Traveling solo can be just as joyful!

Dali Ultimate Travel Guide:

Dreaming of a spontaneous trip to Dali? This guide will help you experience its romantic charm!

Itinerary:

- Morning: Arrive in Dali and check into your hotel. If arriving early, head straight to Longkan Dock - the perfect spot for Erhai Lake sunrise views. The lake breeze and shimmering waters will make you fall for Dali instantly.
- Noon: Try local specialties like sour-spicy fish and er'xi noodles at nearby restaurants. The fish is tender in rich broth, while er'xi offers delightful chewiness.
- Afternoon: Explore Dali Ancient Town's historic streets and Bai culture. Climb Wuhua Tower for panoramic views. At night, experience vibrant nightlife at Renmin Road Bar Street.
- Next morning: Cycle along Erhai Ecological Corridor from Caicun Village, stopping at the viral Panxi S-bend for stunning lakeside photos.
- Afternoon: Visit Xizhou Ancient Town to see unique corner buildings, pastoral views, and try Bai tie-dye workshops.
- Evening: Savor Xizhou baba pastries (both sweet rose-sugar and savory scallion-pork versions) for dinner.
- Third morning: In Shuanglang Ancient Town, enjoy lakeside coffee with Cangshan Mountain views.
- Afternoon: Cruise to Nanzhao Folk Island for cultural exploration and photogenic scenery, then visit Little Putuo Temple's unique island shrine.

Transport Guide:

- Flights: Dali Huangcaoba Airport (30km from old town) - taxis cost ¥50-80; airport shuttle ¥25/person.
- Trains: Dali Station (17km away) - taxis ¥30-50; Bus 8 costs ¥2 but takes longer.
- Local transport: For nearby spots (Caicun/Longkan docks), use shared bikes or taxis. Distant sites like Panxi S-bend are best reached by e-bike rental (¥50-80/day). For Erhai circuit, consider car rental (¥200-400/day) or private cars.

Ticket Info:

- Dali Ancient Town: Free (Wuhua Tower ~¥5)
- Erhai Ecological Corridor: Free
- Xizhou/Shuanglang Ancient Towns: Free
- Nanzhao Folk Island: ¥50/person
- Cangshan Mountain (Ximatan Cableway): ¥260-320
- Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas: ¥75 (includes shuttle)

Food Recommendations:

- Dali Sour-Spicy Fish: Erhai fish stewed with sour papaya - tender with appetizing broth.
- Xizhou Baba: Flaky pastries with sweet rose-sugar or savory scallion-pork fillings.
- Weishan Pa'er Rice Noodles: Chewy noodles with braised meat in flavorful soup.
- Rushan Cheese: Local dairy snack - enjoy fresh, grilled, or with rose jam.

Tips:

1. Strong UV protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat) is essential.
2. Bring light jackets for cool evenings.
3. Check e-bike battery range before Erhai trips.
4. Avoid street touts offering cheap tours; bargain politely when shopping.