For a first-time visitor, spending 3 to 5 days in Chengdu is generally recommended to experience the city's main highlights and cultural atmosphere. A typical 3-day itinerary allows enough time to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding during the morning activity peak, explore historical sites like the Wuhou Shrine or Du Fu Thatched Cottage, and enjoy the local lifestyle at People's Park or the Kuanzhai Alleys. If you wish to delve deeper into the city's famous culinary scene with a dedicated food tour or take day trips to nearby attractions such as the Leshan Giant Buddha, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, or Mount Qingcheng, extending your stay to 5 days is ideal. Those planning to use Chengdu as a gateway to more distant locations like Jiuzhaigou or Mount Emei may need to add several more days to their total travel time to account for transportation and exploration of those scenic areas.