Dalian, China
Photo: @volcanono/Unsplash

Introduction

Winter in Dalian is unexpectedly enchanting—icy sea views, charming Russian architecture dusted with frost, and light snow settling on seafood markets. For those in search of a cooling retreat that isn’t too crowded, here's your 6D5N Dalian winter plan that’s equal parts coastal romance and foodie heaven.

Getting to Dalian from Singapore

If you’re flying from Singapore, be prepared for a 10–13 hour journey (including transit). There are no direct flights yet, so most routes involve a layover in Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG):

Singapore (SIN) → Shanghai Pudong (PVG): ~5 hours 20 minutes
Shanghai (PVG) → Dalian (DLC): ~2 hours by domestic flight
Transit time in Shanghai: Usually 2–4 hours depending on your chosen airline

Flight prices generally range between SGD600–SGD1,000 (round trip), depending on the season, airline, and how early you book. Winter is considered off-peak compared to Chinese New Year, so you may find better deals if you book 2–3 months ahead.

💡 Travel Tip: Try to book flights with China Eastern or Singapore Airlines + codeshare partners, as they often have smoother transit connections in Shanghai. If your layover is longer, Shanghai Pudong has good lounges and decent food courts to recharge before your onward flight.

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Seaside

Landing at Dalian Zhoushuizi Airport, take the airport coach or Didi to your central hotel (~45 minutes).
Evening relaxation: stroll along Xinghai Square (大连星海广场)—sea breeze on your face, gentle waves and sculptures lit softly in the dusk.
Dinner: harbor-side seafood market—pick fresh catch, have it cooked nearby. My personal favorite: butter-grilled scallops.

**Xinghai Square (**大连星海广场)
Photo: @c_j_/unsplash

Day 2: Architectural Stroll & Russian Flair

Morning: Explore Zhongshan Square (中山区)—its European buildings under winter sunlight make for lovely photos.
Lunch: Warm up with hearty hot pot or seafood porridge nearby.
Afternoon: Take the tram (affordable and charming) to Russian Street, existing relics of Dalian’s Russian past. Crack open a hot kugel or gelato to chase the chill.
Evening: Visit a heated café for coffee and local pastries.

**Russian Street in Dalian**
Photo: CGTN

Day 3: Scenic Coast

Morning: If traveling during the winter festival, head to the Dalian Forest Zoo or Dalian Discovery Kingdom (Theme park).
Alternative: Head to Tiger Beach (Laohutan) (老虎滩海洋公园)—the polar aquarium, or just walk the promenade against the brisk wind.
Lunch: Bubble tea and street eats.
Evening: Dinner with sea view—grilled local fish, crabs steaming beside you.

**Tiger Beach** (Laohutan) (老虎滩海洋公园)
Photo: Killer Whales

Day 4: Day Trip to Lüshun (Port Arthur)

Transport: Metro plus a short bus ride (~1 hour total).
Day: Explore historical sites like the Lüshun Museum (旅顺博物馆), the fortress tunnels, and Soviet-era structures.
Tips: Pack a thermos, wear warm gloves—Lüshun’s wind cuts deeper!
Evening: Return and savor local Chinese dumplings at a cozy spot.

**Lüshun Museum (**旅顺博物馆)
Photo: Trip Advisor

Day 5: Leisure & Seafood Markets

Morning: Visit the bustling Qingniwaqiao Market (青泥洼桥)—seafood, local crafts, warm snacks.
Lunch: Try seafood congee or dried scallop soup.
Afternoon: Rest in a tea house or warm up with spa/hot springs nearby.
Evening: Final seafood feast—fried squid, sea cucumber, and a bold Dalian beer to toast your journey.

**Qingniwaqiao Market (**青泥洼桥)
Photo: Wikipedia

Day 6: Departure

Morning: Leisurely breakfast—congee and soft buns.
Transport: Taxi or shuttle back to the airport.
Final Thoughts: Dalian in winter is a hidden treasure—fresh air, nostalgic architecture, and coastal calm with bite. May this itinerary leave you craving both warmth and wave-lapped memories.

Final Thoughts

Dalian might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a winter escape in China, but that’s exactly why it’s so captivating. Without the heavy tourist crowds, you get a chance to see a coastal city at its own pace — waves brushing against the frozen shoreline, locals bargaining at seafood markets, or Russian-era buildings glowing under soft winter light.

This 6D5N plan strikes a balance between seaside calm, hearty seafood feasts, and cultural gems like Lüshun. If you ask me, Dalian in winter feels almost like stepping into a secret — one that only the most curious travelers discover.

So if you’re looking for something a little different this year, consider Dalian. Pack your warmest coat, bring an appetite for seafood, and don’t forget a camera — because winter in Dalian paints a scene unlike anywhere else in China