Go to China!

Go2China

July 6, 2025

Chengdu 3-Day Family Travel Guide: Exploring Culture, Cuisine & Pandas

Discover Chengdu's iconic attractions, family-friendly activities, and mouthwatering food with this comprehensive mid-range travel plan.

Chengdu TravelFamily TravelCultural ExplorationSichuan Cuisine

Quick Overview

Chinese Name: 成都市

Location: Sichuan Province, Southwest China

Famous For: Panda ConservationAncient EngineeringSpicy Cuisine

Daily Cost: $100-150 per person

Best Season: March-May, September-November

Why Visit Chengdu?

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern comforts. From adorable giant pandas to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and from historic tea houses to vibrant street food culture, this city captivates visitors of all ages. The relaxed pace of life and exceptional hospitality make it ideal for family travel.

Best Time to Visit Chengdu

Ideal Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures (15-28°C) and minimal rain.

🌱Spring: Mild weather with blooming flowers at Wuhou Shrine gardens

☀️Summer: Lively street food scene but requires hydration management

🍁Autumn: Festive atmosphere during Mid-Autumn Festival

❄️Winter: Warm indoor dining experiences with hot pot traditions

Arriving and Leaving Chengdu

Metro Line 1 connects major attractions. Family-friendly options include Didi ride-hailing and bike-sharing stations near Jinli Ancient Street.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport [Recommended]

20km (30 mins) from city center. Taxis cost $10-15 USD. Metro Line 10 connects to downtown.

Chengdu East Railway Station

High-speed rail connections to Chongqing (1.5 hrs), Xi'an (4 hrs), and Kunming (6 hrs). Taxis to city center cost $5-8 USD.

Best Neighborhoods for Family Accommodation

Chunxi Road

Shopping, dining, and proximity to IFS Chengdu panda sculpture

Wuhou District

Historic charm near Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street

Top Family-Friendly Attractions

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Interact with pandas at dedicated viewing platforms and learn conservation efforts through interactive exhibits.

Dujiangyan Irrigation Project Scenic Spot

Explore ancient hydraulic engineering marvels and hike scenic trails suitable for all ages.

Jinli Ancient Street

Traditional architecture-lined street with family-friendly teahouses and local crafts.

Tips

Visit panda bases early for best animal sightings and book tickets in advance for major attractions.

Sichuan Flavors: Family-Friendly Dining

Recommended Restaurants

1. Chen Mapo Tofu

Award-winning restaurant serving authentic Sichuan cuisine with kid-friendly adjustments

2. Hui Xiang Lou Tea House

Tea ceremony experiences and dim sum platters in historic setting

Signature Dishes

1. Mapo Tofu

Silken tofu in spicy aromatic sauce served with steamed rice

2. Dandan Noodles

Hand-pulled noodles with minced pork and chili oil dressing

3-Day Chengdu Family Itinerary

DAY 1

🍳Breakfast at Chen Mapo Tofu:Taste award-winning Mapo Tofu with customizable spice levels

Visit Wuhou Shrine:Explore Three Kingdoms history through interactive exhibits

🥗Lunch at Hui Xiang Lou Tea House:Traditional Sichuan dim sum with storytelling performances

Stroll at Jinli Ancient Street:Family-friendly shopping and street performance viewing

🍽️Dinner at Longfor Paradise Walk:Modern mall with diverse dining options for mixed-age groups

DAY 2

🍳Early breakfast at hotel:Prepare for full-day adventure

Visit Panda Base:Panda nursery viewing and educational programs

🥗Picnic lunch at Panda Square:Outdoor dining with panda-themed playgrounds

Explore Sanxingdui Museum:Ancient bronze artifacts with family audio guides

🍽️Dinner at local hotpot:Family-style hotpot with adjustable spice levels

DAY 3

🍳Early breakfast:Prepare for day trip

Travel to Dujiangyan:Visit ancient irrigation system with family walking trails

🥗Lunch at Yangtianwo Plaza:Scenic dining with panda statues for photo opportunities

Explore Qingcheng Mountain:Family-friendly hiking paths and Taoist temple visits

Return to Chengdu:Last-minute souvenir shopping before departure

Chengdu Travel FAQs

Best Plan

Top China itineraries for an unforgettable journey.