3-Day Chongqing Itinerary: Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

When I think of photos depicting a cyberpunk cityscape filled with neon lights, elevated highways, and trains passing through buildings…the first place that comes to mind is Chongqing.

Needless to say this city holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up.

Living abroad in Singapore has led many of my friends to ask me: “Is Chongqing really as insane as the photos/videos I’ve seen online?”

Yes…but also so much more.

While you absolutely have to check out some of the viral spots if you’re visiting for the first time (trains passing through buildings, buzzing night views, etc. ), you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not exploring some of the hidden alleys, tasteless snacks, and day-to-day things that I won’t find in most travel blogs.

After living away for awhile, returning to Chongqing with the eyes of both a local and traveler allows me to see things from a completely different perspective.

Things I used to overlook as a kid are now things I notice. Steep staircases connecting street to street. Multi-tiered levels slicing through the city’s framework. The scent of hotpot wafting through the air.

In this post, I want to share with you:

• A 3-day Chongqing itinerary for first time visitors
• Insider tips on what to see and things to do
• Hidden gems that I would show my friends if they were to visit my hometown

This is how I would spend 3 days showing you Chongqing.

Why Visit Chongqing?

Traveling to Chongqing? Here’s why you should…

Chongqing is unlike any other city in China.

Built on mountains and sprawling across numerous rivers, it has an otherworldly vibe as soon as you arrive.

The city almost seems like a giant vertical maze.

But the coolest part of Chongqing? It’s how it makes you feel.

Street level could turn into the third level without you even noticing. You could walk across a bridge, take an escalator, and suddenly you’re 10 floors above ground.

Chongqing locals know this all too well. Visitors are usually shocked.

Growing up here, I took it for granted. It was just normal.

Living in another country, I’ve come to appreciate how incredible it truly is.

5 Reasons You Should Visit Chongqing

Let’s take a look at some reasons why you should put Chongqing on your China itinerary.

• See a city like no other. From its multi-level layout to countless hidden streets
• Iconic attractions. Train passing through buildings, night views, etc.
• Unforgettable food. Chongqing is known for being bold and spicy
• Amazing night views. Enough to rival some of China’s largest cities
• Easy day trips. Visit nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites and big natural wonders

How to Use This 3-Day Chongqing Itinerary?

I curated this itinerary for first-time visitors who want to learn more about the city without going crazy.

I kept each day localized to certain areas so you won’t have to waste too much time in transit.

You’ll be able to explore:

• Popular landmarks
• Unique neighborhoods
• Authentic food experiences
• Fun cultural day trips or escapes into nature

Think of this as your ultimate introduction to Chongqing guided by yours truly.

Day 1 – Iconic Chongqing & Night Views

Morning: Jiefangbei & Downtown

Right smack in the heart of downtown is Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street. Consider this your introduction to Chongqing.

This is where I start most of my friends who are visiting Chongqing for the first time. The energy, convenience, and overall vibe is something you won’t find at a lot of the “out-of-the-way” attractions.

Not only will you see and experience what Chongqing has to offer, but there are also a lot of great breakfast spots nearby to start your day.

As you walk around, take your time to explore some of the smaller alleys that branch off the main pedestrian street. This is when you’ll really start to see how insane Chongqing’s multi-level street system is.

Afternoon: Yangtze River Cableway

Next, make your way to the Yangtze River Cableway.

Growing up, this was one of the normal ways to cross the river. Nowadays, it’s considered one of the coolest attractions that Chongqing has to offer.

The ride itself isn’t long, but you’ll be able to take in the view of Chongqing’s skyline, the river, and how everything is built vertically from one mountain to the next.

Avoid visiting during peak hours if you can. Lines can get extremely long, especially during weekends.

Evening: Hongya Cave

At night, head over to Hongya Cave.

Hongya Cave has gotten insanely popular over the past few years. And for good reason.

Even as someone who grew up here, I’m always blown away by the night view.

The bright lights from buildings layered on top of eachother along the river gives Hongya Cave a surreal atmosphere.

My tips for visiting:

• Arrive before sunset to watch it light up
• Take your time exploring the inside levels
• Walk across the street to capture the best photos

Grab dinner at one of the restaurants across the street. This is the perfect place to try Chongqing’s famous hotpot if you haven’t already!

Day 2 – Unique City Experiences & Local Life

Morning: Liziba Station

Start your day at Liziba Station.

Having lived in Chongqing my whole life, I still remember when this was just your typical boring train station. Now it’s probably one of Chongqing’s most famous attractions.

Seeing the bullet train pass straight through the building is always mesmerizing. It feels unreal…even for me.

Afternoon: Ciqikou Ancient Town

Visit Ciqikou Ancient Town next.

If you want to see a slightly older side of Chongqing, this is the place to go.

You’ll see old Chinese architecture, local street snacks, and endless souvenir shops. Trust me, it can get crowded. But if you venture up some of the smaller streets, it’ll quiet down.

When I go, I usually just walk around and snack at every corner shop I see. That honestly is the best way to experience it.

Evening: Explore Like a Local

For your evening activity, forget about rushing from one attraction to another.

Get lost.

Walk around, take a left when you’re supposed to go right, and explore.

This is how local Chongqing residents experience the city.

Some things you’ll notice:

• Steep staircases connecting one street to another
• Buildings with multiple street level entrances
• Panoramic views that you don’t expect

It may be frustrating at first because you feel lost, but that’s half the fun of understanding how Chongqing works.

Day 3 – Day Trip To Natural or Cultural Attractions

Choose one of these three activities for your final day:

Option 1: Dazu Rock Carvings

Explore the nearby Dazu Rock Carvings.

This UNESCO World Heritage spot is full of beautiful sculptures that depict thousands of years of Chinese culture and religion.

If you’re a fan of history and seeing ancient Chinese relics, check this out.

Option 2: Wulong Karst National Park

Or venture into nature at Wulong Karst National Park.

Wulong Karst is known for its huge natural bridges and unique caves. It’s a world away from the bustling city of Chongqing.

Option 3: Nanshan Mountain (Local hidden gem)

For something relaxing without going too far, head up to Nanshan.

Nanshan is one of my favorite places in Chongqing. It’s basically what locals go to when they want to get out of the city without leaving the city.

You’ll get some pretty amazing views of the Chongqing skyline from up here. Especially around areas like Yikeshu Viewing Platform.

It’s quiet. It’s beautiful. It’s completely different from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

There are also:

• tea houses to visit.
• small cafes to check out.
• beautiful walking trails.

Head here if you’re visiting as a couple or you just want something slower paced to end your trip.

Optional: Yangtze River Cruise

For a more relaxing evening, you can also take a Yangtze River cruise.

Seeing Chongqing’s skyline from the river is a completely different perspective. It also makes for some pretty amazing pictures at night. A great way to end your trip if you have time!

What To Eat In Chongqing

Ask anyone who has been to Chongqing what they remember the most and nine times out of ten they’ll say the food.

Spicy. Fragrant. Or numbing…sometimes all three.

I grew up here, so naturally Chongqing cuisine is something I crave when I’m traveling abroad.

If you’re wondering what to eat in Chongqing, here are some must-tries:

• Chongqing Hotpot – spicy, numbing, and addicting
• Xiao Mian (小面) – translated to small noodles. Don’t let the simple appearance fool you, the flavor is incredible
• Chuan Chuan (串串) – skewers of meat/squid/more seafood that you cook in your own spicy broth
• Grilled Fish – rich, flavorful, and yes… you guessed it. SUPER spicy

Not a fan of spice? No problem. Restaurants will always ask how spicy you’d like your food. You can even say you don’t like spice at all!

Where To Stay In Chongqing

There are a few places I recommend for first time visitors.

Jiefangbei and Yuzhong District will be your best bet as the center of downtown.

If you can find a hotel that offers a river view, I highly suggest it. Night views in Chongqing are not to be missed!

Travel Tips From a Chongqing Local

• Be prepared, the city is HUGE. Map out your transportation before you go
• Watch out for stairs. Lots of stairs
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Use DiDi or the metro system. It’s super convenient
• Humidity is REAL, especially during the summer months

Wrapping Up: Is 3 Days Enough For Chongqing?

YES. 3 days in Chongqing will allow you to see everything above and get a good taste of what the city has to offer.

But that’s the thing about Chongqing…

You never really see it all.

Even though I’ve spent my whole life in this city, I always find new things to explore everytime I return.

If you love big cities that are chaotic, unexpected, and just plain weird, you will fall in love with Chongqing.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about planning your Chongqing itinerary. I’m always happy to help anyone visiting my hometown!