Dalian stands out as a vibrant port city in China, known for its mix of modern architecture, seaside scenery, and rich history. Unlike many destinations, Dalian offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re into urban sights, historic ruins, or scenic coastal drives. Among our favorites is the Private 2 Day Tour of Dalian City, which offers a personalized look at the city’s highlights, and the Waves & Wharfs: Dalian’s Chill Soul 1-Day Tour, perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet culturally rich experience. Both provide a great way to see Dalian without rushing, with the private tour emphasizing customization and the coastal tour capturing Dalian’s laid-back vibe. For history lovers, the All Inclusive Private Lushun (Port Arthur) Full-Day Tour offers a deep dive into military history and stunning seaside scenery. Lastly, if you’re after a flexible, tailored day, the Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way gives you the power to choose your interests, from old streets to amusement parks.
Quick Overview
This list covers diverse ways to explore Dalian:
– Private city tours offering personalized itineraries and deep dives into local sites (Tour #1).
– Full-day historical expeditions to Lushun (Port Arthur) focusing on military history and seaside beauty (Tour #2).
– Casual coastal adventures with scenic drives and Russian heritage sites (Tour #3).
– Flexible customized tours that let you pick your favorite spots and activities (Tour #4).
Now, let’s look at each tour in detail to help you decide which fits your trip best.
1. Private 2 Day Tour of Dalian City
This private 2-day tour is perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, customized experience of Dalian. For around $1,100 per person, it offers the chance to select your preferred sites with a guide who tailors the itinerary to your interests. What makes this tour stand out is the ability to explore at your own pace, with options like Xinghai Square, Beida Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Dalian Museum all on the list. The first day includes a visit to Xinghai Square, China’s largest city square, where you can soak in views of the sea and city skyline, followed by Xinghai Park, a sprawling seaside oasis perfect for a leisurely walk. The museum visit offers a glimpse into Dalian’s past and development.
The second day could include a tour of Venice Water Town or the Russian Style Street of Dalian, giving a taste of European influence in the city’s architecture. The guide can adjust the schedule based on weather, your mood, or specific interests like shopping or photography. The reviews are stellar, with a perfect 5.0 rating from four travelers, praising the flexibility and personalized service.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a tailored experience with the comfort of a private guide, perfect for small groups or couples who want to craft their own Dalian story.
2. All Inclusive Private Lushun(Port Arthur) Full-Day Tour
At number 2 on our list, the Lushun/Port Arthur tour offers a deep dive into one of China’s most historically significant sites. For about $600 per person, this full-day private tour takes you around 8 hours, including transportation and entrance fees, making it excellent value. You’ll start your morning at 8:30 am from your hotel, heading to Lushun, also known as Port Arthur, a key location for Russo-Japanese and Sino-Japanese wars.
The core of this tour is the visit to the Japan-Russia Prison Site of Port Arthur, where Russian and Japanese forces clashed. You’ll see remnants of military barracks, examined rooms, and walk through the historic prison. Next, a climb up Baiyu Hill offers panoramic views of the port, where passing ships and the surrounding coastline create a scenic backdrop. The guide shares stories that bring history to life, emphasizing the strategic importance of this ice-free harbor.
This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in military architecture and coastal landscapes. With high praise from previous travelers, it combines education with scenic vistas. The only caveat: it’s a full-day commitment, so pace yourself if you prefer relaxed sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For those with an interest in military history paired with seaside scenery, this tour offers a comprehensive immersion into Lushun’s past and present.
3. Waves & Wharfs: Dalian’s Chill Soul 1-Day Tour
The Waves & Wharfs tour is a solid choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, culturally rich day out for about $216 per person. It’s about 8 hours long and highlights Dalian’s coastal charm and historic streets. The tour includes a scenic drive along Binhai Road, where you’ll enjoy spectacular ocean views and fresh sea air.
A key feature is exploring Russian Street, with its vintage architecture reflecting the city’s colonial past, and taking photos at the iconic Xinghai Square—a must for those who love cityscapes and waterfront scenery. The tour also includes a visit to Dalian Forest Zoo, where you can see pandas and enjoy the hilltop sunset over the city.
This tour caters to travelers seeking a blend of nature, history, and local culture without the rush of a full-day itinerary. Its laid-back pace makes it perfect for families or those with limited time. While reviews aren’t yet available, the inclusion of scenic drives, heritage streets, and a zoo makes it appealing for a diverse range of interests.
Bottom Line: If you want to enjoy Dalian’s seaside atmosphere and Russian architecture at a leisurely pace, this tour offers a taste of it all, with plenty of photo ops.
$216 per person
4. Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way
Number 4, the Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way, gives you the ultimate flexibility. For $250 per person, this 8-hour experience allows you to craft your perfect day. You can include classic sights like Xinghai Square, Binhai Road, and Zhongshan Square, or focus on specific interests such as Water World—a European-style water park modeled after Venice—or visit Tiger Beach Park for some outdoor fun.
Highlights include exploring Russian Style Street, strolling along Binhai Road for coastal views, or visiting Dalian Water World if you’re traveling with kids or want some entertainment. The tour doesn’t include entrance fees, so you can pick your attractions based on your budget and preferences.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personal itinerary or those who prefer a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and entertainment. Since it’s customizable, it suits families, groups, or solo travelers who want to focus on specific sites. It’s also a good option if you want to combine city sights with a visit to Golden Beach or Tiger Beach Park for some outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for flexible travelers who know what they want to see and do in Dalian, and for those with specific interests or limited time.
$250.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you crave a personalized experience and want to explore at your own pace, the Private 2 Day Tour or the Dalian City Private Day Tour in Your Way are excellent picks. For history buffs, the Lushun/Port Arthur tour delivers a deep dive into military sites with scenic coastal views.
If you prefer a relaxed, scenic day that combines heritage and nature, Waves & Wharfs offers a great way to enjoy the city’s atmosphere without rushing. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, as these tours are popular and spots fill quickly.
In summary, Dalian offers a variety of tours catering to different tastes. For a complete overview of the city’s highlights, the private city tour offers flexibility and depth. If history is your passion, the Lushun full-day tour immerses you in military and seaside stories. For a laid-back coastal experience, the Waves & Wharfs tour delivers scenic charm and cultural touches. And if customization is key, the “Your Way” tour helps you shape your perfect day.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot on these sought-after tours. Prepare to enjoy Dalian’s diverse sights and stories—your adventure awaits.