Chongqing offers an intriguing mix of modernity and tradition, making it a fantastic destination for a 4-day getaway. Its proximity to the mighty Yangtze River means a variety of cruise options that showcase stunning gorges, historic sites, and luxurious comfort. Some tours focus on the spectacular scenery of the Three Gorges, while others highlight cultural landmarks like Baidi City or the Fengdu Ghost City. Whether you’re after an indulgent luxury cruise, a cultural deep dive, or a semi-guided exploration, Chongqing has a tour for you.
We particularly like the Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise for its opulence and unique floating suites with butler service, offering a truly indulgent way to see the river. For a more budget-friendly yet comprehensive experience, the Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang provides included excursions and a relaxed pace. And for those wanting a mix of river scenery and local culture, the Chongqing: All-Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Luxury Cruise combines luxury with cultural highlights. Whatever your style, this list covers the best options to help you make a choice.
1. 4D3N Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise
Experience the ultimate in luxury on this 5-star Yangtze River cruise, which offers a floating suite with butler service, floor-to-ceiling windows, and exclusive comfort. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s a reinvention of how to enjoy the river. The tour covers a 4-day journey with highlights like the Chaotianmen Dock, where you’ll board the Victoria Sabrina or Isabella on the Yangtze River, and the Three Gorges — Qutang, Wu, and Xiling — famed for their sheer cliffs and breathtaking scenery.
What truly sets this tour apart is the luxury experience onboard. Your floating suite provides stunning sunset views, and the cruise service includes meals, but no additional itineraries, allowing a focus on relaxation. The itinerary includes a docking at Fengdu Shuanggui Mountain, known for its sculptures of the underworld, and a scenic passage through the Three Gorges. Note that children must be under 12, but teenagers above 12 are considered adults.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking luxury and comfort with an emphasis on scenic beauty and exclusive amenities. The high price reflects this, but the experience of floating in style for 4 days on the Yangtze makes it worth considering. Guests praise the superb service and the breathtaking views during sunset.
Bottom line: For those who want to indulge, this cruise elevates the river experience with pampering and stunning vistas, ideal for honeymooners or travelers celebrating a special occasion.
2. 4D3N Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang by Century Cruise
Travel along the Three Gorges with this 4-day cruise on a Chinese 5-star boat, departing from Chongqing to Yichang. The Century Cruise includes three shore excursions, meals, and comfortable accommodation, making it a balanced choice for those who want scenic highlights plus cultural experiences.
The cruise kicks off with boarding at Chaotianmen and includes visits to Fengdu Ghost City, a 1,900-year-old site known for its sculptures and mythic stories. The itinerary is flexible, with the possibility of changing excursions depending on the schedule; the final detailed excursions are communicated closer to departure. Other highlights include cruising through Qutang Gorge, the shortest and most dramatic of the Three Gorges, and passing through Wu Gorge, famous for its misty peaks.
Guests have noted the excellent service, with some mentioning that the food is very tasty and the cabins comfortable, although the ship itself is described as “not the newest.” The tour suits travelers interested in a comprehensive river experience with a relaxed pace and some cultural enrichment.
Bottom line: For around $768, you get a well-rounded cruise with meaningful shore excursions, suitable for families or travelers who want a balance of scenery and culture without the luxury surcharge.
3. Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
Discover the Chongqing municipality on this 4-day cruise, which explores the Three Gorges and includes stops at Fengdu, the Lesser Three Gorges, and the Three Gorges Dam. This tour offers a good mix of sightseeing, leisure, and scenic cruising, making it a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive Yangtze experience.
The itinerary begins with embarkation at Chaotianmen and features visits to Yuhuang Shengdi or Shibao Village, with the possibility of visiting the White Emperor City on day two. You’ll cruise through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, with optional excursions to lesser-known sites like Shengnong Stream or Goddess Stream. The Three Gorges Dam visit on the final day tops off the trip with a look at one of China’s most impressive engineering feats.
Guests appreciate the all-inclusive meals and smooth logistics, noting that the trip is well-organized. The cruise is suitable for travelers who want to cover the major sights with minimal hassle. The price point of about $599 makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Bottom line: This cruise balances scenery, culture, and comfort, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a worry-free, well-organized journey on the Yangtze.
4. Chongqing: All Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Luxury 4D3N Cruise
If luxury is your priority, this All-Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Cruise offers a premium experience from start to finish. With a 2:1 guest-to-crew ratio, you’ll get personalized attention and top-tier service. The tour includes shore excursions to scenic spots, visits to ancient inscriptions, and immersions into local folklore, all with stunning vistas of the Three Gorges.
What makes this tour stand out is the luxury package—meals, guided tours, seasonal fruits, and comfortable accommodations are all included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. You’ll explore the Three Gorges and visit sites like the Three Gorges Dam and the 816 Nuclear Project for a more in-depth cultural experience. Guests mentioning this cruise highlight the breathtaking views and the attention to detail in service.
Ideal for travelers who want more than just a scenic cruise — this tour combines luxury, culture, and comfort in a seamless package. The higher price of $951 reflects the extra amenities and personalized care, but many find it well worth the investment.
Bottom line: For those seeking a luxury cruise with cultural depth and impeccable service, this tour offers a memorable journey on the Yangtze.
$951 per person
5. 4D3N Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang by Victoria Cruise
This quintessential Yangtze River cruise offers a classic experience with optional excursions and scenic views. Departing from Chaotianmen, the cruise features stops at Fengdu Ghost City, and passes through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a reliable, well-reviewed experience at a moderate price—around $550.
Guests mention enjoying the scenic landscapes and the evening performance onboard, which adds a cultural touch. The tour includes excursions to spots of historic interest and the Three Gorges Dam, making it a well-rounded trip. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the good food, though some note that the ship’s age might be visible.
This cruise is best for travelers who prioritize reliable service and scenic beauty without the luxury premium. It’s a good pick for first-timers or those on a tighter budget.
Bottom line: A solid, traditional Yangtze cruise that covers the essentials with a friendly vibe and good value.
6. 4D3N Yangtze River Victoria Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang
For a relaxing and scenic journey, the Victoria Cruise offers a comfortable way to explore the Three Gorges. Departing from Chongqing, it passes through the mighty Three Gorges with optional tours and a scenic tributary. The most relaxing way to enjoy the river, the cruise has a focus on comfort and stability, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a laid-back experience.
Reviewers note the friendly staff and the delicious food, although some mention that the advertising pictures of small boats on the Goddess Stream no longer match the current experience. The cruise is a good value at around $621, providing a balance of scenery and onboard leisure.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the river at a comfortable pace, with some cultural enrichment, without the extravagance of ultra-luxury.
Bottom line: For those who prioritize relaxation and scenic cruising, this option delivers a peaceful Yangtze experience.
How to Choose Your Chongqing 4-Day Tour
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, interest level, and preferred style. If you’re after luxury and exclusivity, the Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise is unmatched. For a comprehensive, well-organized experience at a lower price, the Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang offers a good balance.
If cultural sites are your focus, the All-Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Luxury Cruise provides a cultured, high-end experience. Budget travelers or first-timers might prefer the Victoria Cruise for its solid service and scenic highlights. Lastly, those seeking a relaxed, scenic voyage should consider the Victoria Cruise.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the more popular luxury cruises, which tend to fill up months in advance. Think about the season—spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather—and plan your excursions accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Chongqing is a city that offers so much more than just its skyline. From cruising the majestic Yangtze River to exploring historic sites, there’s a tour for every type of traveler. If you want to indulge in luxury and enjoy exclusive services, the Victoria 5-star cruise is hard to beat. If you prefer a cost-effective yet comprehensive experience, the Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang provides a solid, enjoyable journey.
For a taste of culture combined with comfort, the All-Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Cruise offers a premium experience with cultural highlights. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you secure a spot on these popular tours. Exploring the magnificent scenery and fascinating history of the Yangtze is a memorable way to experience China—so start planning your adventure today.