Nanjing Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat
Nanjing, the ancient capital of six dynasties, is one of China’s most underrated travel destinations. Blending rich history, scenic landscapes, modern culture, and delicious Jiangsu cuisine, Nanjing offers an unforgettable travel experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a deeper cultural journey, this Nanjing Travel Guide covers the must-visit attractions, top foods, best hotels, transportation tips, and travel recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip.
Why Visit Nanjing?
Nanjing is ideal for travelers who love:
- Historical sites (city walls, ancient palaces, mausoleums)
- Nature (lakes, mountains, riverside views)
- Museums & culture
- Relaxed, less crowded travel compared to Beijing or Shanghai
Its blend of heritage and modern city life makes it perfect for photography lovers, food enthusiasts, families, and solo travelers.
Top Attractions in Nanjing
1. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵)
A national landmark with grand steps, peaceful forest pathways, and panoramic views of Purple Mountain. Visit early to avoid crowds.
2. Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the Sacred Way lined with stone animals. A must-see for history lovers.
3. Confucius Temple (夫子庙) & Qinhuai River
A lively area full of lantern-lit streets, river cruises, snacks, and traditional markets. Best visited at night.
4. Nanjing City Wall (南京城墙)
One of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Walk along the top for amazing views of Xuanwu Lake and skyscrapers.
5. Xuanwu Lake (玄武湖)
A quiet escape right in the city center—perfect for walking, biking, or enjoying lotus blossom season.
6. Presidential Palace (总统府)
Explore China’s political history through well-preserved buildings and scenic courtyards.
What to Eat in Nanjing
Nanjing is famous for its light, flavorful Jiangsu cuisine. Don’t miss:
- Salted Duck (盐水鸭) – iconic Nanjing specialty
- Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup (鸭血粉丝汤) – comforting street favorite
- Lion’s Head Meatballs (狮子头) – tender and juicy
- Qinhuai Eight Delicacies (秦淮八绝) – traditional snacks
- Red Bean Glutinous Rice Cake (桂花赤豆元宵) – sweet and fragrant
Tip: Head to Laomendong for great food & photography spots.
Where to Stay
Best areas for tourists:
- Xinjiekou (新街口) – central, modern, convenient shopping
- Confucius Temple Area (夫子庙) – cultural atmosphere
- Xuanwu District – quiet, scenic, close to parks
Budget to luxury options are widely available.
Getting Around Nanjing
Transportation is simple and tourist-friendly:
- Metro: clean, fast, covers most attractions
- Taxi/Didi: affordable
- Bikes: great for lakeside and city wall areas
- High-speed train: Nanjing is only
- 1 hour from Shanghai
- 1.5 hours from Hangzhou
- 3.5 hours from Beijing
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (Mar–May): flowers blooming, perfect weather
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): golden leaves, great for photography
- Winter: quiet season, occasional snow on Purple Mountain
- Summer: hot but lively (avoid midday heat)
Travel Tips
- Buy tickets online for major attractions
- Avoid weekends for Confucius Temple
- Bring comfortable walking shoes
- Try a night cruise on Qinhuai River
- Learn a bit of Nanjing dialect culture—it’s fun and charming!
Nanjing is a city where ancient dynasties, lakeside beauty, and modern lifestyle blend seamlessly. Whether you love history, food, nature, or photography, Nanjing offers unforgettable experiences that rival China’s biggest destinations.
FAQ
1. Is Nanjing worth visiting for tourists?
Yes. Nanjing is one of China’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant cities. It offers UNESCO heritage sites, scenic lakes, modern shopping districts, and delicious Jiangsu cuisine—making it ideal for first-time travelers.
2. How many days do I need in Nanjing?
Most visitors spend 2–4 days in Nanjing. Two days are enough for the major attractions, but 4 days allow you to fully enjoy museums, lakes, Purple Mountain, and local food.
3. What is the best time to visit Nanjing?
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is cool and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
4. Is Nanjing easy to travel around?
Yes. Nanjing has an efficient metro system, affordable taxis, and convenient bike rentals. Most tourist spots are close to metro stations, making transportation stress-free.
5. What food is Nanjing famous for?
Nanjing is known for Salted Duck (盐水鸭), Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup, Lion’s Head Meatballs, and local snacks from the Qinhuai area. These dishes represent the gentle, flavorful style of Jiangsu cuisine.