[2025 Dali Stay] Travel Guide for Dali ancient city (Updated Jan)

#chinatrip Dali Old Town is a perfect blend of heritage and beauty. Passing under the majestic stone gate, I entered a world where traditional Bai culture thrives. The narrow streets were lined with unique shops and inviting cafes. Willow trees swayed gently as locals and visitors strolled by. One of my highlights was the Old Bai Nationality Family Restaurant. The food, prepared with authentic recipes, showcased the local flavors. Pair your meal with a cup of Bai-style tea for a truly local experience. What made Dali even more special was its slower pace. Despite being a popular destination, there’s a calmness that encourages you to linger longer, appreciating the intricate woodwork of buildings and the earthy aroma of street food wafting through the air. If you’re a fan of history, architecture, and peaceful exploration, Dali Old Town is a must-visit. Take your time to soak in the cultural vibes and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Bai people.

#chinatrip Nestled at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and by the serene Erhai Lake, Dali Ancient City (大理古城) is a charming destination in Yunnan Province that captures the essence of traditional Chinese culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its historic architecture, vibrant streets, and relaxed atmosphere, this ancient city is a must-visit for travelers seeking both history and leisure. Walking through the city’s gates feels like stepping back in time. The well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, complete with whitewashed walls and intricate carvings, lines the streets. The four main gates—North, South, East, and West—serve as iconic landmarks, with the South Gate being particularly grand and photogenic. The bustling streets of Dali Ancient City are filled with shops selling local crafts, silver jewelry, and Bai ethnic textiles. You’ll also find cozy cafes and restaurants offering traditional Yunnan delicacies like cross-bridge noodles, steamed fish from Erhai Lake, and the famous Dali pancakes. The city is also a cultural hotspot, with its Bai ethnic heritage on display. You can witness traditional performances, festivals, and Bai-style architecture while engaging with the local community. One of the highlights is the lively Foreigner Street, where you can enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine, boutique stores, and a vibrant nightlife scene. For a peaceful escape, visit the ancient walls or head to the nearby Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, an iconic landmark with a stunning mountain backdrop. Dali Ancient City offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for anyone exploring Yunnan. Whether you’re strolling through its cobbled streets or admiring its stunning scenery, Dali Ancient City promises a truly immersive experience.

Went during March the weather is good. 👍

The views of the clouds above the mountains in Dali, Yunnan are stunning. Look at the sun's rays streaming through!

Dali Ancient Town Night Market is a vibrant and lively experience that truly captures the essence of local culture. As the sun sets, the historic streets of Dali come alive with an array of colorful stalls, offering everything from delicious street food to unique handmade crafts. The atmosphere is electric, with a mix of locals and tourists exploring the market, making it a must-visit destination in Dali. Whether you're in the mood for tasty treats or looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, the night market has something for everyone. Don’t miss this enchanting evening experience! #nightmarkets #daliyunnan

you can buy almost anything around these shopping streets, from invents to Chinese wines wild mushroom coconut anything anything amazing. anything can be sold, they bring them here.

Despite the bad timing of our visit, August. The picturesque town of Dali, had many corners that catched our eyes. A beautiful old town, full of life and with plenty of options to stay at all budgets. We fell in love with Dali from the minute we landed our foot on the ancient town.

#travelanywhere Wild mushroom hotpot is a delicacy in Yunnan and you have to try it! This is a highly rated restaurant in Dali Ancient City. As the wild mushrooms are highly toxic, there is a 20 minutes timer to boil and cook it to remove the toxins. They are not supposed to give you the utensils before this. As all hotpot, feel free to add on additional ingredient.

The Must Go of Dali Visit Dali Ancient City for its rich history, ethnic diversity, traditional architecture, pedestrian paradise, and yummy food! 😋💘 #Dali #daliancientcity

Specify food at Dali ancient city

Had some good Chilean red wine in Kunming.

After a day of walking trip around the ancient city, enjoy a very relaxing moment at the roft top really is a pleasent experiences. Comfortable sofa set, nice evening sunset view, chill with some local beer and enjoy the music. A wonderful experience to relieve all the stress and enjoy the peaceful moment. Really loved it. #relaxing moment #comfy roft top

Yes, 13 RMB for all you can eat Buddhist buffet! Ben SuShi Tang 本素拾堂 is truly a special find. Located in the picturesque Dali Ancient City Huguo Road Yueya Alley, this restaurant oozes charm. Run by a local family, the food is really excellent. There is a variety of options to choose from and the flavours really are sensational. After paying your 13RMB, you receive your cup, plate and chopsticks and fill your soul with this hearty meal! You can choose to sit inside or outside. The restaurant is open from 9am to 9.30pm so it’s the perfect option for lunch or dinner. Check it out! You will leave feeling satisfied and full to the brim ☺️ #vegan #Vegetarian #cheapeats #mytravelhacks #trip #solotravel #yunnan #Dali #daliancientcity #historicallandmarks #localguides #instatravel Average Price per Person: 13 RMB Reasons to Recommend: Outstanding vegetarian and vegan options

I took tour bus from Lijing to Dali and back to Lijing…it was just a short two days trip, I must visit again.. 1. Dali air is so clean when I got back to Shanghai..I immediately noticed bad air.. 2. Dali fruits and vegetables are so fresh and colorful.. 3. Dali coffee is a must try. I did not buy local coffee at the ancient city .. because the coffee price is more expensive than online.. 4. Try biking around the lake .. amazing.. 5. Book hotel with lake view.. expect crowd..

Wake up to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore and bask in the golden hues of sunrise painting the horizon. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or unwinding after a day of exploration, the ever-changing seascape provides a captivating backdrop for relaxation. Step out onto your private balcony to feel the salty breeze on your skin and witness the sun dipping below the water's edge in a spectacular display of colors. Your seaside escape awaits at Dali #thingstodo