Chongqing City Break (Standard)

Upon arrival in Chongqing, we are met by our local guide and driver and transferred to the hotel. The journey takes approximately 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic.The remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you time to rest after your journey or begin exploring the city independently.

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our exploration of Ciqikou Old Town, a settlement with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Its narrow lanes and traditional architecture offer a glimpse into Chongqing’s past. This is also one of the best places to sample local street food - from fried dough twists to spicy chicken giblets and glutinous rice cakes.

We then visit Eling Peak for a panoramic view of the city. From here, we see how Chongqing has evolved from a wartime capital into a striking modern metropolis, often veiled in its signature mountain mist.

Next, we stop at Liziba Station to witness one of Chongqing’s most talked-about sights - a monorail train passing directly through a residential building. This remarkable scene perfectly captures the city’s bold urban design and everyday rhythm.

In the afternoon, we take Monorail Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station to visit the famous Kuixinglou Building. Its rooftop plaza sits 22 floors above ground level due to Chongqing’s dramatic terrain. Often described as the plaza where no one knows which floor they are on, Kuixinglou has become an internet sensation and a symbol of the city’s mountain landscape.

We continue with a stroll through the Shancheng Xiang area, one of Chongqing’s oldest neighbourhoods. This historic stairway district clings to the cliffs above the Yangtze River and offers an authentic glimpse of traditional hillside life.

After breakfast, we visit Liberation Monument Pedestrian Street, the heart of modern Chongqing. Surrounded by neon lights, shops and cafés, this lively area reflects the city’s energy and contemporary spirit.

We then walk across Qiansimen Bridge for views of Hongya Cave. Built into the riverside cliffs, this multi-level complex combines traditional stilted architecture with glowing lights and modern design. As we explore its shops, eateries and terraces overlooking the Jialing River, it is easy to see why many compare it to scenes from Spirited Away, the Academy Award-winning animated film by Hayao Miyazaki.

Next, we take the high-speed lift known as the Eye of the Clouds to the 69th floor, where a 360-degree panorama reveals Chongqing surrounded by the Yangtze and Jialing rivers.

We experience the Yangtze River Cableway with a one-way crossing, offering unique aerial views of the cityscape.

Later, we enjoy a leisurely walk through Longmenhao Old Street, a restored historic area that blends old Chongqing charm with riverside views.

This evening, we share Chongqing’s signature dish - hotpot. A bubbling, spicy broth surrounded by fresh ingredients creates a lively and social dining experience that reflects the city’s bold flavours and communal food culture.

After breakfast at the hotel, time is at leisure until our transfer to the airport or railway station for departure.