Port Guide | China | Worth a Wander
Dalian
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-05-22
Congratulations-you've arrived in Dalian, a breezy, park-filled sanctuary perched on China's northeast coast, where elegant European architecture cheerfully collides with unapologetic seaside kitsch. If your previous port stops have overdosed you on pagodas and dumplings, breathe freely: here, Russian, Japanese, and Chinese influences mingle in architectural harmony, thanks to the city's colorful historical identity crisis-born as a Russian outpost, groomed by Japanese rail barons, and finally reclaimed as China's favorite seaside retreat. You'll immediately notice locals strolling leisurely along wide boulevards, savoring grilled squid on sticks, and generally behaving as if the weekend started three Tuesdays ago. Do as they do: meander through Zhongshan Square's European facades, dip your toes into the lively waterfront scenery at Xinghai Square (rumored to be Asia's largest), then chase your first Tsingtao beer with freshly grilled seafood at a noisy street-side eatery. Welcome ashore-your few days here offer the perfect blend of charm, chaos, and crustaceans.
China has 8 Travel Advisories
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Notes from the Editor
Dalian is known for its beautiful coastal scenery and European-style architecture. Visitors often enjoy local seafood and the city's parks.
Where do cruise ships dock in Dalian?
Port Name Dalian
Country China
Region Northeast Asia
Ship Terminal Dalian Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The cruise terminal is approximately 2 km from the city center, easily accessible by taxi and public transport.
What's the weather like in Dalian?
Best Season to Visit Late spring to early autumn (May to September)
Climate Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters.
Weather Notes Rain is possible, especially in late spring. Typhoons can occur in late summer but are rare in early autumn.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 85F
Low Temp 25F
Average Temp 58F
What do I need to know about Dalian?
Language Chinese (Mandarin)
Currency Renminbi (CNY)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population approximately 2.9 million
Timezone China Standard Time (CST)
How do I get around Dalian?
Taxis, buses, and rental cars are readily available near the terminal.
What are The Best Things to do in Dalian?
Discover what you should do while you're in Dalian.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Dalian Discovery Kingdom
36 Jinshi Rd, Jinzhou District, Dalian
A large amusement park with a blend of Western themes and local cultural elements.
Distance from Terminal: 23 miles
Dalian Forest Zoo
60 Yingchun Rd, Xigang District, Dalian
A unique zoo where you can take a cable car over the forests and animal enclosures.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Laohutan Ocean Park's Coral Pavilion
9 Binhai Middle Rd, Zhongshan District, Dalian
Explore one of the largest coral pavilions in Asia with diverse marine life.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Night Market at Sanba Square
Sanba Square, Dalian
Explore bustling night markets with local street food and unique crafts.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Discover Local Cuisine Tour
N/A
Join a local guide to taste Dalian's unique seafood and traditional Northeast China flavors.
Distance from Terminal: 0 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Binhai Road Scenic Drive
N/A
A scenic coastal drive offering stunning views of the sea and Dalian's coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Tiger Beach Ocean Park
9 Binhai Middle Rd, Zhongshan District, Dalian
A marine park featuring animal shows, an aquarium, and picturesque beaches.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Bangchui Island
10 Bangchui Island, Zhongshan District, Dalian
A serene island offering hiking and a tranquil beach, perfect for nature lovers.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Fujiazhuang Beach
Fujiazhuang Park, Xigang District, Dalian
A popular beach for locals with clean sand and clear waters, surrounded by greenery.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Xinghai Square
Xinghai Bay, Shahekou District, Dalian
The largest city square in the world, featuring gardens, statues, and seaside views.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Zhongshan Square
Zhongshan Square, Zhongshan District, Dalian
A historic square with Russian colonial architecture, best visited at night when it's lit up.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Russian Street
Russian Street, Xigang District, Dalian
A street with Russian-style buildings, capturing the historic ties between Dalian and Russia.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Dalian Modern Museum
10 Convention Rd, Shahekou District, Dalian
A museum showcasing the modern development and history of Dalian.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Lvshun 203 Hill
Lvshunkou District, Dalian
Historic battlefield site from the Russo-Japanese War with panoramic views.
Distance from Terminal: 26 miles
A Little Extra
Dalian Labour Park
Labour Park, Nanshan District, Dalian
A beautifully landscaped park with a giant football sculpture and a Ferris wheel offering city views.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Dalian Shell Museum
Dalian Shell Museum, Heishijiao, Dalian
Features an extensive collection of shells from around the world, highlighting marine biodiversity.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Overnight Trips
Eastern Liaoning Grand Canyon
Kuandian Manchu Autonomous County, Dandong
A stunning natural wonder with jagged cliffs and rich biodiversity, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Distance from Terminal: 150 miles
China Regional Tip
Punctuality in business and social engagements Arriving promptly for meetings demonstrates respect for others' time and is crucial for establishing reliable and professional reputation.