How to Plan a Trip to Chengdu
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to China needs.
Your 4-step Chengdu plan
Step 1 — Book flights to TFU
Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is the main gateway to Chengdu. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to TFUStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Jinli Ancient Street + Wuhou Shrine for the best first-time visit — Restored Qing-dynasty walking street next to the Three Kingdoms-era Wuhou Shrine.
Where to stay in ChengduStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Chengdu.
Things to do in ChengduStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Metro Line 18 to People's Park / Tianfu Square is CNY 8 and takes 40 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
TFU arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
240-hour visa-free transit available for 54 nationalities (US, UK, EU, AU, JP, KR) when entering/leaving China on a third-country ticket. Show onward ticket within 240h + apply at airport immigration desk.