Itinerary

Chengdu is a food lover's paradise, and I’m excited to help you craft a delicious 3-day itinerary. Get ready to indulge in some of the best Sichuan cuisine, explore local markets, and soak in the vibrant culture of this amazing city!

## Day 1: Arrival and Local Delicacies

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Start your day with a traditional Sichuan breakfast. Head to a local spot for Dan Dan Noodles (担担面) – spicy, nutty, and oh-so-delicious! Pair it with a cup of Sichuan-style soy milk.

Mid-Morning:

• Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street: After breakfast, visit the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the famous strategist Zhuge Liang. Stroll through Jinli Ancient Street nearby, where you can sample street snacks like spicy skewers and sweet rice cakes.

Lunch:

• Hot Pot Experience: For lunch, dive into a Sichuan hot pot at a popular restaurant like Haidilao or Chuan Chuan Xiang. Don’t forget to order a variety of meats, vegetables, and the signature spicy broth!

Afternoon:

• Chengdu People's Park: After lunch, take a leisurely walk in Chengdu People's Park. Grab a cup of tea at one of the tea houses and enjoy the local atmosphere. You might even catch some locals practicing tai chi!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For dinner, try Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) at a well-known restaurant like Chen Mapo Tofu. The spicy, numbing flavors are a must-try!

Night:

• Explore the Night Markets: End your day by exploring the night markets. Sample stinky tofu (臭豆腐) and spicy rabbit head (兔头) if you’re feeling adventurous!

---

## Day 2: Culinary Adventures and Cooking Class

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Start your day with some Sichuan-style steamed buns (包子) and a cup of local coffee or tea.

Mid-Morning:

• Cooking Class: Join a cooking class where you can learn to make classic Sichuan dishes like Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) and Sichuan-style dumplings. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the local cuisine!

Lunch:

• Enjoy Your Creations: After the class, enjoy the delicious dishes you’ve prepared for lunch. It’s always more satisfying when you’ve made it yourself!

Afternoon:

• Visit a Local Market: Head to a local market like Qingyang Market to see the fresh ingredients used in Sichuan cooking. You can pick up some spices to take home!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Famous Restaurant: For dinner, indulge in Sichuan-style fish (水煮鱼) at a renowned restaurant like Shu Jiu Xiang. The flavors will blow your mind!

Night:

• Sichuan Opera: Cap off your day with a performance of Sichuan Opera, famous for its face-changing act. Enjoy some snacks during the show!

---

## Day 3: Nature and Street Food

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café with some Sichuan pancakes (葱油饼) and a refreshing fruit smoothie.

Mid-Morning:

• Giant Panda Base: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. While it’s not food-related, it’s a must-see! Grab a snack from the café there, like a panda-shaped pastry.

Lunch:

• Street Food Tour: Head to Kuan Zhai Alley for a street food tour. Try spicy wontons (红油抄手), sichuan cold noodles (凉面), and sichuan-style fried rice (炒饭).

Afternoon:

• Explore Local Art and Culture: After lunch, wander around the area, checking out local art galleries and shops. You might find some unique souvenirs!

Evening:

• Final Dinner: For your last dinner in Chengdu, treat yourself to a Sichuan BBQ experience. Try grilled fish and spicy skewers at a local BBQ joint.

Night:

• Nightcap at a Rooftop Bar: End your trip with a drink at a rooftop bar, enjoying the city skyline and reflecting on your culinary adventures!

---

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day food-oriented itinerary in Chengdu. Make sure to bring your appetite and enjoy every bite! If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask. Happy travels! 🍜🥢