If you’ve never been to Chongqing, you’re missing out on one of China’s most dynamic and underrated cities. Nicknamed the “Mountain City” due to its hilly terrain and dramatic skyline, Chongqing is a metropolis that blends historic charm with modern marvels. Whether you’re after fiery food, ancient history, or dazzling city views, Chongqing delivers. Here’s the ultimate 7-day itinerary to help you discover the best of Chongqing—from its iconic attractions and cultural heritage to its buzzing nightlife scene.
Day 1:
Arrival & Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
Arrival & Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
Morning:
- Arrive in Chongqing and check in to your hotel. Recommended areas: Yuzhong District or Jiangbei for central access.
Afternoon:
- Stroll through Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, Chongqing’s bustling downtown core, full of high-end shops, local eats, and skyscrapers.
- Snap a photo with the People’s Liberation Monument—a symbolic heart of the city.
Evening:
- End the night with cocktails at The Harp Bar, a chill Irish pub popular with expats.
- Enjoy a rooftop dinner with views of the glittering skyline at Niccolo Chongqing’s The Tea Lounge or Yue Fusion.
Day 2:
Ciqikou Ancient Town & Hotpot Heaven
Ciqikou Ancient Town & Hotpot Heaven
Morning:
- Head to Ciqikou Ancient Town, a well-preserved historical area with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.
- Wander through stone-paved alleys, shop for local handicrafts, and snack on street food like mala tofu and glutinous rice cakes.
Afternoon:
- Take a river cruise along the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers for a panoramic view of the city’s unique geography and bridges.
Evening:
- Recover with a stroll through Hongya Cave at night—an illuminated cliffside complex with shops, bars, and fairy tale vibes.
- Dive into Chongqing hotpot, the city’s signature dish. Try Lao Ma Tou Hotpot or Peijie Hotpot for an authentic (and spicy!) experience.
Day 3:
Three Gorges Museum & Eling Park
Three Gorges Museum & Eling Park
Morning:
- Visit the Three Gorges Museum, which offers insightful exhibits on the Yangtze River, local culture, and WWII history.
Afternoon:
- Head to Eling Park for one of the best panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline. The hilltop location is a peaceful escape from the urban buzz.
Evening:
- Cap the day with drinks at River Bar 24, overlooking the city lights from the riverside.
- Explore Guanyinqiao Walking Street in Jiangbei—perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Day 4:
Dazu Rock Carvings Day Trip
Dazu Rock Carvings Day Trip
All Day:
- Take a day trip to the Dazu Rock Carvings (UNESCO World Heritage Site), about 2 hours outside Chongqing. These 9th–13th century Buddhist sculptures are breathtaking in both scale and detail.
- Enjoy lunch in Dazu before heading back to the city.
Evening:
- Relax with a laid-back dinner and jazz at The Bookworm Bistro, a café-bookstore fusion with a mellow vibe.
Day 5:
Yangtze Cableway & Nightlife in Nanbin Road
Yangtze Cableway & Nightlife in Nanbin Road
Morning:
- Ride the Yangtze River Cableway—an iconic experience with amazing views across the river.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Chongqing Art Museum or explore quirky attractions like the Light Rail Apartment Building, where the train literally passes through an apartment complex!
Evening:
- Grab some late-night BBQ or skewers on Shibati Old Street.
- Head to Nanbin Road for some of the best nightlife in the city. Lounge at upscale bars like Moonlight Bar, or party at clubs like Space Plus Chongqing.
Day 6:
Ghost City of Fengdu
Ghost City of Fengdu
All Day:
- Take a boat trip to the Ghost City of Fengdu, a mix of Taoist and Buddhist temples themed around the afterlife. It’s spooky, surreal, and steeped in folklore.
Evening:
- Return to Chongqing and dine at Shancheng Mutton Soup, a cozy place to recharge after a full day.
Day 7:
Local Culture & Relaxation
Local Culture & Relaxation
Morning:
- Visit Luohan Temple, a serene Buddhist temple hidden amid high-rises downtown.
Afternoon:
- Treat yourself to a local spa and foot massage, especially helpful after all the walking.
Evening:
- End your trip with dinner on a night river cruise—a fitting farewell to the “City of Bridges and Lights.”