3 Days Dali Travel Itinerary

If you only have Three days in Dali, what should to do in Dali? what highlight can see in Dali? 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 can explore Dali to the fullest without missing out on its wonders. Below are some suggested 3 days Dali itineraries for inspiration.

Actually, 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 Dali for Family with kids

Day 1: Arrival and Dali Ancient Town

Upon arrive in Dali, settle into your hotel. Explore Dali Ancient Town with stops at the Wuhua Tower and traditional streets for local snacks and souvenirs. Visit the Three Pagodas for a cultural experience.

Day 2: Erhai Lake East Shore - Little Putuo and Shuanglang

In the morning, enjoy sightseeing along the east shore of Erhai Lake. stopping at Little Putuo Island for a boat ride. After lunch, visit Wase Village and finish the day in Shuanglang, a charming and leisurely lakeside town.

Day 3: Shaxi Ancient Town Day Trip

Take a day trip to Shaxi Ancient Town. Although it is a small town with just a few main streets, every sight here is extremely pleasing to the eye. Even the decrepit parts of this place have a certain charm, and you can also visit the traditional opera stage. See the historic Yujin stone bridges and explore the village’s market with food and local crafts.

Depart Dali with wonderful family memories.

3 Days Dali Itinerary for Seniors with Slow Travel Pace

Day 1: Arrival and Dali Ancient Town

Arrive in Dali and settle into your hotel.

Enjoy a relaxed stroll through Dali Ancient Town, visiting historical buildings and local shops.

Day 2: Scenic West Shore of Erhai Lake

Start the day with a visit to Xizhou Village for Bai architecture and the chance to observe local Bai culture at a leisurely pace.

Enjoy a scenic drive along Erhai’s west shore, stopping at the S-bend and Langqiao Bridge for panoramic lake views.

Day 3: Gentle Excursion to the Three Pogoda and Butterfly Spring

In the morning, head to the Three Pagodas, taking your time to admire this iconic site. In the afternoon, visit Butterfly Spring Park, the spring got its name because of the breathtaking sight of swarms of butterflies flying above the water in the past.

Depart Dali with wonderful memories.

3 Days Dali for Young Travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Explore Dali Old Town

Arrive in Dali and check into your accommodation. Explore Cangshan Mountain, You can take a cable car or hike up to enjoy panoramic views of the Dali and Erhai Lake.

Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying regional dishes like Dali's famous cheese and rice noodles. Explore the night market for souvenirs.

Day 2: Erhai Lake

In the morning, cycling along the Erhai Lake. Enjoy the scenic views at Erhai Lake, which sparkle like diamonds, and take some photos while playing with the happy flying birds (The migration period for migratory birds to spend the winter primarily occurs from late October to March or April of the following year); and then, Visit Xizhou Ancient Town, see the “Feng shui” tree and old wooden corner house, try the Bai Tie-dye in the Zhoucheng village.

Return to Dali Old Town and relax at a café or bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Explore Nuodeng Village

Explore Nuodeng Village, a place with a rich history and culture that is an unexplored goldmine. The red ancient houses come into view, contrasting against the otherworldly mountainous backdrop. This area is historically significant for its ancient salt industry. Here, you can see ancient architecture and visit the historic Salt Horse Road.

Depart Dali with fantastic memories.

3 Days Culture tour in Dali

Day 1: Arrival and Dali Old Town

Arrive in Dali and check into your accommodation.

Explore Dali Old Town. Stroll through the ancient streets, enjoying the Bai architecture and local handicrafts. Visit the Three Pagodas and learn about their historical significance.

Dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional Bai dishes like sour and spicy fish, and Three Courses of Tea. Explore the evening market for local crafts and souvenirs.

Day 2: Shaxi Ancient Town

Visit Shaxi Ancient Town to learn about the history of the Tea Horse Road. It is about 2.5 hours’ drive, you will arrive this nice village, which was added to the World Monuments’ List of 100 most endangered sites. you can explore the ancient theater and Yujin stone bridge, stroll through the local market, the only surviving market along the Tea Horse, and discover Bai culture and the daily lives of the local community.

Day 3: Bai Culture and Local Villages

After breakfast, you will visit Xizhou Village, known for its well-preserved Bai architecture. Explore the local market and visit a Bai family to learn about their customs and traditions.

In the afternoon, Participate in a traditional Bai cooking class. Learn to make local dishes like Bai-style cheese and flower cake.

Depart Dali with fantastic cultural memories.

Customize Your Unique Yunnan Tour

If you are interested in one of the Yunnan 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 Yunnan Tour, please visit our Yunnan Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Dali Trip

Dali Three Pagoda

• Travel Guide: attractions, seasons, hotels, food, itineraries, etc.
• Top destinations: places to visit in Dali
• Travel itineraries: best itineraries for your reference
• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Dali
• Top attractions:well-selected top attractions in Dali
• Dali: rich and unique culture
• Cultural immersions: hands-on activities to spotlight your trip
• Unique perspective: top different things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Dali
• Luxury hotels: where to stay in Dali
• Yunnan Tours: tailor-made Yunnan Tours for your reference