Nanjing China 2 Day Itinerary

Nanjing 2-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Attractions & Modern Exploration

Morning:

  1. Check-in at The Nanjing White Swan Hotel (located in the heart of downtown, offers convenient transportation and comfortable rooms)
  2. Breakfast at Taipingyuan Restaurant (traditional Chinese breakfast with local specialties like Nanjing salted duck eggs and baked steamed buns)
  3. Visit Fuzimiao (a complex of temples, gardens, and ancient architecture dating back to the Ming dynasty)
  4. Explore Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty)

Afternoon:

  1. Lunch at Nanjing Impressions Restaurant (authentic Nanjing cuisine with a modern twist)
  2. Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (the final resting place of Sun Yat-sen, founder of modern China) and its surrounding park
  3. Explore Xuanwu Lake (a large freshwater lake in the center of Nanjing with scenic views and a variety of activities)

Evening:

  1. Dinner at Nanjing Roujiaobao Xian (try the famous Nanjing roujiaobao, or pulled pork buns)
  2. Take a stroll along Qinhuai River (historic waterway with scenic views and a variety of restaurants and shops)
  3. Enjoy a traditional Chinese performance at the Nanjing Grand Theatre or the Nanjing National Drama Theatre

Day 2: Modern Nanjing & Historical Reminders

Morning:

  1. Breakfast at the hotel or try a local coffee shop like Blue Frog Coffee
  2. Visit Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (a poignant and educational museum about the Nanking Massacre during WWII)
  3. Explore Purple Mountain (a large scenic area with a variety of historical sites, including the Ming Tombs and the Sun Yat-sen’s Former Residence)

Afternoon:

  1. Lunch at Jiangnan Restaurant (authentic Nanjing cuisine in a traditional setting)
  2. Visit the Nanjing Museum (a large, modern museum showcasing a variety of Chinese art and history)
  3. Explore Zhonghuamen (a historic watchtower with panoramic views of the city)

Evening:

  1. Dinner at Ming Xiaolun (modern Chinese cuisine with a focus on Nanjing flavors)
  2. Take a night cruise on the Qinhuai River (a scenic way to end your trip and see Nanjing’s lights)

Things to Know:

  1. English is not widely spoken, so having a translator or learning some basic Chinese phrases can be helpful.
  2. Nanjing has a subway system that connects many of the main tourist attractions. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for convenience.
  3. Haggling is expected in markets and street food vendors, but prices at restaurants are usually fixed.
  4. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi Chuxing are widely available and affordable.
  5. Don’t forget to try some local snacks like Nanjing salted duck eggs, baked steamed buns, and roujiaobao!
  6. Be respectful when visiting historical sites and museums, as many of the exhibits deal with sensitive topics.
  7. Make sure to take plenty of photos and create lasting memories during your trip!