongqing is a lively city known for its rich history and culture.

Below, you’ll find a customized plan that showcases all the key attractions in the area, making it easy for you to choose which places to visit each day. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary I’ve prepared for you.

Planning for 3 to 5 days Chongqing itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Chongqing. Jiefangbei Square, Luohan Temple, Hongya Cave.
Day 2: Chongqing Zoo, Liziba Metro Station, Try Authentic Spicy Hotpot in Chongqing.
Day 3: Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street, Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street.
Day 4 – 5: Days trip to Wulong karst, Fairy Mountain National Park, Dazu Rock Carvings, and more.

The Chongqing itinerary above is flexible; feel free to adjust it based on your interests for your trip.

Day 1: Arrived in Chongqing. Jiafangbei, Hongya Cave

Chongqing is a fascinating city. Although it may be old and worn in some areas, it is full of character. With its numerous historical sites, the bustling shopping district of JiaFangBei Square, and the lively Hongya Cave, it’s an enjoyable place to explore on foot. The city is very charming and can be fully experienced in just one or three days.

On our first day Chongqing itinerary, we didn’t plan much to do. We checked into our Chongqing hotel located in the Jiangfangbei area and spent the rest of the day visiting nearby attractions.

Jiefangbei Square

Jiefangbei Square (Chinese: 解放碑) is a shopping district established in 1997 and is the heart of Chongqing city. At its center stands the People’s Liberation Monument, surrounded by a pedestrian boulevard. This area is ideal for experiencing the local upper-middle-class lifestyle, with many luxury and high-end brand stores located in adjacent malls. You’ll also find a wide variety of local and international dining options, making it a great spot for shopping, dining, enjoying snacks, and people-watching.

Additionally, Jiefangbei Square is just a short walk from the Hongya Caves. We recommend visiting the caves to complement your shopping experience, as they are conveniently located within walking distance.

Luohan Temple

Luohan Temple (Chinese: 罗汉寺), originally built around 1065, is a charming Buddhist temple located in downtown Chongqing, just off JieFangBei Pedestrian Street. Although its exterior might not look impressive, the temple contains some fascinating sights within.

One of the highlights is a room that features 500 clay figures representing the 500 LuoHan (or Arhats) in various poses and incarnations. These clay figures are unique and definitely worth seeing, although photography is not permitted in this room. The entry fee is CNY 20.

Luohan Temple is conveniently accessible via metro lines 1, 2, or 6, with the nearest metro entrance located almost directly in front of the temple. Not a must-visit attraction but it pairs well with a leisurely stroll down the pedestrian street. Plan to spend about an hour exploring, though you may wish to allow extra time to find the best photo spots.

Luohan Temple (罗汉寺)

Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 to 17:30.
Entrance Fee: Free! Separate CNY 20 to Luohan Room
Getting there: Located next to Xiaoshizi subway, exit 6.

Hongya Cave

Chongqing boasts one of the most stunning skylines in the world, and a visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without exploring Hongya Cave.

Hongya Cave, also known as Hongya Dong (Chinese: 洪崖洞), is the most iconic landmark in Chongqing. This popular tourist destination features a stilted building built within a historic architectural style. Its prime location directly across from the waterfront creates a beautiful atmosphere, enhanced by the array of colorful lights and LED displays from surrounding buildings. The dazzling light show at night makes it a fantastic spot for photography.

Chongqing itinerary Must-See - Hongya Dong

During our trip to Chongqing, we visited Hongya Cave both during the day and at night, and the nighttime lighting was absolutely incredible. We enjoyed exploring and took numerous stunning photos. The structure has multiple levels, reflecting the city’s unique terrain, so be sure to wear comfortable footwear and be prepared to walk and climb stairs.

There are plenty of street food options and restaurants in the area. However, since the food tends to cater to tourists, you might want to skip it if you’re looking for authentic local cuisine. We did try the must-have spicy Sichuan hotpot, which was delicious.

True to the city’s reputation as a 3D maze, Hongya Cave is a must-visit if you’re in Chongqing. Just be ready for the crowds and aim for the best experience.

The Qiansimen Bridge spans the Jialing River, offering a view of the other side facing Hongya Cave. We love the night views. Truly Amazing!

Day 2: Chongqing Zoo, Liziba Station, Chongqing Hot Pot

Chongqing Zoo (Chinese: 重庆动物园) was an added highlight on our recent trip to China, and we spent half a day there as part of our Chongqing itinerary. Although I had already met the giant panda during my previous visit to Chengdu, we didn’t want to miss the opportunity to see these adorable creatures again.

Get the Chongqing Zoo Ticket Here

The Chongqing Zoo is located on a hillside, and the animals are situated at various levels throughout the park. Like many others, I waited for hours to catch a glimpse of the giant panda. The staff at Chongqing Zoo do a commendable job of ensuring that both adult and juvenile pandas are visible to visitors at all times.

Be prepared for large crowds eager to see this superstar, and try to arrive as early as possible.

In addition to the giant pandas, the zoo features beautiful landscaping and a variety of other interesting animals. Unfortunately, some of these exhibits are not well maintained, which is somewhat disappointing. I hope that the zoo can improve in this area in the future.

Chongqing Zoo (重庆动物园)

Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 to 18:00.
Entrance Fee: CNY 25. Get the Chongqing Zoo Entrance Ticket.
Getting there: Get off at Zoo Station, Metro Line 2 by metro. Alternatively, board the bus and get off at Dongwuyuan (Zoo).

Liziba Station

Chongqing is a unique mountain city that boasts many distinctive sights. One of the most notable is the Liziba Station of Chongqing Metro Line 2. Though it isn’t typically considered a tourist attraction, its uniqueness draws many visitors.

The Liziba Station (Chinese: 李子坝) is remarkable because the train actually passes through the eighth floor of the Zhushangheyi Building. This impressive engineering design creates a magical experience for onlookers. The subway station is integrated within a building, adding to its charm.

We visited as part of our Chongqing itinerary. Spending just 5-10 minutes watching the train enter the station was enough to appreciate its uniqueness. If you’re short on time, you can skip this stop. The best way to experience this sight is to take train #2 to Liziba Station and then go down to ground level (eight floors below). Once you cross the street, you will see many others gazing up at the station. There is also a viewing platform across the street where you can enjoy the view.

Authentic Spicy Chongqing Hotpot

After exploring the area, head back to the restaurant to enjoy an authentic hot pot dinner, a local specialty. Your trip to Chongqing is not complete without experiencing a night of authentic spicy Chongqing hotpot.

Chongqing was once part of Sichuan Province, which is famous for its spicy mala cuisine. As you wander the streets, you’ll notice that hot pot restaurants are abundant, all serving similar dishes. Choosing one with great reviews is a good way to ensure a satisfying meal!

If you are not the best at handling super spicy foods, you can order three different soup bases: bone broth, tomato, and spicy mala. Additionally, consider ordering drinks like yogurt or beer to help balance out the heat.

Day 3: Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Travel Guide Blog

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street

On day 3 of our Chongqing itinerary, we explored the historical sites of Longmenhao Old Street (Chinese: 龍門浩老街) and Xiahaoli Old Street (Chinese: 下浩里老街). This area is part of an urban renewal pilot project initiated by the local government in Chongqing, which opened to the public in November 2022.

Both residents and tourists can appreciate the unique blend of Sichuan-Chongqing architecture and Western-style buildings while experiencing the lifestyle of old Chongqing.

This Very Chongqing Sign and Xiahaoli Stairs

We enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the area and took a relaxing break at a cozy cafe. It was a fantastic way to experience the rich history of Chongqing, making for an unforgettable experience. We particularly appreciated the peaceful atmosphere in some of the older neighborhoods, which stood in contrast to the bustling city center. I highly recommend visiting if you’re in Chongqing!

We took a leisurely stroll through the historical sites, had a break at a cafe, and truly immersed ourselves in the unique past of Chongqing. What’s a great day for the Chongqing itinerary!

Relax at Cafe at Longmenhao and Xiahaoli

Getting to the area is quite easy, as it is well-connected by public transport.

To reach Longmenhao Old Street, take the metro to Shangxinjie Station, use Exit 2, and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance. If you’re heading to Xiahaoli, use Exit 1.

Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street

Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street (Chinese: 观音桥步行街) is one of the most famous shopping districts in Chongqing. This commercial hub blends modern skyscrapers with traditional architecture, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. It features many department stores, shops, and restaurants.

We came here for dinner and also took the popular Instagram-worthy photo with “我在重庆”.

More Times for Chongqing Itinerary

If you have more time for your Chongqing itinerary, here are some additional activities and attractions in the city that you could consider including in your trip. We would love to include these, but our time is limited. Check it out if you’re interested!

E’ling Park (Chinese: 鹅岭公园) – A beautiful park situated on a small mountain in the heart of the city. This park is the perfect spot for travelers to experience the area’s natural beauty and unwind. Additionally, E’ling Park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Chongqing City from its lookout tower. You can expect to spend around one hour exploring the park. The subway is a convenient option for reaching this location, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the nearest exit.

Yangtze River Cableway, also known as the Chongqing Changjiang Cableway (Chinese: 長江索道), is one of the best ways to experience the unique charm of Chongqing. The cableway begins at Chang’an Temple (located on Xinhua Road) in the Yuzhong District and crosses the Yangtze River to Shangxin Street (Longmenhao) in the Nan’an District. Enjoy stunning views of the mighty Yangtze River as you soar above this mountainous city in the cablecar. Be sure to purchase your Chongqing Changjiang Cableway ticket in advance.

Side Trips from Chongqing

About three hour’s drive from Chongqing, Wulong Karst National Geology Park (武隆) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. It is an ideal location for exploring natural scenery and appreciating the magnificent Three Natural Bridges, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While a day trip to Wulong is possible, I believe it is best enjoyed with an overnight stay.

Get the Entrance Ticket and Transport to Wulong Karst.

READ MORE: If you are spending enough time in Chongqing, visiting Wulong Karst is a must. Be sure to check out my article on our Trip to Chongqing Wulong Karst for more pictures and information.

Wulong Xian Nu Shan (武隆仙女山), also known as Fairy Mountain, is a national forest park in Wulong recognized for its stunning alpine scenery. It is a popular destination for summer vacations as well as winter snow activities.

Dazu Rock Carvings, or Dazu Shike (大足石刻), are located in the Dazu district, about 167 kilometers from the Chongqing city center. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its collection of Chinese religious sculptures and carvings that date back to the 9th century. These rock carvings were hand-made over 800 years ago by Zhao Zhifeng and his team.

Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口) is located about 14 kilometers west of Chongqing. This ancient town, which dates back to the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), features well-preserved buildings. It is a great place to buy souvenirs or experience the lively atmosphere of narrow streets while strolling around.

Overall: A Visit to Chongqing

Overall, we hope this Chongqing itinerary helps you plan your trip to this amazing city. Chongqing is a city built on hills, giving it a unique landscape that can make navigation challenging—sometimes maps just don’t suffice! However, this wonderful city has so much to offer that two days are definitely not enough to explore it fully. While five days might seem a bit long just for the downtown area, you can always plan side trips to nearby attractions.

In short, Chongqing is a place that truly deserves a leisurely visit. Enjoy your trip!

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