Nanjing is a city that packs a punch for travelers eager to explore China’s past and present. Its blend of heritage sites, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant markets makes it ideal for city tours that cater to various interests. We particularly like the Flexible Private Nanjing City Highlights Day Tour for its personalized approach, allowing you to tailor your day around must-see sites like Sun Yatsen Mausoleum or Purple Mountain, all with the comfort of a private guide and door-to-door service. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just want to see the city efficiently, Nanjing’s tour options offer something for all.
In this guide, we highlight 11 of the best city tours, ranging from half-day private outings to comprehensive full-day adventures. Some tours focus on cultural landmarks, others include scenic boat cruises or night explorations, and a few are highly customizable to match your pace and interests. Each offers a different way to experience Nanjing’s rich tapestry of history, architecture, and local life.
1. Flexible Private Nanjing City Highlights Day Tour
At number one, the Flexible Private Nanjing City Highlights Day Tour offers a totally customized experience. For around $168, you get a private guide, transportation, and the chance to craft your ideal itinerary—whether that’s exploring heritage sites like the Chaotian Palace and Zhonghua Gate or natural spots such as Purple Mountain or Xuanwu Lake. The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, giving you a flexible window to see what interests you most.
This tour’s strength is its personalized approach. You can choose your own combination of sites, and your guide will adapt on the fly. Past travelers praise the guide’s knowledge and the convenience of private transportation, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid the crowds. A highlight is the chance to visit both cultural sites and scenic spots in one day, with lunch included. The only extra: entrance fees to sites, which are paid separately.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want control and a flexible schedule, plus an expert’s insights. Ideal if you have a full day and specific sites in mind.
2. Half-Day Private Customized Nanjing City Tour
Coming in at number two, the Half-Day Private Customized Nanjing City Tour costs about $122 and lasts approximately 4 hours. It’s perfect if your time is limited but you still want a personalized experience. The tour starts either in the morning or early afternoon, with hotel or railway station pickup included.
This tour really shines for its flexibility. You tell your guide what sites interest you most—perhaps the Sun Yatsen Mausoleum or the Confucian Temple Area—and they’ll craft an itinerary accordingly. Highlights include Zhonghua Gate and the Confucian Temple, but the real advantage is your ability to customize based on your preferences. Reviews note that guides like Emily and Fred are very knowledgeable and accommodating.
For those who want a quick yet tailored glimpse of Nanjing, this tour offers a good balance of depth and efficiency without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Ideal for busy travelers who want a personalized, efficient experience without sacrificing depth.
3. All Inclusive Nanjing City Private Day Tour with Tailor-Made Highlights
Ranked number three, this All Inclusive Nanjing City Private Day Tour is a full-day, around 7 to 8 hours, experience for about $212.50. It covers top attractions like Purple Mountain, Ming Tomb, City Wall, and Confucius Temple, with a completely customizable itinerary designed around your interests.
The key feature here is the comprehensive and flexible planning. Your expert guide and driver will tailor the visit, whether you want to focus on historic sites, scenic nature, or cultural landmarks. Sites like the Mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen are included, and you can choose to spend more time at places that fascinate you most.
Guests often comment on the personalized service and the quality of the private transfers, making this a good choice for travelers seeking an in-depth, all-in-one experience. This tour is perfect if you want an easy, all-inclusive day without worrying about logistics.
Bottom line: Best for those who prefer a fully guided, tailored experience with all logistics arranged for a smooth day.
4. All Inclusive Amazing Nanjing City Highlights Private Day Tour
Holding the fourth spot, the All Inclusive Amazing Nanjing City Highlights Private Day Tour costs roughly $193.36 and lasts about 8 hours. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a thorough exploration of Nanjing’s most celebrated sites, including Sun Yatsen Mausoleum, Xiaoling Tomb, Confucius Temple, and the Ming City Wall.
The tour includes door-to-door private transfers, entrance fees, and a tasty Nanjing-style lunch, saving you the hassle of planning or waiting in lines. Guests love the detailed explanations from guides like Mr. Wang or Fred, who bring sites to life with their knowledge. The itinerary balances cultural highlights with scenic walkways, making it ideal for those who want a rundown.
Reviewers mention the seamless logistics and expert guides as key advantages. It suits travelers who prefer a full-day immersion with all elements arranged, so they can relax and focus on enjoying each site.
Bottom line: Excellent for visitors wanting a full, guided day without any planning stress.
5. Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour with Lunch
Number five on our list is the Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour with Lunch. For about $143, you get a full day tailored to your interests including famous sites like Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, Xiaoling Tomb, and the Ming City Wall.
This tour emphasizes personalization with flexible scheduling and site selection. The guide will recommend a local lunch based on your dietary preferences, adding a taste of authentic Nanjing cuisine. The ability to customize makes this a great option for travelers with specific sites or themes they want to explore, from historical monuments to scenic parks.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to customize the day. It’s suited for travelers who want control over their schedule but still enjoy the comfort of a private guide.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who know what they want to see and prefer a flexible, personalized experience.
6. All Inclusive Amazing Nanjing City Highlights Private Day Tour
Ranked sixth, the All Inclusive Amazing Nanjing City Highlights Private Day Tour costs about $193.36 and offers a full 8-hour sightseeing experience. It covers Sun Yatsen Mausoleum, Xiaoling Tomb, Confucius Temple, Ming City Wall, and Jiming Temple.
This tour shines for its comprehensive coverage and includes entrance fees and lunch, which simplifies the planning process. Guides like Mr. Wang are praised for their deep knowledge and smooth logistics. It’s perfect if you want a deep dive into Nanjing’s history and architecture without worrying about details.
Ideal for travelers who want an organized, all-inclusive day with a good mix of cultural and scenic spots. The tour balances sightseeing with enough flexibility to spend extra time at places you find most interesting.
Bottom line: An excellent value for those wanting a full, guided exploration with everything arranged.
7. Half Day Nanjing City Private Flexible Tour with Night River Cruise
Number seven, the Half Day Nanjing City Private Flexible Tour with Night River Cruise is a fantastic option for travelers wanting a mix of daylight sightseeing and an evening cruise. Costing around $206, the tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with flexible timing.
It begins with a customizable daytime tour of sites like Purple Mountain or the Sun Yatsen Mausoleum. Then, it culminates with a relaxing cruise along the Qinhuai River as the city lights up—an especially memorable experience. Some guides suggest upgrading to include dinner, making for a romantic or leisurely evening.
Past reviews note guides such as Lily and Mr. Wang for their knowledge and flexibility, making this a perfect choice for those wanting a short but diverse day, ending with a calming river cruise.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and a scenic night; ideal if you’re short on time but want a memorable finish.
8. 4-Hour Nanjing City Private Tailor-Made Tour in Your Way
Our eighth spot goes to the 4-Hour Nanjing City Private Tailor-Made Tour, costing about $108.50. It’s designed for those who know exactly what they want to see in a short, intense session.
This tour includes options like Mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, Ming Tomb, City Wall, and Confucius Temple. You decide which attractions are most important, and your guide will accommodate accordingly. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer to prioritize specific sites and want the flexibility to move at their own pace.
Guests report guides being very accommodating and knowledgeable, making the most of limited time. The tour offers a good balance of depth and speed, ideal if your schedule is tight.
Bottom line: Best for time-conscious visitors who want a personalized, quick overview of Nanjing’s highlights.
9. Nanjing Airport To City Transport / Rental Car
Number nine, the Nanjing Airport To City Transport / Rental Car service, is a practical choice if you simply need reliable transportation. For about $61.99, a private vehicle and driver will get you from Nanjing Lukou International Airport to your hotel.
This service is perfect for travelers arriving late or with tight schedules, offering fast, hassle-free transfers. The driver is experienced, and reviews mention safety and punctuality. It’s a straightforward way to start your trip without stress, especially if you plan to explore independently afterward.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who prioritize convenience and punctuality upon arrival or departure.
$61.99 per group (up to 6)
10. Private Nanjing Airport Transfer to City Center or Tangshan Hot Spring Resorts
Coming in at number ten, this Private Airport Transfer offers door-to-door service from Nanjing Lukou International Airport to your hotel or Tangshan Hot Spring Resorts. Priced at around $46.04 per person, with a journey time of about 1 to 1.5 hours, it’s ideal for those wanting a stress-free start or end to their trip.
Guests praise the friendly drivers and reliable service, making it a good choice if you want to avoid taxis or navigating public transport after a long flight. It’s a straightforward, comfortable option for those with luggage or tight schedules.
Bottom line: Perfect for hassle-free airport transfers, especially for first-time visitors or those with early flights.
$46.04 per person
11. Nanjing: Private City Highlights Tour with Lunch
Finally, the Nanjing: Private City Highlights Tour with Lunch offers an immersive full-day experience. For $281, you get to visit Nanjing City Wall, Qinhuai River cruise, Confucius Temple, and more, with a local lunch included.
This tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive exploration of Nanjing’s top sights, paired with a delicious meal that reflects local flavors. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with cultural dining in a relaxed, private setting.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to learn about the city’s history and customs in a single day. It suits visitors who want an all-in-one experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who want a full-day, personalized tour with a focus on both sights and local cuisine.
$281 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Nanjing Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you want total control and a short visit, the 4-hour private tour is ideal. For a full, guided experience with everything arranged, go for the All Inclusive Nanjing City Highlights**.
Travelers with limited time should consider the half-day private tour, while those wanting a luxury, in-depth day will love the tailor-made full-day**. For easy arrivals and departures, the airport transfer services provide peace of mind.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on the tour that best matches your travel style.
Nanjing offers a variety of city tours to match all interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a customized private day, a scenic night cruise, or a quick half-day adventure, you’ll find something to make your visit memorable. We recommend considering your time frame and what sites excite you most—then choosing a tour that fits your style. With so many excellent options, you’re sure to uncover the history, culture, and beauty of this historic city. Happy exploring!