What to see in Chongqing, the cyberpunk city of China 🌃​

If you’re looking for what to see in Chongqing, you’re in the right place.

This is not just any Chinese city—Chongqing is a vertical labyrinth of mountains, foggy skyscrapers, trains passing through buildings, and street markets hidden between futuristic malls. It’s a city that feels like the lovechild of Cyberpunk 2077 and Inception, offering one of the most surreal urban experiences in China.

While many travel blogs claim that Chongqing can be explored in just 1 or 2 days, we’re here to prove otherwise. We spent 4 full days in this incredible city and still didn’t manage to see everything. In this guide, we’ll share what to see and do in Chongqing, where to stay, what to eat, how to get there, and some awesome ideas for day trips. Get ready—Chongqing will blow your mind.

📍 What to see in Chongqing

 

📸 Kuixing Building

When you think you’re on the ground floor but you’re actually on the 22nd floor

One of the first things that will disorient you upon arriving in Chongqing is how vertical logic seems to stop making sense. You walk along an ordinary street, reach what looks like a regular plaza… and suddenly realize you’re on the 22nd floor! That’s exactly what happens at Kuixing Building, one of the most viral and mind-blowing places to see in Chongqing.

The city is built on a rugged, mountainous terrain where the street level can shift dramatically within just a few meters. Architects had no choice but to adapt to this chaotic topography, designing buildings with sky bridges, suspended walkways, and endless staircases, turning every stroll into an urban adventure. Sometimes even your GPS can’t figure out what floor you’re on—getting lost is part of the experience!

If you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing beyond the usual tourist spots, Kuixing Building is the perfect place to start.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Linjiangmen

🚈 Liziba train station

A train going through a building

This is probably the most iconic image of Chongqing. At this station, Line 2 of the monorail literally passes through a residential and office building, as if it were the most normal thing in the world. For locals, this coexistence with vertical infrastructure is part of daily life—but for travelers, watching a train slide straight through an apartment block feels downright surreal.

You can see the train from inside the station itself, but if you’re looking for a more photogenic and less crowded angle, head to Langsheng Pavilion—a small hidden viewpoint tucked away in the stairways of Xindu Alley. From there, you’ll get the perfect view of the train entering and exiting the building.

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Chongqing, and surprisingly, this spot is still off the radar for most international tourists. Plus, it’s completely free!

🚇 Nearest metro station: Liziba

🗽 Liberation monument

The symbolic heart of Chongqing

Right in the heart of the city, surrounded by towering skyscrapers, flashing LED screens, and massive shopping malls, stands the Liberation Monument—one of the most recognizable landmarks in Chongqing.

Originally built in 1946 as a symbol of resistance against the Japanese invasion during World War II, the tower was renamed in 1949 to commemorate the Communist Party’s military capture of the city. Today, it represents the city’s turbulent 20th-century history and its transformation into a modern urban giant.

If you’re exploring what to see in Chongqing, the Liberation Monument is a must—not just for its historical importance, but also for its location at the heart of Jiefangbei, the city’s vibrant commercial district.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Linjiangmen

🖼️ Testbed2

Creativity between abandoned factories

What used to be a state-owned factory is now a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. Testbed 2 is without a doubt the most artistic and alternative side of Chongqing—a place you won’t see on most travel guides, but one that wins over anyone looking for something different. For us, it’s an absolute must when thinking about what to see in Chongqing.

Here you’ll find indie art galleries, hip cafés, design shops, local bookstores, and colorful murals everywhere you look. Some walls still show the factory’s peeling paint, while others are covered in graffiti, neon signs, or cascading plants. The atmosphere is laid-back, local, and full of character.

Although it has gained some popularity among travelers in recent years, Testbed 2 is still mostly frequented by students, artists, and local residents. If you’re looking for a lesser-known spot to snap some truly unique photos, this is the place for you.

For anyone searching what to see in Chongqing beyond the obvious, Testbed 2 offers that rare mix of visual charm, urban decay, and creative energy that makes it unforgettable.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Eling or Liziba

 Linhua Road

Old buildings without elevators in a local neighborhood in Chongqing

If you want to escape the crowds and experience Chongqing like a local, don’t miss Linhua Road. At first glance, it might seem like an ordinary residential area—but walk through it, and you’ll quickly see what makes this city so unique. The buildings are stacked on different levels, connected by a maze of staircases, ramps, and bridges that defy logic (and Google Maps).

There are no flashy skyscrapers or neon lights here, but there’s plenty of real life: elderly people playing cards or mahjong on the sidewalk, laundry strung between balconies, tiny neighborhood shops, and daily scenes that capture the soul of Chongqing.

If you’re looking for what to see in Chongqing beyond the tourist trail, Linhua Road is a peaceful, eye-opening detour. Just remember—it’s a real neighborhood, so be respectful of residents and their space.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Qixinggang

💐 Luzumiao market

A local gem with soul

If you love authentic markets with real local flavor, Luzumiao is your spot. Tucked away in the heart of Jiefangbei, this traditional street has nearly a century of history and still feels like a true community hub.

Here you’ll find one of Chongqing’s oldest vegetable and flower markets, where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, tofu, fish, and spices. The name Luzumiao (鲁祖庙) comes from an old temple once dedicated to Lu Ban, the patron god of craftsmen.

It’s not flashy or modern—but if you’re exploring what to see in Chongqing beyond the tourist path, this is a beautiful window into the city’s daily life.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Jiaochangkou

​👾​ Deyi World

Step into a Real-Life Blade Runner Scene

When night falls, Chongqing’s skyline turns into a neon spectacle of giant screens, glowing signs, and pulsing LEDs. One of the best places to experience this futuristic vibe is Deyi World—a buzzing commercial and entertainment area packed with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Everything here shines: cafés with LED-covered façades, shops lit in bright red, and bars that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. If you’re searching for what to see in Chongqing after dark, this is where the city’s cyberpunk aesthetic truly comes to life.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Jiaochangkou

🍤​ Jiaochangkou night market

Follow the Crowd, Follow the Flavor

Just a short walk from Deyi World, as the city lights flicker on, Jiaochangkou Night Market comes to life. This is one of the busiest and most chaotic street food markets in Chongqing, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.

Neon lights, clouds of steam rising from boiling pots, endless rows of skewers, and the unmistakable scent of spices and chili—it’s a full-on sensory overload. If you’re looking for what to see in Chongqing after dark, this market is an absolute must. You can grab a delicious meal for just €1 or €2, sit down among locals, and try dishes you’ve never seen (or imagined) before. From the infamous stinky tofu to deep-fried crab, spicy noodles, and mysterious desserts—this is street food adventure mode unlocked.

We tried the spicy calamari with potatoes and some incredibly hot breaded chicken strips. And yes—they were really spicy. There’s a reason Chongqing is known as the spicy food capital of China. 🔥

🚇 Nearest metro station: Jiaochangkou

 

🏙️ Hongyadong

Spirited Away Meets Cyberpunk

It may look like a postcard from another world, but Hongyadong is very real. When the lights come on, this surreal cliffside complex becomes something straight out of Spirited Away—with a cyberpunk twist.

Some places just leave a mark, and Hongyadong is one of them. Built into the hillside along the river, its wooden architecture is impressive by day—but at night, it turns into a glowing fantasy. Originally a residential area for port workers and merchants, the current structure is a modern reconstruction that preserves the tiered style of the original buildings. Today, its illuminated façade has become one of the most iconic images of Chongqing.

If you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing, this is a must—even if it’s now a tourist-focused spot filled with souvenir shops and snack stalls. Walking through it is still fun: each floor has its own theme, and you can easily get lost in the maze of levels and lights.

The lights usually turn on around 8:00 p.m. in summer, but the exact time changes throughout the year depending on sunset.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Xiaoshizi

🐻​ Capybara Café

Chongqing’s Cutest Coffee Stop

If you’re looking for what to see in Chongqing beyond the typical tourist spots, how about grabbing a coffee with some capybaras?

This themed café offers a fun and unusual experience where you can spend time with these adorable animals in a cozy, chill environment. The entrance fee is 35 yuan, which includes a drink and a small snack to feed the capybaras—if they’re not busy napping or enjoying a soak, that is. Besides the capybaras, the café is also home to a sleepy old corgi, a cheerful pug, a duck, and a singing lovebird. Most of the time, they roam freely around the café and occasionally interact with visitors on their own terms.

If you’re planning on engaging in activities involving animals while in China, we highly recommend checking that the animals are being cared for ethically. Their well-being should always come first—avoid disturbing them while they’re eating or sleeping.

🚇 There’s no metro station nearby: We recommend taking a DiDi

 

⛩️​ Ciqikou old town

If you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing to connect with its historical roots, Ciqikou Old Town is a must. Once an ancient Ming dynasty village along the banks of the Jialing River, this area is now part of Chongqing but still retains its old-world charm. Its name, which means “Porcelain Port,” comes from its past as a hub for ceramic production.

Walking through Ciqikou feels like stepping into another era. Cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, red lanterns swaying from balconies, and the smell of spices and freshly made sweets fill the air. Though it’s now a popular spot for local tourists, there’s still a nostalgic atmosphere that makes it stand out.

Some of its most notable landmarks include Bao Lun Temple, Baoshan Palace, and the ancient Yinglong Gate—all worth a visit as you wander through this charming neighborhood.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Ciqikou

🎨 Huangjueping art street

XXL urban art

If you’re into street art and searching for what to see in Chongqing that’s off the beaten path, don’t miss Huangjueping—the city’s most creative and unconventional neighborhood.

This university district is home to one of the longest graffiti walls in Asia, stretching over 1,200 meters across building facades, industrial warehouses, and alleyways. What started as a student art project from the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (SCFAI) has grown into a vibrant open-air gallery where urban art meets imagination.

You’ll find everything from surreal illustrations to massive hyperrealistic portraits and thought-provoking messages hidden in bold colors. It’s not a touristy spot, which makes the experience more authentic and relaxed—perfect for creative souls and curious travelers alike.

🎨 Urban art lovers, bring extra batteries—this place is a photo paradise
🚶 Walk the main street, then get lost in the alleys and old industrial buildings
📚 If you have time, check out the SCFAI campus—there are often public exhibitions

🚇 Nearest metro station: Huangjueping

🍵​ Jiaotong Teahouse

Sip Tea, Share Stories, Step Back in Time

f you’re looking for something truly local and different among what to see in Chongqing, head to Jiaotong Teahouse, hidden in a quiet corner of Huangjueping. Stepping inside feels like time has stopped: weathered wooden tables, locals playing cards and chess, tobacco smoke drifting in the air, and tiny clay cups of steaming tea being passed around.

This isn’t just a teahouse—it’s a living cultural space. We were lucky to meet professor Chen Anjian, a renowned painter born in 1959 and a graduate of the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. His paintings of this very teahouse have made it famous in local art circles, and he now teaches at the Academy. He told us about the teahouse’s role as a neighborhood hub for artists, students, and everyday people for decades.

Don’t expect modern comforts or trendy decor. What you’ll find here is authenticity, quiet moments, and the chance to connect—with the past, the people, and maybe even with yourself.

🍵 Try local Chongqing tea or jasmine flower tea—they might surprise you
🎟️ No entrance fee, just a seat charge of 10 yuan. Choose your tea and stay as long as you like

🚇 Nearest metro station: Huangjueping

📚 Junge Bookstore

A War-Era Tunnel Turned Cozy Book Nook

Looking for a hidden gem among what to see in Chongqing? Don’t miss Junge Bookstore, a stunning example of how the city turns history into everyday beauty. This unique bookstore is tucked inside a former World War II air-raid shelter, one of many that still exist beneath Chongqing’s streets.

During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chongqing was one of the most heavily bombed cities in China. To survive, residents built hundreds of underground bunkers—many of which have now been repurposed into cafés, bookstores, and creative spaces with a hauntingly beautiful vibe.

Junge blends industrial rawness with warm charm: stone floors, soft lighting, wooden tables, and shelves overflowing with books, postcards, and local art. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, flip through a book, and feel the soul of a city that embraces its past while reinventing it.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Sichuan Fine Arts Institute

🍢​ Guanyinqiao district

Chongqing’s Local Foodie District

Guanyinqiao is the place where locals go to shop, hang out, and—most importantly—eat. This trendy neighborhood is booming with life thanks to its huge pedestrian avenues, modern malls, and one of the best value-for-money food scenes in the city.

Unlike the more commercial Jiefangbei area, Guanyinqiao offers a more authentic, youthful vibe, with local food markets, independent restaurants, and iconic landmarks like the giant chili pepper statue 🌶️—a playful tribute to Chongqing’s status as China’s spicy food capital.

Don’t miss the now-viral “1, 2, 3… Welcome to Chongqing!” LED sign, made famous on the Chinese app RedNote. It’s become a must-snap moment for visitors and locals alike.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Guanyinqiao

🌉 Jiangbeizui Riverside Park

One of the most stunning views of Hongyadong can be found from the opposite side of the river, at Jiangbeizui Riverside Park—a spot locals affectionately call “Chongqing’s beach.” If you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing beyond city lights and skyscrapers, this park is the perfect place to slow down and take it all in.

Located on the north bank of the Jialing River, this park is especially lively in summer. Locals gather here for Tai Chi classes at sunrise, riverside walks, and even water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, thanks to a new initiative that’s been very well received. It’s a peaceful but active escape from the chaos of downtown.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Grand Theatre

☁️ Chongqing Cloud Eye observation deck

Las nubes a tus pies desde el piso 67

f you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing for jaw-dropping views, don’t miss the Cloud Eye Observation Deck, also known as Yunduan Zhiyan. Perched on the 67th floor of the United International Office Building, this open-air platform sits 520 meters above sea level, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

On clear days, you’ll see the dramatic skyline, the winding Yangtze and Jialing rivers, and the endless urban sprawl that defines Chongqing. On foggy days—very common in this mountain city—it feels like floating above the clouds.

📍 Location: 67th floor, United International Building
🕒 Opening hours: 9:00 – 23:00 (last entry at 22:30)
🎫 Entry fee: 80 RMB

📸 The iconic red staircase is one of Chongqing’s most Instagrammable spots — there’s a 30-second limit per person to take your photo.

 

🏯 Luohan temple

If you’re wondering what to see in Chongqing that blends spirituality, history, and art, Luohan Temple is a must. Originally founded between 1064 and 1067 during the Song dynasty, it has been rebuilt multiple times throughout the Ming and Qing periods.

In 1885, it was renamed the Temple of the Arhats after the construction of the Hall of 500 Arhats. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, much of it was destroyed by bombing, with only the front gate and a carved rock Buddha surviving. Reconstruction began in 1947, giving rise to the current Arhat Hall, which features 524 unique clay statues, each with distinct expressions and poses — a true artistic treasure.

🕒 Opening hours: 08:00–17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
🎟️ Entrance fee: 10 ¥
📸 Photography is not allowed inside the Arhat Hall or any area with altars or statues.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Xiaoshizi or Linjiangmen

🏠 Baixiangju residential building

Catch a glimpse of the iconic cable car gliding between buildings

If you’re searching for something a bit off the beaten path when deciding what to see in Chongqing, Baixiangju is a fascinating spot that showcases the city’s mind-bending architecture. Built in 1993 on a hillside near the Yangtze River, this residential complex plays tricks on the eye: from the outside, all buildings seem to be the same height, but they actually range from 10 to 26 floors depending on their location on the slope.

Back then, elevators weren’t common in residential buildings, so the solution was a network of elevated bridges and strategically placed entrances — you can walk in on the 5th floor as if it were ground level. Wandering through Baixiangju feels like stepping into a surreal labyrinth.

From some terraces and windows, you can watch the Yangtze River Cable Car glide between buildings — one of the most iconic sights in Chongqing. In fact, the cable car station is just a short walk away, making this the perfect place to explore both everyday local life and cinematic cityscapes.

🧭 Note: Baixiangju is a residential area, not a tourist attraction. Be respectful of the residents and avoid entering private living spaces.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Xiaoshizi

🏢 Chaodong Road y Raffles City

Is it Inception? No — it’s just Chongqing being Chongqing

One of the most fascinating things to see in Chongqing is the contrast between its raw, everyday life and its futuristic skyline — and nowhere is this more striking than on Chaodong Road.

On this quiet street, you might spot market workers unloading boxes, elderly locals playing cards, or laundry swaying between concrete walls. Then, just behind them, rise the sleek towers of Raffles City, the city’s most iconic architectural marvel. It’s a powerful visual: the humble daily life of old Chongqing framed by skyscrapers from a sci-fi movie.

Raffles City — often nicknamed “The Spaceship” — is a futuristic complex of four high-rise buildings designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. Its most jaw-dropping feature is the skybridge known as The Crystal, a curved glass walkway suspended 250 meters above the ground, connecting several towers.

📸 From Chaodong Road, you can snap one of the city’s most unforgettable photos: traditional street life in the foreground, with Chongqing’s ultra-modern skyline looming behind.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Chaotianmen

🏮 Shangcheng Alley

More than just an old street, Shangcheng Alley is one of the most iconic routes to see in Chongqing. Stretching nearly 1.75 km, this trail winds through historic neighborhoods, cobblestone stairs, and panoramic viewpoints.

This path perfectly showcases Chongqing’s unique mountainous urban landscape — houses and stairways cling to steep hillsides, old facades show Western influences, and converted air-raid shelters tell stories of the past. Around 1900, French missionaries lit the trail with lanterns, giving it the former name “Sky Lantern Lane” before it was officially renamed Shangcheng Alley in 1972.

 

For nightlife lovers, we recommend Soloist, a bar with a fantastic terrace and chill-out music, perfect for cocktails after sunset.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Qixinggang to start at the top of the trail, or Jiaochangkou to begin at the bottom.

📚 Qishuku bookstore

Tucked away on a side street near one of Shibati’s entrances, Qishuku Bookstore is a hidden gem to see in Chongqing. Despite occupying less than 15 m², it houses over 1,200 used books stacked from floor to ceiling in an organized chaos.

Its owner, Wang Miyu, has spent more than 23 years rescuing forgotten books and giving them a second life.

This bookstore doesn’t appear on most maps (but you can find it on Amap) and has no fixed opening hours, though it’s usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM most days.

📸 There is a 20 yuan fee if you want to take photos, or you can simply buy a book as a souvenir.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Jiaochangkou

 

✨ Shibati

Shibati literally means “Eighteen Stairs” and is one of the most popular neighborhoods to see in Chongqing. Located on a hill between downtown and the Yangtze River, it was for decades a maze of alleys, steep staircases, overlapping wooden houses, and vibrant outdoor community life.

Much of the neighborhood was demolished as part of a restoration project that recreated its original style. What you see today is a historical reconstruction.

Walking through Shibati remains an interesting experience. Traditional facades have been restored, cultural spaces integrated, and the area retains the charm of an old neighborhood with a modern twist. The views from the top of the stairs are still spectacular.

Another highlight is the War Memorial Museum, housed in a restored former air raid shelter, offering insight into the area’s history.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Jiaochangkou

🚠​ Yangtze River Cable Car

Since its opening on October 24, 1987, the Yangtze River Cable Car has become an iconic symbol of Chongqing. It was the first major intercity transport line crossing the river and, beyond being a practical option for locals who prefer not to rely on cars, it’s a historic experience.

Designed in the 1980s to connect the central Yuzhong district with Nan’an, the cable car operates as an urban “aerial bridge”, covering 1,166 meters in just 3–5 minutes. It starts at Xinhua Road (North Station) and ends at Longmenhao (South Station), flying over buildings, hills, and the river itself.

📅 Summer hours (Mar 1 – Nov 30): 07:30–22:30
📅 Winter hours (Dec 1 – Feb): 07:30–21:30
📅 Holidays: 07:30–22:30

💰 Price:

• One way: 30 ¥
• Round trip: 50 ¥

⏰ Avoid peak hours (08:00–09:00 and 17:00–18:00) to skip long lines.

🌇 The best views are at sunrise or sunset.

🎫 Tickets can be purchased at the station, via WeChat mini-program, or through the official app.

🚇 Nearest metro station: North Station (Xinhua Road) – Xiaoshizi / South Station (Longmenhao) – Shangxingjie

🏡​ Longmenhao & Xiahao Lane

After getting off at the south station of the cable car, you’ll arrive at one of the most beautiful areas to see in Chongqing: Longmenhao and Xiahao Lane (also known as Xiahaoli). These streets are a perfect blend of traditional architecture, with grey-tiled roofs and cobblestone lanes.

The area still preserves some historic buildings from the Song dynasty, when it was an important port and political center of Sichuan province (which included Chongqing at the time). The Longmenhao port was a strategic hub for transporting agricultural products, military supplies, and porcelain to the north bank of the Yangtze River.

Many of these buildings have now been converted into small art galleries, charming cafés, and boutique shops that retain their original spirit. During renovations, 75 out of the 85 original buildings were restored, keeping the tiles, bricks, and structure according to their height, style, and position.

As a fun fact, Xiahao Lane houses the former Belgian embassy, which today is home to a craft brewery 🍻.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Shangxingjie

 

🍸 SHUA Skybar (Intercontinental Raffles City)

If you want to end your day exploring Chongqing in style, the SHUA Skybar, located on the rooftop of the Intercontinental Raffles City hotel, is the perfect choice. Its terrace offers a privileged panoramic view of the city skyline.

The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, featuring a live DJ set, soft lighting, and tables strategically placed to enjoy the views.

Entry to the skybar is free — you only pay for what you consume.

🕒 Opening hours: 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM

💰 Approximate prices:

• Creative cocktails: 80–120 ¥
• Bottle of wine or champagne: from 300 ¥

👗 Dress code: Smart casual — avoid flip-flops and sportswear.

🚇 Nearest metro station: Chaotianmen

🎮🚁 BONUS: Drone Show in Chongqing

If you’re looking for something special to see in Chongqing, don’t miss the weekly drone show held in the city. The best spots to watch are Zhonglou Plaza on Nanbin Street or the Huguishi Huajie park viewpoint, which also offers a beautiful view of the illuminated Raffles City. To get a good spot, arrive at least 2 hours early.

We were lucky to be there during a special show where they broke the Guinness World Record with 11,787 drones in a spectacular display of light and colors celebrating the city’s anniversary.

📅 REGULAR SCHEDULE:

• Every Saturday at 9:00 PM (May to September)
• In winter (Oct-Apr), the show starts at 8:30 PM
• The show may be cancelled or postponed due to bad weather — check the “重庆发布” app or WeChat for updates.

🛬​ How to get to Chongqing

Chongqing has an impressive transport network, making it an ideal entry point if you want to explore southwest China. Whether you arrive by plane or train, you’ll find many options.

✈️ Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)

The airport is located about 25 km from downtown and is well connected by Metro Line 10, express buses, and taxis. It offers both domestic and international flights and is one of the most important airports inland in China.

🚈 From the airport, the metro takes about 50 minutes to Jiaochangkou station.
🚕 A taxi to downtown costs between 80 and 100 ¥, depending on traffic, while a DiDi ride costs between 50 and 60 ¥.

🚄 Main train stations:

• Chongqing North Railway Station (Chongqingbei): Connected to metro lines 3, 4, 10, and the Loop line. This is also the station for trains heading to Wulong, ideal for day trips.
• Chongqing West Railway Station (Chongqingxi): Connected to metro line 5 and the Loop line. We arrived here by high-speed train from Xi’an.
• Chongqing East Railway Station (Chongqingdong): Recently opened and the largest high-speed train station in the world. This station serves the new route to Zhangjiajie, reachable in just over 2 hours. It’s connected to metro line 6, with plans to add lines 8, 24, and 27 in the future.

📱 You can easily book tickets through the Trip app. For more information, check out our post with tips for organizing your trip to China.

🌡️​​ Best time to travel to Chongqing

The best time to visit Chongqing is in spring (March to May) and autumn (from October onwards), when temperatures are mild and the weather is drier.

Summer in Chongqing is extremely hot and humid (in fact, it’s the hottest city in China), with temperatures easily exceeding 35 °C and an even higher heat index. (During our stay, we experienced a couple of days with a heat index of 46°C.)

Winter is cooler and often foggy (there are about 200 days of fog per year on average), but it can also be a good option if you want to avoid crowds. In any case, always pack light and breathable clothing, as humidity can be intense even in milder months.

🛏️ Where to stay in Chongqing

If you’re visiting Chongqing for the first time, I recommend staying near:

• Jiefangbei: the urban heart full of shops, restaurants, skyscrapers, and close to all the major tourist attractions. You’ll also have direct access to the main metro lines, which helps avoid taxis or DiDi.
• Guanyinqiao: another great option if you’re looking for a younger, more local vibe, with its famous food market and shopping centers.

🏨 Recommended hotel

We stayed at the NOVA Planet Hotel, an option with excellent value for money, very well located and affordable. (There were cheaper options, but we chose this hotel for its location and to treat ourselves a bit.)

In Chongqing, it’s common to find several hotels within the same building (each floor operates as a separate hotel).

📍 Location

• On the 61st floor of the United International Building, with incredible views and where the Cloud Eye observation deck is located.
• Just 200 meters from Xiaoshizi metro station .
• Very close to places like Jiefangbei, the Luohan Temple, the Yangtze River Cable Car, and Hongyadong.
• There are three LAWSON convenience stores nearby, perfect if you want to avoid spicy food and eat ready-made meals.

 

🛏️ ROOMS

• We chose the room with a double bed, bathtub next to the window, and a projector.
• Spacious, modern, and tastefully decorated.
• It has a smart toilet, Dyson hairdryer, Bose speaker, minibar, and smart lighting and curtains.
• Taking a bath with those views after a day of exploring is priceless.

💶 Price: 35€ per night

There’s also a convenience store on the ground floor, perfect for late-night snacks or buying something for breakfast.

To reach the hotel reception, you need to transfer elevators: first take the fast elevator to the 47th floor, then switch to another one up to the 61st floor.

If you want to check other hotels, we recommend using the website Trip.com to find the best deals in China.

🌶️​ Chongqing Cuisine & Recommended Restaurants

Not good with spicy food? 🥵 Say “bú yào là” (不要辣) to request no spice, or “wēi là” (微辣) if you want to try a milder version!

Tasting the local cuisine is one of the most exciting things to do in Chongqing. The food here is intense, flavorful, and extremely spicy — but not just any kind of spice. It’s called “Málà” (麻辣), meaning “numbing and spicy,” thanks to the unique flavor of Sichuan peppercorns. It’s an addictive, citrusy heat that keeps you coming back for more with every bite.

The most iconic local dish is undoubtedly hot pot (火锅) — a bubbling pot of spicy broth where you cook a variety of meats, vegetables, tofu, dumplings, and even duck blood. It’s typically enjoyed in a group, with generous portions and a festive atmosphere.

There are thousands of hot pot restaurants across Chongqing — you can literally smell the spice in the air as you walk the streets. Many are built inside converted air-raid shelters, adding a cool underground vibe to the experience.

📍 Where to try hot pot in Chongqing:
Underpass Yihao Air-Raid Shelter Hot Pot (located near the entrance to Shancheng Alley, find it on Amap)

But it’s not all about hot pot. For breakfast or a quick bite, try xiaomian (小面) — literally “small noodles” — served with yellow peas, minced meat, and greens. There’s also wanzamian (豌杂面), a similar version with less broth. A hearty bowl costs less than €2.

📍 Best noodles in Chongqing:
Super Li Banden Mian (超级李板凳面)

Street food is a must-see part of Chongqing culture — you’ll find spicy beef skewers, grilled squid, smelly tofu, fried chicken, and charcoal-roasted oysters everywhere. Not only is it delicious and cheap, but it’s also part of the local lifestyle.

📍 Top food markets in Chongqing:

• Jiaochangkou Night Market
• Guanyinqiao Market
• Bayi Food Street

Looking for a break from the spice? Head to Shibati, Block D1, where we found a lovely Cantonese restaurant called Qianlixiang Hundunwang.

Here you can try dishes like Stir-fried rice vermicelli with vegetables and egg, Roasted ribs with rice or Wonton soup.

 

🏞 Day Trips from Chongqing

If you’ve made it this far and still think Chongqing can be done in just a couple of days, let us give you a few reasons to stay longer — this city is surrounded by stunning natural and cultural treasures.

You can easily take several day trips from Chongqing by high-speed train, DiDi, or by joining a guided tour. We had planned a DIY day trip by train, but had to cancel due to a typhoon — so plan accordingly!

🌄 Wulong Karst National Geopark (武隆天坑地缝)

If you want to witness epic karst landscapes, with colossal natural bridges, giant caves, and deep gorges, don’t miss the Wulong National Park.

The main attraction is the Three Natural Bridges, which served as a filming location for Transformers: Age of Extinction.

Other highlights include:

• Furong Cave – a massive limestone cave lit up with colorful lights
• Fairy Mountain – a scenic highland reminiscent of the Swiss Alps

📍 How to get there:

Take a direct train from Chongqing North Railway Station (Chongqingbei) to Wulong (approx. 2 hours).

From the Wulong train station, local buses go to the tourist center, where shuttles connect to each scenic area.

⏰ Tip: Catch the earliest train to maximize your time — or consider staying overnight if you want to explore more than two sites.

🪨 Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dazu Rock Carvings are an impressive collection of thousands of Buddhist sculptures, carved directly into cliffs and caves between the 9th and 13th centuries.

📍 How to get there:

Take a direct bus from Caiyuanba Bus Station (50 ¥, approx. 1.5 hours),

Or take a train to Bishan and then a taxi (about 1.5 hours total, around 140 ¥ combined).

🏭 816 Underground Nuclear Plant (816地下核工厂)

Built in secret between 1966 and 1984, Plant 816 was designed to be the world’s largest underground nuclear facility — but it was never put into operation. Over 60,000 military engineers worked on it, carving out more than 20 kilometers of tunnels inside a mountain.

Declassified in 2002 and opened to the public in 2010, foreign tourists have been allowed to visit since 2016.

📍 How to get there:

Take a train to Fuling, then continue by DiDi or shared minibus to the entrance (about 2 hours total travel time).

 

❤️​ What to See in Chongqing – A City Unlike Any Other

Chongqing is not an easy or instantly charming city — but that’s exactly where its magic lies. Some people might not be impressed at first glance, but this is a place that grows on you the longer you stay. Nestled between mountains and rivers, with trains passing through buildings and alleys whispering stories of their own, this city captivates you with its raw, electric energy.

If you’re passionate about architecture, food, urban landscapes, or photography, Chongqing will always surprise you. And over time, you come to understand that this city isn’t just visited — it’s experienced.

We hope this guide helps you discover the fascinating, chaotic, and deeply authentic side of Chongqing that stays with you long after you’ve left. And that you fall in love with it as much as we did.

🗺️​ Interactive map with all locations

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