Nanjing is a city that offers more than just historic sites—it’s a place where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine amidst rich cultural surroundings. What makes Nanjing especially appealing for lunch experiences is the chance to combine sightseeing with tasting traditional dishes, often at scenic spots like the Qinghuai River or within historic settings. We particularly like the Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour with Lunch because it offers a flexible itinerary, personalized attention, and a chance to savor local flavors tailored to your dietary requests. If you’re keen on exploring the city’s history while enjoying a well-earned meal, this tour (see more here) hits the sweet spot.
For those interested in a broader historical perspective with included lunch, the Nanjing Private Day Tour of The Republic Era with Lunch offers a deep dive into modern Chinese history alongside some fantastic local dining options (see more here). Whether you’re a history buff or a casual traveler, these tours combine cultural insights with great food, making your visit memorable. Below, we explore these top options and more, so you can pick the perfect lunch experience in Nanjing.
1. Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour with Lunch
This full-day private tour (more info here) is designed for travelers who want a personalized experience. You’ll meet your guide and driver at your hotel, train station, or railway stop, and then set out to explore some of Nanjing’s most iconic sites like Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, Xiaoling Tomb, and the Ming City Wall. What sets this tour apart is its customizable itinerary, so you can focus on the areas that interest you most—be it history, architecture, or culture.
One highlight is the delightful local lunch near the Qinghuai River, where your guide will recommend dishes based on your dietary preferences. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to spend more time at places you love. The guide’s insights will deepen your appreciation of Nanjing’s role in China’s past, from emperor tombs to revolutionary history. The tour runs about 7 to 8 hours, with a small group size ensuring a personal touch.
Bottom line: This tour offers the best flexibility and a tailored experience, ideal for travelers who want to set their own pace and enjoy a personalized culinary touch alongside historical sights.
2. Nanjing Private Day Tour of The Republic Era with Lunch
At number 2, this guided full-day tour (more info here) focuses on modern Chinese history, including visits to Sun Yatsen’s Mausoleum, Meiling Palace, and the Presidential Palace. What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on historical storytelling, with your guide sharing insights about China’s Republican era and the city’s role in shaping modern China.
The tour includes a satisfying lunch, giving you energy to explore more sites comfortably. The guide is praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, with one review noting how they provided restaurant recommendations beyond the tour. You’ll walk through the city’s historic districts, learning about the figures who helped shape China’s 20th-century history.
For around $181, this tour offers a comprehensive package combining cultural depth, historical context, and good food. It suits travelers interested in modern history and who prefer a flexible, private experience with the opportunity to customize the visit.
Bottom line: Perfect for history enthusiasts seeking a personalized, insightful tour with a cultural and culinary focus.
3. Private In-Depth Day Tour of Nanjing Purple Mountain with Lunch
This exclusive private tour (more info here) offers a comprehensive exploration of Purple Mountain, a designated National 5A scenic area. Your expert guide will take you through Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, the Xiaoling Tomb, the Meiling Palace, and the Lingu Scenic Area. The focus here is on immersing yourself deeply in the cultural and historic significance of each site, with plenty of time to appreciate the architecture and landscapes.
The tour includes lunch amid the scenic surroundings, allowing you to enjoy local flavors in a setting that complements the sightseeing. The highlight is the combination of picturesque views with historical relics, giving a well-rounded experience of Nanjing’s top cultural attractions. The guide’s detailed explanations make this tour particularly suitable for travelers eager to understand the context behind the sites.
Rated highly, this tour offers value for those wanting an in-depth, relaxed day. The $195.84 price reflects a premium experience with personalized attention.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a thorough, scenic, and culturally rich day with excellent lunch options.
$195.84 per person
4. 2-Day Nanjing Private Flexible Customized Tour with Lunch Option
For those with more time, this two-day private tour (more info here) offers a rundown of Nanjing’s highlights. You’ll visit key sites like Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, the Ming City Wall, and the Nanjing Massacre Memorial, with each day carefully planned yet flexible enough to tailor to your interests.
The tour includes lunch on both days, allowing you to savor local dishes in different settings. This setup is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of historical and cultural exploration, without feeling rushed. The guide and driver team will adapt the schedule to your preferences, making this a highly personalized experience.
Guests mention excellent communication and helpful planning, making this a dependable choice for a relaxed, immersive visit. With a price of $295 per person, it provides great value for a multi-day, customized experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for visitors who want an extensive, personalized tour with the flexibility to explore at their own pace over two days.
$295.00 per person
5. Nanjing: Private City Highlights Tour with Lunch
Rounding out our list is a private city highlights tour (more info here), which takes you through the City Wall, Confucius Temple, and includes a scenic cruise along the Qinhuai River. This tour emphasizes the visual and cultural charm of Nanjing, pairing iconic sites with a lovely boat ride that offers a relaxed way to view the city.
The included local lunch provides an authentic taste of Nanjing’s cuisine. The tour is designed for those who appreciate a mix of walking and scenic experiences, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s highlights. It’s perfect for a half-day or full-day outing, depending on your pace.
While specific reviews aren’t listed, the combination of major sites, river cruise, and lunch makes this a notable option for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, comfortable overview.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a scenic, cultural introduction to Nanjing with good food and easy logistics.
$281 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Nanjing
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you prefer a fully customizable experience with a personal guide, the Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour offers excellent flexibility. For those interested in modern Chinese history, the Republic Era Tour provides a deep dive into the city’s recent past.
Travelers wanting a more in-depth exploration of scenic areas should consider the Purple Mountain Tour, especially if landscape and cultural relics appeal to you. The 2-day tour is suited for those with extra time who want to see everything at a relaxed pace.
Finally, if your goal is a balanced overview with scenic moments, the City Highlights Tour combines major sights with the scenic cruise.
Smart booking tip: Book early, especially during peak tourist seasons, and consider your interest in history, scenery, or simply relaxing with a good meal.
Final Thoughts
Nanjing offers a variety of lunch experiences that beautifully pair cultural exploration with delicious food. For travelers seeking a personalized, flexible day, the Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour is hard to beat. If you want a focused cultural and historical journey, the Republic Era Tour provides depth and context.
For those with more time, the Purple Mountain Tour and the 2-day tour allow for a thorough exploration of Nanjing’s scenic and historic treasures. No matter your choice, early planning helps ensure you get the most out of your visit.
With so many options, Nanjing’s lunch experiences promise more than just good food—they offer a chance to connect with the city’s history, culture, and landscape in a truly memorable way.