Chengdu wasn’t on our original itinerary…
But thanks to a long layover on our flight from Melbourne to Istanbul, we found ourselves with 24 hours to explore one of China’s most underrated cities and honestly, I’m so glad we did.
Chengdu completely surprised me. I was expecting a concrete jungle with a lot of panda souvenirs everywhere, but instead found wide, walkable streets, historic pockets of traditional architecture, and some of the cutest little teahouses and alleyways I’ve ever seen in Asia.
Add to that the spicy Sichuan food (which was a highlight) and a chance to see giant pandas up close? This was the kind of layover that makes you want to plan a return trip. I’ve done this layover twice now and would happily do it again.
If you’re flying through Chengdu (like we did), here’s how to make the most of one day in Chengdu, from pandas and parks to food, apps you need, and tips to make it all run smoothly from my last trip.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Prebook these activities
– Giant Panda Breeding Research Base Ticket
– Evening food tour
– Sichuan Opera Shu Feng Yan Yun Evening Show Ticket
– Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town
👉 Reserve your airport transfer for ease here
👉 Best Area to Stay in Chengdu if It’s Your First Trip
($) Bloom Time Guest House
($$) Arnaya
($$$) Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
How We Got into Chengdu from the Airport
We landed at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, which is about an hour from the city centre.
You’ve got a few options to get into the city:
- Taxi or DiDi: The easiest way, especially if you’re arriving late at night or early morning. We easily got a taxi from the airport and paid using WeChat Pay. Set this up before you leave for China.
- Metro: Clean, fast, and super cheap but not ideal if you’re lugging suitcases.
- Private transfer: If you want the easiest option,
pre-book an airport transfer HERE so you’re met at arrivals and whisked straight to your hotel.
Where We Stayed - Xishu Garden Inn
We wanted something affordable, well-located, and local and Xishu Garden Inn delivered.
This little boutique hotel sits on a quiet street off Jinli Ancient Street, walking distance to Wuhou Temple and endless local eats. The design is part-modern, part-traditional courtyard house, with thoughtful panda touches everywhere. Plus, their breakfast was delicious!
It was super affordable too (we paid about $60 AUD).
👉 View current rates for Xishu Garden Inn
Perfect for: Couples or solo travellers wanting a local, peaceful stay near major sights.
Best Area to Stay in Chengdu if It’s Your First Trip
($) Bloom Time Guest House
($$) Arnaya
($$$) Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain
Where I Stayed in Chengdu
Watch our hotel review staying at Xishu Garden Inn in Chengdu.
Before You Arrive: Must-Install Apps + Tips
Here’s what made a huge difference for us:
- WeChat & Alipay: These are the primary payment methods across China. Some foreign cards now work with Alipay (especially via Tour Pass), but double-check your bank.
- DiDi: Rideshare app (like Uber). Works well and lets you enter destinations in English.
- Apple Maps > Google Maps: Google Maps is often unreliable in China. Apple Maps was surprisingly accurate!
- Translate App: Install Google Translate and pre-download Chinese for offline use. It’s a lifesaver when you’re trying to order food or navigate signs.
Chengdu Panda Base Guide!
Best Time to Go, Tickets and What to Expect
Morning: See the Pandas at Chengdu Research Base
Start your day at Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding aka Panda Heaven. The earlier you go, the better. Pandas are most active in the morning (around 8–10AM), before their midday nap kicks in.
You’ll see baby pandas, red pandas, and adults doing what they do best, eating, playing, and rolling around like giant, fuzzy toddlers.
We booked a morning tour that included hotel pickup, panda highlights, and a local guide explaining everything in English.
👉 Pre-book the panda half-day tour to make your visit stress-free
I’d recommend reserving your Panda Base tickets before arriving in Chengdu
👉 Giant Panda Breeding Research Base Ticket
Midday: Hotpot, Noodles & Local Snacks
After your panda fix, it’s time to dive into Sichuan food.
Chengdu is known as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and even if you’re not into super spicy food, there’s something for everyone.
A few dishes to try:
- Dan Dan noodles – Spicy, nutty noodles with minced pork
- Chuan Chuan skewers – Choose-your-own skewers, cooked in hot oil
- Sichuan hotpot – A must-try! Go with half-half broth if you’re not used to spice
If you’re short on time or overwhelmed by menus, I highly recommend doing a food tour. We did one on a past visit and it helped so much in understanding what to order.
Afternoon: People-Watching at a Teahouse + Jinli Ancient Street
One of the best things to do in Chengdu? Slow down.
Locals here really know how to enjoy life, and there’s no better place to experience that than at a traditional teahouse.
We loved Wenshu Monastery Tea Garden and a smaller one tucked behind Jinli Street. You’ll find locals sipping tea, playing Mahjong, getting ear cleanings (!!), and watching the world go by.
After tea, head to Jinli Ancient Street for shopping and snacks. Yes, it’s touristy but also fun, with lantern-lit alleys, street performances, and some really nice souvenir finds if you’re selective.
Evening: Relax at People’s Park or See a Sichuan Opera Show
If you’ve still got energy in the tank, spend your evening in one of these two ways:
Option 1: People’s Park
A lush city park filled with locals dancing, doing tai chi, and sipping tea under willow trees. A great place to wind down before dinner.
Option 2: Sichuan Opera Face-Changing Show
Traditional Chinese opera where performers change masks mid-performance in the blink of an eye. It’s honestly mind-blowing.
👉 Book face-changing opera tickets – some tours include dinner, pickup, and great seats.
Getting Back to the Airport
If your layover ends late at night, book a private transfer to avoid the DiDi rush.
👉 Check prices and availability for Chengdu airport transfers
We left around midnight, and the city was still lit up calm, safe, and peaceful to drive through.
FAQ: One Day in Chengdu
Yes! You can see the pandas, eat your way through Sichuan cuisine, explore traditional streets, and soak up the vibe in one relaxing day.
Chengdu often allows 144-hour visa-free transit for certain nationalities (including US, UK). Australians get a two-week visit visa-free so no need to apply for a transit visa. Always double-check the rules before you fly.
We visited in January and had sunny, dry weather and cool but great for walking. Spring and autumn are also ideal.
Not really but most places in the tourist areas have some English signs and with apps, you’ll be fine.
Not always. Many places are mobile-pay only, so set up Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance if you can.
If you want to maximise time and reduce hassle, yes.
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