Nanjing’s hotel scene spans 5-star international chains in the downtown core, characterful boutique hotels in restored Republican-era mansions, and budget hostels near the universities. Your choice of area and hotel tier makes a big difference, the city is spread out, and being near the right metro line can save you an hour of commuting daily. This guide breaks down the best areas to stay with specific hotel recommendations, real price ranges, and Booking.com links. For a complete overview, see our Nanjing travel guide.
Where to Stay in Nanjing: Xinjiekou and Downtown
Xinjiekou is the central business and shopping district at the intersection of Metro Lines 1 and 2. You are 10-20 minutes by metro from every major attraction. The area is high-energy and commercial, not charming, but unbeatable for convenience. See our best neighborhoods guide for more.
Suggested Hotels in Xinjiekou
The Ritz-Carlton Nanjing
Nanjing’s top luxury hotel occupies floors 62-81 of Deji Plaza Tower II, with panoramic views of Purple Mountain and the Yangtze River. The infinity pool on the 63rd floor and Cantonese restaurant on the 82nd floor are destination dining in themselves. Best for luxury travelers and special occasions. Check rates and availability
Holiday Inn Nanjing Aqua City
A reliable mid-range option in the Confucius Temple area with modern rooms and an indoor pool. Directly connected to the Aqua City shopping mall with a food court, supermarket, and cinema. Five-minute walk to Confucius Temple. Best for families and mid-range travelers who want to be in the historic center. Check rates and availability
Nanjing Fuzimiao Youth Hostel
The best-located budget option, right in the Confucius Temple pedestrian zone. Clean dorm beds from 60 RMB (US$8) and private doubles from 200 RMB (US$28). The rooftop terrace overlooks Qinhuai River. English-speaking staff, luggage storage, and free walking tour information. Best for backpackers and solo budget travelers. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Nanjing: Xuanwu Lake Area
The area west of Xuanwu Lake around Hunan Road offers a quieter base with immediate lake access. It is 15 minutes by metro to Xinjiekou, 10 minutes to Nanjing Railway Station, and you can walk to the lake in under 5 minutes from most hotels.
Suggested Hotels near Xuanwu Lake
InterContinental Nanjing
Occupying the upper floors of the 450-meter Zifeng Tower, Nanjing’s tallest building. Rooms start on the 49th floor, guaranteeing city or mountain views. The lobby bar on the 78th floor and the infinity pool are Instagram catchers. Five-minute walk to Xuanwu Lake and Metro Line 1. Best for luxury travelers wanting Nanjing’s most iconic high-rise experience. Check rates and availability
Lakeview Xuanwu Hotel
A solid mid-range choice directly facing Xuanwu Lake with rooms that actually deliver on the lake-view promise. The breakfast buffet includes Jiangsu-style noodle soup and fresh dumplings. Five-minute walk to Xuanwumen Metro Station. Best for couples and families who prioritize lake views. Check rates and availability
Jinjiang Inn Nanjing Xuanwumen
A dependable Chinese budget chain with clean, no-frills rooms starting at 180 RMB (US$25). Location is excellent, 300 meters from Xuanwumen Metro Station and Xuanwu Lake entrance. Rooms are small (18 sqm) but functional with reliable hot water and Wi-Fi. Best for no-frills solo travelers on a tight budget. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Nanjing: Gulou University Area
Gulou offers the best value in Nanjing. The area around Nanjing University is filled with affordable restaurants, used bookstores, and 1920s architecture. You trade five-star amenities for character and cost, 200-500 RMB (US$28-69) buys a comfortable room versus 600+ RMB elsewhere. Metro Line 1 connects you to the rest of the city.
Suggested Hotels in Gulou
Nanjing University International Conference Center
A hotel run by Nanjing University on campus, offering clean, spacious rooms in a quiet park-like setting. The campus location means you are surrounded by cheap student restaurants and coffee shops. Rooms are simple but comfortable with Western bathrooms. Best for academic visitors and solo travelers wanting campus life. Check rates and availability
Mercure Nanjing Downtown
A French chain hotel in a converted Republican-era building near the university. Rooms blend traditional Chinese dark wood with modern bathrooms and good soundproofing. The breakfast buffet includes both Western and Chinese options. Best for mid-range travelers who want character and comfort. Check rates and availability
Nanjing Danfeng International Youth Hostel
The best budget hostel in the Gulou area, located on Shanghai Road in the thick of the university restaurant strip. Dorm beds from 50 RMB (US$7), private doubles from 160 RMB (US$22). Common areas are lively with travelers sharing tips. Laundry machines and bike rentals available. Best for backpackers and solo travelers under 30. Check rates and availability
