Chongqing’s sprawling landscape, perched on canyon slopes and brimming with history, offers no shortage of grand experiences. Take a cable car ride across the Yangtze River for a stunning view of the skyline or cruise down the Yangtze River, discovering historical treasures like Baidi City and Zhang Fei Temple, which showcase Chongqing’s deep cultural roots. Doing so will make you wonder how this place only ranks #33 for its Sights & Landmarks (hint: it hasn’t been discovered by global urban travelers yet).
Home to more than 12 million residents (and twice that many around it), Chongqing is much more than a city—it’s a testament to China’s westward economic development. Ranking #23 in our overall Prosperity index (including #7 for both its connected airport and #6 for its massive convention center), the city is transforming rapidly, even by China’s twitchy standards. The Chongqing Municipal Government’s 2024 master plan outlines a vision to elevate the city to international mega-city status by 2035, positioning it as a global gateway and a central hub for international exchanges in China’s heartland. With five civilian airports serving the city, a sixth is planned to open by 2035, propelling the city into the top ranks of global aviation hubs.