3 day itinerary for Nanjing

Itinerary

Nanjing is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes, so you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that skips the museums but still captures the essence of this vibrant city!

## Day 1: Historical Highlights and Scenic Views

Morning:

• Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Start your day with a visit to this impressive mausoleum dedicated to the founding father of modern China. The architecture is stunning, and the climb up the steps offers a great view of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful gardens!

Lunch:

• Head to Xuanwu Lake for a lovely picnic or grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants. You can find local specialties like Nanjing salted duck or dumplings.

Afternoon:

• Xuanwu Lake Park: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around Xuanwu Lake. You can rent a paddle boat or just enjoy the serene views of the lake with the city skyline in the background. The park is dotted with beautiful pavilions and bridges, perfect for some Instagram-worthy photos!

Evening:

• Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge: As the sun sets, head to this iconic bridge. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset over the Yangtze River. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect way to end your first day.

Dinner:

• Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant nearby. Try some authentic Jiangsu cuisine, and don’t miss out on the famous Nanjing salted duck!

## Day 2: Nature and Local Culture

Morning:

• Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan): Start your day with a hike up Purple Mountain. The trails are beautiful, and you’ll find several historical sites along the way, like the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. The fresh air and natural beauty will energize you for the day ahead!

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the mountain. You can try some street food or local dishes to refuel.

Afternoon:

• Nanjing Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple): After lunch, head to the Confucius Temple area. This vibrant area is filled with shops, traditional architecture, and local snacks. Take your time exploring the narrow streets and maybe pick up some souvenirs!

Evening:

• Yangtze River Cruise: As night falls, hop on a river cruise. The views of the city lights reflecting on the water are magical. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.

Dinner:

• After the cruise, find a cozy restaurant along the riverfront for dinner. Enjoy some local dishes while soaking in the atmosphere.

## Day 3: Parks and Local Life

Morning:

• Nanjing Botanical Garden: Start your day surrounded by nature at the Botanical Garden. It’s a peaceful place to wander, with beautiful flowers and plants. Perfect for a morning stroll!

Lunch:

• Grab lunch at a nearby café or restaurant. Try some local snacks or a hearty meal to keep you going.

Afternoon:

• Qinhuai River: Spend your afternoon exploring the Qinhuai River area. You can take a boat ride or simply walk along the riverbanks. The area is rich in history and culture, with plenty of shops and tea houses to explore.

Evening:

• Nanjing 1912 District: For your last evening, head to this lively area filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to soak in the local nightlife. You can enjoy a drink, listen to live music, or just people-watch.

Dinner:

• Choose a restaurant in the 1912 District for your farewell dinner. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and reflect on your wonderful trip to Nanjing!

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that captures the beauty and culture of Nanjing without stepping into a single museum. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌏✨