Tourism Guide
Discover the Pearl of Northern China where Russian architecture meets stunning coastal landscapes
Duration of 4 Days
Best Time to Visit
May to October
Local Cuisine
Seafood, Russian-influenced dishes, Korean barbecue
Language
Mandarin Chinese, some English in tourist areas
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Transportation
Metro, buses, taxis, and walking
Climate
Temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons
Highlights
Dalian, known as the 'Hong Kong of the North', offers a unique blend of Russian colonial heritage, Japanese influences, and modern Chinese development. This 4-day itinerary explores the city's beautiful coastline, historic architecture, vibrant food scene, and cultural attractions. From the iconic Xinghai Square to the charming Russian Street, experience the perfect fusion of East and West in this coastal gem.
Itinerary
1Day 1 City Center Discovery and Russian Heritage
Distance：8 km
TaxiMost convenient option, cost around 25-35 RMB. Taxis are readily available at Xinghai Square.
Duration: 20-25 minutes
BusTake bus 16 or 23 from Xinghai Square to Russian Street. Cost 2 RMB, good for budget travelers.
Duration: 35-40 minutes
MetroWalk to Xinghai Square Station (Line 1), transfer at Xigang Station to Line 2, get off at Zhongshan Square Station, then 10-minute walk.
Duration: 30-35 minutes
Russian Street Exploration
11:30-13:00
Russian Street Zhongshan District Dalian Liaoning ChinaExplore this charming street lined with Russian-style buildings, shops selling Russian goods, and authentic Russian restaurants
Distance：2.5 km
Pleasant walk through the city center, passing by historical buildings and shopping areas.
Duration: 25-30 minutes
TaxiQuick and affordable, cost around 12-15 RMB. Good option if tired from walking.
Duration: 8-10 minutes
BusTake bus 15 or 16 from Russian Street to the museum. Cost 1 RMB.
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Dalian Modern Museum Visit
14:00-16:00No 10 Xinghai Square Shahekou District Dalian Liaoning Province ChinaVisit this comprehensive museum showcasing Dalian's history from ancient times to modern development
Distance：12 km
TaxiRecommended option, cost 35-45 RMB. Direct route along the coast with scenic views.
Duration: 25-30 minutes
BusTake bus 13 from museum to Fisherman's Wharf. Multiple transfers may be needed.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
Similar to taxi but can be booked via app, often cheaper than regular taxis.
Duration: 25-30 minutes
Evening at Fisherman's Wharf
18:00-20:00Binhai Road Zhongshan District Dalian Liaoning Province ChinaEnjoy fresh seafood dinner at this picturesque waterfront area with traditional fishing boats and modern restaurants
2Day 2 Coastal Beauty and Natural Wonders
Distance：0.5 km
Easy walk within the scenic area, follow signs to cable car station.
Duration: 8-10 minutes
Free shuttle service available within Bangchuidao Scenic Area during operating hours.
Duration: 5 minutes
Cable Car Experience
12:30-13:30Tiger Beach Ocean Park Zhongshan District Dalian Liaoning ChinaTake a cable car ride offering breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding islands
Distance：15 km
TaxiMost convenient, cost 40-50 RMB. Scenic coastal drive.
Duration: 30-35 minutes
Take tourist bus line 2 from Bangchuidao to Forest Zoo. Cost 5-10 RMB.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
Take bus from Bangchuidao to nearest metro station, then transfer to Line 2 to Forest Zoo Station.
Duration: 55-60 minutes
Dalian Forest Zoo
14:30-17:00No 60 Yingchun Road Xigang District Dalian Liaoning Province ChinaVisit this extensive zoo located on a hillside with diverse animal exhibits and beautiful botanical gardens
Distance：8 km
TaxiDirect route, cost 25-35 RMB. Best option after a long day at the zoo.
Duration: 20-25 minutes
MetroWalk to Forest Zoo Station (Line 2), take to Qingniwaqiao Station, then 10-minute walk to night market.
Duration: 30-35 minutes
BusTake bus 4 or 404 from Forest Zoo to night market area. Cost 2 RMB.
Duration: 35-40 minutes
Night Market Experience
18:30-20:30Zhongshan District Night Market Area Dalian Liaoning ChinaExperience the vibrant night market with local street food, souvenirs, and cultural performances
3Day 3 Cultural Immersion and Urban Parks
Distance：4 km
TaxiQuick and easy, cost 15-20 RMB. Direct route through city streets.
Duration: 12-15 minutes
Good exercise option if weather permits, passing through residential areas.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
BusTake bus 11 or 24 from Labor Park to museum. Cost 1 RMB.
Duration: 20-25 minutes
Natural History Museum
11:00-13:00No 1 Xigang Square Xigang District Dalian Liaoning Province ChinaVisit this museum showcasing geological specimens, fossils, and natural history exhibits from Northeast China
Distance：3 km
Pleasant walk along the coast, enjoy sea views and fresh air.
Duration: 30-35 minutes
TaxiShort ride, cost 12-15 RMB. Convenient with luggage or in bad weather.
Duration: 10-12 minutes
Rent a shared bike (Mobike or HelloBike) for eco-friendly transportation.
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Street Heritage Area
14:30-16:30Zhongshan District, Dalian, Liaoning ProvinceExplore this historic area with Japanese colonial architecture and learn about Dalian's complex history
Distance：1.5 km
Best way to explore the heritage area, passing traditional Japanese-style buildings.
Duration: 15-20 minutes
TaxiVery short ride if tired, cost 8-10 RMB.
Duration: 5-8 minutes
Traditional experience, negotiate price first (usually 15-20 RMB).
Duration: 10-15 minutes
Traditional Tea Ceremony
17:00-18:30Zhongshan District, Dalian, Liaoning ProvinceEnjoy traditional Chinese tea ceremony and sample various tea varieties in a serene tea house setting
4Day 4 Island Exploration and Farewell
Distance：5 km
Scenic coastal walk with ocean views. Wear comfortable shoes.
Duration: 50-60 minutes
Take island bus line 1 or 2. Cost 1-2 RMB, limited schedule.
Duration: 20-25 minutes
TaxiLocal taxis available, cost 20-25 RMB. Best for time efficiency.
Duration: 15-18 minutes
Island Coastal Exploration
11:30-14:00Changxing Island Economic Zone Dalian Liaoning Province ChinaExplore the island's coastline, visit local fishing villages, and enjoy fresh seafood lunch
Distance：12 km
TaxiRecommended for returning to main island, cost 35-45 RMB.
Duration: 25-30 minutes
Take ferry from Changxing Island to mainland, then bus to Friendship Square.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
If arranged through hotel or tour company, most comfortable option.
Duration: 25-30 minutes
Shopping at Friendship Square
15:30-17:00Zhongshan District Dalian Liaoning ChinaVisit this modern shopping and entertainment complex for last-minute souvenirs and local products
Distance：3 km
Evening stroll through the city center, passing shops and local life.
Duration: 30-35 minutes
TaxiQuick ride to dinner, cost 12-15 RMB. Many restaurants in this area.
Duration: 8-10 minutes
BusTake any bus along Zhongshan Road, get off near restaurant district.
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Farewell Seafood Dinner
18:30-20:00辽宁省大连市中山区老虎滩渔人码头Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Dalian's famous seafood specialties and local culinary traditions
Things to Do
- Stroll along Xinghai Square
- Asia's largest city square
- Explore the Russian Street with its European architecture
- Visit the Dalian Modern Museum for contemporary art
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Dalian Fisherman's Wharf
- Walk through the lush greenery of Labor Park
- Experience the panoramic views from Dalian Forest Zoo
- Discover the history at Dalian Natural History Museum
- Take a cable car ride at Bangchuidao Scenic Area
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