Nanjing Travel Guide

This Nanjing travel guide is for travelers who want long, tangible history—ancient city walls, landmark sites, and a strong sense of place. Inside, you’ll get a comfortable, efficient plan: a clear 2-day itinerary, where to stay to reduce commuting, the metro lines that matter, and the easiest high-speed train route from Shanghai.

It’s also a great “second trip to China” destination if you’ve already done Shanghai.

Nanjing travel guide Zifeng Tower (Greenland Center) skyline landmark in Nanjing — Nanjing travel guide: Zifeng Tower (Greenland Center) skyline landmark in Nanjing

Nanjing Travel Guide: At a Glance

Recommended stay (1–2 days)

2 days is the most comfortable pace for first-timers

Best for

history, city-wall walks, the Purple Mountain area, and the Qinhuai River

Easy from Shanghai?

Yes—high-speed rail makes it simple.

Top Things to Do in Nanjing (First-Timer Must-Sees)

Walk a section of the Nanjing City Wall

Walk a good section of the Nanjing City Wall

Spend a day in the Purple Mountain area

Spend a day in the Purple Mountain area (with smart timing)

Evening walk around the Qinhuai River area

Do one relaxed evening around the Qinhuai River area

Nanjing Itinerary (2 Days, History-Focused)

Day 1: City wall + old-city atmosphere

Use this as your core plan: 2 Days in Nanjing: A History-Focused Itinerary

Day 2: Purple Mountain highlights + museums/landmarks

Nanjing travel guide panoramic view of Xuanwu Lake in Nanjing — Nanjing travel guide: panoramic view of Xuanwu Lake in Nanjing

Nanjing City Wall (best walking sections for this travel guide)

Choose the best Nanjing City Wall walk for your time and energy: Nanjing City Wall: Best Sections to Walk + How to Get There

Purple Mountain (efficient visit in this Nanjing travel guide)

For the simplest route, best timing, and what to prioritize: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum & Purple Mountain: How to Visit Efficiently

How to Get to Nanjing from Shanghai (High-Speed Train)

For station choices, tickets, and day trip vs overnight timing: Shanghai to Nanjing High-Speed Train: Routes, Stations, and Tips

Getting Around Nanjing (Metro Tips)

Nanjing is straightforward by metro if you use the right lines and station clusters: Nanjing Metro Guide: Key Lines for Major Sights

Where to Stay in Nanjing (Best Areas)

Choose an area based on your goals (sightseeing efficiency vs night atmosphere): Where to Stay in Nanjing: Best Areas for Sightseeing and Nightlife

Best Time to Visit Nanjing (Weather & Crowds)

For heat, crowds, and the best months for outdoor sights like the wall and Purple Mountain: Best Time to Visit Nanjing: Weather, Heat, and Peak Holidays

Next Stop: Nanjing → Huangshan (Transport Guide)

If you’re continuing to Yellow Mountain, use this realistic transport guide: Nanjing to Huangshan: How to Travel (Realistic Options)

Nanjing travel guide Xuanwu Gate entrance on the Nanjing City Wall — Nanjing travel guide: Xuanwu Gate entrance on the Nanjing City Wall

Nanjing Travel Guide FAQ

Is Nanjing worth visiting from Shanghai?
Yes—especially if you want history and a different vibe from modern Shanghai.

How many days should I stay in Nanjing?
Two days is ideal for first-timers. One day works only if you keep it tightly focused.

What to Read Next (Nanjing Travel Guide)

2 Days in Nanjing Itinerary
Nanjing Metro Guide
Nanjing City Wall Walk