Nanjing City Private Customized Day Tour with Lunch

Planning a day in Nanjing? This private, fully customizable tour offers a fantastic way to explore China’s ancient capital while enjoying the comfort of a personal guide and door-to-door service. Our review is based on detailed information and genuine traveler feedback, helping you decide if this experience fits your needs.

What we really like about this tour is its blend of culture and convenience. First, the expert guides truly elevate the experience—they’re knowledgeable, fluent in English, and eager to share stories behind each site. Second, the customizable itinerary means you can tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s history, architecture, or scenic views.

A potential consideration is the entrance fees, which aren’t included and add around USD 20 per person—something to factor into your budget. Also, the tour’s duration of about 7 to 8 hours requires a moderate level of physical activity, especially when walking along ancient city walls or exploring sprawling tombs.

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, or those who want a hassle-free way to see the highlights of Nanjing with an authentic local touch. It also offers excellent value, combining guided insight, transport, and lunch in one package.

Key Points

• Fully private, customizable tour tailored to your interests
• Expert guides with fluent English and local knowledge
• Visits to iconic sites like Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, Xiaoling Tomb, and the Ming City Wall
• Includes a tasty local lunch based on dietary preferences
• Door-to-door service with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or train station
• Approximate duration of 7 to 8 hours, offering a comprehensive day out

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Personalized Flexibility: Tailor Your Day in Nanjing

One of the standout features of this tour is its full customization. While a sample itinerary is provided, you have the freedom to discuss adjustments with your guide. This flexibility is invaluable for travelers with specific interests, whether that’s spending more time at certain sites or skipping some altogether. The tour is designed to accommodate your pace and preferences, making it feel less like a rushed group outing and more like a day among friends.

Convenient Pickup and Dropoff

Starting right at your hotel or station means no need to navigate unfamiliar streets or wait for public transport. Whether arriving by train or staying in a hotel, your private driver and guide will ensure a smooth start and finish to your day, maximizing your sightseeing time.

First Stop: Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum

The tour kicks off at this top attraction, which showcases magnificent architecture and panoramic views. Your guide will narrate the story of Sun Yat-sen, often called the “Father of the Republic of China,” and explain its significance in shaping modern China. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes exploring lush greens, mountain scenery, and relics within the mausoleum.

The approach involves ascending a gentle path, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the historical importance of Sun Yat-sen’s leadership during China’s early 20th-century upheavals. Past visitors praise the experience: “The tour guide John was kind and explained very well the history of the sites I was visiting, and answered all my questions. He is fluent in English,” reports one traveler, highlighting how guides can enhance your understanding and enjoyment.

Second Stop: Xiaoling Tomb of Ming Dynasty

Next, you’ll visit the Xiaoling Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest imperial tomb complexes in China. Here, you can stroll along peaceful pathways, guarded by mythical “animals” carved from stone, and admire the impressive ancient architecture amidst mountains and gardens.

Although admission isn’t included, the site itself offers a tranquil retreat and a chance to learn about Zhu Yuan Zhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and Queen Ma. Visitors often comment on the serenity and beauty of the surroundings. It’s worth noting that a guided commentary enhances your appreciation of the site’s historical importance.

Lunch: A Taste of Local Cuisine

Midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch near Qinghuai River, regarded as China’s most ancient waterway. The guide is happy to recommend dishes based on your dietary needs, ensuring a satisfying break that supports your overall experience.

Afternoon Exploration: Ming City Wall and Zhonghua Gate

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Ming City Wall, built over 600 years ago. This is the largest ancient city wall in China, and walking along its ramparts offers stunning views of Nanjing’s modern skyline and Xuanwu Lake.

Highlights include the Zhonghua Gate, a marvel of ancient military architecture. Your guide will share stories of Nanjing’s role as one of China’s six ancient capitals. Expect about 50 minutes at this site, allowing enough time for photos and insights.

Optional Visit: Memorial Hall of Nanjing Massacre Victims

If time permits, you may choose to visit the Nanjing Massacre Memorial, a somber but essential site for understanding the city’s 20th-century history. The tour is flexible, and your guide can advise based on your interests and schedule.

Scenic Drive: Xuanwu Lake

To conclude, a drive by Xuanwu Lake offers picturesque views and a peaceful end to your day. It’s a fitting spot for reflection and photos before your guide and driver transfer you back to your hotel or station.

How the Experience Comes Together

This private tour seamlessly combines cultural sites, scenic views, and local cuisine into a well-rounded day. The inclusion of door-to-door transfers reduces the hassle of navigating busy streets, while the expert guides bring each site alive with stories and historical context. The lunch adds an authentic flavor, giving you a taste of Nanjing’s culinary delights.

The price of $143 per person is quite reasonable when considering the personalized service, private transport, and guided expertise. Entrance fees are extra, but the overall expenditure reflects good value for a curated experience that covers key highlights without feeling rushed.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. One shared: “Fred was fabulous—so knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in English.” Another noted, “Ava was wonderful, speaking very good English, organizing tickets in advance, and making it easy to explore the city.”

The flexible itinerary and private nature of the tour mean that travelers can enjoy a relaxed pace and ask questions freely. This is especially appealing if you’re keen on understanding the stories behind each monument rather than just ticking boxes.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advisable.
• It’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to walking on uneven surfaces and climbing parts of the wall.
• The tour is suitable for children, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
• Be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions beforehand, so your guide can recommend suitable local dishes.
• The tour typically takes 7 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Nanjing private day trip is ideal for those eager to see the city’s most significant sites without the stress of planning. It’s especially suitable for history buffs and culture enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling and authentic insights. The personalized approach and flexible schedule make it perfect for travelers who want to tailor their experience and explore at their own pace.

For anyone who values quality guides, local cuisine, and convenience, this tour offers a comprehensive package that balances education, scenery, and comfort. The small group size, or rather the private setting, ensures personalized attention and a more intimate look at Nanjing’s storied past.

This tour from Sunny Private Tours combines value, authenticity, and ease, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a meaningful and enjoyable day in China’s ancient capital.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. As a private tour, it’s designed for just your group, making it ideal for solo travelers who want a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a private guide, door-to-door transfer, and a local lunch. Entrance fees are extra, around USD 20 per person.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully flexible. You can discuss your interests and desired sites with your guide on the day.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and the optional sites you choose to visit.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes. The tour includes private transfers, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites, with the option of Uber depending on your booking.

What about entrance fees?
They are not included in the price and might total around USD 20 per person, based on your site choices.

Are meals included?
Yes. A local, tasty lunch is part of the package, tailored to your dietary preferences.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual and be prepared for walking, sometimes on uneven terrain or up stairs.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by adults. Please inform us of any specific needs or restrictions.

To sum it up, this Nanjing private day tour with lunch offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty, all with the convenience of private transport and expert guidance. It’s a compelling option for those seeking an authentic, immersive experience without the hassle of self-planning.