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Top Things to Do in Nanjing: Best Activities & Must-Sees

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Things to do in Nanjing

Based in Eastern China, Nanjing is one of the country’s Four Great Ancient Capitals, rich with historical significance. An ideal place for history buffs, Nanjing is fit to burst with landmarks, monuments and heritage sites spanning multiple Chinese dynasties. If this Chinese city piques your interest, our guide has you covered, with top recommendations on what to see and do in Nanjing.

What to Do in Nanjing Based on Your Stay

What to see and do whilst you’re staying in Nanjing depends a lot on how long you plan to be in the city for. The good news is that you don’t need weeks and weeks to explore the best of what Nanjing offers. Find below our itinerary recommendations, based on different group sizes, interests, and lengths of stays.

Length of Stay

Couple

Family

Friends

Solo

1 day

A boat trip on Xuanwu Lake Park and salted duck near Qinhuai River for dinner.

Head to the playgrounds at Xuanwu Lake Park and try on traditional costumes at Nanjing Museum.

Try local dishes on a Nanjing Street Food Tour and celebrate with cocktails at a rooftop bar in Xinjiekou.

Explore the historic mausoleums on Purple Mountain and take an evening stroll along the Qinhuai River.

2-3 days

Discover the historic temples and mausoleums on Purple Mountain, romantic walks along the Qinhuai River, and bike rides around Xuanwu Lake Park.

Ride the cable car up Purple Mountain, see marine life at Nanjing Underwater World, and run and play around Xuanwu Lake Park.

Manageable hikes up Purple Mountain, local eats at Gulou District, and shop for souvenirs at Fuzimiao.

Early morning walk along the Spirit Way, visit the Confucius Temple, and grab coffee in Laomendong.

4-5 days

Visit the city’s historic landmarks, learn about local heritage at Nanjing Museum, and try different local eats like salted duck and steamed buns.

Picnics in the city’s parks, have fun learning at Nanjing Science & Technology Museum, and burn off energy at the Tangshan National Forest Park.

Shop til you drop at Xinjiekou, unwind at the Tangshan hot springs, and tick off local foodie hot-spots around the city.

Follow the hidden alleys of Laomendong, follow Purple Mountain’s various trails, and take the train to visit nearby Zhenjiang.

The above piqued your interest? Keep reading to Learn more about what to do in Nanjing.

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Attractions & Tour Tickets

Must-Visit Districts in Nanjing

As Nanjing is made up of 11 districts, how do you know which ones to prioritise on your visit? From historic to scenic, modern to cultural, there’s plenty to discover across the different neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returner, discover our recommendations of Nanjing’s must-visit districts.

Qinhuai District: Historical Nanjing by the Water

Qinhuai District: Historical Nanjing by the Water

Sitting on the banks of its namesake river, Qinhuai is the historic heart of Nanjing. Think narrow old streets, lanterns reflected in the water, and old markets just asking to be explored. Qinhuai is also home to the reconstructed Confucius Temple, with plenty of eateries and shops in the surrounding area.

Xuanwu District: Culture and Nature in Nanjing’s Centre

Xuanwu District: Culture and Nature in Nanjing’s Centre

If museums and historic monuments are what you’re looking for, make sure Xuanwu is on your list. This central district is where you’ll find the ancient Ming city wall, where you can get fantastic views across Nanjing, as well as the Presidential Palace and city museum. And for those looking to take a breather, Xuanwu Lake is located here too.

Gulou District: Nanjing’s Lively and Vibrant Neighbourhood

Gulou District: Nanjing’s Lively and Vibrant Neighbourhood

For a higher level of energy and that irresistible city atmosphere, the Gulou district has you covered. What is essentially ‘downtown’ Nanjing, this neighbourhood is where you’ll find trendy restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Perfect for spending an evening in and experiencing the city’s food scene.

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Nanjing Hotel Recommendations

5 star

Central Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding10128 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.39km from city centre
This older five-star hotel does an excellent job, truly exceptional. Because the TV in our room couldn't cast, they incredibly moved us to new rooms three times until we were satisfied. They even offered us a complimentary breakfast buffet, which we truly appreciated. They genuinely made us feel at home and ensured we had a happy day (even though we only stayed one night). Based on our experience, we will definitely recommend this hotel to our friends and family! A special shout-out to the front desk staff, both the gentlemen and ladies, who were incredibly patient and proactively helped us resolve issues. Of course, all the other staff members were excellent as well!
From€46

Nanjing Jinling Hotel

9.6/10Excellent24407 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.13km from city centre
The room layout is reasonable, but the soundproofing is really poor. Last night, for a while, I kept hearing someone using the toilet, and it felt like they were going to burst through the wall! 🤪 For two consecutive days, we first went to the 56th floor of the Asia Pacific Tower for breakfast. Aside from the wonton noodles, coffee, and milk being hot, all the other snacks were cold, which was quite disheartening. I don't recommend dining there. Today, we switched to breakfast on the first floor of the Jinling Tower, and it was indeed a different experience. At the very least, the food was kept warm effectively, and there was a good variety, truly living up to the prestigious Jinling Hotel brand. Additionally, the Western restaurant on the second floor of the main restaurant served exquisite dishes, with a Tiramisu cake that was perfectly sweet without being cloying – absolutely superb. A special shout-out to the front desk staff member at the Jinling Tower (unfortunately, I forgot to ask for their name) who checked us in. They escorted us all the way to the lounge in the Asia Pacific Tower, sharing many interesting facts and useful tips along the way, making us feel right at home.
From€70

Golden Eagle Summit Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding6156 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.98km from city centre
The room was spacious! Although the hotel has been open for many years, the facilities are still well-maintained, and the service is decent. You can access the Jinying Shopping Mall directly from the second floor. Perhaps due to the room's orientation, there wasn't much of a view.
From€50

Sofitel Nanjing Galaxy Suning

9.2/10Very Good11897 Reviews
Shanxi Road Area Nanjing|3.04km from city centre
Every year for Chinese New Year's Eve dinner, my family likes to venture out of Shanghai to find a festive atmosphere. This year, we chose the Sofitel Nanjing. Location: It's just a few minutes' walk from Qingchun Plaza station, making dining very convenient. It's also close to Xuanwu Lake, Gulou, and Xinjiekou. Compared to the InterContinental Zifeng, it offers better value for money. Facilities: The hotel opened in 2006, so the rooms are a bit small and dated, but they are clean. There's a bathtub, which the kids enjoyed for their baths. The hotel provides children's slippers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and bath liners. Breakfast: They have all the essentials – bread, noodles, salads, fried rice, fried noodles, etc. The dishes are a bit on the vegetarian side. On New Year's Day, they had tangyuan (glutinous rice balls), which was a nice touch for the occasion. Service: I added the front desk on WeChat, and they responded instantly to my requests, which was impressive during the New Year period. 💯 The hotel had many New Year activities, but we didn't participate. I'd like to commend them for the travel route guide; it was very helpful for the elderly members of our family and made things much easier.
From€46

InterContinental Hotels NANJING by IHG

9.3/10Very Good13908 Reviews
Shanxi Road Area Nanjing|2.12km from city centre
This is my third time staying at InterContinental Nanjing, and the view is still great. This time, I got a complimentary upgrade to a room on the 68th floor, but it didn't face Xuanwu Lake, which was a bit disappointing. The furniture in the room is a little dated, understandable since the hotel has been open for 15 years. I felt the central air conditioning was too hot, especially in winter; even with the small side window, it felt a bit stuffy. Perhaps they could consider better temperature and humidity control, like adding humidifiers. There was some dust in the corner of the bedside table, and the toilet in the bathroom was an older model. Breakfast was just okay, nothing special, and the bacon wasn't well-cooked – that needs improvement. I remember having a fantastic dinner buffet at the InterContinental during National Day in '25, where each guest even received a sea cucumber. Compared to dinner, breakfast was significantly less impressive, and the Western pastries were just average. The service, however, was very warm and enthusiastic; they called both before and after my stay and even provided fruit. If you're coming to Nanjing, I'd still recommend it. Nanjing Grand Theatre is next to the hotel, and the Nanjing Impressions restaurant there has great food. There's also an observation deck on the 45th floor where you can use your room key to access the terrace and enjoy the view.
From€82

Shangri-La Nanjing

9.6/10Excellent14046 Reviews
Shanxi Road Area Nanjing|3.99km from city centre
The room was okay. I was given a high floor but there wasn't much of a view – just buildings below and a large billboard on an office building across the street. I requested a non-smoking room, but I still detected a faint smoky smell. Room service was just average. The front desk downstairs seemed unwilling to engage much; they just handed me a sheet with hotel policies. The supposed Michelin-starred restaurant downstairs required reservations. If you didn't have one, the staff basically told you to expect a wait of over two hours, making it impossible to eat. They said they could deliver to the room, but after waiting an hour, I had to call twice to follow up. The only good thing was breakfast; it had a decent variety, including local specialties, and even cotton candy and rice crispy treats that kids would enjoy. I booked the room through Trip.com, and it was supposed to come with a small doll. When I called to ask about it, they said they'd give it to me at checkout. At checkout, they initially said they didn't seem to have it, but then after a bit of searching, they found it.
From€87

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Business travel

Novotel Nanjing Central Suning

9.2/10Very Good9834 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.58km from city centre
Fantastic Location: Just a 3-minute walk from Exit 14 of Xinjiekou Subway Station, with a bustling commercial area right downstairs – perfect for shopping and dining. Clean and Comfortable: The room was spotless with no strange odors. The bedding was comfortable, and the soundproofing was excellent. Plus, being on a higher floor offered great views. Thoughtful Service: The front desk staff were enthusiastic and check-in was quick. They often offer complimentary upgrades. They even have robots for food delivery and free parking. Great Value for Money: A 4-star hotel in the city center at a reasonable price, suitable for both business and leisure travelers. ⚠️ Minor Criticisms (a few): • Some lower-floor rooms facing the street had average soundproofing. • The facilities lean towards a business style, and the decor isn't the most modern. • Breakfast variety was decent, but it could get a bit crowded during peak hours. Would you like me to put together some tips for avoiding pitfalls and choosing a room when booking on Trip.com?
From€48

Ibis Hotel Nanjing Confucius Temple

9.4/10Outstanding1607 Reviews
Confucius Temple Area Nanjing|1.6km from city centre
A bit of walk to the nearest metro station. Arrived at the hotel way before check-in time but the front desk is kind enough to allow early check-in without charge. Room and bathroom is clean with daily housekeeping. But the lights at the shower area was dim. Occasionally will experience smoking smell even though it is a non-smoking room. Most likely is due to the centralised air conditioning and the smoke may come from smoking room through the centralised system. The management may want to consider to look into the ventilation system. Breakfast overall was satisfactory. Overall experience was quite good.
From€26

Jumeirah Nanjing

9.5/10Outstanding3396 Reviews
South of Nanjing Olympic Sports Center (Banqiao New Town) Area Nanjing|9.05km from city centre
Extremely satisfied with Jumeirah Nanjing! This is my second stay here, and both times I've received a free room upgrade. This time, I was celebrating my birthday. I booked several days in advance, and the hotel not only upgraded my room but also decorated it for my birthday and even gave me a small cake. On the second day, they didn't call to remind me to check out until after 2 PM. Overall, the experience was excellent! I'll definitely stay here again. The price isn't expensive at all, truly fantastic value for money. The only reason I docked a point for service was during checkout. There was a man standing inside the corner near the front desk on the 41st floor, and I found him very strange. I don't understand why he was standing there. If it was to better assist guests or guide them, he should have a more natural expression and just nod and smile when he sees guests, instead of staring intently. At first, I thought he was a guest, but then I realized he was a staff member. Later, I saw him again after getting off the elevator, and he was still acting the same way. If he can't nod and smile, he should just stand there naturally. I looked at him, and he even disdainfully rolled his eyes. I mean, sir, do you even know you're working? Do you think you're some kind of statue just standing there?
From€105

Jiangsu Phoenix Palace Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding6043 Reviews
Shanxi Road Area Nanjing|2.99km from city centre
Facilities: Very comprehensive, with a fridge, bathtub, projector, and even an electronic scale. Hygiene: Clean, remote controls and bathrobes were all disinfected and placed in bags. Environment: The location is excellent, very close to the subway station. It's convenient for dining out, visiting Hongshan Forest Zoo, Nanjing Railway Station, and Fuzimiao (Confucian Temple). Service: The front desk staff were very friendly. Because of renovations nearby, they upgraded our room and assigned us a quieter one. Luggage storage is secure with numbered tags, so there's no fear of confusion.
From€34

Beehive Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding2434 Reviews
Pukou Yanjiang Zone Nanjing|14.89km from city centre
Nice hotel, the room a little bit hot but the employees help to fix it fast, the playground is good but need to be more clean have paper and the balls are a little dirty, the hot springs was really nice, my kids enjoy a lot this hotel. For sure we will come back again
SOLD OUT

Nanjing Grand Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding6110 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|1.47km from city centre
Bringing my elderly father for a medical appointment at the Provincial People's Hospital, we opted to stay at Nanjing Gunan Du, and it provided us with a fantastic experience. The room was spotlessly clean, the amenities were modern, and the price was very reasonable, offering excellent value for money! What's more, the hotel's location is superb, making it incredibly convenient for transportation. They even thoughtfully provided us with fresh fruit and cold beverages! We will definitely choose Gunan Du again on our next visit to Nanjing.
From€43

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Family friendly

Golden Eagle International Hotel

9.5/10Outstanding17962 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.54km from city centre
The hotel's front desk and service were both excellent. The location is also incredibly convenient. All the best restaurants are nearby, and Deji Plaza is just a short walk away. They even provided a complimentary minibar and gave me a free upgrade. The only minor drawback was how slow the robot delivery service was. Guests could honestly just go downstairs to pick up their food themselves, as there might be a communication gap between the delivery riders and the concierge, which often led to food taking 20-30 minutes to arrive. So, if you're ordering takeout, it's probably quicker to go down and get it yourself!
From€93

the Sifang Hotel Nanjing, Autograph Collection

8.9/10507 Reviews
Jiangpu Tangquan Area Nanjing|15.36km from city centre
Service: The overall service is almost responsive. In the evening, the air conditioner was not working, so the staff sent four heaters. The shuttle bus waited for about three to five minutes in the morning, and there was a call to urge during the process. The hotel also needs to collect a deposit of 2,000? Now Ctrip rarely collects deposits. Facilities: It is not at the level of Marriott at all. The facilities of the 3,500 villa are not as good as those of the express hotel. The Buddha's Hand Villa we stayed in, the bathroom in Figure 6 is ridiculously small! The shower room can only stand one person at most. All the furniture in the room has been used for at least ten years, and it is not even as good as the facilities of 🍊 All Seasons, which is ridiculous... Hygiene: The vents in the closet are full of dust, and there are holes on the stools in the room. Safety: The most important thing is that the door in Figure 10 leads to the basement! The basement is like a maze and I don’t know if it will lead to the outside! ! As we all know, this is an open park. How is the safety of the guests guaranteed! ! In addition, all four rooms have doors leading to the terrace, which can be locked from the inside, but the terraces on the outside are separated by four beads, which can be opened by someone with intentions, which makes people feel insecure. . . The overall park environment is built on the mountain, and the air is very good. The environment is unique, but the facilities are really not good...People who have requirements for room facilities can take a detour.
From€44

Jinjiang Metropolo Nanjing Confucius temple Center Hotel

9.3/10Very Good3068 Reviews
Confucius Temple Area Nanjing|2.08km from city centre
The hotel boasts an excellent location, just a 5-minute walk to Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple), and within walking distance of three subway lines, with the closest, Line 3, being only 5 minutes away. The hotel environment is clean and tidy. While the facilities aren't brand new, they are well-maintained and spotless. The front desk service is great, always trying to accommodate guests' needs. Highly recommended! The hotel also offers free parking, which is a 10-minute walk away. After we mentioned we were driving, they even sent us a text with the parking location.
From€30

voco NANJING ORIENTAL PEARL by IHG

9.6/10Excellent5492 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|1.32km from city centre
I arrived late at night... The lady at the front desk was very efficient in getting me checked in... I booked a large suite, so I could stay with my child, feeling safe and secure... The price was equivalent to the cost of two regular rooms combined, so it felt a bit expensive, maybe like 1.5 times the price... For two rooms, the amenities were definitely lacking quite a bit... The room was quite smart with automated curtains and lighting... and there was a smart speaker (Xiao Du)... There was a coffee machine and pods, so if the breakfast coffee wasn't enough, the room could provide a top-up. If that still wasn't enough, there's a Starbucks downstairs, so the location is excellent, very convenient for getting around... The room didn't include breakfast; breakfast was an extra charge... Adding that to the room price made it really quite expensive... The difference compared to other standard rooms that include breakfast is huge... However, the breakfast selection was very rich, with freshly made seafood congee, Nanjing local potstickers... both Chinese and Western options... The decor was also quite modern... And there's a spacious terrace... It would be very pleasant to sit outside when the sun is out in spring or autumn. I saw in reviews that there were complimentary souvenirs, but I didn't see any when I checked out, probably because it was a busy time... But that doesn't change anything, I would still come back to Nanjing and stay here again next time.
From€59

Grand Metropark Nanjing

9.2/10Very Good24569 Reviews
The Ming Palace and Nanjing Museum Area Nanjing|3.71km from city centre
The newly renovated rooms have a great layout, and the bathroom is also very spacious with toiletries on par with a five-star hotel. The breakfast offers a wide variety of choices. The hotel is right next to the Nanjing Museum and less than 400 meters from Metro Line 2, making it super convenient to get around – the location is absolutely fantastic. There are also three or four restaurants on-site, which is great if you don't feel like going out to eat. It offers excellent value for money, and I would definitely consider staying here again.
From€45

Holiday Inn NANJING AQUA CITY by IHG

9.4/10Outstanding5542 Reviews
Confucius Temple Area Nanjing|1.97km from city centre
I ended up staying at this hotel by chance. On my first day, I parked downstairs while heading to Fuzi Temple and happened to spot the Holiday Inn. I booked the Nalong family-themed room through the platform, and they upgraded me to a larger family room. Since I was staying for two days and wanted to add another night, my original room type wasn't available. So, on the second day, I had to check out and move to the Nalong family-themed room. The manager, Wang Jingyi, even called personally to apologize and offered complimentary breakfast. The service was excellent, and the hotel facilities were also very good. The family room was incredibly spacious, and my child absolutely loved the Nalong room we moved to later. The hotel's location is super convenient, right by Fuzi Temple and the Qinhuai River, and close to the subway.
From€46

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Breakfast

Holiday Inn NANJING XUANWU LAKE by IHG

9.3/10Very Good2964 Reviews
Train Station Area Nanjing|4.06km from city centre
This hotel is excellent. It's my second time staying here in Nanjing, and both the dining experience and the front desk staff who handled my check-in were very professional and polite. The room was spacious, and I even got an upgrade. I came to Nanjing for a concert and also visited Zijin Mountain, leaving feeling completely satisfied. The hotel offers integrated dining and accommodation, which is super convenient, and the dishes are definitely commendable. I really can't praise it enough!
From€43

Grand New Century Resort Gaochun Nanjing

9.5/10Outstanding4556 Reviews
Gaochun Area Nanjing|80.99km from city centre
The housekeeper Qiqi upgraded us to a lake view room with a yard on the first floor outside the scenic area for free. The environment is quiet and elegant, the facilities are complete and intelligent, the check-in at the front desk is fast, the housekeeper Qiqi's service is considerate, and the cost-effectiveness is super high. Highly recommended!
SOLD OUT

Junheng Hotel

9.3/10Very Good2693 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|2.42km from city centre
The room is very nice. Very cost-effective. The service attitude is very good. Not bad, you can book with confidence. It is very quiet at night and you can drink and ice cubes are delivered to the room. Not bad, not bad
From€41

Nanjing Grand Yiju Hotel (Xinjiekou)

9.3/10Very Good2506 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.37km from city centre
I've always wanted to visit Nanjing, and with the kids off school for summer, I decided to bring them here for a trip. After careful selection, I chose this hotel with its Zen-inspired decor. The hotel boasts an excellent location, right next to Metro Lines 1 and 2, making it incredibly convenient to reach Nanjing's main attractions. The rooms are clean and spotless, and even feature automatic bidet toilets. The staff are all very warm and welcoming. We connected with customer service via WeChat, and I was truly impressed by how patiently and promptly they responded to any questions or issues during our stay. The children thoroughly enjoyed their time here, from the food to the accommodation. Next time I bring my parents to Nanjing, I will definitely choose this hotel again!
From€24

Jinling Mansion

8.9/101686 Reviews
Hexi Binjiang Scenic Belt Area Nanjing|2.37km from city centre
The hotel is great for the price. Good location across from a park with a lake. Beds were comfortable, and clean. The room was cleaned daily. Bottled water provided. The towels were soft and absorbent. The buffet breakfast, at 30 RMB was good. Coffee! A good selection of choices. You can fry your own eggs. Steamed buns and fried noodles. A good choice. Friendly staff. A convenience store right off the lobby. One peculiarity: The toilet was immediately behind the door, which always hit it when entering. The shower is small, and the water escapes to soak the bathroom floor... But towels provided. Toiletries provided are good.
From€21

UrCove by HYATT Nanjing Downtown

9.3/10Very Good2884 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.81km from city centre
This trip to Nanjing, I chose Atour, a hotel chain I've been eyeing in various cities. However, my experience at the Nanjing branch was a bit less impressive than in other cities. The hotel's location is quite central, less than a 10-minute walk from the subway station. Although the lobby faces a main intersection, it feels like the layout of the dining and front desk areas wasn't very well-planned initially. They ended up abandoning the prime corner entrance and opened a new one on a side street instead. Since the hotel probably opened in 2021, it feels a bit older compared to Atour branches that opened in 2024 or 2025 in other cities. The ventilation system also seemed to have a slight issue. I'm quite particular about bedding, and my preferred memory foam pillow isn't standard in the rooms. If you need one, be sure to request it early, or they might run out quickly… However, I found the standard low pillow in the room to be quite comfortable and acceptable. The mattress here is a bit on the soft side, which might be something to consider if you have back issues… Of course, the standard room amenities like separate wet and dry areas in the bathroom, Laifen or Dyson hair dryers (depending on the room type), bathrobes, and capsule coffee machines are all still provided, and the water pressure is strong with stable water temperature… These aspects were quite satisfactory. The hotel's basic washer-dryer machines are sufficient, and their availability is displayed on the TV. Still, I recommend heading there a bit early to wait, or you might find them all in use… The gym equipment, possibly due to space constraints, is located with the laundry room, and there are a bit fewer machines than ideal. I must commend the hotel's service. Initially, I had a slight issue with the room I was assigned, but after communicating, it was resolved smoothly! Among the Atour hotels I've stayed at, the breakfast here had a rather average taste, though the variety of dishes was quite rich. If you can redeem points for it, it's fine, but I wouldn't really recommend paying for it… I hope this branch improves and gets better in the future!
From€40

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Gym

Crystal Orange Nanjing Museum

9.6/10Excellent4535 Reviews
The Ming Palace and Nanjing Museum Area Nanjing|2.65km from city centre
Clean, spacious room for family of 4, good service and best value for money. Although the Location is near to attractions places but you still need to get taxi or otherwise need to walk very far. Overall happy with the stay.
From€37

Ibis Styles Hotel (Nanjing South Railway Station North Square)

9.6/10Excellent1943 Reviews
Yuhuatai Area Nanjing|7.92km from city centre
For this self-guided trip, I brought a large suitcase with winter clothes since I was staying for a long time! So, I looked for a hotel close to the train station and subway! It's super convenient for getting in and out. After comparing several options and reading reviews, I finally chose this hotel! The location is excellent; right out of the North Square, look to your right, and you'll see the hotel's lime green sign! Just cross the street, and you're there! The hotel lobby has a trendy vibe that young people would appreciate, with a great design! The hotel staff, especially the young lady, was wonderful! She even gave me a complimentary breakfast and sweetly told me to ask her if I needed more water! The room was spacious, bright, clean, very new, and quiet! The breakfast had a good variety and was delicious! What I really want to praise is how the young lady patiently explained how to get around and what to see! She was so helpful! This was my first stop in Nanjing, and I had a fantastic impression! If I get the chance to come back, I'll definitely choose this hotel again!
From€26

Nanjing GoldStar Hotel (Xinjiekou Deji Plaza)

9.1/10Good2294 Reviews
Xinjiekou Area (Downtown) Nanjing|0.36km from city centre
Two of my colleagues recommended this place to me. I have to say, the service here is truly excellent. On the afternoon of the 6th, the front desk lady saw it was my birthday on my ID and very thoughtfully wished me a happy birthday, which was heartwarming. My child was bumped into by a cleaner moving things in the elevator, and the staff member even called to apologize, giving my child a small toy and two bottles of coke. With service like that, you can't even get mad. The room is also great; the cleaning staff do an exceptionally thorough job every day. The location is convenient for getting anywhere, and the price is quite reasonable. My child was especially happy, and we'll definitely stay here again next time we visit.
From€24

Huangpu Hotel

9.4/10Outstanding4652 Reviews
The Ming Palace and Nanjing Museum Area Nanjing|2.58km from city centre
The location is good. It is opposite the main hospital, which is very convenient to go to the hospital. It is also close to the scenic spots. The door is the beautiful Wutong Avenue, which is beautiful in all seasons. From the lobby to the room, the entire decoration reflects the unique characteristics of the Republic of China, which is good. The service is very good. There are responsible security guards at the door to direct the vehicle to park and cover it with a sunshade. Parking is also free. The lobby staff are enthusiastic and professional. They greet you warmly when you enter and exit. The consulting travel guides and tea and treasure boxes provided are very good. There are also free laundry rooms and gyms, which are very practical. The room is clean, bright and tidy. Every staff member is very enthusiastic and considerate in details. Xiao Xue at the front desk is very enthusiastic and patiently introduces the scenic spots and food. The free wheelchairs provided by the hotel are also super heartwarming. This time I took my parents for a check-up and it was much more convenient to use a wheelchair. The overall experience is very good, cost-effective, and worth recommending
From€35

The Westin Nanjing Xuanwu Lake

9.5/10Outstanding6418 Reviews
Shanxi Road Area Nanjing|3.38km from city centre
This is my second time staying at this hotel. I've tried both the Executive Lake View and the standard Lake View rooms, and while they offer a partial view of the lake, it's still quite nice. What I love most about staying here is its convenience. It's just three stops from Nanjing Railway Station, and you can access the hotel directly from Jinmao Shopping Mall after exiting the subway. The mall itself has some great shops I enjoy browsing, like POP and Cha Yan Yue Se. Dining is also easy, though I've unfortunately missed out on Nanjing Dapaidang twice now! The main reason I keep coming back, however, is the opportunity to run around Xuanwu Lake, from pre-dawn until sunrise. Xuanwu Lake also offers many other places to wander, including a Cha Yan Yue Se and a Xueba Creative Store, neither of which are available in Shanghai. There are also plenty of attractions nearby. My absolute favorite is Hongshan Forest Zoo. All the informational signs are handwritten, the animals have spacious habitats, and their fur looks so glossy and well-maintained – they must be living well. The park itself also has a wonderful wild charm.
From€76

Jinling Mandarin Garden Hotel Nanjing

9.4/10Outstanding7631 Reviews
Confucius Temple Area Nanjing|2.23km from city centre
This is our go-to hotel every time we visit Nanjing. It has a great location, is a classic five-star, and both the facilities and service are excellent. Being right at the entrance to the Confucius Temple scenic area means you can rest immediately after a tiring day of sightseeing. The hotel's dining is reasonably priced and delicious, offering authentic Huaiyang cuisine. The family room comes with two beds, one large and one small, and also includes amenities for children, which is fantastic.
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Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Nanjing

Nanjing’s rich historical legacy means there is plenty to do here. But if you’re a little stuck on what to prioritise or where to even start with your planning, check out our recommendations on what to jot down on your to-do list.

Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone

Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone

Peaceful and picturesque, the Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone, also known as Niushoushan, is an area of religious significance, being the birthplace of Niutou Zen Buddhism. Not only can you find the striking curved architecture of the underground Usnisa Palace, but Niushou Mountain is also home to the world’s only surviving Buddha's Parietal Relic, the skull of Shakyamuni. For those wanting to stretch their legs, there are plenty of forest trails to spend leisurely hours exploring.

Prebook your visit to Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone from £16 on Trip.com!

Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Home to over 260 species, the Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo is a must for animal-lovers. Spot adorable white-faced Langurs, tigers, and giant pandas (of course) in a variety of large forest-style areas. Part nature park, part zoo, a trip here is guaranteed to entertain the whole family.

Get ahead by ordering your ticket to Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo from £7 on Trip.com!

Zhongshan Mountain National Park

Zhongshan Mountain National Park

Also known as Purple Mountain, Zhongshan Mountain National Park gets its colloquial name from the purple-tinged clouds often spotted at the top. Featuring two historic museums, a temple, an observatory, and botanical gardens, this scenic spot is popular for a reason. Whether you’re in the mood for a gentle stroll or an in-depth look at the resting place of Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Purple Mountain is a must-do when visiting Nanjing.

Sort out admission to Zhongshan Mountain National Park’s different attractions on Trip.com, starting at £4.

Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area

Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area

Step back in time with a visit to the Grand Baoen Temple, built on the site of the ancient Bao’en Temple. This heritage attraction now features a reconstruction of the former Porcelain Pagoda, along with multiple exhibits detailing the history and cultural significance of this centre of Buddhist practice during the Ming Dynasty. What’s more, you can enjoy the peaceful surrounding gardens too.

Prearrange your Grand Baoen Temple tickets, starting from £9 on Trip.com.

Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple)

Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple)

Built in 1034 on the north bank of the Qinhuai River, the Confucius Temple complex, also known as Fuzimiao, has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. It honours Chinese philosopher Confucius, and is immediately recognisable for its vibrant red walls, glazed green roofs, and intricate details. Inside, you’ll find a large statue of Confucius, the awe-inspiring Dacheng Hall, and the Blue Cloud Tower. Today, it stands as a heritage centre to traditional Chinese culture and Confucianism. 


Book entry to Fuzimiao from £3.50 on Trip.com

Nanjing, a hub of Chinese heritage

Xiaochunianghuaiyangcai (xinjiekou)

Xiaopanji duck blood and vermicelli soup

As one of the country’s ancient capitals, Nanjing has seen over six dynasties rule from within its city’s walls (which still stand today!) And as such, its legacy as a political and cultural centre means there is a vast array of palaces, mausoleums, temples, pagodas, and historical landmarks unlike anywhere else.

For anyone looking to delve into Nanjing’s food scene, there are a few areas you’ll want to prioritise to get a true taste of the city and its Jiangsu cuisine. Dishes like salted duck, duck blood and vermicelli soup, stinky tofu (we promise it tastes better than it sounds), and fried rice snacks can be found in the Qinhuai River area, Shiziqiao and Hunan Road, and Laomendong. Be sure to also check out the night markets at Fuzimiao and Shiziqiao to get a little taste of everything!

Best Time to Visit Nanjing

Season

Weather

Notes

Activities & Festivals

🌸 Spring (Mar–May)

Moving from cool to pleasantly warm, increasing in humidity.  Might be a little bit of rain.

Temperatures can go up and down from morning to night, so be prepared with easy-to-remove layers.

Lantern Festival, Tomb Sweeping Day, Cherry Blossom Season, and Labour Day.

☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug)

Temperatures rising from warm to hot, humidity, and increasing amounts of thunderstorms.

Stay hydrated, prioritise indoor attractions for the latter summer months. And of course, bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes!

Dragon Boat Festival, and summer lantern events

🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Going from warm and humid to cool and dry as the season progresses.

A great time to visit Nanjing, with comfortable temperatures and a chance to go autumn leaf-peeping.

Mid-Autumn Festival, National Day, and autumn lantern events.

❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb)

Cold and damp, slowly warming up as spring approaches.

Dress in insulated layers to keep warm, especially if planning outdoor activities.

Lunar New Year, and Lantern Festival.

Whatever time of year you plan to visit Nanjing, get ahead and book your activities through Trip.com

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Day Trips from Nanjing

Due to its central location and popularity with visitors, Nanjing is a fantastic base for anyone wanting to explore more of the surrounding Jiangnan area. Not only is it a gateway to the Jiangsu, Anhui, and Zhejiang provinces, but high-speed trains are also accessible from the city. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to discover more of this area of China, keep reading for recommendations for the best day trips from Nanjing.

Best Day Trips from Nanjing

Wuxi: Lakeside culture

Along with the nickname ‘Little Shanghai’, Wuxi is best known for sitting on the banks of the scenic Taihu Lake, along with a variety of cultural attractions. Take a boat tour, marvel at the 88-foot Lingshan Grand Buddha, and tuck into freshwater fish and crab dishes. Ideal for those looking to add even more history to their trip!

  • Average travel time: under an hour from Nanjing
  • Transport: departures from Nanjing South Railway Station and Nanjing Railway Station 
  • Must-sees: Lingshan Grand Buddha, Taihu Lake, Wuxi Museum, and the ancient streets around Nanchan Temple

Zhenjiang: Bring your appetite

Situated on the southern bank of the Yangtze River, the port city of Zhenjiang is absolutely one for the foodies. Known for its unique black vinegar, there are a variety of braised meat and river fish dishes to try at local hot spots. This walkable destination is also home to ancient temples, teahouses, and classical gardens, and all is very easy to do in a day.

  • Average travel time: between 30 and 40 minutes from Nanjing
  • Transport: departures from Nanjing South Railway Station
  • Must-sees: Jinshan Temple, black vinegar factory tours, and Dingmao Tower

Yangzhou: A little peace and quiet

Explore the north bank of the Yangtze River with a visit to Yangzhou. Nicknamed ‘Little Suzhou’, this city is popular for its canals, classical Chinese gardens, and historic streets filled with traditional architecture. Offering a far quieter pace and fewer crowds than Nanjing, Yangzhou is the perfect place for taking a breather on your sightseeing trip.

  • Average travel time: around 1-1.5 hours from Nanjing
  • Transport: departures from Nanjing South Railway Station
  • Must-sees: Slender West Lake, Daming Temple, Geyuan Garden, and Grand Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site

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FAQ – Things to Do in Nanjing

  • What are the best things to do in Nanjing?

    What is considered ‘best’ in anything is always subjective and dependent on individual interests and budget. However, when it comes to what often tops the list of attractions in Nanjing, there are a number that do crop up frequently. Both the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum on Purple Mountain, Confucius Temple, and Xuanwu Lake Park continue to delight and engage visitors, and are well worth a visit.

  • What are things to do in Nanjing at night?

    If you’re looking to celebrate into the evening, Nanjing has a vibrant nightlife scene that is ready to be discovered. When it comes to things to do in Nanjing at night, we recommend starting with taking in the city’s historic landmarks at night, especially the Confucius Temple. Laomendong Old Town has some lovely local bars to enjoy, and for those who want to really let loose, the Xinjiekou district is where to find nightclubs and trendy rooftop bars.

  • What are fun things to do in Nanjing?

    If you and your travel group are looking to keep the energy levels up when visiting Nanjing, we highly recommend heading out for a street food tour and hopping on a Qinhuai River cruise at night. Culture and history are Nanjing’s primary vibe, but there is also plenty to do for those who want to focus on something a little different. Think zoos, aquariums, and theme parks.

  • What is the best time to visit Nanjing?

    For a comfortable, mostly dry trip, autumn is the best time of year to visit Nanjing. The humidity is pretty low during this season, meaning you can explore plenty of the city’s outdoor attractions without feeling like you’re turning into a human puddle.

  • Is Nanjing worth visiting?

    Nanjing is absolutely worth visiting! If you love learning about cultural traditions and trying new food, Nanjing is the place for you. With a brilliant blend of heritage and nature, the city is steeped in centuries of history that is not only beautiful to look at, but engaging to learn about too.

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