Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
The perfect 3 days itinerary
Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province in eastern China, is rich in Chinese history and culture. Known as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, Nanjing has a significant place in Chinese history and culture, having been the capital of several Chinese dynasties, kingdoms, and republican governments. The city is home to many historical sites, including the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Presidential Palace. Nanjing is also known for its lush, beautiful landscapes, such as the Purple Mountain and Xuanwu Lake.
What to do in Nanjing?
This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Nanjing. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Historical Exploration of Nanjing
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, the founder of the Ming Dynasty. The mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique architectural style and its Sacred Path, a path lined with stone statues of animals and mythical creatures.
Afternoon
Visit the Presidential Palace, which served as the office of the President of the Republic of China during the Nanjing decade (1927โ1937). The palace is now a museum that showcases the history of modern China.
Evening
Stroll around the Confucius Temple area, which is not only a grand temple but also a bustling commercial area with shops, restaurants, and the Qinhuai River flowing by.
Day 2: Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage
Morning
Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the burial site of Sun Yat-sen, the father of modern China. The mausoleum is located on the southern slopes of Purple Mountain, which you can explore after visiting the mausoleum.
Afternoon
Head to Xuanwu Lake, a beautiful park that offers stunning views of both the city and the nature. The park has five islands interconnected by arched bridges, with temples, pagodas, pavilions, gardens, teahouses, restaurants, entertainment venues, a zoo, and other attractions.
Evening
Explore the Nanjing 1912 district, a popular nightlife and entertainment area with bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops.
Day 3: Modern Nanjing and Shopping
Morning
Visit the Nanjing Museum, one of the largest museums in China, with a collection of over 400,000 items. The museum showcases China's art, history, and culture, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art.
Afternoon
Head to Xinjiekou, the commercial center of Nanjing. Here you can find a variety of shops, from high-end luxury brands to local boutiques. Don't forget to try some local Nanjing dishes, such as Nanjing Salted Duck and Tangbao.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, a double-decked road-rail truss bridge that serves as a symbol of Nanjing and an important route in China's transportation network.