【Chongqing travel guide2026】
Why should you choose to travel to Chongqing?
Is this your first time in Chongqing? Get the comprehensive travel guide to Chongqing, including airport transfers, must-try hot pots, mind-blowing 8D attractions, and the best places to stay in this mountain city!
What transportation options are available in Chongqing
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) / High-speed Railway
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)
Chongqing has only one Jiangbei Airport, which is divided into two terminals, T2 and T3. There are light rail lines near the airport: Line 10 (both T2 and T3), Line 3 (T2)
Chongqing Special Bus Lines at Jiangbei International Airport
Line& Fare | Route | Operating Hours |
K01 $15/person | Jiangbei Airport ↔ Jiefangbei Cathay Plaza | From Airport: 30 AM (30 mins after last flight arrival) From Jiefangbei: 5:30 AM - 9:00 PM |
K06 $20/person | Jiangbei Airport ↔ Chongqing West Railway Station | From Airport: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Departures at 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 9:00 PM) From West Station: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
K07 $15/person | Jiangbei Airport ↔ Shapingba Railway Station | From Airport: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM From Shapingba: 6:50 AM - 9:00 PM |
K08 1 20/person | Jiangbei Airport ↔ University City West Road Station | From Airport: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM From University City: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
A must-read for first-time flyers
The Essential Guide for First-Time Flyers (Airport Procedures)
| Step | Action | Tips & Notes |
1. Ticket Purchase | Use airline apps or third-party platforms (e.g., Skyscanner, Expedia). | Best deals often appear on Tuesday afternoons or early Wednesday. |
2. Check-In | Locate your airline’s check-in counter at the departure hall. | • Bring your ID/passport. • Save time with online check-in (24h before flight). |
3. Baggage Check-In | Submit luggage exceeding 20 inches (50cm) at the counter. | • Remove electronic devices (e.g., laptops, power banks) for separate screening. • Keep the baggage tag receipt—required to claim luggage later. |
4. Security Check | Prepare ID, boarding pass, and face recognition. | • Separate: Electronics, liquids (100ml max), and jackets. • Follow staff instructions for smooth screening. |
5. Boarding Gate | Check your gate number on the boarding pass/screens. | • Arrive at the gate 30+ mins early. • Listen for announcements—gates may change! |
The first time I came to Chongqing by high-speed train:
Key Chongqing Railway Stations
South Square and North Square at Chongqing North Station are connected and serve high-speed trains.
Chongqing High-Speed Rail Station | Line Distribution | Railway Note: |
North Square |
| Passengers can transfer easily because the two squares are connected |
West Station in Chongqing |
| New junction station |
Shapeba Station on Line 5 of the Loop Line |
| Close to shopping areas |
It is advised to use the official 12306 website or app to purchase tickets.
Reservations in Advance: 15 days before to travel, tickets go on sale; during busy times, purchase in advance.
Documents Needed:
Adults: passport or ID card.
Students: To receive discounted tickets, present a valid student ID.
Children: Passport or household registration (in the absence of an ID card).
2. Security Check & Station Entry
Steps | Operating Instructions |
| at least thirty to sixty minutes early. Larger stations could take longer. |
2. At the gate, | scan your ID card and use facial recognition. |
3. Security check | remove metal objects; same as at the airport |
4. Waiting for the train | to get to the appropriate ticket gate, follow the train details displayed on the electronic screen. |
3. Restrictions on carrying-on luggage
- Sprays and liquids: No more than 150 milliliters per item (e.g., perfume, hairspray).
- The total volume of all liquids cannot be more than 600ml.
- Mobile power and batteries: 100Wh lithium batteries (no authorization needed).
- standard 20,000 mAh power packs, which are typically compatible.
- Batteries that are damaged or unlabeled are prohibited.
- Boarding time: Please arrive on time, as the gate closes three to five minutes before departure. This is one last reminder.
Chongqing's primary modes of transportation are light rail, buses, taxis, and online cars.
1. Bus 🚌
- about $2 (RMB ¥2-3)
- Payment method: You can use “Ride Code” or cash coins.
- Notes: The bus is crowded during peak hours (7:30-9:00 / 17:00-19:00) and is not recommended for tourists.
2. Metro🚇
- about $2-$7 (depending on distance)
- Most of the popular attractions in Chongqing can be reached.
- We recommend using the “Ride Code” to scan the code to take the train, which is convenient and fast.
- Advantages: fast, avoiding traffic jams, cost-effective, and the preferred mode of transportation for tourists.
🚕 3. Taxi (cab)
- Starting price: Daytime: $10 / 3km, Nighttime: $11 / 3km
Where to stay in Chongqing is more suitable?
Jiefangbei
The benefit of choosing the Jiefangbei neighborhood is that it's easy to get to the center of the universe, especially the Yuzhong District attractions, and the food is also very convenient, especially the fire and ice soup dumplings, Chongqing Xiaomian, and wontons, which are very delicious!
Lazy people's first option is Jiefangbei, which is ideal for first-time visitors who wish to see the main attractions of Chongqing (Hongyadong, Yangtze River cableway). They enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and while taking a taxi is convenient, there are more traffic jams. It still depends on individual taste.
21st Floor, No. 1 Xinhua Road
From
£19
User reviews for Asan Riverview Hotel Chongqing (Jiefangbei Raffles City Branch)
9.2/10
6450 reviews
10/10
180° Riverside Residence Loft 2-Bedroom Suite - Large Screen + Cozy Space
The hotel room is a two-story duplex, offering plenty of space. The 180° floor-to-ceiling windows provide a beautiful view. The room's cleanliness is excellent, toiletries are well-stocked, and facilities are comprehensive, with bathrooms on both floors, which is very convenient. The butler service was warm and helped us book Two Rivers cruise tickets at a discounted price. The hotel's central location also makes getting around incredibly easy; the subway is right downstairs, and popular attractions are within walking distance. It's truly a great choice for travelers.
10/10
180° Crystal Mansion Loft Corridor Suite - Landmark-View + Large Screen Projection
The front desk concierge service was very thoughtful. They contacted us in advance to provide directions and even helped us get a free late check-out. Our room was on the 30th floor, and while it required one elevator transfer, it was quite fast. I had some concerns about hygiene and facilities after reading previous reviews, but after checking in, I found everything to be excellent. The room was indeed very spacious and clean, and the facilities were complete and functional. The location definitely deserves praise; it's right across from Raffles City, and there's a subway station downstairs. It's also very close to Hongyadong and Shibati, making transportation very convenient with the subway right downstairs. The surrounding area has a great variety of dining, entertainment, and shopping options. We were very satisfied with our stay.
10/10
180° Cloudscape Night Loft Tatami Suite - City Night View
The hotel's location in Chaotianmen, downtown Chongqing, is excellent. It's very convenient to get to Jiefangbei and Hongyadong, both within walking distance. Downstairs, there's Line 1 of the subway, and across the street is the Raffles City mall, which has a wide variety of food and shops. The hotel's cleanliness is quite good, and even the small details are well taken care of, making for a reassuring stay. The facilities are complete, including a gym and laundry room. The staff were all very enthusiastic and even helped me bring clothes to my room. A great experience.
10/10
180° Riverside Residence Loft 2-Bedroom Suite - Large Screen + Cozy Space
This hotel's location is truly excellent! It's right above Chaotianmen Light Rail Station, making transportation incredibly convenient – you can get to most attractions quickly, many within walking distance. The room view is also fantastic; from the window, you can see Raffles City to the side and the Yangtze River straight ahead. You get to watch boats during the day and the illuminated nightscape in the evening. The service is also very warm; the cleaning staff always greets you with a smile, and the front desk is quick to respond to any requests. The room was clean, well-equipped, and very comfortable. I'll definitely stay here again next time I'm in Chongqing!
10/10
180° Cloudscape Night Loft Tatami Suite - City Night View
The hotel's location is excellent, right across from Raffles City and with a subway station downstairs. The room was quite clean, and the toiletries were well-stocked. The front desk service was very warm and thoughtful; seeing that there were quite a few of us, they arranged a larger tatami room for us. There's also a laundry room conveniently located on the same floor as our room. It was a really good hotel stay.
South Binjiang Road
The major reason to live in the South Binjiang Road neighborhood is to enjoy the scenery!
It's a decent room with a river view and floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for friends who enjoy taking photos.
Sisters, it's a little pricey, but honestly, it's not appropriate for students. The transit is inconvenient—you essentially take a taxi!
The view of the river from South Riverside is unstoppable, and across the street you can see Raffles. The skyline pool offers the greatest nighttime camera location. Eating is especially convenient, with a selection of eateries within 3 kilometers!
Eteem Resort Hotel User Reviews
8.5/10
274 reviews
10/10
Elegant Queen Room
My colleague recommended this hotel, and it's really good value for money. The rooms are nice and clean, and the receptionist and cleaning ladies were very welcoming. It's also convenient to explore the surrounding area after finishing my business. [Thumbs up][Thumbs up]
Guanyinqiao
The Guanyinqiao neighborhood: this area is near a big shopping center, which makes it easy to dine, buy, and do other things. However, at night, people may be a bit too much and rowdy! (Shapingba neighborhood: more student-friendly, reasonably priced, surrounded by some universities, etc.)
Guanyinqiao is a foodie's paradise, ideal for hot pot enthusiasts, night owls, and those who wish to enjoy Chongqing's nightlife. The Yaddo hotel room is tidy, and it takes approximately five minutes to walk to the vibrant Nine Streets Bar, which is a great place for young people to have fun times.
Atour Hotel (Chongqing Guanyinqiao) User Reviews
9.7/10
3468 reviews
10/10
Elegant Queen Room
The hotel boasts an excellent location, very close to Guanyin Bridge, making it convenient for taking taxis and visiting attractions. The room was clean, soundproofing was decent, and the bed was comfortable. Check-in at the front desk was quick, and the staff were friendly. There are plenty of dining options nearby. It's a great base for tourists, and overall, I'm satisfied. Looking forward to staying here again.
10/10
Elegant Queen Room
The front desk service was great. The hotel itself is very nice.
10/10
Elegant Queen Room
This hotel exceeded my expectations! The location is convenient, within walking distance to the subway station. The front desk staff were warm and attentive, and check-in was very quick. The room was clean and tidy, the bedding was comfortable, and the toiletries were well-stocked. The breakfast buffet was plentiful and delicious, especially the freshly made noodles. The soundproofing was excellent, ensuring a very peaceful night's sleep. I'll definitely choose this place again next time, highly recommended!
10/10
Superior 2-bed Room
Whenever I travel to a new city, Atour is my top choice. The front desk staff are always so kind and thoughtful, like a sweet niece. The rooms are clean, tidy, quiet, and comfortable, and the pillows are great. We had an early flight at 7 AM, and they even prepared breakfast for us, which was a very considerate touch.
10/10
Superior 2-bed Room
The rooms offer good privacy and the environment is excellent. The breakfast, especially the congee, was delicious. It was comfortable and clean, ensuring a good night's sleep. The housekeeping staff were very thoughtful and thorough. There's a gym and a laundry room available. For this price point, it offers great value for money. I got a membership card and will definitely be staying here frequently for my business trips.
Chongqing features of lodging: During this trip, Golden Lake as well
There is no need to make a reservation, don't worry about holiday pricing increases; feel free to eat anything you want.
Where to eat food in Chongqing?
Chongqing locals recommend local Delicious, not step on mine! Delicious and inexpensive, foreign friends must look at the list of food that must be used!
Chongqing traditional snacks
Jiefangbei
- Linjiangmen Dumplings 💰 $3
- Hot and sour noodles 💰 $10
- Hutchison's dried potato skin and beans 💰 $10+ (good for afternoon tea, there are chairs by the cliff, and you can sit all afternoon.)
Seven Star Gang
- Chunyang Restaurant 💰 $10 (cheap, serve yourself)
- Lin Hua Noodle Shop 💰$12 (noodles with shredded pork and fish)
- Fatty Chen's Hot Pot Restaurant 💰$60 (main store)
3. Delicious desserts and drinks
Right near Jiefangbei
- Li Ruotao glutinous rice yogurt 💰 $10+
- Port Chai Cake 💰 $30
- Dengchao Dessert 💰 $25
- Lotus Pond Community Cold Shrimp 💰 $7 (this is how you add cold shrimp with brown sugar water)
- Sanzang Dessert 💰 $20
Right near Guanyinqiao:
- Hong Erma Stinky Tofu 💰 $20 (next to Ninth Street)
- Taro dumplings 💰 $10+ (in the Taping neighborhood)
If you're tired of walking, book a Thai massage at Siam Island near Jiefangbei.
Hotpot recommendations!
- Zili Hot Pot: This ancient hot pot with three towers is packed and opened in a Qixinggang residential building. Dozens of yuan can be eaten to full satisfaction of each person, business is excellent, people are waiting even on weekdays, the setting is unimpressive, but the food is also delicious!
- Instrument Factory Hot Pot (General Store): a difficult-to-find but incredibly tasty traditional Chongqing hot pot! There's no setting, but the flavor is delicious and spicy, and the more you eat, the more you enjoy the neighborhood and the rich atmosphere of life!
- Hongyadong, Daijia Lane is home to Sister Li Hot Pot Q (Hongyadong shop), a hot pot restaurant near Jiefangbei where many residents are playing cards while fireworks are in the sky.
Curiosity! Meat dishes start at $5.8 and vegetarian dishes from $1.8. Both are reasonably priced! - Branch of Jiefangbei's Dinghan Hot Pot: Nestled in the heart of Daijiaxiang, Jiefangbei, is the place to try traditional Chongqing hot pot.
Across from the Cat Wall, it's a fantastic restaurant! A wall! You can take pictures once you've finished eating.
What's the weather like in Chongqing☀?
Chongqing is an amazing mountain city, but the weather conditions are changeable. Chongqing is foggy and cold all year round, so it's best to wear sneakers! 20,000 starts per day, traveling back and forth between the mountains!
Chongqing Weather + What to Wear
Temperatures stay in the 20s to 30s, with little difference between morning and evening, but Chongqing's weather is changeable, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella and remember to bring anti-mosquito spray! Remember to bring mosquito spray and Windex!
You can wear short sleeves + jeans, skirts, suspenders + sunscreen + jeans (perfectly suited for summer, but still a bit cold on rainy days, so bring a thin jacket).
How do I use my eSIM card in Chongqing?
Staying online is crucial whether you're ordering hot pot to be delivered to your hotel, accessing navigation, or using translation tools.
Instant activation eliminates the need to swap out the actual card.
booths for China Unicom and China Mobile at the airport.
Carrying Wi-Fi: Available but more cumbersome to transport, portable Wi-Fi is ideal for large gatherings.
See all attractions
644365 booked
What to Prepare for a Trip to China?
- Visa & Entry Tips China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 54 countries, incl. the US, UK, Canada, and Brazil, allowing up to 10 days during layovers. Learn more about China Entry Tips to land in China easily.
- Getting Connected to VPNs is vital for accessing Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc in China. Set one up before arriving. China eSIMs are the easiest option for data and bypassing restrictions. Pocket Wi-Fi devices work best for groups but are pricier and require pickup/return.
- Money Exchange & Tax Refunds Exchange money in China banks (better rates than airports). ATMs accept foreign cards but notify your bank first. For tax refunds, spend over ¥500 at stores with a "Tax-Free" sign. Keep receipts and get forms stamped at customs before departure.
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