Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province, is one of China's four ancient capitals, boasting a rich history and culture perfect for history buffs. Despite being one of China's most vibrant cities, the cost of travel here remains lower than in Shanghai or Beijing. A 3-day, 2-night trip costs approximately 500 USD per person. This includes a 200 USD round-trip flight from Ho Chi Minh City on a Chinese airline, 50 USD for hotel accommodation, and an average of 83 USD per day for food and transportation.

A corner of the ancient city of Nanjing, China. Photo: Sun Chen

A corner of the ancient city of Nanjing, China. Photo: Sun Chen

This three-day Nanjing itinerary, based on research by VnExpress reporters and suggestions from travel companies, is designed for first-time independent travelers.

Day 1

Morning and Afternoon: After arriving in Nanjing and leaving luggage at the hotel, start your journey at the Nanjing Museum. One of China's three largest museums, it displays over 4,000 artifacts from prehistory to the present day, highlighting relics from six Chinese dynasties, including the Ming and Qing. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and admission is free.

Next, visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor and his empress. Constructed from 1381 and completed 30 years later, it’s the first imperial mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty, showcasing impressive architecture and historical significance. In 2003, UNESCO designated it a World Heritage site. The mausoleum is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with a 70 CNY entrance fee.

Lunch in central Nanjing offers options like rice dishes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), roast pigeon, and charcoal-grilled duck.

Afternoon and Evening: The Soong Mei-ling Palace is a popular destination. It was the residence of former Republic of China President Chiang Kai-shek and his wife, Soong Mei-ling, before they moved to Taiwan in 1949.

Known as the "first mansion of the Far East", the palace features a striking three-story building in a palatial style, roofed with rare glazed green tiles—once reserved for officials and nobility. From above, the palace resembles an emerald nestled among trees, its color shifting with the seasons.

Tourists checking in at the sycamore avenue near Soong Mei-ling Palace. Photo: Guijiu ren zai Nanjing

Tourists checking in at the sycamore avenue near Soong Mei-ling Palace. Photo: Guijiu ren zai Nanjing

The long avenue of sycamore trees leading to the palace is particularly impressive. In spring and summer, the trees create a canopy of refreshing green; in autumn, the leaves turn a vibrant gold, creating a picturesque scene. The palace is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a 30 CNY entrance fee.

In the evening, visit the bustling Xinjiekou district, Nanjing's commercial center and a prime spot for strolling. This brightly lit street houses numerous famous brands, specialty shops, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can buy local specialties or enjoy dishes like pig intestine noodles, roast duck, and beef brisket noodles.

Day 2

Morning and Afternoon: Start your second day with a traditional Nanjing breakfast of salted duck porridge, xiaolongbao, soy milk, and youtiao (fried dough sticks). Then, visit the Nanjing Presidential Palace, a significant architectural and historical landmark from the Republican era. Here, Sun Yat-sen was inaugurated as provisional president. The palace, a symbol of the city's modern history, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a 35 CNY entrance fee (half-price for students).

For lunch near the Presidential Palace, try duck blood vermicelli soup. This dish features a rich broth, tender duck blood, and clean-tasting duck offal, served with handmade pan-fried bread or Jinling soup dumplings. Prices range from 20 to 40 CNY per person.

Afternoon and Evening: Explore Laomendong, an old town preserving traditional Jiangnan architecture with brick walls, black tile roofs, and peaceful alleys. Free to enter, it’s perfect for leisurely walks, street food, and shopping for handicrafts. From Laomendong, it's a short walk to the Confucius Temple, a site dedicated to Confucius and China's educational heritage. Open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free admission, it’s a must-see for those interested in Eastern culture and philosophy.

A view of the Qinhuai River at night. Photo: Tripadvisor

A view of the Qinhuai River at night. Photo: Tripadvisor

End your day with a stroll and dinner along the Qinhuai River, a major waterway flowing through Nanjing. At night, the riverside bustles with activity. Some attractions require advance booking, so check websites for updates. This is also one of Nanjing's best night viewing spots.

Day 3

Morning and Afternoon: Start your third day at Hongshan Zoo, ideal for nature and animal lovers. Focusing on education and conservation rather than performances, the zoo houses over 3,000 rare animals from around the world. The spacious, green grounds are perfect for a morning walk. The zoo is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a 40 CNY entrance fee.

A white tiger at Hongshan Zoo. Photo: VCG

A white tiger at Hongshan Zoo. Photo: VCG

Next, visit Jiming Temple, one of Nanjing's four famous ancient temples, with a history of over 1,700 years. Featured in several Chinese TV dramas, it retains a majestic tranquility within the city. Its ancient architecture and incense-filled air offer a peaceful respite. The temple is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a 10 CNY entrance fee.

Have lunch near the temple at Su Mian Guan, a highly-rated restaurant. Recommended dishes include the Four Blessings Guanyin Noodles and the Auspicious Assorted Noodles. However, opening hours may vary during peak seasons, so check before visiting.

Afternoon and Evening: Relax by Xuanwu Lake, a large lake in the city center offering scenic views and a refreshing atmosphere. It's perfect for strolling, photography, or boating, especially at sunset. The area is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., free of charge.

Conclude your Nanjing trip at the Dabao'en Temple, a modern structure built on the site of an ancient temple founded by the Chan Buddhism patriarch. With contemporary architecture and artistic lighting, it's an impressive evening destination. The temple is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a 90 CNY entrance fee. Its spacious interior and vibrant 3D light show offer great photo opportunities. On your way back, enjoy street food like red bean glutinous rice balls, candied taro, or Jinling roast duck buns.

This three-day Nanjing itinerary covers some key attractions for first-time visitors. For a more complete experience, consider a 5-day trip incorporating nearby destinations like Shanghai, Wuzhen, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.

Tuan Anh