You must visit Dali at least once! Here's the ultimate guide

I want to share Dali's romance with everyone 💕 This guide will help you unlock the best ways to explore Dali, making it easy to enjoy a spontaneous trip! 🚗 Transportation Guide ✈️ Airport: Dali Fengyi Airport is about 13 km from the city center. Airport shuttles go to Dali Ancient Town, Xiaguan downtown, etc. You can also take a taxi (30-40 minutes, around ¥70-80). 🚄 High-speed rail: Dali Station is conveniently located in the city center, with buses or direct shuttles to major attractions. The high-speed train from Kunming takes about 2 hours with stunning views along the way. 🛵 Local transport: Renting an e-bike (¥50-80/day) is the most convenient way to get around Dali Ancient Town and Erhai Lake. Just remember sun protection and battery life 🔋 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations 🏘️ Dali Ancient Town: Perfect for those who love vibrancy and nightlife. Many guesthouses range from ¥100-500, catering to different budgets. Stay near South Gate or Foreigner Street for easy access. 🌊 Erhai Lake: Lakeside rooms are a highlight! Shuanglang, Caicun, and Wenbi Village offer many B&Bs with direct lake views. Waking up to Erhai is magical, and the photos are stunning. Prices start at ¥500 (higher in peak season), so book early! 📸 Must-Visit Attractions 1. Erhai Lake: A must-see in Dali! Cycle along East or West Ring Road for breathtaking views. Longkan Dock's sunrise 🌅 and Panxi Village's S-bend are Instagram hotspots. You can also rent a boat for a relaxing time on the lake. 2. Cangshan Mountain: The 19 peaks of Cangshan are spectacular. Take the Ximatan Cable Car to the summit for panoramic views of Dali and Erhai. Don’t miss Qingbi Stream and Seven Dragon Maiden Pool while hiking. Bring a jacket—it’s chilly up there 🧥 3. Dali Ancient Town: This 1,000-year-old town is full of artistic charm. Stroll the cobblestone streets, explore unique shops, and try local treats like grilled milk fan and erkuai. At night, the town comes alive with music from bars. 4. Xizhou Ancient Town: A Bai ethnic minority town with well-preserved Ming-Qing architecture. Admire the wood/stone carvings at Yan Family Compound and try Xizhou baba (sweet rose or savory scallion-pork fillings) 😋 The vast rice fields are photogenic year-round. 5. Shuanglang Ancient Town: Known as "Cangshan & Erhai’s Most Scenic Town." Visit Yang Liping’s Moon Palace on Yuji Island. A lakeside café here is perfect for cloud-watching. 🍜 Food Recommendations 🥘 Mushroom Hotpot: A Yunnan must! Wild mushrooms in rich broth are irresistible. Try "Jun Cai Wild Mushroom Hotpot" for freshness. 🐟 Sour-Spicy Fish: A Dali specialty—tender fish with a tangy kick. "Duan Gongzi·The Condor Heroes" offers great flavor and wuxia-themed decor. 🍜 Ersi & Erkuai: Staple Dali breakfasts—soft and chewy. "Zai Hui Shou Chicken Rice Noodles" is a local favorite. 🥧 Xizhou Baba: Crispy outside, soft inside, with sweet or savory fillings. Best eaten hot! 📅 Itinerary Suggestions Day 1: Arrive → Check into Dali Ancient Town → Explore → Visit Foreigner Street & Renmin Road Day 2: Cangshan day trip (Ximatan Cable Car → Seven Dragon Maiden Pool → Qingbi Stream) → Nightlife in the ancient town Day 3: E-bike around Erhai (Sunrise at Longkan Dock → Panxi S-bend → Xizhou → Shuanglang) Day 4: Free time or visit hidden gems (e.g., Shaxi Ancient Town, Fengyangyi Village) → Depart 💡 Tips 1. Check the weather—Dali’s UV is strong. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. 2. Prioritize Erhai attractions based on time/interests—no need to rush. 3. Bargain politely when shopping/dining to avoid overpaying. 4. Research B&Bs/hotels thoroughly before booking for the best value. Come to Dali for a dreamy, romantic getaway! 💕