
Have you ever wondered what makes Nanjing such an exciting place to visit? Located along the famous Yangtze River, the city blends rich history with modern vibrancy and is one of China’s most popular tourist destinations. From ancient monuments to bustling markets, there’s always something to see and do in Nanjing. This guide brings together the top 10 must-see attractions in Nanjing so you don’t miss any of the city’s highlights. Let’s take a look at what makes this city so special!
Niushou Mountain

Niushou Mountain, located in Jiangning District, Nanjing, is a stunning cultural and tourist destination you won't want to miss. Known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural history, it's the perfect place to spend half a day exploring.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 08:30 - 17:30 (Admission ends at 16:30)
- Ticket Price:
- Adult (Non-Chinese): From $19.92
- Senior (Hong Kong & Macao residents): From $10.99
- Duration: Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
- Location: No. 18 Ningdan Avenue, Jiangning District, Nanjing
- Reviews: 4.7/5 (17.9k reviews)
Popular Tour Option:
Visit Niushou Mountain, Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Confucius Temple in one memorable day.
Price: From $196.17
Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo is a fantastic spot for nature lovers and families looking to experience the wild side of Nanjing. With 19 exhibition halls and over 260 species, including pandas, elephants, and hornbills, this zoo offers a fun, educational experience for all ages.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 08:30 - 16:30 (Closed today, opens tomorrow)
- Ticket Price:
- Adult: From $5.36
- Jurassic Planet VR Ticket: From $4.12
- Duration: Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
- Location: No.168 Heyan Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Reviews: 4.6/5 (9.7k reviews)
Zhongshan Mountain National Park

Zhongshan Mountain National Park, located in Nanjing’s Xuanwu District, is a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful landscapes, historic monuments, and tranquil atmosphere, the park offers a peaceful escape for all visitors.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 08:30 - 17:00 (Closed today, opens tomorrow)
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- Duration: Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
- Location: No. 7 Shixiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Reviews: 4.6/5 (6.3k reviews)
Popular Tour Option:
Explore the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Meiling Palace, Linggu Scenic Area, and more in a single tour!
Price: From $217.42
Confucius Temple-The Qinhuai River Scenic Belt

Explore the rich history and beauty of the Confucius Temple area, located along the charming Qinhuai River in Nanjing. The scenic belt is a blend of ancient culture and vibrant modern life, making it a must-visit for anyone in the city.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: Open year-round, 24/7
- Free entry
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 2-4 hours
- Address: No. 53, Gongyuan West Street, Qinhuai District, Nanjing
- Reviews: 4.7/5 (4.9k reviews)
Notable Attractions:
- Qinhuai River Boat Tour: Explore the river with a boat tour, offering both day and night experiences.
- Day Ticket: From $10.99
- Night Ticket: From $13.74
- Nanjing Confucius Temple Sightseeing Bus + Boat Banquet Package: Enjoy a scenic bus tour followed by a boat banquet on the river.
- Price: $45.18 (Save $34.19)
This area is known for its lively atmosphere, especially during festivals, and is a fantastic spot to experience Nanjing's cultural heritage.
Tour Options:
Price: From $120.16
Nanjing Museum

Explore the Nanjing Museum, one of the most significant museums in China, offering a deep dive into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Admission ends at 16:00)
- Free Entry
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 3-5 hours
- Address: No. 321, Zhongshan East Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Reviews: 4.6/5 (2.2k reviews)
Highlights:
- The museum offers a vast collection of cultural artifacts, including ancient Chinese pottery, jade, paintings, and more.
- Visitors can enjoy the museum's extensive galleries, learn about Nanjing’s past, and even stamp their visit in a unique book provided for a small fee.
Tour Options:
Price: From $170.67
Nanjing Presidential Palace

The Nanjing Presidential Palace is a historical and political landmark, offering a glimpse into China's modern history.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 08:30–17:00 (Tickets available until 16:00; admission ends at 16:00)
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 2-4 hours
- Free Entry
- Address: No. 292, Changjiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Phone: 0086-025-84578888 / 0086-025-84578716
- Reviews: 4.7/5 (40.9k reviews)
Highlights:
- The palace is an important site in China’s modern history, and it serves as a witness to numerous historical events.
- It is recommended to hire a knowledgeable tour guide to understand the rich historical context of the place. Without one, it might feel like just another building, but with the right guide, it's an educational experience.
Tour Options:
Price: From $204.34
Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area

The Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area is a historic and cultural attraction located in Nanjing, known for its ancient architecture and scenic surroundings.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 08:30–19:30 (Tickets available until 19:00; admission ends at 19:00)
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 2-3 hours
- Free Entry
- Address: No. 1 Yuhua Road, Qinhuai District, Nanjing
- Phone: 0086-025-52009999
- Reviews: 4.7/5 (6.3k reviews)
Highlights:
- The Grand Baoen Temple is a significant historical site and offers visitors an insight into the cultural heritage of Nanjing.
- Its picturesque setting is especially beautiful during the night, making it a popular destination for visitors at various times of the day.
- Many travelers enjoy the serene atmosphere, with a number of scenic spots around the temple complex.
Ticket Options:
- Daytime Tickets (Adult): From $12.36
- Daytime Tickets (Senior): From $6.18
- Daytime Tickets [Concession (Child/Student)]: From $6.18
Tour Options:
Price: From $204.34
The Oriental Metropolitan Museum

The Oriental Metropolitan Museum, also known as the Six Dynasties Museum, is a cultural and historical site in Nanjing that focuses on the city's rich heritage from the Six Dynasties period.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 09:00–17:30 (Admission ends at 17:00)
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 2-3 hours
- Address: No. 302, Changjiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Phone: 0086-025-52326032
- Reviews: 4.6/5 (2.9k reviews)
Highlights:
- The museum is built on the remnants of the ancient Jiankang city wall, which dates back 1,600 years.
- Visitors can experience a unique atmosphere designed with bamboo, wooden grids, and trees in the exhibition hall, enhancing the artistic vibe.
- The museum offers a dynamic exhibition of cultural relics in a tranquil environment, providing a glimpse into Nanjing’s history from the Six Dynasties period.
Ticket Options:
- Adult Tickets: From $4.12
- Senior Tickets (60-70 years): From $3.71
- Concession Tickets (Disabled, Minors, Retired Cadres, etc.): Free
- Tickets with Souvenirs:
- Ticket + Six Dynasties Qingshan Tea: $5.50
- Ticket + 10th Anniversary Six Girls Notebook: $6.60
- Ticket + Internet Celebrity Quicksand Fridge Magnet: $7.56
Tour Options:
Qixia Mountain Scenic Area

Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, located in Nanjing, is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural significance.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 07:00–17:00
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 2-4 hours
- Address: No. 88 Qixia Street, Qixia District, Nanjing
- Phone: 0086-025-85766979 / 0086-025-85761831
- Reviews: 4.6/5 (4.3k reviews)
- Top Ranking: No. 9 of the Best Things to Do in Nanjing
Highlights:
- Mountain Climbing: The scenic area is known for its impressive mountain climbing trails that allow visitors to explore the South-Chain Grottoes of Panshan while hiking. Although many of the caves are abandoned, this experience is rare and different from other grottoes.
- Beautiful Views: The area offers spectacular landscapes, which include lush greenery and dramatic rock formations, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful surroundings.
Ticket Options:
- Adult Tickets (18-60 years): From $6.60
- Student Tickets (6-18 years): From $3.44
- Family Tickets (1 Adult + 1 Child): From $10.04
- Ticket + Vegetarian Meal:
- Qianqian Vegetarian Love + Qifuzhai Restaurant: $9.63
- Qifuzhai Vegetarian Noodles: $3.03
- Group Tickets (4-5 people): From $27.19 (Save $21.15)
Qixia Mountain is a great destination for both nature lovers and those interested in exploring Nanjing’s rich cultural heritage. The unique mountain climbing experience makes it a top attraction to visit.
Jiming Temple

Jiming Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Nanjing, known for its serene environment and cultural significance.
Key Features:
- Opening Hours: 07:30–17:00
- Recommended Sightseeing Time: 1-2 hours
- Address: No. 1, Jimingsi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
- Phone: 0086-025-57715595
- Reviews: 4.4/5 (753 reviews)
- Top Ranking: No. 10 of the Best Things to Do in Nanjing
Highlights:
- Cultural Significance: The temple is an important cultural landmark in Nanjing, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere and historical value. It is particularly famous for its Cherry Blossom Avenue, which creates a picturesque and tranquil scene in the morning, with pink blossoms gently swaying in the breeze.
- Night Tour: Visitors can experience the vibrant Qinhuai Lantern Festival in the nearby Confucius Temple area, where they can immerse themselves in a dreamy world of lights, enjoy traditional performances, and explore local crafts like down flower production.
Ticket Options and Tours:
Nanjing Travel Guide: Practical Information

How to Get Around Nanjing
Nanjing boasts a well-developed public transportation network, including subways, buses, and taxis, making it easy to navigate the city. The subway system is modern, efficient, and affordable. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or use ride-hailing apps for convenience.
Best Time to Visit Nanjing
The best time to visit Nanjing is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter tends to be cold but manageable, especially for those who enjoy quieter travel periods.
What to Wear in Nanjing
In spring and autumn, light layers and comfortable shoes are ideal, as you’ll likely be walking a lot while exploring the city. For summer, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. In winter, a warm coat and scarf will keep you comfortable as temperatures can dip quite low.
Best Local Food to Try in Nanjing
Nanjing is a city known for its rich cultural heritage, and its food scene is just as vibrant! From savory street snacks to hearty traditional dishes, the city offers a unique culinary experience that’s sure to delight every food lover. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, Nanjing’s diverse food culture has something special to offer.
If you're looking to explore the best of Nanjing’s local flavors, this blog will guide you through the top 10 must-try foods that showcase the city’s authentic tastes. From the famous salted duck to the comforting duck blood soup, these dishes are a true reflection of the city’s culinary traditions. So, come hungry and discover the delicious side of Nanjing!
Book Your Trip on Trip.com
Ready to explore Nanjing? Planning your trip has never been easier with Trip.com! Whether you’re looking to book your flights, hotels, or activities, we’ve got you covered. Simply visit Trip.com to get the best deals on your trip to this incredible city.
Nanjing Hotel Recommendations
Finding the perfect place to stay in Nanjing can enhance your travel experience, whether you're seeking luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly option. Here are some top hotel recommendations to suit every type of traveler:
Nanjing Hotels
5 star
Gym
Swimming pool
Breakfast
Book Your Flights with Trip.com
Whether you’re flying from nearby cities or internationally, Trip.com helps you find the best airfares to Nanjing. Choose from a wide range of airlines and flexible travel options to suit your schedule and budget.
- One way
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JFK11:0041h 30m2 stopsNKG17:30New York - Nanjing|Fri, Jan 16|Frontier AirlinesTHB 11,732THB 17,26032% OFF32% OFFTHB 17,260THB 11,732
JFK11:0039h 25m2 stopsNKG15:25New York - Nanjing|Tue, Jan 13|Frontier AirlinesTHB 12,547THB 17,26027% OFF27% OFFTHB 17,260THB 12,547
EWR09:0041h 25m2 stopsNKG15:25New York - Nanjing|Tue, Jan 13|Spirit AirlinesTHB 12,772THB 17,26026% OFF26% OFFTHB 17,260THB 12,772
NYC1:00 PM3h 5mNonstopNKG2:00 PMNew York - Nanjing|Mon, Dec 15|Frontier AirlinesFind More FlightsFind More Flights
Displayed flight fares from ${{departCityName}} to ${{arrivalCityName}} are based on average prices across airlines for the next 3 months, according to the latest Trip.com database.
FAQs about Things to Do in Nanjing
What are the must-see attractions in Nanjing?
Nanjing is home to many iconic landmarks. Top attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River, and Nanjing Museum. For nature lovers, Xuanwu Lake and Purple Mountain offer beautiful views and hiking opportunities.When is the best time to visit Nanjing?
The best time to visit Nanjing is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can get cold, but it’s a quieter time for tourists.Is Nanjing a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely! Nanjing is a great destination for families. Attractions like the Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo, Xuanwu Lake, and the Nanjing Museum are all family-friendly. Additionally, the city offers many parks, gardens, and fun activities for children.How can I get around Nanjing?
Nanjing has a well-developed transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. The subway is quick, affordable, and easy to navigate. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenience. For a more scenic experience, consider taking a boat ride along the Qinhuai River.What are some unique experiences in Nanjing?
For a truly unique experience, try visiting Nanjing’s Lantern Festival at the Confucius Temple during the spring festival, or enjoy the Qinhuai River Boat Tour. If you enjoy nature, hiking at Purple Mountain or exploring the caves at Qixia Mountain is highly recommended.What is the food like in Nanjing?
Nanjing’s cuisine is famous for its salted duck, duck blood soup, and Xiao Long Bao. You’ll find delicious street food at Confucius Temple Market and other local eateries. Don’t forget to try the city’s specialty sweet osmanthus desserts.
