The Best Season to Visit Dalian!

**6 Must-Visit Attractions**
1. **Xinghai Square**
- Feed seagulls｜Cross-sea bridge light show (19:30)｜Pirate ship at the amusement park
2. **Binhai Road Hiking**
- Route: Fujiazhuang → Yanwo Ridge → North Bridge (3km wooden boardwalk, cliffside sea views)
3. **Jinshitan Geological Park**
- Dinosaur Exploring the Sea rock formations｜Golden Beach’s fine sand｜Transport: Direct access via Light Rail Line 3
4. **Fisherman’s Wharf**
- Colorful fishing boats + lighthouse｜Cat’s Meow Bookstore｜Grilled squid ¥15/stick
5. **Route 201 Tram**
- Xinggong Street → Haizhiyun Park section｜Vintage green tram ¥1
6. **Bangchuidao Island**
- State-guest-level beach｜Entrance ¥20｜Electric shuttle one-way ¥10

### **Travel Essentials**
**👗 Clothing**
- May-Oct: T-shirt + sun-protective jacket + light outerwear
- Nov-Apr: Down jacket + scarf
- Must-bring: Non-slip shoes, compact umbrella

**🍽️ Food**
- Sea urchin dumplings: Xi Ding / Ri Feng Yuan
- Seafood: Buy fresh at Changxing Market → get it steamed (¥10/serving)
- Snacks: Mengge Steamed Buns, Erlu Station Takoyaki
- Night market: Jiaoda Night Market (grilled squid ¥10/3 skewers)

**🏨 Accommodation**
- Xinghai Square: Grand Hyatt (sea view)｜Nord B&B (¥300)
- Zhongshan Square: Orange Hotel (near subway)

**🚇 Transport**
- Airport → Downtown: Metro Line 2 (¥3)
- City travel: Metro + bus ¥1, taxis recommended for Binhai Road
- Avoid: Unlicensed cabs at train stations

### **4-Day Itinerary**
**Day 1: Coastal Vibes**
Xinghai Square → Binhai Road West hike → Xinghai light show + night market
**Day 2: Geological Wonders**
Jinshitan (full day) → Light rail back for seafood dinner
**Day 3: Artsy Adventures**
Fisherman’s Wharf → Route 201 tram → Venice Water Town nightscape
**Day 4: Relaxing Finale**
Bangchuidao Island → Nanshan Cultural Street cafés

### **Local Tips**
▶ Russian Street: Photos only, no shopping
▶ Haggle for beach activities (sailing ¥150 → ¥80)
▶ Photo spot: Lingjiao Bay for Fisherman’s Wharf panorama
▶ Budget: ¥1000-1500/person
▶ Highlights: Tram ride + feeding seagulls + sea urchin dumplings!