About Dalian

Dalian, China – imagine a city that feels like a whispered secret between the sea and the skyline, where modern skyscrapers curl up against stretches of pristine beaches, and hints of Russian and Japanese history peek from artful architecture on every street corner. Dalian isn’t a city that shouts, it sort of invites you in with a cool, coastal breeze, a splash of Victorian charm, and a gentle pulse that says, “Relax, you’re by the sea now.” This port city on the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula carries a vibe that’s part international trade hub, part seaside retreat. It’s been called the “Hong Kong of Northern China,” but instead of chaos, Dalian offers wide-open spaces, the largest city square in Asia, parks that look like they were plucked straight from European postcards, and beaches perfect for an evening stroll while the salty air dances around you. The city’s history is a layered story itself: once a small fishing village, then shaped by waves of British, Russian, and Japanese influence that left their marks in beautiful old buildings and cobblestone streets.

This fusion flows through daily life and dining in Dalian blends Korean, Han Chinese, Russian, and Manchu flavors, while the local festivals and markets hum with a hint of every culture this city has embraced. You can hear it in the trams rattling past elegant fountains, smell it in the seafood steaming off shore, and feel it in the friendly smiles of locals who navigate effortlessly between tradition and the future. To wander Dalian is to navigate a dance between ocean waves and urban charm. It’s not just a dot on the map; it’s a soulful pause in a fast-moving world where every breath feels a little crisper, every step a little lighter, and every sunset over the Yellow Sea a promise of something quietly extraordinary.

Dreaming of exploring China? Our China tour packages give you a perfect blend of ancient wonders and modern marvels, making every moment unforgettable. 

Dalian airport Address

• Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport (DLC / ZYTL) is the main airport serving Dalian.
• Address: 100 Yingke Road, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning, China
• It sits about 10 km northwest of downtown – a relatively short drive into city.

Note: A new airport, Dalian Jinzhouwan International Airport, is being built to replace Zhoushuizi eventually, offshore, ambitious, “world’s largest artificial island airport” vibes.

So, when you’re browsing hotels in Dalian near airport, you’ll mostly mean spots convenient to Zhoushuizi (for now).

The Best Time to Visit Dalian

• Late Spring to early October (May to October) is great with warm, lively, sea breeze friendly.
• Summer (June–August) sees beach season in full swing; expect heat, humidity, and crowds near popular Dalian hotels near beach.
• Autumn (September–October) is favorite with cooler air, golden tones, fewer tourists.
• Winter is cold, gray, sometimes bleak. If you’re okay with quiet streets and blanket coats, it’s peaceful, but many beachside spots shut down.

Aim for September or early October and you get leftover summer warmth without intense crowds, and cheap hotels in Dalian often drop rates just a bit after peak.

How to reach Dalian

By air:

Fly into Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport which connects many domestic and international routes. Then a taxi, airport shuttle, or metro line (Line 2) can bring you into the city.

By rail:

Dalian is well linked by train; high-speed and conventional rail lines connect it to Shenyang, Beijing, and coastal cities. There are hotels in Dalian near railway station that make those arrivals smoother.

By road:

If you’re doing a multi-city China trip, roads and highways connect Dalian with Liaoning province cities. Buses, long-distance coaches, and private car hires are common.

Things to do in Dalian

1. Xinghai Park & Beach — take a stroll, watch bungee jumpers, feel waves kiss your shoes
2. Zhongshan Square & Central Dalian walk — city heart, radiating roads, neon, locals doing tai chi.
3. Tiger Beach (Laohutan) with its aquarium, polar region zoo, marine life.
4. Russian Style Street & Russian buildings — echoes of old Dalian.
5. Bangchuidao Scenic Area — headlands, sea views, rocky coast.
6. Dalian Forest Zoo — good if you’re staying in nature‑adjacent Dalian hotels.
7. Lushun (Port Arthur) & historical tours — war forts, naval relics.
8. Star Shell Beach / East Side scenic zones — quieter beaches.
9. Bonded Zone / Coastal promenade lights — especially pretty after dark.
10. Museums — Dalian Modern Museum, Dalian Science & Technology Museum.
11. Shopping & modern malls — Wander in Central Business Districts.
12. Ropeway / cable car to hilltops for panoramas.
13. Cruise or ferry along the coast — sea views, salt wind.
14. Food tour in local night markets — try seafood, skewers, local snacks.
15. Sunrise or sunset from your hotel rooftop or beachside walk — small moments but unforgettable.

Shopping in Dalian

When you want to bring home something more than memories:

1. Central malls around Zhongshan / Renmin roads
2. Friendship Plaza shopping complexes
3. 38 Mall (as seen near Dalian Hotel)
4. Russian Style Street shops (souvenirs, trinkets)
5. Local markets selling sea goods, dried seafood
6. Boutique shops near seaside promenades
7. Art & handicraft shops
8. Jewelry & pearl stores (coastal city, sea connection)
9. Fashion boutiques around business districts
10. Bookstores & concept shops
11. Shopping in hotel lobbies (luxury Dalian hotels often have curated shops)
12. Night market stalls
13. Shopping arcades near railway station
14. Malls in development zones
15. Local specialty food stores (seaweed, salted fish, snacks)

Famous Restaurants in Dalian

Feeding your belly is as much part of travel as feeding your soul. In Dalian, your food walk is a sea-to-plate, spice-to-sweet journey:

1. Seafood restaurants along the coast
2. Russian-influenced cafés (a taste of Dalian’s history)
3. Cantonese / Chinese fine dining inside luxury hotels in Dalian
4. Local street stalls selling skewers, grilled shellfish
5. Hot pot places
6. Sushi / Japanese–Korean influenced spots (Dalian has coastal ties)
7. Noodle houses
8. Tea houses and dessert shops
9. Café chains in malls & beach zones
10. Local dim sum breakfast places
11. Bakeries & pastry shops
12. Night food alleys
13. Restaurants inside famous Dalian hotels (for views + food)
14. Small family restaurants in alleys
15. Rooftop / view cafés – especially near the seaside

Popular Hotels in Dalian

Here are names, that frequent lists when people search for hotel in Dalian, hotels in Dalian, or best hotels in Dalian:

1. The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalian (sea views, prime spot)
2. Kempinski Hotel Dalian — posh 5-star in city center
3. Dalian Hotel (Zhongshan Square) — classic, central — a go-to for many
4. Dalian Yuan Hotel — mid level, good location
5. Dalian Bohai Pearl Hotel — decent 4-star option
6. Vienna International Hotel Dalian — part of many listings in Dalian hotels directory
7. Four Points by Sheraton Dalian Donggang
8. Dalian Furong International Hotel
9. Dalian Bolt Hotel
10. Atour Hotel Dalian Development Zone Jinma Road
11. Atour Hotel Dalian Donggang Business District Harbor Plaza
12. Atour Hotel Dalian Xinghai Square Zhongshan Road
13. Atour Hotel Railway Station Dalian
14. Dalian Wanda International Hotel
15. Intercity Dalian Xinghai Plaza Seaview

These range from luxury to mid‑range, from landmark to service apartment style.

Popular Resorts in Dalian

1. Hilton Dalian Golden Pebble Beach Resort
2. Golden Pebble Beach International Resort
3. The Castle Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel
4. Shangri-La Hotel Dalian
5. Kempinski Hotel Dalian
6. InterContinental Dalian
7. Furama Hotel Dalian
8. New World Dalian Hotel
9. Hotel Nikko Dalian
10. Aloft Dalian
11. Dalian Lvshun Tianmu Hot Spring Holiday Hotel
12. Oriental Spring Resort Dalian
13. Dalian Bay Resort
14. Holiday Inn Express Dalian City Centre
15. Golden Pebble International Convention Centre & Resort

Where to Stay in Dalian

Let’s talk about base camps. The phrase hotels in Dalian covers a wide spectrum from luxury oceanfront to budget guesthouses. You want your stay to reflect the story you’ll tell: sea breeze, beach walks, city lights, or quiet nights near tram lines. Some stay near the coastline (for beach access), some near business districts or shopping zones, some near railway or transit hubs, and some in serene neighborhoods. The best places to stay in Dalian are ones that let you step out and feel the city (or sea) without hauling too far. If you pick a luxury hotel in Dalian, expect high-end views and pampering. If “cheap hotels in Dalian” is your search, you’ll find cozy joints tucked in alleys, close to transit, with just enough comfort. Also consider hotel apartments in Dalian, if you’re staying longer, an apartment setup (kitchenette, space) gives more breathing room than a typical hotel room. And if you’re on a strict budget, hunt the “cheapest hotel in Dalian” listings, especially in less touristy neighborhoods.

Places to Stay in Dalian near Popular Attractions

Want your “where to stay” to double as your “walk to this sight” plan? Here are zones that make sense:

• Near Xinghai Beach / Xinghai Park — for sea lovers, beach days
• Zhongshan / central district — walkable to malls, squares, transit
• Lushun / Port Arthur side — for historical exploration
• Near railway station / transit hubs — convenient for arrivals & departures
• Along coastal roads toward scenic zones — quieter but scenic
• Near airport (Zhoushuizi) — for last or first night stay

Hotels in these zones often market themselves as “near beach,” “sea view,” or “close to downtown.”

Budget Hotels in Dalian

We all love a good deal. When you search cheap hotels in Dalian, here’s what to expect:

• Basic 2‑ or 3‑star hotels in city interiors
• Inns near railway stations
• Guesthouses tucked in neighborhoods
• Shared room or simple single rooms
• Older properties with modest upgrades

If you’re flexible with location (a bit farther from main tourist zones), your budget options widen. Always check recent photos and some “cheap hotels in Dalian” look better in listings than real life.

Dalian Hotels by Star Rating

For clarity, here’s how Dalian hotels usually break down:

• 5 Star Hotels in Dalian / Luxury Hotels in Dalian — Kempinski, Castle, top resort-like ones
• 4 Star Hotels in Dalian — nice comfort, many amenities, often coastal or central
• 3 Star / Mid-Range — reliable, decent location, less flash
• 2 Star Hotel Dalian — basics, small, functional
• Hotel Apartments in Dalian — somewhere between hotel and home, for stays a few days or more

When comparing, don’t just look at star count but also view, breakfast inclusion, location, and service matter more in Dalian.

Best Hotels in Dalian based on Location

Depending on what you want:

• Beach lovers — stay near Xinghai, or sea-facing wings in big hotels
• City walk‑abouts — Zhongshan, Renmin roads, downtown area
• Historical route — Lushun / Port Arthur side
• Transit convenience — near railway or airport
• Quiet escapes — neighborhoods away from main thoroughfares but still connected

The “best hotels in Dalian” often line up along the seafront or major boulevards, with good transport access.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Dalian

Traveling with little ones or multi‑generation families? Look for:

• Room size (suite or connecting rooms)
• Extra facilities: pools, kids’ play areas, safe zones
• Proximity to transit / attractions (less walking)
• Breakfast and snack options built in
• Good staffing and responsiveness, especially in Dalian hotels geared to service

Some of the luxury hotels in Dalian and bigger chains are well set for families.

Dalian Hotels Tariff

• Cheapest hotel in Dalian / 2 star: maybe ¥150–¥400 (CNY) / modest rooms
• Mid / 3–4 star: ¥400–¥1,200 or more, depending on location and view
• 5 star hotels in Dalian / luxury: ¥1,200 to ¥3,500+ per night, with premium rooms costing more
• Off-season / shoulder times: big discounts
• Near beach zones or sea view rooms: premium surcharge
• Always run a Dalian hotel price comparison – two hotels side by side might differ wildly just by one feature (sea view, breakfast, location)

Dalian Travel Tips

1. Book Flights Early for the Best Deals: Dalian flight tickets can vary in price depending on the season and demand. To secure the best fares, it’s advisable to book cheap flights to Dalian well in advance, especially if you’re planning around holidays or summer festivals.
2. Pack Layers – Weather Shifts Fast: Dalian’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons warm, and evenings breezy. Bring a jacket even if the day starts sunny.
3. Learn a Few Mandarin Basics: English isn’t widely spoken, especially in taxis and local eateries. Learn a few key phrases or carry a translation app. Even a simple “Ni Hao” (Hello) goes a long way.
4. Have Your Hotel Name Written in Chinese: When arriving at the airport or station, show the address of your hotel in Chinese characters to the taxi driver. Saves time, confusion, and accidental detours.
5. Stay Near What You Want to Explore: Dalian is spread out. Want the beach? Book hotels in Dalian near beach areas like Xinghai Bay. Interested in history? Choose a hotel in Dalian near Lushun or Zhongshan Square.
6. Bring Cash + WeChat/Alipay: Some places still prefer cash, especially in markets and street stalls. But digital payment is huge in China. Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay before your trip if possible.
7. Avoid National Holidays (Unless You’re Into Crowds): During Golden Week or Chinese New Year, Dalian gets packed. Hotels in Dalian fill fast, prices spike, and trains are full. Plan around it unless you’re down for the chaos.
8. Tap Into Local Seafood Culture: Dalian is a coastal city, and seafood is a must-try. Check out street stalls or local restaurants for fresh scallops, sea cucumbers, and spicy grilled squid.
9. Use the Light Rail to Get Around: Dalian’s light rail system is great for getting to outer spots like Jinshitan (Golden Pebble Beach). It’s cheap, scenic, and way less stressful than trying to drive.
10. Sunset at Xinghai Square is a Must: Head to Xinghai Square for golden hour; locals flying kites, wide open skies, ocean breeze, and a killer backdrop for photos.
11. Weekdays Are Quieter at Tourist Spots: If you’re planning to visit places like Tiger Beach or the Polar Ocean Park, go on a weekday. Less crowd = more chill.
12. Try the Dalian-Style Hot Pot: Not your typical hot pot! Dalian-style hot pot often features fresh seafood, light broths, and is a local favorite. Great way to warm up during cooler months.
13. Book Hotels Based on Itinerary, Not Just Price: A cheap hotel in Dalian might save you cash, but if it’s far from everything, you’ll spend more on transport. Look for hotels in Dalian near the attractions you’re most interested in.
14. Stay Hydrated, Especially in Summer: Dalian can get humid, and long walks along the coast will leave you parched. Carry a reusable bottle and stay refreshed.
15. Don’t Skip the Small Museums: Places like the Dalian Modern Museum or Lushun Russo-Japanese Prison Museum are fascinating. They’re quiet, quirky, and packed with history that gives you context beyond the postcards.

You can conveniently apply for a China visa online through the official Chinese visa application service center or trusted travel platforms, just ensure you have all your documents ready and apply well in advance of your travel date.