What to do in Dali

Activities, attractions and tours

Dali
Dali
Dali
Dali
Dali

Places to Visit in Dali

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Dali, Yunnan while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Dali attractions from NZ$60, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Dali tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 11 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Dali. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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What to do in Dali

Discover the most popular places to visit in Dali

Er Hai

Erhai Lake

Visit the “ear-shaped” lake on the edge of Dali to find waterfront parklands, tiny islands and fishermen who practice traditional fishing methods.

Erhai Lake
Three Pagodas

Three Pagodas

Find out about the history of Dali Town when you spend time at Three Pagodas. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

Three Pagodas
Cangshan Mountain

Cangshan Mountain

Ride a scenic ropeway, visit a temple complex and hike the network of trails that traverse this collection of misty mountain peaks overlooking the city of Dali.

Cangshan Mountain

Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town

Learn about the local history of Shaxi with a stop at Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town. Wander the gardens and forests while you're in the area.

Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town

Dali University

Enjoy the student vibe at Dali University during your stay in Dali Town. Discover the area's mountain views and temples.

Dali University

Dali Museum

You can study the exhibits at Dali Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Dali Town. Discover the area's mountain views and temples.

Dali Museum

South Gate

Find out about the history of Dali Town when you take a trip to South Gate. Discover the area's mountain views and temples.

South Gate

Dali Wenxian Road

Enjoy an outing to Dali Wenxian Road during your stay in Dali Town. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

Dali Wenxian Road

Jinsuo Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Jinsuo Island during your travels in Dali Town. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

Jinsuo Island

Explore areas of Dali

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Dali Ancient Town

5/5(1 area review)

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.

Dali Ancient Town
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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.

Taoyuan
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Shuanglang

While visiting Shuanglang, you might make a stop by sights like Erhai Lake and Nanzhao Folk Island.

Shuanglang
Dali

Xiaguan

Travellers like the museums in Xiaguan, and Dali Museum is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Xiaguan
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Xizhou

Visitors to Xizhou like its restaurants and architecture, and Erhai Lake is a sight worth a stop.

Xizhou
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Caicun

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Caicun and surrounding area, you can visit Three Pagodas and South Gate.

Caicun

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Dali

Tiger Leaping Gorge

Lijiang

Photo by Beautiful Guangxi

Chuxiong Yi

Tiger Leaping Gorge

Yulong

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.