Chongqing tours

Things to do in Chongqing

Chongqing, a city poised at the meeting of rivers, reflects its landscape: bold, dynamic, and dizzyingly steep. As mist rises over the Yangtze, the city stirs with a fiery spirit. Your local guide in Chongqing tours navigates you through this mix of skyscrapers and ancient streets, revealing the hidden gems beneath the surface. Imagine a private tour where you jump the queue to explore bustling night markets, relish spicy hotpot, and trace history etched into the Dazu rocks. Whether it's a walk through lively Jiefangbei or a food and wine tour along the riverbanks, your guide unveils the stories and flavours defining Chongqing. Immerse yourself in this city of heights and depths, where history and modernity dance in the fog. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Chongqing. Explore Chongqing your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Chongqing tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Chongqing for every interest, including: Layover tours: Your guide times pickup at Jiangbei Airport so you can glide over the river on the Yangtze River Cableway and browse teahouses in Ciqikou Ancient Town. If time allows, grab a quick bowl of spicy xiaomian or try a hotpot tasting near Jiefangbei and stop for photos at Hongya Cave before returning for your flight. The urban rail (CRT) is extensive, and Line 3 runs from the airport into central areas, but steep hills and long stairways can slow a traveller down; for tight connections, ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or private transportation to keep your layover on schedule. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Chongqing inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Chongqing on a private walking tour and dive into its diverse neighborhoods with a local guide. There's no better way to grasp the essence of a place than with someone who knows it intimately. - Jiefangbei: This central business district is a must-visit for those interested in shopping and modern architecture, catering to families and multi-generational groups. - Ci Qi Kou: Known as the Porcelain Village, it offers a glimpse into the city's history with its ancient streets and local crafts, ideal for cultural tourists. - Hongyadong: A lively area built along a cliff, showcasing traditional stilted houses and vibrant nightlife, perfect for tourists seeking an exciting evening out. - Nan’an District: Offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Yangtze River, appealing to those interested in scenic walks and photography. - Shapingba: Known for its educational institutions and cultural sites, it's a great spot for those interested in Chongqing’s academic and historical heritage. Day trip ideas from Chongqing Use Chongqing as a base for day trips and private tours to nearby UNESCO sites, karst valleys, and hill temples, since the region packs big variety within a few hours’ drive. Dazu Rock Carvings: See thousands of stone carvings that blend Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian themes, which makes the site a strong pick if you enjoy art, religion, and quiet detail; the walkways are easy to follow and you can focus on stories behind the figures without rushing. Wulong Karst National Geology Park: Walk under the Three Natural Bridges and explore cave systems like Furong Cave, great if you want dramatic geology, light hikes, and photo spots; the park’s shuttle routes and trail loops let you choose how active your day gets. Jinfo Mountain, Nanchuan: Ride up to cool, high-altitude forest and limestone cliffs, then pick short trails to viewpoints or longer ridge walks; this suits anyone who wants fresh air, gentler hiking, and broad scenery without technical climbs. Fengdu Ghost City: Climb through temple halls and mythic gates tied to folklore about judgement and the afterlife, a good match if you like history with a twist and don’t mind stairs; the river town setting adds easy street food stops and local markets to round out the day. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Chongqing most travellers miss.