Guilin China 3 Day Itinerary

Guilin 3-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Centre

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Yongfu Mantou Xiang (雍福 mantou 巷). This local eatery serves steamed buns filled with various fillings, a popular Guilin breakfast choice.
    • Visit the Guilin Museum (桂林博物馆) to learn about the history and culture of Guilin.

  • Afternoon:

    • Take a leisurely stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area (两江四墩景区). The area offers beautiful views, including Lotus Hill (荷叶山) and Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山).
    • Hop on a bamboo raft to cruise down the Li River and enjoy the stunning karst landscape.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Li River Fish Restaurant (柳江鱼食堂) for a taste of Guilin’s famous fish dishes.
    • Explore the vibrant nightlife in the area around Zhuangyuan Road (姜家岭酒家) and enjoy some local snacks or drinks.

Day 2: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

  • Morning:

    • Embark on a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The journey is approximately 4 hours long and offers breathtaking views of the karst landscapes.

  • Afternoon:

    • Upon arrival in Yangshuo, explore the charming town and its streets lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants.
    • Rent a bike or take a electric car to visit the Yangshuo West Street (阳朔西街) and enjoy local delicacies like bamboo rice (竹筏饭) and Yangshuo’s famous creamy yogurt.

  • Evening:

    • Watch a spectacular Impression Sanjie Liu (漾三姐) performance, an outdoor show inspired by the Li River and local culture, held on the Li River at night.
    • Dine at Lost Café for a variety of Western and Asian dishes.

Day 3: Yangshuo Countryside Activities

  • Morning:

    • Take part in some outdoor activities like rock climbing, bamboo rafting, or cycling in the countryside to experience the beautiful rural scenery.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the stunning Yangshuo Moon Hill and hike up for panoramic views of the area.
    • Explore the Yangshuo Silver Cave (银洞) to marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at a local restaurant, such as Tian Long Fang (天龙坊), for some delicious Cantonese cuisine.
    • Catch the sunset over the Li River before heading back to Guilin.

Things to Know:

  • The best time to visit is from March to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
  • English may not be widely spoken in some areas, so having a translator app or knowing basic Mandarin can be helpful.
  • Taxis are widely available, but you can also use bike-sharing services or public buses for transportation.
  • Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
  • Always carry cash as some smaller restaurants or shops may not accept credit cards.