Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality to Nanjing (Jiangsu), Jiangsu from $5: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Shanghai to Nanjing (Jiangsu): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$5 by trainBest price
298 kmDistance
1h 37m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Shanghai to Nanjing (Jiangsu) with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
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Traveling From Shanghai to Nanjing (Jiangsu)
The journey from Shanghai to Nanjing contrasts the vibrant, fast-paced hustle of Shanghai with the rich historical charm and serene ambiance of Nanjing.
Best Neighbourhoods in Nanjing (Jiangsu)
Nanjing offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.
Xinjiekou
• Bustling shopping district with modern amenities.
• Rich in restaurants and entertainment options.
Gulou
• Historic sites like the Ming City Wall.
• Vibrant cultural scene with local markets.
Confucius Temple Area
• Beautiful architecture along the Qinhuai River.
• Lively atmosphere with traditional performances.
Best Times To Visit Nanjing (Jiangsu)'s Attractions
Timing your visits to Nanjing's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Nanjing Museum
Weekdays are ideal; enjoy the exhibits without the weekend influx.
Confucius Temple Area
Late afternoon offers stunning views and a lively, less crowded atmosphere.
Nanjing (Jiangsu) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Nanjing experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn the best times to visit. Being aware of the weather can enhance your travel experience, as you'll know what to pack and when to enjoy outdoor activities.
Dining Recommendation in Nanjing (Jiangsu)
A must-try dish in Nanjing is the famous Salted Duck, known for its tender meat and distinct flavor derived from local spices, offering a stark contrast to Shanghai’s more diverse culinary influences. Dining in Nanjing often features a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on traditional methods, allowing you to savor authentic flavors and local ingredients that reflect the city’s rich history.
Shanghai - Nanjing (Jiangsu) operators
Explore transport companies operating between Shanghai and Nanjing (Jiangsu), with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
(86)12306Website
12306.cn
Train from Shanghai Station to Nanjing South Station
Average Duration
1h 13mEstimated price
$193-194Train from Shanghai to Nanjing
Average Duration
1h 40mEstimated price
$193-194Contact phone
(86)12306Website
chinahighlights.com
Train from Shanghai to Nanjing
Average Duration
2h 41mEstimated price
$19-52Contact phone
(86)12306Website
chinahighlights.com
Train from Shanghai to Nanjing
Average Duration
2h 47mEstimated price
$54-238Contact phone
(86)12306Website
chinahighlights.com
Train from Shanghai to Nanjing
Average Duration
3h 50mEstimated price
$5-506Website
chinabusguide.com
Bus from Shanghai General to Wuxi
Average Duration
2hEstimated price
$53-53Bus from Wuxi to Nanjing
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
$57-57Website
en.ceair.com
Plane from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Nanjing (NKG)
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$195-196Plane from Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) to Nanjing (NKG)
Average Duration
5h 10mEstimated price
$110-197Contact phone
+86 21 - 62580000all-pages.transport_taxicab from Shanghai to Nanjing
Average Duration
2h 56mEstimated price
$110-140Shanghai to Nanjing (Jiangsu): Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Shanghai and Nanjing (Jiangsu) offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Experience a scenic journey from Shanghai to Nanjing, spanning 185 miles of beautiful Chinese landscapes. Enjoy the smooth drive that takes about 2 hours and 56 minutes, making for a convenient trip by car.
💸 Depending on your preferences and budget, transportation costs from Shanghai to Nanjing by car range from $35 to $55. Plan your trip accordingly and choose the option that best suits your needs and travel style.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Traveling from Shanghai to Nanjing by train is a convenient and efficient way to explore these two vibrant cities. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes with direct trains departing every 30 minutes, offering flexibility in planning your trip.
🚆 With ticket prices ranging from $5 to $30, the train journey from Shanghai to Nanjing offers a budget-friendly travel option for visitors looking to experience the rich history and culture of Jiangsu province. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride between these dynamic Chinese cities.
Departure Point
Shanghai Station
Arrival Point
Gulou station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The primary operators for the Shanghai to Nanjing route are China Railway (www.china-railway.com.cn), and G trains (www.china.highspeedtrain.com). You can find schedules on their websites for your planning. After arriving at the Nanjing South Railway Station, you can expect a busy but organized process for disembarking. The station offers luggage storage services for a fee, and you can easily find restrooms. For showers, there are no public shower facilities available at the station. To get to the city center quickly, take Metro Line 1 from the Nanjing South Railway Station towards Maigaoqiao, which will connect you directly to several key areas in the city.
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Shanghai to Nanjing with a quick 1 hour and 5-minute direct flight operated by China Eastern Airlines from Shanghai Pudong Airport to Nanjing Airport.
🛄 The total travel time from Shanghai to Nanjing by plane is approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes, offering a convenient way to reach the historic city in Jiangsu province with ease and comfort.
💸 Prices for flights between Nanjing and Shanghai range from $112 to $297, making it an affordable and efficient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Chinese cities.
Departure Point
Shanghai Pudong Airport
Arrival Point
Nanjing Airport
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Shanghai to Nanjing, travelers can still reach their destination by taking a bus with a transfer in Wuxi. The journey, including transfers, typically takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes.
🌉 Departing from Shanghai General station, buses operated by China Bus Guide provide transportation services to Nanjing station. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride for an affordable fare of $17 for the trip between Shanghai and Nanjing.
🌸 Travelers can expect a convenient and relatively quick journey from bustling Shanghai to historical Nanjing by bus. With a total travel time of 5 hours and 5 minutes, this option offers an accessible and cost-effective way to explore the two vibrant cities in China.
Departure Point
Shanghai General station
Arrival Point
Nanjing station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Shanghai to Nanjing (Jiangsu).
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The distance between Shanghai and Nanjing is approximately 169 miles by road. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. The fastest option is to take the train, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Another option is to take a combination of train and subway, which takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes. If you prefer to fly, it takes around 6 hours and 47 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes, while taking a bus takes about 5 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Shanghai to Nanjing is by train, with tickets ranging from $5 to $29. This mode of transportation takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a fairly quick option. For those seeking the fastest route, taking a train and then transferring to line 1 subway proves to be the most time-efficient, taking just 1 hour and 37 minutes. Though it is slightly more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $18 to $26, it offers the quickest travel time between the two cities.
The prices for a train ticket from Shanghai to Nanjing range from $5 to $29, depending on the class and type of train. Alternatively, taking the bus from Nanjing to Shanghai costs around $17. These prices may be subject to change and could vary depending on the time of travel and availability. It is always recommended to check the current prices and book in advance for the best deals.
To travel from Shanghai to Nanjing without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive. The driving distance is approximately 184 miles, and it usually takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes to reach Nanjing by car. Car rental prices typically range from $35 to $55, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration.
To travel from Shanghai to Nanjing without a car, the best option is to take a train and then transfer to line 1 subway. This journey takes approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes, with tickets costing between $18 and $26. Another option is to take a direct train from Shanghai to Nanjing, which takes 1 hour and 40 minutes with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $29. If you prefer a more economical option, you can take a bus which takes 5 hours and 5 minutes and costs $17. Alternatively, if you are looking for a faster option, you can fly from Shanghai to Nanjing which takes 6 hours and 47 minutes and costs between $110 and $360.
Yes, there is a direct link between Shanghai and Nanjing. The most convenient option is to take a train, which departs hourly from Shanghai Station and arrives at Nanjing's Gulou station in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can also travel by bus, but it requires a transfer in Wuxi and takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight duration between Shanghai and Nanjing typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between Shanghai Hongqiao Airport and Nanjing Airport. The cost of a flight ticket between Nanjing and Shanghai can range from $112 to $357, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are various accommodation options available near Nanjing over 180 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget. Prices start at $59 per night, providing affordable options for travelers. It is recommended to research and compare different hotels based on location, amenities, and reviews to find the best option for your stay in Nanjing.
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