Nanjing

Nanjing is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories!

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Morning:

• Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Start your day with a visit to this stunning mausoleum dedicated to the founder of modern China. The architecture is impressive, and the surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Kids will love the climb up the steps (over 392 of them!) to the main hall, and the views from the top are breathtaking!

Lunch:

• Local Nanjing Cuisine: Head to a nearby restaurant to try some local dishes. Don’t miss out on the famous Nanjing salted duck! There are also plenty of noodle options that kids usually enjoy.

Afternoon:

• Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: After lunch, visit this UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk through the Sacred Way, lined with stone animals and figures, is fascinating for kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to learn about the Ming Dynasty while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Evening:

• Xuanwu Lake: Wind down your day at Xuanwu Lake. You can rent a paddle boat or just enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake. There are playgrounds nearby, so the kids can burn off some energy while you relax.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Nanjing Museum: Start your day at one of the largest museums in China. The exhibits are engaging and family-friendly, with plenty of artifacts that will intrigue both kids and adults. Plus, entry is free!

Lunch:

• Food Street: Head to a local food street for lunch. You can find a variety of street food options that are sure to please everyone in the family. Try some dumplings, skewers, and sweet treats!

Afternoon:

• Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge: After lunch, visit this iconic bridge. It’s a great spot for photos and to learn about its historical significance. The views of the Yangtze River are stunning!

Evening:

• Confucius Temple Area: Spend your evening exploring this vibrant area. The lanterns and shops create a magical atmosphere, especially as the sun sets. There are also plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy dinner. Don’t forget to try some local snacks!

Day 3: Fun and Relaxation

Morning:

• Nanjing Underwater World: Kick off your last day with a visit to this aquarium. It’s a hit with families, featuring a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. Kids will love the underwater tunnel where they can see sharks swimming overhead!

Lunch:

• Café or Restaurant Nearby: After the aquarium, grab lunch at a nearby café. There are plenty of family-friendly options with a variety of cuisines.

Afternoon:

• Nanjing Botanical Garden: Spend your afternoon in this beautiful garden. It’s a great place for a picnic, and the kids can explore the various plant species and themed gardens. There’s also a small playground to keep them entertained.

Evening:

• Nanjing Night Market: For your final evening, head to a night market. It’s a fun way to experience local culture, and you can find all sorts of snacks and souvenirs. Let the kids pick out a few treats to take home!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Nanjing has a good public transport system, including buses and subways, which are family-friendly. Consider getting a transportation card for convenience.
• Weather: Check the weather before you go, as Nanjing can be quite humid in summer and chilly in winter. Dress accordingly!
• Rest: Don’t forget to take breaks, especially with kids. There are plenty of parks and cafes where you can relax.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Nanjing! Enjoy your trip! 🌟