Where to Stay in Nanjing
China
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Nanjing at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Nanjing
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Visit the Qinhuai River at night for a magical experience with the illuminated ancient architecture and boat rides; it's far more vibrant than during the day.
Watch Out For
Tea ceremony scams (tourists are invited to a tea house and charged exorbitant prices).
Solo Female Travel
Nanjing is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of surroundings are recommended.
Hidden Gems in Nanjing
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Nanjing Museum of History and Culture
Step into Nanjing's past at this often-overlooked museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts detailing the city's rich history, from ancient dynasties to the Republican era. It offers a more intimate and in-depth look than the larger, more famous institutions.
Qixia Temple
While famous for its autumn foliage, Qixia Temple and the surrounding scenic area are beautiful year-round and less crowded than other historical sites. Explore the ancient temples nestled within a lush mountain landscape, offering serene walking paths and stunning natural beauty.
Laomendong Historic Street
FREEWander through the beautifully restored streets of Laomendong, a historical neighborhood that was once a bustling commercial center. Today, it's filled with charming craft shops, tea houses, and local eateries, offering a glimpse into traditional Nanjing life.
Gaochao Lake
FREEEscape the city bustle at Gaochao Lake, a vast urban wetland park favored by locals for its tranquil atmosphere and extensive walking trails. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching, cycling, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.
Shiziqiao Snack Street
FREEFor an authentic taste of Nanjing street food, head to Shiziqiao. This vibrant alleyway is packed with vendors selling local delicacies like duck blood soup, salted duck, and various skewers, offering a true culinary adventure.
Meihua Mountain (Plum Blossom Mountain)
Famous for its stunning plum blossoms in late winter and early spring, Meihua Mountain also offers panoramic views of Nanjing city throughout the year. It's a popular spot for local families to picnic and enjoy the elevated vistas.
What It Costs in Nanjing
Daily budget per person in CNY
💡77% cheaper than London
CNY 300/day
CNY 700/day
CNY 1500/day
Where to Stay in Nanjing
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Confucius Temple Area30 min
- Nanjing Museum25 min
- Presidential Palace20 min
Pros
- +Excellent transport links
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Lively atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be very crowded
- -Less traditional charm
Top stays in Xinjiekou
The Westin Nanjing Xuanwu Lake
$$$Offers stunning views of Xuanwu Lake and comprehensive amenities.
Grand Hyatt Nanjing
$$$A luxury option with spacious rooms and excellent service in the heart of the shopping district.
Novotel Nanjing Central
$$Reliable international chain hotel with comfortable accommodations and good facilities.
City Comfort Inn Nanjing Xinjiekou
$A clean and convenient budget-friendly option in a prime location.
Best for
Walk to
- Qinhuai River Cruise5 min
- Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall35 min
- Xinjiekou30 min
Pros
- +Rich historical and cultural sites
- +Vibrant night markets and street food
- +Picturesque scenery
Cons
- -Can be very touristy and crowded
- -Accommodation options can be limited or pricier
Top stays in Confucius Temple Area (Fuzimiao)
Fuzimiao Hotel
$$Offers a traditional Nanjing experience with convenient access to the temple and river.
Nanjing Shangri-La
$$$Luxury hotel with excellent amenities and views, a short walk from the main attractions.
Holiday Inn Nanjing Qinhuai
$$Comfortable and well-located hotel providing good value for its proximity to attractions.
Best for
Walk to
- Xuanwu Lake Park15 min
- Nanjing University10 min
- City Wall (Zhonghua Gate section)40 min
Pros
- +More authentic local experience
- +Good value for money
- +Close to green spaces
Cons
- -Further from some major tourist sites
- -Fewer high-end dining options
Top stays in Gulou District
Metropolo Hotel Nanjing Gulou
$$Modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and good service, convenient for exploring the university area.
Hanting Hotel Nanjing Gulou
$A clean and affordable chain hotel popular with local travelers.
Ibis Nanjing Gulou
$$Consistent international standard offering good value and a convenient location.
Best for
Walk to
- Nanjing International Expo Center10 min
- Olympic Sports Center15 min
- Nanjing Eye Pedestrian Bridge20 min
Pros
- +Modern infrastructure and facilities
- +Quieter and less congested than downtown
- +Good for business or longer stays
Cons
- -Lacks traditional charm and historical sites
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options compared to Xinjiekou
Top stays in Hexi New Town
The Ritz-Carlton, Nanjing
$$$Top-tier luxury hotel offering impeccable service, fine dining, and spacious rooms.
InterContinental Nanjing
$$$Prominent luxury hotel with excellent facilities, including multiple dining options and a spa.
Sofitel Nanjing Galaxy Sun
$$$Elegant hotel with French flair, known for its stylish decor and quality service.
Holiday Inn Nanjing Olympic Stadium
$$Convenient for those attending events at the Olympic Sports Center, offering reliable comfort.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts: These areas lack tourist attractions and can have poorer air quality and less developed infrastructure.
- Remote suburban residential areas: While safe, they offer little of interest to tourists and are inconvenient for getting around.
Insider tip: Visit the Qinhuai River at night for a magical experience with the illuminated ancient architecture and boat rides; it's far more vibrant than during the day.
Safety in Nanjing
SafeSolo Female Travel
Nanjing is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of surroundings are recommended.
At Night
Most tourist areas like Xinjiekou and Fuzimiao are well-lit and busy, making them safe. Residential areas can be quieter; stick to main roads.
Emergency
110 (Police)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Tea ceremony scams (tourists are invited to a tea house and charged exorbitant prices).
- 2Fake souvenir sellers, especially near major attractions.
- 3Overcharging by unlicensed taxis.
Getting Around Nanjing
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Metro Line S1 (approx. 1 hour, 8 CNY) or Taxi/Didi (approx. 45-60 mins, 150-200 CNY).
🎫
Day Pass
Not officially available for tourists, but a transport card can be purchased and topped up (approx. 20 CNY deposit).
Single: Metro rides start from 2 CNY.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Didi
📶
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps in cafes
Public Transport
Extensive Metro system (Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, S1, S3, S7, S8, S9) connecting most parts of the city; Buses are also widespread.
Ride-share
Didi Chuxing (China's Uber equivalent); typical short rides cost 15-30 CNY.
Transport Tip
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, some cafes (often require local phone number for access), public transport hubs.
Coworking
Multiple options available, especially in Hexi New Town and Gulou District; daily costs range from 50-150 CNY.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Apr, Oct, Nov
Hotels & Accommodation in Nanjing
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Who Is Nanjing Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides easy access to transportation, shopping, dining, and is a central point to explore key attractions.
Culture Enthusiasts
Immerses you in Nanjing's historical heart with traditional architecture, street food, and cultural sites.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and local dining, with good access to universities and parks.
Luxury Seekers
Home to high-end hotels, modern amenities, and a more serene, upscale environment.
Families
Offers a wide range of activities, dining, and convenient transport, with family-friendly hotel options.
Nanjing on TripAdvisor
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About Nanjing
Nanjing is the capital of Jiangsu, East China. The city, which is located in the southwestern corner of the province, has 11 districts, an administrative area of 6,600 km2 (2,500 sq mi), and as of 2021 a population of 9,423,400. Situated in the Yangtze River Delta, Nanjing has a prominent place in Chinese history and culture, having served as the capital of various Chinese dynasties, kingdoms and republican governments dating from the 3rd century to 1949, and has thus long been a major center of culture, education, research, politics, economy, transport networks and tourism, being the home to one of the world's largest inland ports.
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Nanjing Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel