3 Days Kunming Travel Itinerary

If you only have three days in Kunming, what should to do in Kunming? what highlight can see in Kunming? everyone has different needs and plans, and with our extensive travel experience, we design and recommend various itineraries for different types of travelers to ensure you have the best possible travel experience. Below are some suggested 3 days Kunming itineraries for inspiration.

Actuarily all the itinerary is flexible, just contact us, please. We would be honored to customize a perfect, personalized itinerary specifically for you.

3 Days Itinerary in Kunming for Family with kids

Stone Forest

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming – Old Town & Flower Market Exploration

Arrive in Kunming and check into your hotel. Take some time to settle in and rest from your journey. Head to the Jingxing Flower and Bird Market, where you can discover cultural treasures such as tie-dyed fabric bags and Wa Cats (traditional clay figurines). You can browse fresh bouquets and unique souvenirs, while kids will be delighted by the colorful displays and the wide variety of flowers, birds, fish, antiques, and handcrafts.

In the evening, explore Kunming Old Street, where cobblestone lanes, traditional courtyards, and the iconic Jiubei Tower create a charming atmosphere. You and your family can soak in the vibrant sights and experience the unique charm of Yunnan culture.

Day 2: Visit Dianchi and Stone Forest

Visit Dianchi Lake, Kunming’s iconic natural landmark. Families can stroll along Haigeng Park, watch flocks of seagulls (seasonal in winter), and take a boat ride across the lake. It’s a relaxing outdoor experience for both adults and kids. Enjoy a local lunch to try the local specialties like Yunnan Rice noodle and Steam Pot Chicken.

After lunch, drive to the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 90 km(1.5hours) from Kunming. The various shapes of limestone were formed due to millions of year’s movements of the Earth, like bamboo shoots, forests and pagodas. Children will enjoy exploring the winding paths and hearing the local legends of the Yi people.

Day 3: Ethnic Villages & Nature Park

Head to Yunnan Nationalities Village to explore the culture, architecture, costumes, and performances of 25 ethnic groups. Participate in tea ceremonies or traditional dances. Visit visit Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), one of the most picturesque parks in Kunming downtown. Here you may take a leisure walk or birdwatching, and enjoying the scenic lotus-filled ponds.

3 Days Kunming Itinerary for Seniors with Slow Travel Pace

Guandu Ancient Town

Day 1: Arrival, City Exploration and Leisurely Strolls

After arrival and a short rest at the hotel, visit Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), a serene urban oasis ideal for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenic lotus-filled ponds. Or enjoy the performance (playing Taichi, Mahjong and local opera) by local people.

Stroll through Kunming’s old street and savor Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, the city’s most famous dish.

Day 2: Scenic and Cultural Highlights

After breakfast, take a short drive to the Western Hills (Xishan Forest Park). Ride the cable car up to avoid strenuous hiking, then enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and Kunming city. Visit Dragon Gate Grottoes, accessible via gentle paths with handrails (choose sections suitable for seniors).

Have lunch at a restaurant near the park. At last, visit Yuantong Temple to feel the Buddhism atmosphere at one of the oldest Buddhist temples of Kunming.

Day 3: Ethnic Villages & Historical Sites

Head to Yunnan Nationalities Village to explore the culture, architecture, costumes, and performances of 25 ethnic groups. Participate in tea ceremonies or traditional dances. Visit Guandu Ancient Town, enjoy the historic architecture, local temples, and handicrafts, and learn about Kunming’s history along the Tea Horse Road.

3 Days Kunming Itinerary for Young Travelers

Xishan

Day 1: Kunming Arrival, Adventure West Hill

Arrive in Kunming and check in to your hotel. Adventure Western Hills (Xi Shan). Hike scenic trails, admire views of Dianchi Lake, and visit the Dragon Gate.

In the evening, explore Kunming Old Street, enjoy street food, and soak in the local vibe.

Day 2: Private transfer from Kunming to Dongchuan (3hours)

In the beautiful morning, meet your local guide and driver at the hotel lobby and go to Dongchuan by private transfer. After lunch, grasp your camera and be ready to get some nice pictures of Dongchuan Red Land, praised as “God’s Palette” and considered to be a paradise for photography lovers. It has a dazzling color due to the high content of iron and aluminum in the soil.

If weather permits, wait till the sunset, which makes the red land more charming.

Day 3: Haigeng Dam and Dianchi Lake, Stone Forest

After breakfast, Start the day at Haigeng Dam, feed the red-billed gulls(seasonal in winter), take a boat ride, or stroll along the lakeside.

Visit the Stone Forest (1.5hours driver), marvel at the unique limestone formations, explore caves, and enjoy local Yi cultural performance. Return to Kunming for shopping or dinner at a local restaurant before departure.

3 Days Culture Tour in Kunming

Yongtong Temple

Day 1: Nature and Scenic Views

Arrival in Kunming, start the day at Kunming’s largest freshwater lake, enjoy the lakeside views, and watch or feed the red-billed gulls. Explore Western Hills, enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, visit temples and pavilions along the trails.

In the evening, wander cobblestone lanes, explore traditional courtyards, and sample local snacks.

Day 2: History and Culture

Visit Southwest Associated University (Xinan Lianda). Learn about the rich history of this prestigious wartime university. Visit Yunnan University, stroll through the scenic campus and enjoy its historic architecture.

Explore Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), walk around this tranquil urban oasis, feed the fish, and relax among lotus ponds. Afterward, visit Lujun Jiangwutang (Army Lecture Hall), Explore modern historical sites. Admire the Yuantong Temple, one of Kunming’s oldest Buddhist temples, admire its architecture and serene atmosphere.

Day 3: Landmarks and Shopping

Head to Stone Forest Scenic Area (1.5hours drive), discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering limestone formations and scenic trails.

Stroll along Nanping Pedestrian Street to shop for local souvenirs, sample delicious street snacks, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Visit the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways, and end your trip admiring this iconic landmark in Kunming’s historic city center.

Customize Your Spring City Kunming Tour

If you are interested in the Kunming itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Kunming Tour, please visit our Kunming Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Kunming Trip

Kunming

• Travel Guide: attractions, weather, hotels, food, etc.
• Weather: best time and seasons to visit Kunming
• Top attractions: sightseeings to watch in Kunming
• Local culture: brief history, folk culture, festivals, etc.
• Top destinations: best places to visit in Kunming
• Travel itineraries: itineraries for your reference
• Abundant activities: Kunming cultural immersions
• Unique perspective: top interesting things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Kunming
• Luxury hotels: accommodation to stay in Kunming
• Kunming Tours: customized tours for your reference