Start with a lighter arrival day
If you land late or have a long transfer, leave the first evening for check-in and a meal near your hotel. A relaxed start gives you time to sort out mobile data, payment and the next day's meeting point. Save longer sightseeing for a full day in the city.
Pick a theme for each day
A panda visit, an old-street walk and an evening performance can make a varied Chengdu day. History-focused travelers might give more time to museums or Sanxingdui instead. Tell your planner which experiences matter most, especially if you are traveling with children or prefer a slower pace.
Use Chengdu as a base, not a race
Chengdu can connect naturally with a short Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng trip or a longer route toward Jiuzhaigou. The best sequence depends on your arrival, departure and available days. Keep some flexibility for traffic, weather and how much walking your group enjoys.