Dalian is stunning, but I honestly don't recommend visiting in August because...........

Dalian Travel Guide (with Price References)

Dalian, this coastal city on the Liaodong Peninsula, is famous for its romantic coastline, European-style architecture, and abundant seafood. Whether you're traveling with family, on a romantic getaway, or solo, Dalian offers diverse experiences. Here's a practical guide covering classic attractions, food, transportation, and budget to help you make the most of your trip!

1. Recommended Itinerary (3 Days & 2 Nights Classic Route)
Day 1: City Landmarks & Coastal Scenery
• Xinghai Square (Free)
Asia's largest urban square, perfect for strolling and feeding seagulls (most seagulls in winter). Enjoy the light show on the cross-sea bridge at dusk.
• Xinghai Park (Free) + Sun Asia Ocean World (Ticket: ~¥150/person)
The ocean world features four major exhibits (Polar Pavilion, Ocean Pavilion, etc.), great for families. Check performance times in advance.
• Binhai Road Hike (Free)
From Xinghai Square to Bangchuidao, the scenery along the way is breathtaking. Rent a shared bike (~¥30/hour) or take the sightseeing bus (¥20/person).

Day 2: History & Nature
• Tiger Beach Ocean Park (Ticket: ~¥220/person, includes Coral Pavilion, Bird Forest, etc.)
Larger than Sun Asia, ideal for animal shows and outdoor activities.
• Fisherman's Wharf (Free)
European-style architecture, perfect for photos. Nearby is the "Cat's Sky" bookstore.
• Bangchuidao (Ticket: ¥20/person, electric cart: ¥20/person)
Home to a state guesthouse, with clear water and fine sand. Take the electric cart to save energy.

Day 3: Culture & Leisure
• Russian Style Street (Free)
Retro architecture, great for buying souvenirs like matryoshka dolls and chocolate (bargain for prices).
• Golden Pebble Beach National Resort (Ticket from ¥60/person, package ~¥180)
1-hour drive from downtown. Recommended: Geological Park and Golden Coast. Take Light Rail Line 3 (¥8/person) directly.
• Discoveryland Theme Park (Day ticket: ¥230/person, night ticket: ¥150/person)
A large amusement park, great for families and young people. Night shows include fireworks.

2. Food Recommendations (Price References)
Dalian is known for seafood and Northeastern cuisine. Must-try dishes:
• Seafood Stalls: Xinghai Square Night Market, Zhongyuan Food Street
Must-order: Spicy clams (¥30-50/plate), steamed egg with sea urchin (¥15-30/each), grilled oysters (¥5-10/each)
Average cost: ¥80-150/person
• Japanese Cuisine: MixC Shopping Center, Henglong Plaza
Must-order: Salmon sashimi (¥80-120/plate), sushi platter (¥50-80)
Average cost: ¥100-200/person
• Northeastern Restaurants: 68-86 Dalian Old Restaurant
Must-order: Sweet and sour pork (¥38), stir-fried three vegetables (¥28), pork with pickled cabbage (¥48)
Average cost: ~¥50/person
• Street Food:
Menzi (¥10/plate): Dalian specialty, fried sweet potato starch with garlic sauce.
Grilled squid (¥15-20/skewer): A must at night markets, rich in flavor.

3. Accommodation Suggestions (Price Range)
• Budget Hotels: Home Inn, Hanting, etc. (¥200-300/night), great for budget travelers.
• Mid-range Hotels: Jinjiang Inn, Atour, etc. (¥400-600/night), good value and service.
• Luxury Hotels/Sea View Rooms: Grand Hyatt, Castle Hotel, etc. (¥1000-2000/night), ideal for quality and views.
• Unique B&Bs: Many near Fisherman's Wharf (¥300-500/night), great for photos and local experiences.

4. Transportation Guide
• Airport to Downtown:
Subway Line 2: ¥5, ~40 minutes.
Taxi: ~¥35, ~20 minutes.
• City Transport:
Subway: Covers major attractions, single trip ¥2-5.
Bus: Most routes cost ¥1-2, some accept QR code payments.
Shared bikes: Great for short trips, ~¥1.5/15 minutes.
• Intercity Transport:
Golden Pebble Beach: Take Light Rail Line 3 directly (¥8, ~1 hour).
Lüshun: Tourist shuttle bus (¥15, ~1.5 hours).

5. Budget Reference (3 Days & 2 Nights, 2 People)
• Transportation:
Round-trip flights/train tickets + city transport, ~¥800-1200 total (varies by departure and booking time).
• Accommodation:
Mid-range hotels, ~¥1200-2400 for two nights.
• Food:
Seafood feasts, snacks, and meals, ~¥1000-1500 total.
• Attractions:
Ocean parks, Golden Pebble Beach, etc., ~¥800-1000 total.
• Total:
~¥3800-6100 for two, ~¥1900-3050 per person.

6. Travel Tips
• Best Season:
May-October. Summer is cool, and seafood is freshest after September's fishing season starts.
• Avoid Scams:
Watch for short weights at seafood markets.
Be cautious with taxi driver-recommended restaurants (may have kickbacks).
• Essentials:
Sunscreen: Strong summer sun.
Comfortable shoes: Long walks on Binhai Road.
Swimsuit: For summer beach trips.

Dalian blends romance and local charm, with coastal beauty and rich history. Plan well, and enjoy a high-value seaside getaway!