First-trip route · Updated August 7, 2026
Chengdu and Chongqing in 7 days: a Sichuan first-trip route
A realistic one-week Chengdu and Chongqing itinerary for first-time visitors, with pandas, tea-house time, Sichuan food and Chongqing's river-city views.
Quick answer
For a first trip focused on food, city life and a manageable rail transfer, divide the week between Chengdu and Chongqing rather than trying to add Leshan or Mount Emei. That leaves enough room for a slow Chengdu day and a flexible Chongqing evening.
A practical way to plan it
- 01
Days 1–3 · Chengdu
Reserve the Panda Base if it matters to your trip, then balance it with People’s Park, a tea-house pause and one food-focused evening.
- 02
Day 4 · Transfer
Use a high-speed rail transfer only after checking the exact stations. Keep the arrival evening in Chongqing flexible.
- 03
Days 5–7 · Chongqing
Plan one riverside or cableway view, one layered-neighbourhood walk and one relaxed food stop. Weather and crowds can change the best order.
- 04
Food rule
Choose a split hotpot or milder dishes if not everyone wants chilli. Do not assume Sichuan and Chongqing food is automatically suitable for every traveller.
Official and practical sources
Rules, availability and app flows can change. Recheck the relevant official channel before relying on a booking or time-sensitive claim.