Chongqing Weather in October

Mild days, damp walks

October feels cooler than September, with daytime highs around 23°C and evenings near 15°C. Rain can interrupt plans: showers fall on 17 days, and skies are often cloudy. You'll still get comfortable weather for wandering around Ciqikou's old lanes or taking in the river views from the Yangtze River Cableway.

Wet pavements and low cloud can make steep stairways slippery and far-off views hazy. Keep flexible plans for a rainy spell, and save indoor stops such as the Three Gorges Museum for a grey afternoon. It's less sticky than September, but it's not a reliably sunny month.

National Day crowds

China's National Day holiday runs from October 1 to 7. Chongqing draws plenty of domestic visitors then, especially around Hongya Cave and Jiefangbei. Trains, hotels and popular sights can feel packed, and prices often rise during the holiday.

If you hate crowds, travel after the holiday week. The rest of October is generally calmer, though it won't be as dry as November. The holiday can make a short city break feel rushed, so leave extra time for getting between busy sights.

Make the most of the city

October suits food stops, city walks and indoor sightseeing better than a full schedule of exposed viewpoints. A bowl of Chongqing hotpot is especially welcome after a rainy evening; choose your spice level carefully, as the broth can be fiery.

Travelling with kids? Take Line 2 to Liziba, where the monorail passes through an apartment building. The station's viewing area is an easy place to watch trains go by, even if rain makes a longer riverside walk less appealing. If clouds hide the skyline, try again later rather than spending the day chasing a clear view.