Chongqing is a city that truly shines at night, with its riverside skyline lit up like a constellation. Unlike many cities, Chongqing’s Yangtze River and Jialing River provide a spectacular backdrop for boat tours that showcase its neon-lit towers, historic bridges, and lively waterfronts. We particularly love the Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise and Illuminated Night Tour because it combines convenience, stunning views, and a comprehensive experience of the city’s most iconic sights. Imagine cruising past the Hongya Cave, with its glowing facades, or catching the Yangtze River Bridge lit up at night — truly a visual feast. For a more personalized experience, the Chongqing: Two Rivers Night Cruise offers a budget-friendly trip that captures the city’s glittering skyline and natural beauty, with good reviews and a relaxed pace.
If you’re interested in longer, more luxurious journeys, the 4D3N Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise offers an upscale way to see the Three Gorges with elegant cabins and cultural excursions, making it a favorite for travelers seeking comfort. Alternatively, the Chongqing: All Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Luxury 4D3N Cruise elevates the experience with personalized service, premium cuisine, and exclusive shore visits. Whether you’re after a lively night cruise, a cultural exploration, or a luxury river adventure, Chongqing has a boat tour tailored for your style.
Quick Overview
The list below features a mix of day and night cruises, luxury and budget-friendly options, and multi-day river journeys. Highlights include sunset and evening cruises like the Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise and Illuminated Night Tour, scenic day trips such as the Chongqing: Two Rivers Night Cruise, and extensive Yangtze River cruises like the Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise. For those seeking an immersive experience, longer cruises include shore excursions to Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam.
1. Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise and Illuminated Night Tour
At number 1, this 3-4 hour evening cruise offers an ideal way to see Chongqing’s skyline after sunset. Starting with hotel pickup, the tour takes you along the Yangtze River, where landmarks like Hongya Cave, the Huanghuayuan Bridge, and the Chongqing Theater glow in the night. The highlight is the 45-minute cruise past the Yangtze Grand Bridge, which lights up dramatically, creating a perfect photo backdrop. The guide points out the city’s blend of old and new architecture, making for an engaging evening. Reviewers laud this trip for its breathtaking views and helpful service — “The views from this tour are amazing,” reports one.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a short, scenic introduction to Chongqing’s illuminated riverside and enjoy a relaxed, intimate experience. The price of $138 offers good value for a personalized boat ride with hotel transfers included. The only potential downside is that it’s focused on night views, so daytime sights are missed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a romantic evening or first-time visitors wanting a quick, beautiful city overview.
2. Chongqing Night Tour: River Cruise and Hidden Views
Ranking second, this around 3-hour night tour combines a 45-minute cruise with a walk through Hongya Cave, famous for its neon-lit alleys and cliffside architecture. The tour guides you to secret viewpoints for the best nighttime city vistas that aren’t on every tourist map. The emphasis on discovering hidden spots makes this trip stand out, especially if you’ve already seen the obvious sights. The small group size means more personalized attention, and reviews rave about the “unbeatable views” and “local insights.”
Ideal for those who want a combination of cruise and exploration, this tour offers a little more depth than a typical boat ride. The $142 price reflects a premium experience with local guides revealing Chongqing’s best-kept secrets. The main consideration is that the trip’s focus on secret views might mean some spots aren’t accessible if night closures occur.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers eager for a more intimate, discovery-focused night adventure.
3. 4D3N Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise
Number 3 on our list is a luxurious 4-day cruise along the Yangtze River, with superior cabins and butler service. The cruise offers an elegant way to see the Three Gorges, including Qutang and Wu Gorge, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing spectacular views. The itinerary includes visits to Fengdu Ghost City and optional excursions, turning a river trip into an immersive cultural experience. The reviews highlight the excellent service and delicious cuisine, making for a relaxing and indulgent journey.
What makes this cruise unique is its focus on comfort, personalized service, and cultural exploration. It’s best suited for those seeking a high-end experience without sacrificing authenticity. The $689 price is justified by the inclusions — meals, excursions, and luxury amenities — but is not cheap. Potential drawbacks include limited free time for personal exploration on shore.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a five-star river adventure with cultural depth.
4. Chongqing: Two Rivers Night Cruise- Yangtze & Jialing Rivers
With a good 4.4/5 rating, this budget-friendly night cruise for around $45 offers a relaxing ride along both the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. It’s a concise, easy way to see the city’s shimmering skyline, with onboard commentary providing context on Chongqing’s modern landmarks. The cruise delivers stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful way to enjoy the riverside glow without breaking the bank. Reviewers call it “magnificent from every angle,” and note it’s perfect for those short on time or budget.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want the experience of a river cruise at a very accessible price. It’s less about elaborate sightseeing and more about capturing the essence of Chongqing’s nightscape. The main consideration is that it’s a short, no-frills experience without extensive commentary or land exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for budget travelers who want a straightforward, scenic night cruise.
5. 4D3N Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang by Century Cruise
Ranking fifth, this luxury cruise offers a 4-day, 3-night voyage with shore excursions to Fengdu Ghost City, Qutang Gorge, and Wu Gorge. It’s a well-rounded experience with meals included, balancing scenic cruising with cultural stops. The ship features upscale amenities and a relaxing pace. Reviewers mention the “wonderful service” and beautiful scenery, making it a worthwhile splurge. The main attraction is the combination of comfort and comprehensive sightseeing.
This cruise is best for those who want a leisurely, all-in-one Yangtze adventure with a focus on comfort and culture. The price of $768 offers good value considering the meals, excursions, and onboard amenities included. The potential downside is the fixed itinerary, which might limit flexibility.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxury, all-inclusive river experience.
6. Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
Number 6 offers a comprehensive 4-day cruise with shore visits to Fengdu Ghost City, the Three Gorges Dam, and the Lesser Three Gorges. The value is notable at $599, with meals, lodging, and excursions included. Guests enjoy scenic views and the chance to witness iconic landmarks like the Three Gorges. One reviewer praised the “relaxed pace and well-organized trip,” while another mentioned the limited sailing due to floods, which affected the experience.
Ideal for travelers on a budget but wanting a full Yangtze experience, this cruise balances cost and comfort. The fixed schedule and some weather dependencies are considerations.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a multi-day river journey without overspending.
7. ChongQing City night scenery cruise and hot pot
This 4-5 hour tour merges a night cruise with a hotpot dinner, making it a lively, foodie-focused experience. The private transportation ensures comfort, and the lighting of Chongqing’s skyline is the star attraction. One review calls it “very nice” for its combination of sights and local flavors. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an active, tasty evening with a local guide.
You’ll see the city’s most famous sights from the water and cap the night with authentic hotpot, a Chongqing specialty. The $328 price reflects the upscale experience, but it’s a longer tour that combines sightseeing and dining.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers and those wanting a full, immersive night out.
$328.00 per person
8. Chongqing: All Inclusive Yangtze Miracle Luxury 4D3N Cruise
At number 8, this luxury cruise is all about personalized service, with a 2:1 guest-to-crew ratio, 5A scenic excursions, and fine dining. It’s designed for travelers who want maximum comfort and cultural engagement. The shore visits explore ancient inscriptions and local folklore. The all-inclusive package means no worries about extra costs, making it a stress-free luxury escape.
The main appeal is the premium service and attention to detail, suitable for discerning travelers. A review simply states, “Experience luxury and culture on the Yangtze River,” emphasizing its high-end appeal. The main consideration is the cost — at $951, it’s aimed at a niche audience.
Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers seeking a luxury, all-inclusive river cruise with personalized touches.
$951 per person
9. Chongqing: Illuminated Night Tour with Cruise or Hot Pot
This 4-hour evening tour offers a choice between a night cruise or hotpot dinner. The illuminations of Chongqing are the highlight, with the guide sharing stories about the city’s landmarks. One reviewer mentions it was “a little rushed,” but appreciated the scenic views and local flavor. It’s ideal for those who want a quick, well-rounded overview.
The tour balances sightseeing and dining, and the flexible options suit different preferences. The $148 price makes it accessible, but the condensed schedule may feel rushed for some.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers short on time but wanting to enjoy Chongqing’s night scenery and food.
10. Chongqing: Yangtze River Cruise with Meals and Accommodation
Number 10 offers a 4-day cruise that combines scenic cruising with meals and comfortable lodging. It’s a straightforward way to see the Three Gorges, with shore excursions included. Guests mention the “most relaxing way to experience the river,” with stable departures year-round. The price of $983 reflects a mid-range option with good value considering all inclusions.
This cruise is best suited for travelers who value comfort and ease over luxury, and those interested in scenic landscapes and cultural sites. The main drawback might be the limited flexibility on excursions.
Bottom Line: Recommended for travelers wanting a relaxing, well-organized river trip that’s easy to plan.
11. 4D3N Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang by Victoria Cruise
This 4-day cruise offers spectacular views of the Three Gorges, with optional shore visits to White Emperor City and others. The Victoria Cruise brand is known for its comfortable ships and good service. Reviewers mention the “wonderful trip” and friendly staff. It combines scenic sailing with some cultural stops, providing a balanced experience.
Best suited for families and couples who want a reliable, scenic river cruise with some cultural highlights. The $550 price is competitive, especially with meals and excursions included. The potential downside is some weather restrictions, which can affect sailing plans.
Bottom Line: Great for a dependable, scenic Yangtze experience with cultural stops.
12. 4D3N Yangtze River Victoria Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang
Number 12 offers a 4-day scenic voyage with optional shore trips and evening shows. The Victoria brand stands for solid comfort and excellent views of the Three Gorges. Reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, though some noted disappointments like missing small boat trips due to corona restrictions. It appeals to travelers who want a reliable, mid-range cruise with cultural highlights.
This cruise is best if you prefer consistent quality and want a well-organized itinerary. The $621 price is reasonable given the inclusions, but weather or operational changes may affect the experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a dependable, scenic river cruise with cultural excursions.
13. Chongqing: 5-Day Cruise to Yichang with City Tour & Shore
This 5-day cruise is our longest option, combining a comprehensive Yangtze experience with city tours in Chongqing and Yichang. You visit Fengdu Ghost City, Nanshan Mountain, and historic Chongqing districts. The reviewed as “wonderfully organized,” it is ideal for travelers who want to explore both the river and the cities in depth. The cost of $749 includes meals, excursions, and cultural highlights.
Best suited for history and culture lovers who enjoy a leisurely pace. The main consideration is the length, which requires more time and planning.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a deep dive into Yangtze culture and history over an extended trip.
$749 per person
14. Chongqing: Kui Xing Tower, Old Towns & Yangtze Cruise Tour
This private, full-day tour combines river views, Kui Xing Tower, Old Towns, and a Yangtze River night cruise. It’s perfect for families or couples looking for a tailored experience with a dedicated driver. The luxury hotels and flexible schedule give you comfort and authenticity. It’s an expensive option at $4,685 for up to six people, but it delivers a bespoke experience.
Ideal for travelers who prefer privacy and customization. Reviews mention excellent service and personalized attention. The main drawback is the cost, which is significant compared to group tours.
Bottom Line: Recommended for those seeking luxury and privacy in exploring Chongqing’s sights and Yangtze views.
$4,685 per group up to 6
15. Wulong 2-Day Tour with Boat Cruise
Finally, the Wulong tour offers a two-day escape into natural wonders, including the Wulong Karst National Geology Park and Wujiang River cruise. While not a city cruise, it provides stunning scenic landscapes and opportunities for adventure. The $248 price makes for a compelling value, especially for active travelers wanting to combine boat rides with hikes. Guests rave about the Skywalk and Gongtan Ancient Town.
Best for travelers who prefer nature over urban scenery, and who don’t mind a longer trip outside Chongqing city. It’s a different vibe than the city cruises but equally memorable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers seeking a mix of boat cruising and outdoor exploring.
$248 per person
How to Choose Your Chongqing Boat Tour
When selecting your boat tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a quick, romantic evening, the Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise and Illuminated Night Tour offers great value. If you want to indulge in luxury and detailed sightseeing, the Victoria 5-star Yangtze Cruise or the All-Inclusive Luxury Cruise are excellent choices. Budget travelers or those wanting a short, scenic experience should look at the Two Rivers Night Cruise, which gets high marks at a lower price.
For multi-day adventures, the 4D3N cruises—both the Century Cruise and the Victoria Cruise—offer a balance of scenic beauty and cultural exploration. Longer trips like the 5-day cruise are ideal if you want to combine river scenery with city tours.
Booking early is advisable, especially for luxury cruises or high-demand dates, and always check if shore excursions and meals are included in the price.
Chongqing offers a fantastic variety of boat experiences, whether you’re after a quick night cruise, a luxurious river journey, or a natural exploration in Wulong. With options ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury, there’s something for every traveler. For a memorable trip, consider what most excites you—stunning night views, cultural sites, or scenic landscapes—and pick the tour that best fits your style. Booking early can help secure the best spots, especially for multi-day cruises, so dive in now and enjoy the sights from the river that makes Chongqing truly unique.