Air It's about 45 minutes' drive in a taxi or minibus to Dali Airport, which is located to the east of Xiaguan. Most months, the fare for a vehicle should be roughly 60元.

Bus North-bound long distance minibuses and coaches leave directly from Dali's Long Distance Bus Station for Lijiang and Zhongdian. While coaches are slightly more expensive, the minibuses are much more likely to allow smoking on board. If you're heading south you will be better served catching a public or minibus to Xiaguan and using one of the bus stations there. Public buses to Xiaguan (#4 and #8) depart reguarly from many points throughout the city, while minibuses (1.5元) terminate at the Bo Ai Lu / Yu Er Lu intersection (that's the first intersection when walking downhill in to town from Cang Shan Men (苍山门, "Cang Shan Gate"), also known as Xi Men (西门) or "West Gate").

Bicycle The old road south to Xiaguan is a more interesting choice for cyclists than the freeway, which completely lacks character. Unfortunately the road is under extensive reconstruction and is currently rather uneven, with lengthy dirt portions extremely dusty from passing vehicles (January 2006).

Heading north towards Lijiang, be prepared for a lengthy climb out of the Er Hai valley with relatively heavy traffic, relatively few places to stop for supplies and some lengthy hills.

In most of central Dali, walking is the only suitable means of transport, and many attractions are situated close enough to town that most visitors never use a private vehicle.

Buses Public buses run to and from major attractions such as The Three Pagodas, as well as to Xiaguan and its railway station. Private minibuses also ply the route to Xiaguan - a one way fare is 1.5元.

Animal and cart Horses, and occasionally sheep or other animals draw carts both around town and out of town to nearby attractions. Rates vary heavily with season, destination and bargaining power - better rates are available for groups.

Taxis Taxis are available to nearby destinations, though they are not allowed to enter the city proper and can only be found around the edge. Rates are usually bargained rather than metered. Useful for getting to sites like the De Hua Stone, or the cablecar to Cangshan quickly or without breaking a sweat.

Bicycle Whilst not exactly flat, Dali is an scenic location for cycling, even if the traffic can be heavy. Renting a bicycle for a day will set you back 10元 at most bike rental shops, though rates may be higher (15元) for newer, higher quality bikes.

Dali has no shortage of accomodation, with more being built every year.

Budget + Mid Range Most of the time, mid-range hotel rooms can be had for 50元. Bird Bar is a long-established favourite for atmosphere, though some guests may find it noisy when parties are thrown and its cheaper rooms do not have private toilets. Tibetan Guesthouse has private rooms, great character and a multitude of free internet terminals. Its rooms are somewhat cramped, though.