Visiting Dalian in the Off-Season Offers Incredible Value

Dalian, known as the "Pearl of Northern China," is a coastal city boasting long shorelines, unique European architecture, and rich cultural heritage. This three-day itinerary will guide you through romantic coastal walks, exotic streets, delicious seafood, and unlock all of Dalian's charming attractions for a surprising seaside adventure. Daily Itinerary Day 1: First Taste of Coastal Beauty 📍Xinghai Square: Asia's largest city square where you can stroll around, admire giant huabiao columns and the centennial city sculpture, and gaze at Xinghai Bay Bridge. In the evening, watch the sunset paint the sea red and seagulls soaring in the sky, feeling the city's romantic atmosphere (free). 📍Sunasia Ocean World: Comprising Ocean World, Polar World and other venues, you can observe beluga whales, penguins and other marine creatures up close, and watch exciting dolphin shows. Great for family visits (four-venue combo ticket: 220 yuan). 📍Xinghai Park: Connected to Xinghai Square, this is a historic seaside park. You can splash in the waves on the beach or experience the thrill of sea bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush (free, bungee jumping and other activities charged separately). Day 2: Exotic Atmosphere and Historical Exploration 📍Russian Style Street: Lined with European-style buildings full of exotic charm. The street features specialty souvenir shops and Russian restaurants. Walking here feels like being in a foreign country—perfect for taking photos (free). 📍Zhongshan Square: Home to more than ten European-style buildings of different styles, it's one of China's largest circular squares. Pigeons fly around the square; sit on a bench to appreciate architectural details and feel the fusion of history and modernity (free). 📍Dalian Museum: Comprehensively showcases Dalian's historical changes and urban development. Through rich cultural relics and historical materials, gain a deeper understanding of the city's past and present (free, reservation required). Day 3: Island Leisure and Special Experiences 📍Bangchui Island: Named after a small island shaped like a wooden club offshore. The water is clear, the sand is fine, and mountains surround the area, creating beautiful scenery. Walk along the wooden boardwalk, enjoy peaceful seaside moments, and visit the former State Guest House (entrance fee: 20 yuan). 📍Fisherman's Wharf: A vintage-style wharf where many fishing boats dock. European-style cafes and restaurants line the shore. Here you can taste fresh seafood and enjoy the wharf scenery in the evening glow (free). 📍Venice Water City: Built to resemble Venice, Italy, with artificial canals running through it and European buildings on both sides. You can take a gondola ride to experience the romantic water city atmosphere (free, boat rides charged separately). 📍Return Journey: Pack your bags in the afternoon and head home with wonderful memories of Dalian. Must-Try Food: Dalian on the Tip of Your Tongue ✅Seaweed Buns: A Dalian specialty filled with seaweed and meat. The skin is soft, and the filling is savory. One bite brings the full flavor of the ocean, 15-20 yuan per serving. ✅Salted Fish Cakes: Salted fish fried until golden, served with corn cakes. Salty, fragrant, and crispy—a classic delicacy on Dalian dining tables, 30-40 yuan per person. ✅Spicy Stir-fried Clams: Fresh clams stir-fried with chili, green onions, and ginger. Tender, juicy, and spicy—a must-order dish at night market food stalls, 20-30 yuan per serving. ✅Dalian Shrimp Paste: Made from fermented small shrimp, can be used to stir-fry eggs or steam tofu. Rich and unique flavor, a highly distinctive local condiment, 10-15 yuan per serving. ✅Sea Jelly: Made from Irish moss, smooth in texture. Served with minced garlic, vinegar, and other seasonings—refreshing and palate-cleansing, 8-12 yuan per bowl. Photography Tips: Capturing Beautiful Moments 1️⃣Xinghai Square: In the evening, use Xinghai Bay Bridge as a backdrop to capture silhouettes against the gorgeous sunset for atmospheric photos. 2️⃣Russian Style Street: Use European architecture as a backdrop, wear vintage clothing, and utilize the street's depth to take panoramic photos highlighting the exotic atmosphere. 3️⃣Venice Water City: When the lights come on at night, take a gondola ride and use the canals and buildings as a backdrop for night portraits that showcase the romantic ambiance. Pitfall Guide: Tips to Avoid Problems 🚗Transportation: Public transportation in the city center is convenient, with subway and buses covering major attractions. Use official taxi platforms to avoid being overcharged. For attractions like Bangchui Island, driving or taking a taxi is recommended as public transportation is limited. 🍱Food: Choose proper restaurants for seafood and ask about prices and weight in advance. Be mindful of hygiene at night market food stalls to avoid stomach issues. 🎫Tickets: Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance through official platforms for discounts and to save queuing time. Pay attention to opening hours and reservation requirements. 👟Outfit: It's windy by the sea, so bring a windproof jacket. In summer, protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat. Bright-colored clothes are recommended for better photos. Hidden Experiences: Exploring Lesser-Known Treasures 1️⃣Coastal Road Boardwalk: Over 30 kilometers long, connecting multiple attractions. Choose a section to walk, enjoy mountain and sea views along the way, and discover hidden observation decks overlooking the coastline. 2️⃣Cat's Sky Castle at Fisherman's Wharf: A popular seaside bookstore where you can send postcards, read books, drink coffee, and enjoy leisurely moments. 3️⃣Hengshan Temple: One of the largest Buddhist temples in Northeast China. The temple environment is serene with strong incense offerings. You can pray here and experience a peaceful atmosphere.