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Nanjing Transportation Guide: How to Get Around Nanjing Easily

Time:2026-07-07 10:22:57Click:

Nanjing is a convenient city for travelers, with an efficient metro system, affordable taxis, ride-hailing services, and good connections to major cities in China.

Whether you are arriving from Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, or another international gateway, this Nanjing Transportation Guide explains how to get to Nanjing and how to travel around the city smoothly.

This guide covers:

  • How to get to Nanjing

  • Nanjing airport and railway transportation

  • Metro, buses, taxis, and Didi

  • Transportation costs

  • The best ways to travel around Nanjing

How to Get to Nanjing

Most international travelers reach Nanjing through major transportation hubs such as Shanghai, Beijing, or nearby cities before continuing to Nanjing.

Arriving in Nanjing by High-Speed Train

High-speed trains are one of the most popular ways to reach Nanjing because the city is well connected with China's major destinations.

Departure CityTravel Time
ShanghaiAbout 1–1.5 hours
HangzhouAbout 1.5–2 hours
BeijingAbout 3.5–5 hours

Arriving from Nanjing Lukou International Airport

Nanjing Lukou International Airport is the city's main airport. Travelers can reach downtown by metro, taxi, or airport transfer.

OptionEstimated CostTravel Time
MetroAbout ¥6–10About 50–70 minutes
Taxi / DidiAbout ¥100–150About 40–60 minutes
Private TransferHigher costMore comfortable

Getting Around Nanjing City

For most tourists, getting around Nanjing is easy. The city center is well connected, and many major attractions can be reached by metro.

Nanjing Metro

The metro is the most convenient transportation option for most visitors.

  • Affordable prices

  • Clear signs

  • Connects major tourist areas

  • Avoids traffic congestion

Average cost:¥2–7 per trip

Taxi and Didi

Taxi and Didi are good choices when traveling with luggage, visiting places with limited metro access, or traveling with family.

Typical costs:

  • Short trips: ¥15–30

  • Longer city trips: ¥40–80

  • Airport to downtown: Around ¥100–150

Public Bus

Public buses are the cheapest transportation option in Nanjing and cover areas that may not be directly connected by metro.

Average cost:¥1–2 per trip

Walking and Cycling

Some areas of Nanjing are best explored on foot, especially historic districts and scenic areas.

Walking is recommended for:

  • Confucius Temple area

  • Qinhuai River area

  • City Wall area

Transportation Costs in Nanjing

Nanjing is an affordable city for transportation. Most travelers can explore the city comfortably without spending much on getting around.

TransportationAverage Cost
Metro¥2–7 per trip
Bus¥1–2 per trip
Didi / Taxi Short Distance¥15–30
Daily Transportation BudgetAbout ¥20–50/day

Best Transportation Choice for Different Travelers

Traveler TypeRecommended Option
First-time VisitorsMetro + Didi combination
Budget TravelersMetro and buses
Families with ChildrenDidi or taxi
Travelers with Heavy LuggageTaxi or private transfer
Sightseeing TravelersWalking + Metro

How to Travel Between Popular Attractions in Nanjing

RouteRecommended Transportation
Nanjing Railway Station → XinjiekouMetro Line 1 or Taxi
Xinjiekou → Presidential PalaceMetro or Walking
Confucius Temple → Qinhuai RiverWalking
Xinjiekou → Sun Yat-sen MausoleumMetro + Short Transfer

Tips for Using Transportation in Nanjing

  • Use Metro for major attractions:Most popular tourist sites are easy to reach by subway.

  • Use Didi when saving time matters:It is especially useful at night, with luggage, or for families.

  • Stay near metro stations:Choosing accommodation near a metro line makes sightseeing much easier.

  • Prepare mobile payment:Apps such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in China.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nanjing Transportation

Is Nanjing easy to get around?

Yes. Nanjing has a convenient metro system and affordable taxis, making it easy for international travelers to explore the city.

What is the best way to travel around Nanjing?

For most visitors, the best combination is metro for major routes and Didi for convenience.

How much does transportation cost in Nanjing?

Most travelers spend around ¥20–50 per day on local transportation.

Can I use Didi in Nanjing?

Yes. Didi is widely available and is one of the easiest options for tourists.

Plan Your Nanjing Trip

Understanding transportation makes your Nanjing trip easier and more efficient. Explore our other guides to plan attractions, itineraries, and travel budgets.