4 Days 3 Nights Dali Travel Guide | The Essence Summarized After 6 Trips

After visiting Dali six times, I've finally compiled this super detailed 4-day 3-night itinerary! Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, you're guaranteed an unforgettable travel experience. Itinerary •Day1: Dali - Shengxing Bridge - Dali Ancient Town After arriving in Dali, first check out Shengxing Bridge near the airport, then head to Dali Ancient Town. Stroll through ancient streets and alleys to experience the town's charm while enjoying local delicacies like rushan (milk fan) and cold chicken rice noodles. In the evening, visit the bars on Renmin Road for a Dali V8 beer and folk music. •Day2: Ancient Town - Longkan Dock - Cycling along Haixi Ecological Corridor - Xizhou Wake up early for sunrise coffee at Xindi Coffee near Longkan Dock while feeding seagulls. Then start cycling along Haixi Ecological Corridor to enjoy Erhai Lake views. In the afternoon, visit Xizhou Ancient Town to admire Bai architecture and try Xizhou baba (local pastry). Stay overnight in Xizhou. •Day3: Xizhou - Shuanglang Depart from Xizhou to Shuanglang on the east side of the lake. Check into a lakeside homestay, explore the ancient town, and enjoy Erhai's night views. •Day4: Shuanglang - Wenbi Village After waking up, head to Wenbi Village to see the Rainbow Road. Enjoy the "blue hour" at Sunset Mountain Sea Coffee before preparing for your return trip, concluding your wonderful Dali journey. Food Recommendations 📍Taohong Xiaoguan (South Gate Branch) Easy to find near Dali Ancient Town's south gate. Must-try dishes include erkuai spicy chicken (chewy rice cakes with tender chicken) and snowflake fish (sour and spicy). Generous portions will leave you stuffed! 📍Fushi Left Bank A beautiful restaurant near the ancient town! Exquisite and delicious dishes - the salmon egg rice is so good you'll lick the plate clean 😋 The second-floor view of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake creates great ambiance! 📍Bianzhai Maling A must-try mushroom hotpot in Dali! Come early as it gets crowded! Incredibly delicious with rich, umami mushroom broth! The set includes various fresh mushroom varieties! You can also grill meat while enjoying the mushroom soup! 📍Take Your Time My most satisfying stop in Shuanglang! A standalone wooden house with private dining rooms in fine dining style. True to its name, you'll slowly savor both the food and the changing views of Erhai Lake through the windows. 📍Mountain Tea A delightful surprise - unique milk tea only available in Dali, Yunnan! Also sells souvenirs and gift teas 🎁 Must-try "Light of Yunnan" with tamarind flavor - so good you'll want one daily!! 📍Xizhou Jia Xidou Near Xizhou's wheat field train tracks. Their freshly fried tofu is crispy outside and tender inside with mildly spicy sauce that bursts with flavor when bitten! Enjoy eating while overlooking the wheat fields - pure bliss! Transportation Tips •Reach Dali by plane or train. From Dali Station, take direct buses, taxis, or public transport to the ancient town. •For Erhai Lake touring: rent bikes, shared e-bikes, or take sightseeing buses for Haixi Ecological Corridor; rent a car for self-driving around Haidong to stop freely for views. Important Notes 1. Dali has strong UV rays - sun protection is essential. 2. Some sections of Haixi Ecological Corridor prohibit external vehicles - observe traffic rules. 3. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid shortages.