3-Day Chongqing Travel Guide

Day 1: Explore Urban Highlights
Morning:

• Bayi Food Street (八一好吃街)
• A lively culinary hub in downtown Chongqing near Liberation Monument (解放碑), famed for its vibrant street food scene. Must-try dishes include:
• Chongqing Xiaomian (重庆小面): Spicy noodles with peppercorn kick.
• Suanlafen (酸辣粉): Sour & spicy sweet potato noodles.
• Chuanchuan (串串香): Skewers dipped in fiery hot pot broth.
• Liangpi (凉皮): Cold rice noodles with chili sauce.
• Opening Hours: ~10:00–22:00 (stalls vary).
• Liberation Monument (解放碑)
• Chongqing’s bustling commercial heart. Snap photos of the historic WWII monument surrounded by skyscrapers.

Afternoon:

• Liziba Monorail Station (李子坝站)
• Witness the viral “train-through-building” spectacle. Head to the viewing platform (Exit A) for the best photo op.
• Eling Park (鹅岭公园)
• Climb to the top for panoramic city views. Free entry; open 7:00–22:00.

Evening:

• Chaotianmen Square (朝天门广场)
• Watch the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.
• Nearby: Visit Raffles City Chongqing for its futuristic “Horizontal Skyscraper” bridge.
• Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)
• Stroll through this iconic stilted complex with 11 floors of shops, teahouses, and Bayu-style architecture.
• Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds. Free entry; open 11:00–23:00.

Dinner:

• Hot Pot Feast
• Try local favorites like Dezhuang Hot Pot (德庄火锅) or Xiaolongkan Hot Pot (小龙坎火锅).

Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Nightscapes
Morning:

• Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)
• Wander cobblestone streets, sample spicy snacks (e.g., Chen Ma Po Tofu), and buy Sichuan embroidery.

Afternoon:

• Three Gorges Museum (三峡博物馆)
• Dive into Chongqing’s history and Yangtze River culture. Free entry; closed Mondays.
• Great Hall of the People (人民大礼堂)
• Admire its grand Soviet-inspired architecture (¥10 entry).

Evening:

• Yangtze River Cable Car (长江索道)
• Ride the “air bus” for sunset views (¥20 one-way).
• Nanbin Road (南滨路)
• Enjoy a riverside walk and marvel at the city’s neon-lit skyline.

Night:

• Hongya Cave Illumination
• Return to Hongya Cave at night—its golden lights against the river are magical.

Day 3: Nature & Hidden Gems
Morning:

• Wulong Karst National Park (武隆喀斯特) (Day Trip)
• Explore the Three Natural Bridges and Furong Cave, UNESCO-listed karst wonders.
• Transport: 2.5-hour drive from downtown; join a tour for convenience.

Afternoon:

• Huguang Guild Hall (湖广会馆)
• A serene Ming-Qing dynasty complex with ornate carvings (¥25 entry).

Evening:

• Jiefangbei Night Market (解放碑夜市)
• Savor street food like spicy skewers, sour and spicy rice noodles, and ice jelly.

Essential Tips:

• Transport: Use the metro (Line 2 covers most attractions) or Didi (China’s Uber).
• Food: Embrace the spice! Try xiaomian (小面, Chongqing noodles) and shuangjiao chicken (双椒鸡).
• Weather: Summers are hot/humid; pack light, sunscreen, and an umbrella.

Chongqing’s 8D terrain and fiery cuisine promise an unforgettable adventure! 🌆🚠🌶️