Things 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 Etiquette Banquet: Immersive Royal Feast Experience

Dali Etiquette Banquet: Immersive Royal Feast Experience

€109
per adult
Dali Etiquette Banquet: Immersive Royal Feast Experience
Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour

Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour

€205
per adult
Dali Donglianhua and Wuli Bridge Muslim Hui Village Private Tour
Kunming Private Day Tour to Dali City Highlights by Bullet Train

Kunming Private Day Tour to Dali City Highlights by Bullet Train

€362
per adult
Kunming Private Day Tour to Dali City Highlights by Bullet Train
Dali: Pottery village and Longweiguan Day Tour

Dali: Pottery village and Longweiguan Day Tour

€143
per adult
Dali: Pottery village and Longweiguan Day Tour
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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.
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 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.

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 village with traditional architecture and terraced fields.

Chuxiong Yi

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 kilometres 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.