Day 1: Exploring the City's Historical Sites and Local Food
Start your day early with a visit to the Wuhou Memorial Temple, where you can learn about the Three Kingdoms period and the famous military strategist Zhuge Liang. The temple is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, where you can relax and take in the scenery.
Next on the itinerary is Jinli Street, a popular tourist spot filled with street food, souvenirs, and traditional Chinese architecture. Sample some Sichuanese delicacies like spicy skewers, mapo tofu, and hotpot.
In the afternoon, head over to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, home to over 80 pandas. You can watch the pandas play, feed them bamboo, and even hold a baby panda for an extra fee.
End the day with a visit to the famous Qintai Road, a picturesque street lined with ancient buildings and teahouses. Enjoy some tea and snacks while taking in the atmosphere.
Day 2: Getting Into Nature and Tasting Local Hotpot
Start your morning by taking a trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world. Take a boat ride to see the Buddha from the river and climb up to the top for an impressive view.
Next, head over to Mount Emei, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. Take a cable car up to the mountaintop and enjoy the scenery and fresh mountain air. Be sure to check out the Baoguo Temple, the oldest temple on the mountain.
After returning to the city, enjoy some famous Sichuan hotpot for dinner. Choose from a variety of ingredients like beef, vegetables, and noodles, and dip them in spicy broth. Try the popular mala hotpot for an extra kick.
Day 3: Art, Culture, and Shopping
Start your day at the Chengdu Museum, a comprehensive museum that showcases the history and culture of the city. Learn about the Shu Kingdom, the Silk Road, and the famous Sichuan Opera.
Take a stroll through the People's Park and visit the Matchmaker's Corner, where parents gather to find potential spouses for their children. You can also find the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a museum dedicated to Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu.
End your trip with some shopping at Chunxi Road, a bustling shopping district filled with trendy stores, restaurants, and cafes. You can find everything from high-end fashion to local snacks and souvenirs.
Cost Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of estimated expenses for a three-day trip to Chengdu:
Accommodation: $120 - $260
Transportation (including cable car, boat ride, and taxis): $80 - $100
Entrance fees: $50 - $70
Food and drinks: $100 - $150
Shopping and souvenirs: $50 - $100
Overall, you can expect to spend around $400 to $700 for a three-day trip to Chengdu including accommodation and activities. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your travel style and preferences.
Chengdu is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. With this itinerary and cost breakdown, you can experience the best of what the city has to offer without breaking the bank.
