Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Dali. Dali Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 80 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside DLU
A few things to sort out before you leave DLU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for China. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Dali takes about 80 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Spend Your Time in Dali
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Dali, two standouts are:
- Dali Ancient City — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at DLU, check out Dali Airport VIP Lounge or Local Specialties & Souvenir Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Dali, local travelers recommend Lao Wang Sheng Farmhouse Restaurant (èççå家ä¹). If you have time for a second stop, Bad Monkey Bar & Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at DLU, Airport Noodle House is the go-to. Airport Cafe & Bakery rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from DLU to Dali
You have two main options for getting from Dali Airport into town:
- Airport Shuttle Bus: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Dali:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Luggage storage facilities are generally not available at Dali Airport (DLU).. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Dali as well.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DLU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Dali itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for China that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, DLU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Dali doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 80 minutes from DLU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.