Chongqing: 4-Day Guided Tour With Liziba and Baidicheng

Traveling to Chongqing offers a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers, historic sites, and breathtaking natural scenery. This 4-day guided tour provides an excellent snapshot of what makes this southwestern Chinese city so unique. We’ve gathered detailed insights from travelers and the official itinerary to help you understand what to expect and why it might be worth your while.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the memorable experience of a light rail passing through residential buildings—a true feat of engineering and a photo-worthy moment. Second, the cruises along the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers that showcase the city’s vibrant lights and skyline at night. Third, the opportunity to visit Baidi City and Qutang Gorge, both steeped in history and natural wonder. However, a notable consideration is that some sites require extra ticket purchases or ferry rides, which are not included in the base price. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of urban exploration, culture, and scenic landscapes.

Key Points:

• Comprehensive 4-day itinerary covering Chongqing’s highlights and scenic spots
• Authentic cultural experiences at Xiahaoli Old Street and Baidi City
• Stunning river cruises with views of the city’s illuminated skyline
• Incredible engineering marvels like Liziba Light Rail
• Scenic natural sights including Qutang Gorge and the ancient streets of Xiahaoli
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation policies

This tour, designed by Chongqing Jinyue International Agency, offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s modern charm and timeless allure. Priced at $410 per person, it balances quality accommodations, engaging guides, and notable attractions. While the price covers transportation within Chongqing, some extras—like ferry tickets and scenic entry fees—are paid separately, which is worth considering for your budget planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Arriving and Welcoming in Chongqing

Expect to be greeted at Chongqing airport where your adventure begins. The first stop is Xiahaoli Old Street, an attraction that blends history with modern commerce. Built on the mountainside, this lively street offers stunning views over the Jialing River and a chance to see a city that juggles tradition and innovation.

In the evening, you’ll board a night cruise along the two rivers, which is often highlighted by travelers as a high point. The shimmering city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere. This initial cruise sets a relaxed tone, giving a sense of the city’s sprawling scale and vibrant energy.

Day 2: City Landmarks and Engineering Marvels

The second day dives into Chongqing’s iconic Liziba Light Rail, a fascinating example of urban engineering where the train appears to pass through residential buildings. Visitors often comment on how surreal this sight is—definitely a “must-see” for photo lovers.

Next, the Kuixing Tower offers panoramic views, perched high on a mountain, giving a sense of the city’s topography. From here, the tour moves to Jiefangbei, Chongqing’s bustling commercial center. This area is a lively hub, packed with shops, eateries, and monuments that celebrate the city’s resilience after the Anti-Japanese War.

The day concludes with a visit to Laojun Cave, a high vantage point that allows travelers to overlook Chongqing’s sprawling urban landscape. Many reviews mention the panoramic views as a highlight, especially when the city is lit up at night.

Day 3: Cultural Heritage and Natural Wonders

This day is dedicated to Baidi City in Fengjie County, an ancient town etched into Chinese poetry thanks to Li Bai’s verses. The site’s historic charm is enhanced by its location on the banks of the Yangtze River, offering an authentic glimpse into China’s past. It’s important to note the ferry ride to Baidi City, which isn’t included but can be organized through the tour provider.

After exploring Baidi City, you’ll cruise through the Qutang Gorge, one of the three great gorges along the Yangtze River. The scenery here is often described as awe-inspiring, with towering cliffs and rushing waters. Qutang Gorge features prominently on Chinese currency (RMB 10 note), emphasizing its cultural importance.

Day 4: Departure and Last-Minute Sights

On your final morning, you’ll enjoy some leisure time in Chongqing before being transferred to the airport. The tour offers flexibility here, so you might choose to explore a bit more or relax before your journey onward.

Transportation within Chongqing is included, covering the key sites on this itinerary, giving you a hassle-free experience. The accommodation is rated four-star, ensuring comfort after busy days of sightseeing. Meals are limited to breakfast, so plan for lunch and dinner options on your own, which allows you to explore local cuisine at your own pace.

Guided services are in English, helping you navigate each site and understand their significance. The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the uneven terrain and some site access limitations.

Extras and additional costs can add up—ferry tickets, site entry fees, and scenic cruises aren’t included in the base price. However, the tour provider offers assistance in booking these, ensuring you don’t miss out on any highlights.

Weather considerations: Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Chongqing is known for its humid summers and potential rain, so be prepared accordingly.

Many travelers appreciate the balance of modern marvels and ancient sites. For example, the light rail passing through residential buildings isn’t just a quirky photo opportunity but a symbol of Chongqing’s innovative urban planning. Visitors often mention how the night cruise provides a relaxing but visually spectacular way to appreciate the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Xiahaoli Old Street stands out as a lively spot to soak in local culture, with some reviews calling it “an energetic, mountain-top Bangkok.” The view from Kuixing Tower impresses many, especially at sunset or night when the city lights flicker on.

The visit to Baidi City and Qutang Gorge allows travelers to step back into history and marvel at natural beauty. These sites are often cited as the most memorable parts of the trip, with travelers saying, “The scenery is truly breathtaking, and standing by the cliffs feels like being in a Chinese painting.”

• Book early to secure tickets for optional activities like ferry rides and scenic cruises, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive in Chongqing in the morning of Day 1 and depart in the late afternoon or evening on Day 4 to maximize your experience.
• Bring comfortable shoes since many sites involve walking or uneven surfaces.
• Prepare for the weather with sunscreen and water, especially in summer months.
• Consider upgrading your accommodation if you prefer a more luxurious stay, as the base is four-star but upgradeable.

This 4-day Chongqing tour offers a well-rounded look at one of China’s most vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. It’s especially suited for travelers who love a mix of urban discovery, cultural sites, and natural beauty, all with the convenience of guided transportation and commentary. The inclusion of unique sights like Liziba Light Rail and Baidi City ensures you experience aspects of Chongqing that are both modern marvels and historical treasures.

If you’re interested in exploring the city’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour provides great value. Just be prepared for some extra expenses for optional tickets and cruises, which are common in such comprehensive packages.

For anyone seeking an authentic taste of southwestern China with manageable group sizes and knowledgeable guides, this experience delivers. It captures the essence of Chongqing—its bustling streets, inspiring engineering feats, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Is transportation within Chongqing included?
Yes, the tour fee covers full transportation within Chongqing city, making it easier to visit major sites without the stress of navigating alone.

What is the accommodation standard?
The accommodation is based on a four-star hotel, providing comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Upgrades are available if you prefer a more luxurious stay.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included in the package. You’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner on your own, giving you the flexibility to try local specialties.

Can I visit Baidi City and Qutang Gorge without extra tickets?
Tickets for Baidi City, the scenic ferry, and the Qutang Gorge are not included in the base price. The tour provider can help with booking these in advance.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and site access limitations.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Be prepared for humid conditions and possible rain.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

This 4-day Chongqing tour balances culture, scenic beauty, and modern engineering marvels, making it perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the essence of this dynamic city.

You can check availability for your dates here: