Chongqing Tours

• The best time to visit Chongqing is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Summer (July to August) can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), and the city is known for its intense humidity, which may make outdoor exploration less enjoyable.
• Winter (December to February) is generally cold, but it’s less crowded, and you can enjoy the city’s cozy hot pot culture. However, the colder weather might limit some outdoor activities.

For a well-rounded experience, 3 to 4 days in Chongqing is ideal. As it allows you to experience a mix of culture, nature, history, and food without feeling rushed. If you have more time, you could explore additional spots or simply relax and enjoy the city’s atmosphere!

1. Dazu Rock Carvings

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dazu Rock Carvings are ancient Buddhist sculptures and murals carved into cliffs, showcasing incredible artistry from the Tang and Song dynasties.

2. Wulong Karst National Geopark

Known for its spectacular limestone formations, including the famous Three Natural Bridges, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

3. Yangtze River Cruise

Take a boat ride on China’s longest river for stunning views of the city skyline, particularly at night when Chongqing’s lights shine brightly. The cruise offers a chance to see the city from a unique perspective.

4. Hongya Cave

A beautiful complex of stilted buildings perched along the riverbank, this area offers a mix of traditional architecture, restaurants, shops, and amazing night views of the city lights.

5. Ciqikou Ancient Town

Step back in time at this charming, preserved ancient town. With its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local handicrafts, it’s a great place to experience old Chongqing.

6. Chongqing Zoo

Home to over 230 species, including China’s famous giant pandas, the zoo is a great spot for families and animal lovers.

7. Three Gorges Museum

A modern museum that explores the history, culture, and impact of the Three Gorges Dam, as well as the broader region of Chongqing and the Yangtze River.

8. Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street

A bustling shopping district in the heart of the city, perfect for a day of exploring modern Chongqing, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

9. Fengdu Ghost City

Located on the banks of the Yangtze River, this eerie site is dedicated to Chinese beliefs in the afterlife, featuring temples, statues, and sculptures that depict the journey to the underworld.

10. Nanbin Road

Known for its riverside walk, this scenic road offers one of the best views of Chongqing’s skyline, especially at sunset or night when the city is illuminated.

These spots give you a well-rounded glimpse of what makes Chongqing so fascinating—its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine.

Chongqing is a food lover’s paradise, known for its bold flavors and spicy dishes. Here are some must-try local foods:

1. Chongqing Hot Pot

This is the city’s signature dish and a must-try. The hot pot is filled with a spicy, flavorful broth made from Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. You dip various ingredients like meats, vegetables, and tofu into the boiling broth. It’s known for its intense heat, but it’s also incredibly aromatic and flavorful.

2. Chongqing Xiaomian (Small Noodles)  

A local favorite, Xiaomian is a simple yet flavorful noodle dish made with chewy noodles tossed in a spicy, savory sauce of chili oil, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns. It’s typically garnished with peanuts, pickled vegetables, and green onions.

3. Sichuan-Style Fish (Shui Zhu Yu)  

This dish features fish fillets cooked in a spicy and numbing broth made from Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies. It’s both fiery and aromatic, often served in a big bowl to share.

4. Chongqing Grilled Fish (Chuan Chuan)

A popular street food, grilled fish in Chongqing is usually marinated in spices and grilled to perfection. It’s typically served with a spicy dipping sauce and complemented by skewers of vegetables and meat.

5. Mao Xue Wang (Spicy Blood Tofu)

This dish might sound strange, but it’s a local delicacy! It consists of coagulated pig’s blood and tofu, all cooked in a spicy, sour broth with various spices. It’s a fiery and distinctive dish that reflects the bold flavors of Chongqing cuisine.

6. Chongqing Dumplings (Chongqing Jiaozi)

Chongqing’s dumplings are typically filled with minced pork and served in a spicy, tangy sauce made from chili oil and Sichuan pepper. They’re a great snack or appetizer.

7. Zhangcha Duck

This is a traditional Chongqing dish where the duck is marinated and then wrapped in tea leaves before being smoked. It has a distinctive smoky flavor and is often served with rice or vegetables.

8. Hot and Sour Glass Noodles(Chongqing Suan La Fen)

Hot and Sour Glass Noodles is a kind of traditional Chongqing food that can be easily found at roadside booths and stalls. As its name indicates, the sour and spicy flavor created by chili oil and vinegar is the greatest characteristic of the dish and brings about a strong impact on the palates. The glassy noodles, featuring a chewy and elastic texture, are made of sweet potato powder and can well absorb the rich flavor of the soup stock. Fried peanuts and Sichuan pickles are two important toppings of Chongqing Suan La Fen, adding a crunchy taste to this dish.

9. Chongqing Chicken with Chilies (Chongqing La Zi Ji)

La Zi Ji is a popular dish in Chongqing, especially enjoyed with wine, thanks to its unique spicy taste and tender chicken. To make it, the chicken is first deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft inside. Then, it’s stir-fried with sliced chili peppers and spices to give it a bold, fiery flavor. When served, the golden chicken pieces and vibrant red chilies make it look appetizing, while its spicy and numbing taste is sure to satisfy.

10. Street Snacks

In Chongqing, you’ll also find many local street foods like spicy skewers of meat, tofu, fish, and vegetables, often grilled and served with a tangy, spicy sauce.

When in Chongqing, make sure to embrace the spice—its cuisine is known for its “mala” flavor, a combination of spicy heat and the numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns. Don’t shy away from the heat, as it’s a key part of the city’s culinary identity!

Yes, there are some tours that feature visits to the Chongqing Zoo, where you get to see pandas up close, and including the tours that also visit Chengdu, where you get to visit the Chengdu Panda Base.