Nanjing 5 Days Itinerary

📍 Itinerary Overview

Get ready for a Nanjing adventure that’s absolutely packed with scenic lakes, ancient vibes, and seriously Insta-worthy photo spots! Here’s how to make the most of your 5-day trip:

Day 1: Chill by Xuanwu Lake 🦢
Start your journey with a casual stroll around Xuanwu Lake (No. 1 Xuanwu Lane, Xuanwu District, Nanjing; open 24/7). The city views here are next level! Come early for sunrise snaps or just vibe under the trees.

Day 2: Purple Mountain Hike (Zijin Shan) + Observatory 🏞️
Lace up those sneakers for a scenic hike at Zhongshan Mountain National Park (No. 7 Shixiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing; open all day). The air feels fresher up here and the observatory’s views are 🤯. Don’t skip Sun Yatsen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling) and the epic Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty.

Day 3: Historic City Walks 🚶♂️
Explore the heart of Nanjing with must-sees like Jiming Temple, the legendary Presidential Palace, Yixian Bridge Park, Wuchaomen Park, and Laomendong Historic District (all super walkable and full of old-school charm).
Don’t miss the Nanjing Museum (No. 321, Zhongshan East Road, Xuanwu District; Tue–Sun, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, last entry 4:00 PM)—literally a history buff’s dream! Snap some pics at the Ming Palace Ruins, then swing by Zhongshan Gate for city wall vibes.

Day 4: Urban Chill + Ancient Walls 🌇
Stroll around Mochou Lake Park (No.132 Shuiximen Street, Jianye District; May–Sep: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM, Oct–Apr: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM) and wind your way along the legendary Nanjing City Wall (Ming City Wall).
Next up: Fuzimiao Area (Confucius Temple)—street eats, riverside night lights, and plenty of local snacks. So photogenic at golden hour!

Day 5: Your Vibes, Your Choice 🎈
Hit up any spots you missed or just chill at one of the lakeside cafes. If you’re about that history life, check out Chaotian Palace, the Nanjing Massacre Memorial, or Linggu Temple and the lush Zhongshan Botanical Garden.

🚩 Must-Visit Attractions
• Sun Yatsen Mausoleum: Iconic historical spot and peaceful gardens
• Xiaoling Tomb of Ming Dynasty: UNESCO vibes all around
• Confucian Temple/Fuzimiao Area: Foodie paradise by night
• Nanjing Museum: So much history—one of China’s best!
• Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan): For hiking and ALL the views
• Zhongshan Botanical Garden: Green, peaceful, mood-lifting

🚇 Getting Around
The city is super walkable for most itinerary stops, but Nanjing's metro is fast, cheap, and easy when your feet need a break! Bonus: Xuanwu Lake and many museums/parks are close to metro stops.

📷 Top Photo Spots
• Purple Mountain vistas
• The bridges and skyline at Xuanwu Lake
• Fuzimiao at sunset
• Ming City Wall’s epic views

🍜 Where to Eat
You HAVE to try local bites in the Fuzimiao area—think snacks, noodles, and sweet treats. Pro tip: Street food here is so underrated, and the night market comes alive with lights and flavors.

🏠 Where to Stay: Reverse Time Youth Hostel
Reverse Time Youth Hostel (Xuanwu Lake Branch, Nanjing Station)
Address: 1F, Building 1, No. 53, Xinzhuang Village
Why stay here?
• Right next to Nanjing Railway Station, plus metro and airport links
• Super clean rooms + free shower gel and shampoo (score!)
• Friendly host always ready with extra blankets or trip tips
• Cool touches: laundry, luggage storage, budget-friendly rates
Heads up: Some guests mentioned check the cancellation policy, and stock up early on essentials for your room.

💡 Travel Tips
• The Nanjing sun gets intense—rock a hat and long sleeves 😎
• Bring your water bottle and refill it for free at the Xuanwu Lake tourist center
• Download metro apps for smooth navigation
• Set aside extra time at Purple Mountain—the photo opps are endless!

Ready to tick legends, lakes, and skyline hikes off your bucket list? Nanjing’s got that energy and historic charm. Don’t forget to grab all your tickets and bookings on trip.com for the smoothest travels!