Just got back from Dalian, and I really don't recommend visiting in August-September because it's just too~

I wish I could stay in Dalian for a whole month! The comfort level of the temperature is amazing, the jelly-like sea is breathtaking, and the entire city turns warm-toned in the late afternoon. When the weather is good, the sea is incredibly, incredibly blue—I love this city so much!

Essential Items to Pack:
- Documents: Bring necessary IDs like your ID card, student ID, driver's license, etc.
- Clothing: Pack flat shoes, sneakers, and a pair of sandals. Since the temperature varies between morning and evening, remember to bring a jacket.
- Electronics: Phone, charger, earphones, power bank, camera, etc.
- Others: Umbrella (for sun and rain), backpack, water bottle, as well as sunscreen, motion sickness pills, stomach medicine, and other common medications.

Transportation Guide:
- External Transport: Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport is close to the city center, accessible via Metro Line 2. Dalian Railway Station and Dalian North Station connect to cities nationwide via high-speed rail or regular trains.
- Local Transport: Download "Dalian Metro e-Travel" for subway rides, or use "Yitongxing" or "Dalian Bus" apps for buses. You can also experience the retro tram or opt for taxis and ride-hailing services.

Recommended Attractions:
- Xinghai Square: The largest urban square in Asia, where you can feed seagulls, admire the Xinghai Bay Bridge, and enjoy the musical fountain show at night.
- Tiger Beach Ocean Park: A national 5A-level scenic spot featuring coral and polar exhibits, with marine animal displays and performances.
- Bangchu Island: Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea on one, it boasts flat sandy beaches and open waters, making it a perfect summer retreat.
- Jinshitan Resort: A national 5A-level tourist resort with attractions like Golden Beach and the Coastal National Geopark.
- Dalian Forest Zoo: Get up close with animals in a forest setting, including areas like the Panda Pavilion and African Zone.

Food Recommendations:
- Seafood BBQ: Try places like Zhenghuangqi Seafood BBQ for grilled seafood, especially mantis shrimp and scallops.
- Sea Urchin Dumplings: Recommended spots like Xiding offer a perfect blend of sea urchin's umami and chewy dumpling wrappers.
- Menzi (Fried Starch Cubes): Popular joints like Mengge Menzi serve this dish with sesame paste and garlic sauce for an unforgettable taste.
- Salted Fish Pancakes: A traditional Dalian delicacy with crispy pancakes and savory salted fish.

Accommodation Options:
- Near Xinghai Square: Hotels like the Grand Hyatt Dalian offer sea and night views, with convenient access to transport, shopping, and dining.
- Around Zhongshan Square: Options like the Shangri-La Hotel Dalian are surrounded by historic streets and buildings, blending urban charm with historical vibes.

Itinerary Suggestions:
- 3-Day Trip: Day 1—Xinghai Square, Sun Asia Ocean World, Xinghai Park; Day 2—Tiger Beach Ocean Park, Fisherman's Wharf, Bangchu Island; Day 3—Jinshitan Resort, Coastal National Geopark, Golden Beach.
- 4-Day Trip: Day 1—Dalian Forest Zoo, Lotus Mountain, Xinghai Bay Bridge; Day 2—Haizhiyun Park, Venice Water Town, Donggang Music Fountain Square; Day 3—Lüshun Museum, Russo-Japanese Prison Site, Victory Tower; Day 4—Russian Style Street, Zhongshan Square, Nanshan Road.