What affordable attractions should backpackers visit in Dali?

Dali has tons of budget-friendly attractions! For stunning views, hike up to the Three Pagodas, a complex of ancient temples, or explore the Erhai Lake, taking a boat ride to the nearby islands. If you want to learn about the local culture, check out the Dali Ancient City, with its traditional architecture and vibrant markets.

What are the best hostels in Dali?

Among the hostels in Dali, Taoxi Creek Hostel , Manwu Hostel and Five Elements are the most popular ones.

What nightlife options are popular among hostel guests in Dali?

Dali's nightlife scene is pretty relaxed, but there are some spots that are popular with hostel guests. The bars on Renmin Road, near the Ancient City, are a good place to start. You can also find live music at the Dali Beer Garden, or grab a drink at one of the many rooftop bars overlooking the lake.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Dali?

The best hostel with a pool in Dali is The Jade Emu International Hostel .

What budget-friendly events or festivals are taking place in and around Dali?

Dali has a few fun festivals throughout the year. The most popular is the Dali International Flower Festival, which takes place in April and features colorful flower displays and cultural performances. The Dali Bai Nationality Culture Festival, held in October, showcases traditional Bai music and dance.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Dali?

Five Elements and Dali Lila's House Seaview Guesthouse are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Dali.

What are the top social spots in Dali for hostel guests to meet other travelers?

The best place to meet fellow travelers is at the hostels themselves! Most hostels have common areas where you can hang out and chat. You can also join organized tours or activities, like hiking or cooking classes, to meet people with similar interests. The Dali Backpackers' Hostel and the Dali Old Town Youth Hostel are great places to start.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Dali?

The best hostels for families and kids in Dali are Cabin 7 Inn , Yiran Boutique Hostel and Dali Shaxi Cato's Inn .

What’s the best budget-friendly way to reach Dali?

The most affordable way to get to Dali is by taking a train from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province. It's a scenic ride, and you can find tickets for under $20. If you're coming from other parts of China, you can also fly into Dali's airport, which is a bit more expensive but more convenient.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Dali?

The best pet friendly hostels in Dali are Five Elements , Cabin 7 Inn and 1984relax Hostel .

What should you know before renting a hostel in Dali?

When choosing a hostel, look for one that's located near the attractions you want to see. Many hostels offer free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Make sure to read reviews before booking, and check if there are any additional fees for things like laundry or towels.

What are the best hostels with parking in Dali?

Taoxi Creek Hostel , Five Elements and Mama Naxi Guesthouse are the best hostels with parking in Dali.

What's the best time of the year to visit Dali?

The best time to visit Dali is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. You can also visit during the winter (December-February) for a unique experience, but be prepared for colder temperatures.

Where in Dali can you find the best areas to stay in a hostel?

The best areas to stay in a hostel are near the Ancient City, which is the heart of Dali. You can also find hostels near the Erhai Lake, which offers stunning views and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Top budget friendly hostels in Dali via cozycozy

9.6 1946 reviews

Zhenmei Holiday Hostel

hostel, Dali

Zhenmei Holiday Hostel in Dali, China, boasts stunning Erhai Lake views from its cliffside location, approximately 15 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport and 17 miles from Dali Railway Station, offering easy access to Wenbi Village and other attractions.
This family-friendly inn provides free on-site parking, high service standards, and a relaxing atmosphere near the Dali 180-Degree Sea View Internet-Famous Check-In Spot and Dali Huazui Art Space.

No reviews

Walking Flowers Inn

hostel, Dali

Walking Flowers Inn, a guesthouse in Dali, offers a terrace, balcony, and garden, with check-in after 2 PM and check-out by noon.
This accommodation can host up to two guests, with children aged 0-17 staying free without an extra bed, and it does not permit pets or service animals.

9.0 96 reviews

Distant Dream Hostel

hostel, Dali

Distant Dream Hostel in Dali is located approximately 12.4 miles from Dali Railway Station and 19.9 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with Caicun Wharf, Caicun Wetland Park, and Cai Village nearby.
This highly-rated hostel offers internet, a kitchen, garden, restaurant, and parking, providing a relaxing environment and excellent service, making it a popular choice for groups of friends exploring Dali.

9.9 221 reviews

Suxin Loushi Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Suxin Loushi Hostel is conveniently located near Dali's Ancient City, Renmin Road, and Santa Gate, about 11 miles from Dali Railway Station and 18 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport.
This excellent, clean guesthouse offers a comfortable stay for groups, providing easy access to Dali's major attractions and a relaxing environment after a day of sightseeing.

9.1 286 reviews

Fine Days Youth Hostel

hostel, Dali

Fine Days Youth Hostel enjoys a convenient location on the edge of Dali's Old Town, offering easy access to Erhai Lake and stunning Cangshan Mountain views.
This lodging boasts a rooftop terrace with sunrise views, a self-service kitchen, bicycle rentals, and social spaces including a reading area, game room, and tea bar, perfect for independent travelers exploring Dali.

No reviews

Seven Seconds Time Capsule Youth Hostel

hostel, Dali

Seven Seconds Time Capsule Youth Hostel in Dali, China, offers a convenient location near Dali's major attractions, though precise addresses and distances are unavailable due to data restrictions.
This two-guest-capacity lodging provides laundry service, slippers, and basic amenities in a single-bathroom facility; further details on the layout or size are unavailable.

9.6 167 reviews

Caomu Light Luxury Hostel

hostel, Dali

Caomu Light Luxury Hostel in Dali offers a family-friendly stay with excellent ratings for location and cleanliness, situated near Three Pagodas Reflection Park, Dali Art Factory, and Foreigner Street, and 17 miles from Dali Railway Station.
This guesthouse provides on-site parking, a kitchen, garden, and restaurant, with room service and concierge available, making it an ideal base for exploring Dali's attractions.

9.5 325 reviews

Chunshan · Sky City Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Chunshan Sky City Hostel in Dali offers convenient access to major attractions, situated approximately 12 miles from Dali Railway Station and 19 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with easy access to the Three Pagodas and Dali Ancient City.
This family-friendly inn boasts a swimming pool, garden, restaurant, bar, and room service, along with on-site parking and excellent guest ratings for cleanliness and location.

9.3 12 reviews

Shiyunju Hostel

hostel, Dali

Shiyunju Hostel in Dali offers a convenient location, situated approximately 12 miles from Dali Railway Station and 19 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with popular sites like Yu'er Garden, Juying Pool, and Main Shrine Hall nearby. This lodging provides essential amenities including internet, a kitchen, garden, restaurant, fitness center, room service, and parking, ensuring a comfortable stay for travelers.

8.9 64 reviews

Dali Bu Jue Xiao Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Dali Bu Jue Xiao Hostel, offering the "Dali Bu Jue Xiao Hostel" package, is located in Dali, 10 miles from Dali Railway Station and 17 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with Sanyue Street, Warriors and Horses Marshal Mansion, and Foreigner Street nearby.
This lodging provides on-site parking, internet, a bar, and room service, with a user rating of very good for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.

9.3 22 reviews

A Time Hostel

hostel, Dali

A Time Hostel in Dali is conveniently located near Erhai Gate and Foreigner Street, offering easy access to the Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus, and sits 17 miles from Dali Railway Station and 29 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport.
This family-friendly guesthouse provides excellent internet, a garden, room service, and parking, with guests praising its first-rate facilities for both business and leisure stays.

8.8 47 reviews

Half-circle Coffee Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Half-circle Coffee Hostel, a newly opened 2023 establishment in Dali, is located approximately 10.5 miles from Dali Railway Station and 17.4 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, offering convenient access to attractions like the Three Pagodas Reflection Park, Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus, and Sanyue Street.
This modern lodging provides guests with essential amenities including internet, a kitchen, a garden, a bar, and parking, and is praised for its very good user, location, and cleanliness ratings, with a check-out time before 12:00 PM.

Best Dali hostels with air conditioning

10 1 review

Earstring Hanging Gardens Hotel

hostel, Dali Ancient Town

Earstring Hanging Gardens Hotel, a hostel in Dali Ancient Town, is located within the historic district, offering proximity to Dali University at 1.4 miles and Wuhua Building at 1.8 miles.
This lodging provides guests with complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a garden, a terrace, on-site dining and bar, room service, and free private parking, with a 12:00 PM check-out time.

9.5 17 reviews

Dali Lily Guest House

hostel, Dali

Dali Lily Guest House, a budget-friendly hostel in Dali, provides convenient access to local landmarks and attractions within its district.
This guest house features complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site fitness center, a kitchen, and air conditioning, with some rooms offering a balcony or terrace and laundry service available.

9.8 74 reviews

Darchin-ke Yushan Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Darchin-ke Yushan Hostel, a guesthouse in Dali, is located approximately 11 miles from Dali Railway Station and 18.5 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with Sanyue Street, Dali Ancient City, and The Chongsheng Temple and Three-Pagoda Culture Tourist Area nearby.
This lodging offers on-site parking, a garden, a restaurant with room service, and excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall facilities, making it a convenient choice for exploring Dali.

8.9 93 reviews

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel, Near The South Gate Of The Ancient City ,5 Mins Walk To The Old Town, Close To Er Hai Lake, Convenient Payment And Visa Cards Are Accepted

hostel, Dali

The Dali Upland International Youth Hostel is located near the south gate of Dali's Old Town, a 5-minute walk from the Old Town and close to Er Hai Lake, approximately 0.75 miles from the Wuhua Building and Dali Zhangjia Garden.
This lodging offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant, bar, garden, terrace, spa, jacuzzi, parking, and billiards, plus English-speaking staff and accepts Visa cards.

Browse Hostels with Breakfast Included in Dali

No need to hunt for a cafe before your hike, as breakfast is included with every hostel in Dali.

9.6 492 reviews

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel

hostel, Dali

Dali Upland Youth Hostel, a family-friendly guesthouse in Dali's Old Town, is a five-minute walk from the old street and a 15-minute drive from Erhai Lake, offering convenient access to Dali's major attractions.
This inn features modern minimalist design with industrial elements, includes family rooms, a bar serving brunch and beer, a PS5, board games, movie nights, bonfire concerts, and free luggage storage, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay.

No reviews

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel

hostel, Dali

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel is located in Dali, offering convenient access to local cuisine and amenities.
This hostel provides air conditioning, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, and parking, with a guest capacity of two and a check-out time of 12:00 PM.

9.6 610 reviews

Fanju · Yunsu Hostel

hostel, Dali

The Fanju · Yunsu Hostel, a family-friendly guesthouse, is conveniently located near Dali's ancient city, close to Erhai Gate, Cangshan Gate, and Wuhua Building, about 11 miles from Dali Railway Station and 18 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport.
This excellent-rated inn offers on-site parking and provides a relaxing atmosphere perfect for exploring Dali's sights and sounds after a day of sightseeing.

9.6 246 reviews

Dali Little Home Sea View Hostel

hostel, Dali

Dali Little Home Sea View Hostel, a guest house in Dali, offers a convenient parking zone, though travelers should independently verify its precise location due to potential geographic data discrepancies in China.
This hostel accommodates up to 2 guests and includes air conditioning, an on-site restaurant, a garden, and excellent ratings for user experience, location, and cleanliness.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Dali

What affordable attractions should backpackers visit in Dali?
Dali has tons of budget-friendly attractions! For stunning views, hike up to the Three Pagodas, a complex of ancient temples, or explore the Erhai Lake, taking a boat ride to the nearby islands. If you want to learn about the local culture, check out the Dali Ancient City, with its traditional architecture and vibrant markets.
What are the best hostels in Dali?
Among the hostels in Dali, Taoxi Creek Hostel, Manwu Hostel and Five Elements are the most popular ones.
What nightlife options are popular among hostel guests in Dali?
Dali's nightlife scene is pretty relaxed, but there are some spots that are popular with hostel guests. The bars on Renmin Road, near the Ancient City, are a good place to start. You can also find live music at the Dali Beer Garden, or grab a drink at one of the many rooftop bars overlooking the lake.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Dali?
The best hostel with a pool in Dali is The Jade Emu International Hostel.
What budget-friendly events or festivals are taking place in and around Dali?
Dali has a few fun festivals throughout the year. The most popular is the Dali International Flower Festival, which takes place in April and features colorful flower displays and cultural performances. The Dali Bai Nationality Culture Festival, held in October, showcases traditional Bai music and dance.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Dali?
Five Elements and Dali Lila's House Seaview Guesthouse are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Dali.
What are the top social spots in Dali for hostel guests to meet other travelers?
The best place to meet fellow travelers is at the hostels themselves! Most hostels have common areas where you can hang out and chat. You can also join organized tours or activities, like hiking or cooking classes, to meet people with similar interests. The Dali Backpackers' Hostel and the Dali Old Town Youth Hostel are great places to start.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Dali?
The best hostels for families and kids in Dali are Cabin 7 Inn, Yiran Boutique Hostel and Dali Shaxi Cato's Inn.
What’s the best budget-friendly way to reach Dali?
The most affordable way to get to Dali is by taking a train from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province. It's a scenic ride, and you can find tickets for under $20. If you're coming from other parts of China, you can also fly into Dali's airport, which is a bit more expensive but more convenient.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Dali?
The best pet friendly hostels in Dali are Five Elements, Cabin 7 Inn and 1984relax Hostel.
What should you know before renting a hostel in Dali?
When choosing a hostel, look for one that's located near the attractions you want to see. Many hostels offer free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Make sure to read reviews before booking, and check if there are any additional fees for things like laundry or towels.
What are the best hostels with parking in Dali?
Taoxi Creek Hostel, Five Elements and Mama Naxi Guesthouse are the best hostels with parking in Dali.
What's the best time of the year to visit Dali?
The best time to visit Dali is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. You can also visit during the winter (December-February) for a unique experience, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
Where in Dali can you find the best areas to stay in a hostel?
The best areas to stay in a hostel are near the Ancient City, which is the heart of Dali. You can also find hostels near the Erhai Lake, which offers stunning views and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Popular destinations

Best Dali hostels with a locker

9.0 54 reviews

Xiyu Lake-view Hostel

hostel, Dali

Xiyu Lake-view Hostel in Dali, Yunnan Province, offers lake views and is conveniently located near Gusheng Village Ancient Stage, Xiaolinyi Scenic Spot, and Stone Buddha Temple, about 20 miles from Dali Railway Station and 27 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport.
This excellent, clean lodging provides comfortable accommodations with on-site parking and is ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil escape.

9.3 326 reviews

Wentang Hostel Cangshan Mountain

hostel, Dali

The Wentang Hostel Cangshan Mountain, a family-friendly guesthouse near Cangshan Mountain in Dali, is conveniently located 12 miles from Dali Railway Station and 19 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, offering easy access to Xi-Ma-Tan Cable car and Juying Pool.
This excellent-rated inn provides convenient parking, a relaxing atmosphere, and proximity to Cangshan Mountain's scenic spots.

No reviews

Dali Times Hostel

hostel, Dali

Dali Times Hostel in Dali, China offers convenient 24/7 check-in and boasts a bar, library, barbecue area, and tour assistance desk.
This pet-friendly lodging provides room service, laundry services, and free Wi-Fi, plus free stays for children under 18 sharing a room without an extra bed.

No reviews

Da Bing's Cottage Youth Park

hostel, Dali

Da Bing's Cottage Youth Park is a hostel located in Tangjia Village, Yanghe 13th Group, offering easy access to Dali Ancient City and Erhai Lake.
This youth hostel provides internet, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, and parking, serving as a welcoming hub for travelers seeking shared stories and new friendships.

Best Dali hostels with laundry available

9.7 71 reviews

Cabin 7 Inn

hostel, Dali Ancient Town

Cabin 7 Inn in Dali, China offers a convenient stay within walking distance of Jiang Gong Ci, Yu'er Park, and Dali Foreigner Street, placing guests near major attractions. This pet-friendly guesthouse features air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a shared lounge, garden, and on-site bike and car rentals, plus amenities including free WiFi and room service.

9.2 185 reviews

Dali Loft Travelling With Hostel

hostel, Dali

Dali Loft Travelling With Hostel enjoys a central Dali location, an 8-minute walk from Wuhua Building, near Dali Foreigner Street, and within a 1.1-mile radius of Dali University and Yu'er Park.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers amenities including a terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, room service, parking, and a pool table; plus, it provides car and shuttle services and bilingual staff.

8.7 124 reviews

Zuji Youth Hostel

hostel, Dali

Zuji Youth Hostel in Dali, China is conveniently located about 10 miles from Dali Railway Station and 17 miles from Dali Fengyi Airport, with easy access to Tianlongbabu Film and Television City, Honglong Well, and Dali Catholic Church.
This excellent-rated hostel offers on-site parking, a restaurant, room service, a garden, and internet access, providing a relaxing atmosphere for both business and leisure travelers exploring Dali.

No reviews

大冰的小屋大理青年公园店

hostel, Dali Ancient Town

Da Bing's House Youth Park Dali Store is conveniently located in Dali's Ancient Town, about 3.2 kilometers from Guanyin Hollow, 4.2 kilometers from Erhai Gate, and 4.7 kilometers from Wuhua Building.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging offers a patio with mountain views, on-site restaurant and bar, free parking, and accommodates one guest; shared amenities include a terrace, lounge, and some bathrooms with bidets and hair dryers.

Best Hostels with Free Parking in Dali

Parking is easy at these Dali hostels, each offering free on-site spaces for your adventure.

9.8 445 reviews

Dali Ancient City Xisu Residential Hostel

hostel, Dali

Compare cheap hostels in Dali from 100+ sites!

388 Hostels in Dali

Zhenmei Holiday Hostel

Walking Flowers Inn

Distant Dream Hostel

Suxin Loushi Hostel

Fine Days Youth Hostel

Seven Seconds Time Capsule Youth Hostel

Caomu Light Luxury Hostel

Chunshan · Sky City Hostel

Shiyunju Hostel

Dali Bu Jue Xiao Hostel

A Time Hostel

Half-circle Coffee Hostel

Best Dali hostels with air conditioning

Earstring Hanging Gardens Hotel

Dali Lily Guest House

Darchin-ke Yushan Hostel

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel, Near The South Gate Of The Ancient City ,5 Mins Walk To The Old Town, Close To Er Hai Lake, Convenient Payment And Visa Cards Are Accepted

Browse Hostels with Breakfast Included in Dali

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel

Dali Upland International Youth Hostel

Fanju · Yunsu Hostel

Dali Little Home Sea View Hostel

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Dali

Popular destinations

Best Dali hostels with a locker

Xiyu Lake-view Hostel

Wentang Hostel Cangshan Mountain

Dali Times Hostel

Da Bing's Cottage Youth Park

Best Dali hostels with laundry available

Cabin 7 Inn

Dali Loft Travelling With Hostel

Zuji Youth Hostel

大冰的小屋大理青年公园店

Best Hostels with Free Parking in Dali

Dali Ancient City Xisu Residential Hostel