Just returned from a 2-day Dalian Citywalk! Honestly! Don't blindly visit Dalian in July-August

Dalian's romance hides in the spires of European architecture and dances within coastal waves. Stroll along its streets, and you'll encounter surprises carried by the sea breeze. This 2-day walking route offers a relaxed pace, perfect for following your intuition—every turn reveals picturesque scenes.

Day 1: Old Town Charm & Seaside Sunset

Morning: A European vibe in century-old architecture

- Zhongshan Square
Step out of Metro Line 2's Zhongshan Square station, and you're surrounded by historic buildings. Renaissance domes, Baroque reliefs, and former banks/post offices stand harmoniously. Sunlight glimmers on the central fountain, making you feel like you're on a European street corner. Sit on a bench, watch locals exercise or feed pigeons, and soak in the slow rhythm of the old town.
- Nanshan Cultural Street
A 10-minute walk south from Zhongshan Square leads to this area where century-old villas nestle under plane trees, blending Japanese wooden structures with Russian spires. Cafés and artisan shops line the streets—step inside for a latte and browse vintage photos or old Dalian maps on the walls.

Afternoon: Leisurely coastal moments

- Venice Water Town
Artificial canals wind through colorful buildings, with gondolas gliding by. Arrive before dusk—no need for perfect angles; just stand on a stone bridge as sunset paints the scene gold, like a living painting.
- Bangchuidao Island
Take a bus to Bangchuidao Station, then walk through expansive lawns and woods to reach the beach. Collect seashells, admire April-May tulips (red, yellow, pink) framing distant islands, or rest on a seaside bench listening to waves.

Evening: Chase a coastal sunset

- Shicao
A 10-minute taxi ride from Bangchuidao, this quieter coastline is ideal for a seaside café. Enjoy cake by the window as the sun dips into the sea, painting the sky orange, pink, then deep blue—cool breezes make it hard to leave.

Day 2: Sunrise & Fishing Port Vibes

Dawn: A maritime sunrise

- Lingjiao Bay
Arrive by 5 AM—pastel seaside cottages stand crowd-free as the crimson sun leaps from the horizon, gilding the water. Photographers’ paradise. Watch fishermen mend nets, seagulls skim the waves, and breathe in the briny air.

Morning: Lively fishing port

- Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit before 9 AM when fishing boats dock. Barracuda, crabs, and oysters pile up as vendors shout; pick fresh seafood for nearby restaurants to cook. The iconic white lighthouse against blue skies is endlessly photogenic.
- Coastal Boardwalk
Walk south from the wharf along this path where waves crash against rocks. Pause at viewing platforms to watch cargo ships glide by and foam spray against reefs—unexpectedly therapeutic.

Afternoon: Where city meets sea

- Xinghai Square
Asia’s largest urban square features the open Huabiao Plaza. Walk toward the sea to find the Century Sculpture—footprints leading into waves, symbolizing Dalian’s growth. Rent a bike to ride along the coast, feeling the wind as kites dance overhead.
- Silver Beach
Near Xinghai, this curved coastline boasts fine quartz sand. Pastel beach huts create a fairytale scene; afternoon light casts long shadows—perfect for silhouette photos.

Must-Try Dalian Foods

- Seafood Menzi: Crispy-fried sweet potato starch cakes drizzled with sesame sauce, garlic, and shrimp oil—best from street stalls.
- Salted Fish Pancakes: Savory fried fish paired with cornbread—a hearty local staple.
- Seaweed Buns: Steamed buns stuffed with minced seaweed and pork, bursting with umami—ideal for breakfast.

Dalian’s beauty unfolds best without haste. Let sea winds guide you along this route to uncover the city’s romance.