Dalian is a city that offers a surprising mix of coastal scenery, modern architecture, and colonial history. Unlike many Chinese cities, Dalian’s accessible waterfront, European-style streets, and abundant parks make it ideal for customized tours. Whether you’re interested in a relaxed seaside stroll or exploring historical sites like the Russo-Japanese War ruins, Dalian has something for every traveler. We particularly enjoy the Private 2 Day Tour of Dalian City, which offers a flexible and personalized experience to see highlights like Xinghai Square and the Dalian Museum.
For those craving a blend of history and scenic beauty, the All Inclusive Private Lushun (Port Arthur) Full-Day Tour provides a comprehensive look at the city’s military past and coastal landscapes. And if a day of strolling along the coast, exploring Russian streets, and enjoying ocean views sounds appealing, the Waves & Wharfs: Dalian’s Chill Soul 1-Day Tour offers a relaxed, scenic experience. Lastly, for travelers wanting a customizable itinerary with a variety of attractions, the Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way hits all the highlights with flexibility.
Below, we’ll explore each tour in detail, helping you decide which best matches your travel style and interests.
1. Private 2 Day Tour of Dalian City
At number 1, the Private 2 Day Tour of Dalian City is perfect if you want a personal touch on your visit. This tour is highly customizable—you can choose your preferred attractions and spend more time exploring your specific interests. The itinerary includes highlights like Xinghai Square, Binhai Road, Venice Water Town, and even the Dalian Mounted Policewoman Base. What makes it stand out is the flexibility to tailor the experience—ideal if you have particular sights in mind or want a relaxed pace.
Over two days, you will visit stunning places like Xinghai Park, the Dalian Museum, and the TV Tower Observation Deck, with options to add visits to Beida Bridge or Fisherman’s Wharf. The guide will share insights into Dalian’s rapid development, and since the tour is private, you can decide to linger longer at your favorite spots. The cost is $1,100 per person, reflecting the personalized service and private transportation.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value a flexible schedule and want to dive into local life and landmarks at their own pace. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the ease of customizing the visit, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups.
Bottom Line: If personalized attention and flexibility matter most, this private tour delivers a comprehensive, tailored Dalian experience.
2. All Inclusive Private Lushun (Port Arthur) Full-Day Tour
At number 2, the All Inclusive Private Lushun (Port Arthur) Full-Day Tour offers an immersive dive into Dalian’s military history and coastal landscapes. For around $600, this 8-hour tour takes you from your hotel to the historic Lushun area, known as “half of modern history” for its battlefield significance.
This tour includes visits to the Japan-Russia Prison Site of Port Arthur, where you can explore the remnants of early 20th-century conflicts, and Baiyu Hill (Baiyushan), which provides panoramic views of the port, ships passing, and the old city skyline. The guide will explain the significance of the military port, known for its natural, ice-free harbor, which was strategically vital during wartime.
What makes this tour special is the focus on historic ruins and military architecture, combined with seaside scenery. The guide’s insights bring to life the stories behind the sites, making history tangible. The tour is perfect for history enthusiasts or those with an interest in military architecture. The included admission tickets ensure a hassle-free experience, and the private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility.
A reviewer notes, “The sites were fascinating, and the guide’s storytelling made history come alive.” The drawback? It’s a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a packed schedule.
Bottom Line: For history buffs eager to explore Lushun’s military past and scenic spots, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience.
3. Waves & Wharfs: Dalian’s Chill Soul 1-Day Tour
Number 3 is the Waves & Wharfs: Dalian’s Chill Soul 1-Day Tour, priced at $216 per person. This tour is designed for those who want to enjoy coastal scenery and cultural charm without a rush. It combines a relaxed drive along Binhai Road, exploring Russian heritage streets, and taking in spectacular ocean views.
Key highlights include visiting Xinghai Square—a massive public space with sea views and a landmark bridge—and strolling through Russian Street, where colonial architecture transports visitors back in time. The tour also features a visit to Dalian Forest Zoo, where you can meet pandas and enjoy the hilltop sunset—an idyllic end to the day. The mix of nature, architecture, and lively squares makes this tour a favorite for travelers wanting a balanced taste of Dalian’s coastal charm.
Perfect for a leisurely day, the experience emphasizes scenic drives and photo stops. The small group size enhances the relaxed vibe, and the guide shares stories about the Russian influence on Dalian’s architecture and urban layout. Critics appreciate how this tour captures the “chill soul” of Dalian without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who enjoy seaside landscapes and strolling through heritage streets at a relaxed pace.
4. Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way
Finally, the Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way offers a flexible, customizable experience for around $250. You choose what to see, with options including Xinghai Square, Binhai Road, Water World, Russian Style Street, and even amusement parks like Dalian Discovery Kingdom.
This tour is perfect if you want a mix of urban sights, beaches, and entertainment. The itinerary can be tailored to include Tiger Beach Park, Forest Zoo, or Golden Beach, depending on your interests. You’ll explore Zhongshan Square, with its impressive old buildings, and visit Dalian’s Water World, a European-style water city modeled after Venice.
It’s a good choice for families or groups that prefer an itinerary tailored to their preferences. The guide will customize the day based on your input, allowing for flexibility with timing and attractions. Since it doesn’t include entrance fees, you can pick and choose what fits your budget and interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want control over their sightseeing and enjoy combining cultural, natural, and entertainment spots.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest level, and how much flexibility you want. The Private 2 Day Tour offers a thorough, personalized exploration that’s perfect if you want to see many sights at your own pace. If history fascinates you, the Lushun Full-Day Tour provides a detailed look at military sites and ruins, great for history lovers.
For a relaxed day with scenic coastal views, the Waves & Wharfs Tour is ideal. If you prefer a custom experience that covers a variety of attractions, the Dalian City Private Day Tour allows you to select your preferred sights.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and guide availability. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or climbing, like Baiyu Hill—and plan accordingly. Think about how much time you have; if you only have a day, the 1-day options are more practical.
Final Thoughts
Dalian’s diverse attractions mean there’s a tour tailored to your interests, whether it’s exploring historical ruins, relaxing along the coast, or customizing your own adventure. For a comprehensive experience, the Private 2 Day Tour stands out, especially for those who want in-depth exploration. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Lushun Full-Day Tour, while scenic lovers will find the Waves & Wharfs Tour perfect.
No matter your choice, booking early will ensure a smoother experience. With such varied options, your trip to Dalian will surely be memorable—whether you’re seeking culture, history, or seaside serenity.