Planning a Chongqing tour is the best way to explore one of the most dynamic cities in China, famous for its glowing skyline views at night, deliciously spicy hotpot, and as a port of call for a cruise along the mighty Yangtze river. If you are looking for history, cuisine, or jaw-dropping scenery, Chongqing and the surrounding area is a travel experience like no other.
In this guide, we will go through everything you need to know about Chongqing tours and where to find the highlights, local culture, transportation tips, and how to decide which Chongqing tour package is best for your trip.
Here are a few fantastic reasons to include Chongqing in your upcoming China private tour.
Scenic Location
Surrounded by rivers and mountains, Chongqing sits on the confluence of the Yangtze and the Jialing Rivers offering some of the most picturesque urban settings in China.
Historic and cultural sites
From ancient townships to revolution sites, a trip to Chongqing provides innumerable chances to experience history.
Yangtze River Cruises
A large number of Chongqing tour packages include a cruise along the Yangtze River providing you access to the legendary Three Gorges region.
A food lover’s paradise
Chongqing is the birthplace of spicy hotpot. It’s a place that food lovers need to visit.
Gateway to southwest China
With good transport options, Chongqing is a great jumping off point for your Chengdu tours in Yunnan and Tibet.
The Best Time to Take a Trip to Chongqing
When you take a tour to Chongqing, the season you choose will affect your experience:
Spring (March–May)
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a pleasant time of year to take a sightseeing trip.
Summer (June–August)
Extremely hot and humid, but the best time for night tours when the city lights up.
Autumn (September–November)
Lovely temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds — ideal for spending time at outdoor attractions.
Winter (December–February)
Mild winter with foggy, enchanting landscapes; perfect for enjoying hotpot.
The Best Chongqing Attractions to Visit
1, Jiefangbei CBD
The commercial centre of Chongqing, Jiefangbei, is the iconic area to visit on any Chongqing city tour.
2, Hongya Cave (Hongyadong)
Hongya Cave is a whimsical riverside complex, bult into the hillside, known for its traditional architecture, night views, and local street food.
3, Ciqikou Ancient Town
Take a glimpse into the past at Ciqikou, a historic town dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. This quaint town is full of narrow streets, tea houses, and traditional snack shops, making it a great place to explore local cultural flavors.
4, Yangtze River Cableway
Known as the “Airbus of the Yangtze river,” the cableway offers magnificent views of Chongqing’s skyline and crossing the river.
5, Three Gorges Museum
If you are a history enthusiast, the Three Gorges Museum is an excellent stop. The museum includes everything related to the history of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges Dam Project.
6, Dazu Rock Carvings
Two hours from the downtown area, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features elaborately carved Buddhist figures from the 9th – 13th centuries and could be a great option for a day trip.
7, Wulong Karst National Geology Park
With huge sinkholes and stone bridges, Wulong is a geological wonder and a favorite add-on to many Chongqing tour packages.
Sample Chongqing Tour Packages
Tour packages to Chongqing can range from a half-day city tour to week-long tours of China.
Chongqing Tour Guide — Why You Should Consider a Tour Guide
If your China private tour plans to visit several cities, hiring a Chongqing tour guide can help tremendously with your experience.
Food Experiences You Cannot Miss in Chongqing
If you are a foodie and you are combining your trip to Chongqing with a Chengdu tour, it’s like a double whammy of two of Sichuan cuisine capitals.
Tips for Planning Your Chongqing Tour
If you want to combine your Chongqing city tour with some natural beauty, you could add some Guilin tours, allowing you to have the best of both worlds, city lights combined with riverscapes.
