Hello, I’m Alex Chen, a China-based traveler who prefers independent travel and keeps a close eye on my budget. Instead of chasing popular routes, I focus on one practical question in every city: where can you stay that feels convenient, affordable, and flexible at the same time? This Nanjing Hotels guide comes from multiple trips to Nanjing, based on places I’ve personally stayed in or researched in depth. Since most attractions in Nanjing sit close together and the subway system works extremely well, choosing the right area often matters more than spending more money. In this guide, I’ll walk through the best areas to stay and share hotel recommendations in Xinjiekou, Daxinggong, and Confucius Temple, covering different budgets. It’s designed for first-time visitors and for travelers who want their money to work harder.



What are the best areas to stay in Nanjing?

Most must-see attractions in Nanjing are located within the city center, and the subway system makes getting around very easy. Because of that, when choosing Nanjing hotels, staying near a few key subway hubs is usually the most practical option. Based on how attractions are distributed across the city, these three areas stand out as the most convenient places to stay: Xinjiekou, Daxinggong, and Confucius Temple.

  • Xinjiekou, the top choice if your budget allows. It’s a major interchange station for Subway Line 1 and Line 2, surrounded by shopping malls and attractions. From here, it’s very convenient to reach Xinjiekou itself, the Nanjing Museum, the Presidential Palace, Zhongshan Scenic Area, and the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing. Nearby, you’ll also find Deji Plaza and Nanjing Xinjiekou Department Store for shopping. In the evening, Mingwalang Food Street and Fengfu Road Food Street are both close by and work well for late-night eats.
  • Daxinggong, a more affordable alternative to Xinjiekou that still keeps things convenient. If you want easy transportation without stretching your budget, this area is worth a close look. It sits at the intersection of Subway Line 2 and Line 3 and is just one stop away from Xinjiekou. The Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Museum, the Presidential Palace, and the 1912 District are all nearby. At night, you can walk to Ke Lane Food Market, a spot popular with locals for street snacks. Since Xinjiekou is so close, shopping malls and food streets there are also easy to reach.
  • Confucius Temple, where budget-friendly hotels are easier to find compared to Xinjiekou and Daxinggong. This area connects Subway Line 3 and Line 5 and is close to the Confucius Temple area, Laomendong, and the Zhonghua Gate City Wall. If you don’t find a suitable hotel around Xinjiekou or Daxinggong, this is a solid backup option.

Nanjing Hotels: Xinjiekou Hotel Recommendations

JI Hotel (Nanjing Xinjiekou Central Mall)

JI Hotel (Nanjing Xinjiekou Central Mall)
  • Location: 5-minute walk to Xinjiekou Subway Station
  • Price per night: 333 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Robot room service, laundry room, family rooms

The hotel sits right in the heart of the Xinjiekou shopping district. It’s about a five-minute walk to the subway station, which makes transfers to major attractions simple and efficient. Central Mall is right next door, so shopping or grabbing daily essentials takes almost no effort. In addition, the surrounding area has plenty of restaurants and drink shops, and food delivery options are widely available, making late meals easy without going far.

The room feels more spacious than expected, with enough space to fully open luggage without feeling cramped. There’s a light, clean scent when you enter, which sets a comfortable tone. The mattress offers good support, the pillows are comfortable, and sleep quality stays consistent. Cleanliness stands out, with housekeeping handling details carefully without touching personal items left on the sink. When ordering delivery, the robot brings items upstairs quickly. Front desk and housekeeping staff are friendly and responsive whenever help is needed.


Novotel Nanjing Central Suning

Novotel Nanjing Central Suning
  • Location: 5-minute walk to Xinjiekou Subway Station
  • Price per night: 379 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com SpecialsCompare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.2
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry room, triple rooms

The hotel is located right in the center of the Xinjiekou commercial area, about a five-minute walk from the subway. Moving around the city from here saves a lot of time. Once you step outside, you’re surrounded by shopping malls and restaurants, so dining, shopping, and daily needs stay within the same area. Classic spots like Xuanwu Lake, Laomendong, and Confucius Temple connect smoothly by subway, without constant transfers.

The room size feels comfortable and practical, with clean bedding and well-maintained hygiene throughout. Disposable amenities are fully provided, which adds to the sense of ease. My room had floor-to-ceiling windows, and the city lights of Xinjiekou at night made a strong impression. Service focuses on efficiency and warmth, from the entrance to the front desk. The gym equipment covers basic workout needs, and breakfast leans toward lighter, healthier options that don’t feel overly heavy.


Central Hotel

Central Hotel
  • Location: 7-minute walk to Xinjiekou Subway Station
  • Price per night: 386 CNY
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  • Rating: Trip 9.5
  • Special Amenities: Family rooms

The hotel sits in a prime Xinjiekou location, with Deji Plaza just across the street. It takes about five to seven minutes to walk to the subway station, which makes the location extremely practical. Shopping, dining, and exhibitions are all within walking distance. For classic attractions like Xuanwu Lake, Confucius Temple, and Laomendong, the subway provides direct and easy access, keeping daily plans relaxed.

The hotel maintains the standards expected from an established five-star property. While it isn’t brand new, facilities are well maintained, clean, and free of odors, which makes the stay feel reassuring. The room layout is practical, with separate wet and dry bathroom areas and USB charging ports for convenience. Service stands out as a key strength, from the entrance to the front desk and guest rooms, with staff showing both professionalism and warmth. The buffet breakfast offers many choices, including local Nanjing dishes. Overall, it delivers a “classic hotel, very reliable” experience, especially suitable for families or travelers who value stability.


Nanjing Jinling Hotel

Nanjing Jinling Hotel
  • Location: Directly above Xinjiekou Subway Station
  • Price per night: 680 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com SpecialsCompare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Indoor swimming pool, fitness center, robot room service, four-person rooms, six-person rooms

The location is hard to beat. The hotel sits at the very core of Xinjiekou, with the subway station directly downstairs, so transportation requires almost no planning. Deji Plaza is right across the street, and large shopping malls, restaurants, and cafés surround the area. Reaching major Nanjing attractions by subway feels smooth and efficient, which keeps itineraries simple.

This hotel delivers the consistency expected from a long-established five-star brand. Rooms are clean and well organized, with careful housekeeping that creates a strong sense of comfort. Upper-floor rooms offer open city views that add to the experience. Service is the hotel’s biggest advantage, with staff showing attentive care without being intrusive. Breakfast options are extensive, covering both Chinese and Western styles, with solid quality throughout. On-site restaurants also perform well, making dining inside the hotel a practical option for longer stays or family trips.


The Ritz-Carlton, Nanjing

The Ritz-Carlton, Nanjing
  • Location: 5-minute walk to Xinjiekou Subway Station
  • Price per night: 2,192 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com SpecialsCompare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Indoor swimming pool, fitness center

The hotel is located in the core Xinjiekou area, right next to Deji Plaza, with shopping, dining, and entertainment all within walking distance. It takes around five minutes to reach the subway station, which keeps both city attractions and nearby trips easy to plan. Staying in this area makes daytime sightseeing and evening shopping equally convenient.

The room design follows a low-key luxury style, with calm tones, good natural light, and a very comfortable bed. The bathroom is spacious, with separate wet and dry areas, making both showers and baths relaxing. The executive lounge offers a wide range of food options, enough to spend an entire day inside the hotel without feeling bored. The swimming pool and fitness center are well maintained and comfortable to use.


Nanjing Hotels: Daxinggong Hotel Recommendations

JI Hotel (Nanjing Xinjiekou Presidential Palace)

JI Hotel (Nanjing Xinjiekou Presidential Palace)
  • Location: 8-minute walk to Daxinggong Station, 8-minute walk to Xinjiekou Station
  • Price per night: 314 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.5
  • Special Amenities: Robot room service, laundry room

The location sits right between major attractions and the main shopping area, which makes it very practical. Walking from either Daxinggong Station or Xinjiekou Station takes under ten minutes, so getting around the city feels smooth. The Jiangnan Silk Manufacturing Museum is right next door, and the Presidential Palace is within walking distance. Popular sites like Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum remain easy to reach by subway. For shopping, Deji Plaza and the wider Xinjiekou area are close enough to walk to, and finding food at night never feels inconvenient.

The rooms keep JI Hotel’s usual cleanliness standard, with no odors and a reassuring overall feel. Space is not large, but it works well for daily use without feeling cramped. The bed and pillows are comfortable, which helps keep sleep quality consistent. Front desk and housekeeping staff are friendly and respond quickly when needed. Breakfast does not feel flashy, but everything essential is there, and it’s filling and comfortable to eat. With a laundry room and robot delivery for takeout, this hotel balances location, price, and comfort very well, making it a solid choice for travelers watching their budget.


Crystal Orange Nanjing Presidential Palace Zhongshan East Road

Crystal Orange Nanjing Presidential Palace Zhongshan East Road
  • Location: 10-minute walk to Daxinggong Station, 6-minute walk to Xi’anmen Station
  • Price per night: 329 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry room, robot room service

The hotel is located in the Presidential Palace area, positioned between Daxinggong Station and Xi’anmen Station, with both subway stops within a ten-minute walk. This neighborhood works well for travelers who want convenience during the day and a quieter environment at night. Zhongshan Scenic Area is not far, and the Presidential Palace and nearby museums are easy to reach on foot. For food, Ke Lane Snack Street is close by, and taking a taxi to Laomendong or the Xinjiekou shopping district is smooth and straightforward, keeping daily plans flexible.

The room size runs slightly small, but everything feels clean and well organized. The bed and bedding are comfortable, and sound insulation performs well, which helps ensure a good night’s sleep. Smart features are up to date and easy to use. Service details stand out, with front desk staff responding quickly and patiently, handling room changes or late check-outs smoothly. Laundry and drying are also assisted. Breakfast offers a wide selection and includes local Nanjing flavors.


Nanjing Centre Hotel

Nanjing Centre Hotel
  • Location: 4-minute walk to Daxinggong Station
  • Price per night: 513 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.5
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry room

The location is extremely practical, with about a four-minute walk to Daxinggong Subway Station, making travel across the city efficient. The Presidential Palace sits directly behind the hotel, and Ke Lane Snack Street is just around the corner. Sightseeing during the day and finding food at night both stay within walking distance. This area carries a strong old-city Nanjing atmosphere, so staying here allows plans to flow naturally without extra detours.

The hotel follows a Republic of China–era design style, and the lobby immediately gives off a sense of history. Decorative details feel carefully considered, which makes the stay memorable. After recent renovations, room cleanliness is solid, with quality linens and amenities, and basic requests are handled quickly. Service adds real value here, with friendly and attentive staff who step in promptly when issues come up. While some details still reflect its roots as an older hotel, they don’t affect comfort and instead add a layer of classic Nanjing character.


THE TAI HOTEL

THE TAI HOTEL
  • Location: 6-minute walk to Daxinggong Station
  • Price per night: 617 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com SpecialsCompare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Fitness center, laundry room, robot room service, family rooms

The hotel sits in the city center but avoids the noise, directly facing the Presidential Palace. Getting to Xinjiekou, the 1912 bar district, or nearby shopping areas feels smooth, while a food street behind the hotel offers plenty of dining options. Reaching city attractions doesn’t require extra detours, which keeps itineraries simple and efficient.

The hotel is not large, but it focuses on refined details, with smart space planning throughout. Rooms feel clean and comfortable, and sound insulation works well, keeping nights quiet. Window views have depth, avoiding direct views of nearby buildings and adding to the atmosphere. The bed is comfortable, smart controls are intuitive, and takeout can be delivered by robot. Laundry and drying facilities perform well, with high-temperature drying that’s especially practical. Gym equipment is reliable, and breakfast follows a curated approach, focusing on quality rather than quantity, with lunch prices that feel surprisingly reasonable.


Nanjing Hotels: Confucius Temple Hotel Recommendations

Jinpeng Yunju Hotel (Nanjing Confucius Temple Center Branch)

Jinpeng Yunju Hotel (Nanjing Confucius Temple Center Branch)
  • Location: 5-minute walk to Confucius Temple Subway Station
  • Price per night: 280 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Family rooms

The location works especially well for trips centered around the Confucius Temple area. It takes about five minutes to walk to the subway station, with Lines 3 and 5 intersecting nearby, which makes transfers convenient. Confucius Temple, the Qinhuai River, and Zhanyuan Garden are all within walking distance, and evening walks to enjoy the night scenery feel relaxed. Gongyuan West Street sits right next door with plenty of dining options, and getting to the Nanjing Museum by taxi or subway is also straightforward.

Rooms are clean and well organized, making the stay comfortable, with good bedding and a quiet atmosphere at night. The bathroom separates wet and dry areas, with stable water pressure and temperature, and includes a smart toilet with disposable seat covers, which adds thoughtful detail. The overall design includes subtle Chinese elements that feel modern rather than dated, and the layout is practical. Rooms are cleaned daily and maintained well. Breakfast isn’t flashy, but it’s filling and consistent in flavor. For families, both room types and overall layout feel friendly. At this price point, the balance between location and comfort is strong, making it one of the best-value options around Confucius Temple.


WUTONG HOTEL

WUTONG HOTEL
  • Location: 3-minute walk to Confucius Temple Subway Station
  • Price per night: 378 CNY
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  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Robot room service, laundry room

The hotel sits directly inside the Confucius Temple scenic area, with about a three-minute walk to the subway station, which saves time when moving in and out of the area. The Qinhuai River and Pingjiang Bridge are right next door. Walking toward Confucius Temple takes you past Jiangnan Examination Hall, the Imperial Examination Museum, and Dacheng Hall. At night, the illuminated scenery makes walking and photography especially enjoyable. Dining options are plentiful nearby, and both daytime sightseeing and evening strolls feel smooth and convenient.

The overall style feels distinctive, with décor inspired by plane trees that creates a strong sense of atmosphere. Rooms are relatively spacious and comfortable, and some room types offer views of the Qinhuai River, with passing boats adding to the experience. In-room controls are smart-enabled. Bathrooms include bathtubs with disposable tub liners, which is practical and thoughtful. The fifth-floor terrace works well for photos, featuring “Nanjing wall” elements and open views.


Atour Hotel (Nanjing Confucius Temple)

Atour Hotel (Nanjing Confucius Temple)
  • Location: Directly at the Confucius Temple Subway Station exit
  • Price per night: 390 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com SpecialsCompare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Robot room service, laundry room, family rooms

The location is almost a true “step out of the station and arrive” setup, with the hotel right next to the Confucius Temple subway exit. Traveling between different parts of the city requires very little walking. Step outside and you’re already in the Confucius Temple area, with shopping, street food, and evening Qinhuai River walks all within easy reach. Using the subway to connect to other attractions feels smooth, while the hotel itself avoids excessive noise thanks to well-planned internal circulation.

Rooms are clean and feel comfortably spacious, following Atour’s familiar warm and relaxed style. Front desk service is attentive, with smooth communication before and after check-in, and family needs are handled thoughtfully. Breakfast offers a Chinese and Western buffet with reliable variety and taste. In the evening, guests can enjoy complimentary hot porridge, which adds a nice touch. Food delivery can be sent upstairs by robot, and the laundry facilities are well equipped, making this hotel convenient for longer stays or family trips. Overall, it’s a Confucius Temple area option with a strong location and a reassuring stay experience.


FAQ

Where should I stay if I want to visit Niushou Mountain?

Staying in central Nanjing works best. Areas like Xinjiekou, Daxinggong, or Confucius Temple are all fine options. Niushou Mountain is located farther out, and the final stretch usually requires a bus or taxi, so staying nearby isn’t necessary.

Where is the best area to stay for a first-time visit to Nanjing?

If your budget allows, Xinjiekou is the most convenient choice. For better value, Daxinggong offers the best balance of price and location. If you want night views and a scenic atmosphere, Confucius Temple is worth considering.

How many nights should I stay in Nanjing?

For classic city attractions, 2–3 nights usually work well. If you also plan to visit Niushou Mountain, Tangshan Hot Springs, or nearby cities, staying 3–4 nights allows for a more relaxed pace.


Essential Nanjing Travel Resources