What to do in Dali

Activities, attractions and tours

A riverside walkway with a bridge, a mosque, and high-rise buildings in the background.
A park with trees, a circular stone bench, and a grassy area.
A white sculpture of a couple on a dragon, surrounded by trees and a blue building in the background.
A riverside walkway with people walking, trees, benches, and a bridge in the background.
A colorful boat on a dock with a cityscape and mountains in the background.

Things to do

Dali and XIzhou Ancient Town Private Tour

Dali and XIzhou Ancient Town Private Tour

Rp2.034.257
per adult
Dali and XIzhou Ancient Town Private Tour
Yunnan Dali Erhai 3 Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple One Day Tour

Yunnan Dali Erhai 3 Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple One Day Tour

Rp2.030.158
per adult
Yunnan Dali Erhai 3 Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple One Day Tour
Dali Airport Same Day Luggage Services

Dali Airport Same Day Luggage Services (1 Traveler 1 Bag)

Rp627.013
per traveller
Dali Airport Same Day Luggage Services (1 Traveler 1 Bag)
Cangshan Mountain: Mindful Hiking and Organic Homemade Food

Cangshan Mountain: Mindful Hiking and 4 types of tea at home

Rp1.334.109
per adult
Cangshan Mountain: Mindful Hiking and 4 types of tea at home
Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour

Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour

Rp4.123.549
per adult
Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour
Dali: Xizhou Morning Market Tour with Linden Centre

Dali: Xizhou Morning Market Tour with Linden Centre

Rp401.840
per adult
Dali: Xizhou Morning Market Tour with Linden Centre
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What to do in Dali

Stay near popular Dali attractions

A lake with trees and a mountain in the background.

Erhai Lake

9.4/10 (9 reviews)
Visit the “ear-shaped” lake on the edge of Dali to find waterfront parklands, tiny islands and fishermen who practice traditional fishing methods.
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Where to stay in Dali

Find the best Dali areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Dali
Learn more about Dali
Three pagodas surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.

Dali Ancient Town

Dali Ancient Town is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like South Gate and Yu'er Park.

An aerial view of a densely packed urban area with buildings and a waterfront.

Shuanglang

While visiting Shuanglang, you might make a stop by sights like Erhai Lake and Nanzhao Folk Island.

A traditional Chinese courtyard with red lanterns, tiled roofs, and ornate wooden doors.

Xizhou

You'll enjoy the restaurants and architecture in Xizhou. You might want to make time for a stop at Erhai Lake or Zhang Family Courtyard (Xizhou).

A serene lake with a traditional pavilion and a pagoda in the background.

Taoyuan

You'll enjoy the monuments and parks in Taoyuan. You might want to make time for a stop at Erhai Lake or Butterfly Spring Park.

A marina with several boats docked, a clear blue sky, and mountains in the background.

Xiaguan

Travellers like the museums in Xiaguan, and Erhai Lake is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Day trip destinations from Dali

A traditional Chinese courtyard with ornate lanterns and tiled roofs.

Lijiang

A traditional Chinese building with ornate architecture, a stone bridge, and a pond with rocks.

Baoshan

A river winding through a valley with a small island featuring green fields and a white building.

Nujiang Lisu

Frequently asked questions

Is Dali worth visiting?
Whether you're here to enjoy the cultural highlights and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Dali.
How do I spend a day in Dali?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Dali Museum and Jinsuo Island. Then, explore other areas of Dali for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dali?
Dali Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Dali and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dali?
If you just want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days will be a good amount of time for a break in Dali. Book for seven to ten days for the chance to truly experience the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and explore off the beaten path.
Is Dali a walkable city?
It comes down to what you plan to see and do in Dali. Several attractions, such as Dali Museum, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll through one of Dali's neighbourhoods, Tianjing is 2 kilometers away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Dali with kids?
Planning what to do in Dali with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.
What to do in Dali for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Dali for adults including Dali Wenxian Road.
Are there free things to do in Dali?
You don't need to splurge to have a memorable getaway here. There are loads of cheap things to do in Dali for the budget-conscious traveller. Unwind in the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.