Dali Ancient City Authentic Food Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Dali Old Town like a local on this 4-hour walking and food tour! Stroll through ancient streets, colorful markets, and hidden gems, taste delicious Yunnan snacks at three stops。 If you need, you can also get professional photos of your adventure along the way. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to see, taste, and capture the real Dali.
Available options
Dali Ancient City Authentic Food Tour
What's included
Admission fee
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Start at the historic South Gate, where you can admire the ancient city wall, learn a bit about Dali’s history, and take great photos to kick off the tour.
2
Explore this creative hub with its small galleries, colorful murals, and indie boutiques. On weekends, enjoy the pop-up market with handmade crafts and delicate jewelry, and soak up the youthful, artistic vibe.
3
Visit this historic tower in the heart of Old Town to admire traditional pagoda-style architecture and take in lively street scenes around it.
4
Taste local specialties like grilled erkuai or rice noodles while enjoying the spring water channels and the vibrant life of locals in this charming area.
5
See the unique fusion of Western and Bai architecture and relax in the peaceful garden surrounding the church.
6
Stroll through the red-walled courtyards, admire elegant Confucian architecture, and enjoy a quiet, culturally rich stop perfect for photos.
7
Sample local treats such as Dali yogurt or flower cakes while wandering lively cafés, boutiques, and artisan shops, experiencing the mix of international and local culture.
8
Take a relaxing walk through serene ponds, pavilions, and shaded paths, enjoying a calm break amid Dali’s natural beauty.
9
Explore the vibrant North Gate Market, tasting fresh seasonal fruits and local snacks. Finish the tour at North Gate, a quiet spot where you can continue exploring on your own.
What's not included
Tips for your guide are welcome if you enjoyed the tour. It is not required.
Meals
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
YUE
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We can pick you up directly from your hotel in Dali, or meet at the Dali Ancient city South Gate.
If you prefer, you may also meet us at a convenient pickup point near Dali Ancient City.
We’ll confirm the exact time and location after booking.
About Dali
Dali is a picturesque city in Yunnan Province, renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and the famous Erhai Lake. Nestled between the Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali offers a blend of ethnic Bai culture, historic sites, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination in Southwest China.
Top Attractions
Cangshan Mountain
A stunning mountain range offering hiking trails, scenic views, and hot springs. The 19 peaks of Cangshan provide a breathtaking backdrop to Dali.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to ¥100 for cable car
Erhai Lake
A large, picturesque lake offering water activities, cycling paths, and stunning sunsets. The lake is a major attraction and a hub for outdoor activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to ¥150 for boat tours
Dali Ancient Town
A well-preserved ancient town with traditional architecture, bustling markets, and a rich cultural heritage. The town is a great place to experience the local Bai culture.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary
Three Courses of Tea
A traditional tea ceremony performed by local Bai women. The ceremony involves serving tea in a specific ritual, offering insights into the local culture.
Cultural
1-2 hours
¥50-100
Xizhou Town
A charming town known for its well-preserved Bai architecture, museums, and cultural sites. Xizhou is a great place to learn about the Bai ethnic group.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore, museum entry fees vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Crossing the Bridge Noodles
A traditional Bai dish consisting of a hearty broth with various ingredients, served with rice noodles. The dish is named for the story of a scholar who prepared it to sustain himself while studying for exams.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Erkuai (Yunnan Rice Cakes)
Thick, chewy rice cakes that can be fried, boiled, or steamed and served with various toppings. They are a popular street food in Dali.
Snack
Vegetarian
Yunnan Ham
A type of cured ham that is a delicacy in Yunnan. It is often served as a snack or used in various dishes.
Snack
Contains pork
Mushroom and Potato Hotpot
A hearty hotpot dish featuring a variety of mushrooms and potatoes, cooked in a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish in the colder months.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cangshan Mountain
Cycling around Erhai Lake
Boating on Erhai Lake
Tea ceremonies
Hot springs
Lakeside picnics
Visiting museums
Exploring ancient towns
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
The weather is most pleasant during these seasons, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Yunnan dialect, Bai language
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dali is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid unlicensed taxis
Getting there
By air
- Dali Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Dali Station
By bus
Dali Bus Station, Xiaguan Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Foreigners Street
Xiaguan
Erhai Lake Area
Day trips
Shaxi Ancient Town
90 km from Dali • Full day
A well-preserved ancient town on the old Tea Horse Road, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Lijiang
150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient town, stunning natural scenery, and rich Naxi culture.
Shuhe Ancient Town
150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight
A sister town to Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe offers a more relaxed and less touristy experience, with a rich history and cultural heritage.
Festivals
Dali March Fair • March
Bai Ethnic New Year • Late February to early March (lunar calendar)
Dali International Photography Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and best selection
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or the local Yunnan dialect to enhance your interactions with locals
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as Dali is best explored on foot
- Try the local Bai cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and ingredients
- Visit the Three Courses of Tea ceremony for a unique cultural experience and insights into the local Bai culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
