MileHacker Logo
Ningbo Itineraries

Ningbo Itineraries

Ningbo Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

-Hour Layover Highlights

Make the most of a short visit with Ningbo attractions.

Efficient planning allows allows you to experience the city's essence even on a tight schedule. Book experiences in advance at GetYourGuide.

Quick City Exploration

  • Morning: Tianyi Pavilion, Asia's oldest private library, and its gardens.
  • Afternoon: Gulou Pedestrian Street for traditional shops and snacks, then a stroll through Moon Lake Park.
  • Evening: Old Bund for dinner at a riverside restaurant and illuminated architecture.

Weekend & Week-Long Stays

Expand your Ningbo experience with more detailed itineraries.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A balanced itinerary covering main attractions of the city and a resident excursion.

Day-by-Day Plan

  • Day 1: Morning at Tianyi Pavilion; Afternoon at Gulou & Moon Lake Park; Evening at Old Bund.
  • Day 2: Morning at Ningbo Museum; Afternoon at Dongqian Lake; Evening at Qita Temple or local dining.
  • Day 3 (optional): Half-day trip to Cicheng Historic Town or Tiantong Temple.
  • This allows for a comprehensive overview of Ningbo's urban and natural appeal.
Consider a local tour to better your understanding of particular sites.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

Immerse yourself in Ningbo and its surrounding heritage and natural wonders.

Full Week Itinerary

  • Day 1-2: Ningbo City Highlights (as per weekend itinerary).
  • Day 3: Full day at Dongqian Lake and Asoka Temple.
  • Day 4: Full day trip to Xikou Scenic Area.

Week-Long Continued Itinerary

Completing your comprehensive Ningbo journey.

Mid-Week to Departure

  • The FIFTH day: Full day trip to Putuoshan (Buddhist Holy Island), needing an early start.
  • The SIXTH day: Full day trip to Shaoxing for cultural immersion via high-speed train.
  • Day 7: Relaxed morning, souvenir shopping, then travel to the airport or train station.
  • This itinerary offers a deep dive into Ningbo's rich offerings.

Longer Stays 2 Weeks or More

For in-depth exploration plus cultural immersion.

Extended Exploration

  • Combine the one-week Ningbo itinerary with multi-day extensions to Hangzhou and Shanghai.
  • Explore further into Zhejiang Province, visiting Siming Mountain or the Xiangshan coastline.
  • Consider language classes at a local university for cultural immersion.
  • Plan frequent weekend trips to nearby cities and areas of nature.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Ningbo itinerary to your specific passions.

Historical Focus

Visit Tianyi Pavilion, Old Bund, Gulou, Ningbo Museum, temples, Cicheng Old Town, and Zhenhai Ancient City.

Food & Culinary

Explore Old Bund restaurants, Gulou street food, local seafood, Tangyuan shops, and wet markets.

Adventure & Outdoors

Cycle Dongqian Lake, hike Xikou Scenic Area or Siming Mountain, and enjoy boating activities.

Customized Travel

Aligning your itinerary with your interests and available time supports a more fulfilling journey through Ningbo.

Budget-Based Plans

Ningbo offers enjoyable experiences whatever your budget.

Backpacker's Guide

Budget travel focusing on experiences and local life.

Budget-Friendly Choices

  • Stay in hostels or economy hotels for accommodation.
  • Utilize public transportation and bike-sharing for budget travel.
  • Eat street food and at local eateries for cheap eats.
  • Focus on free attractions like parks and the Old Bund.
Mobile methods of payment often provide discounts.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A comfortable balance of quality and cost.

Comfortable Travel

  • Stay in 3-4 star hotels for a good balance of comfort and price.
  • Enjoy a mix of local restaurants and occasional mid-range dining.
  • Use DiDi (ride-sharing) and mass transit for mobility.
  • Visit paid attractions and include a couple of day trips.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and comfort.

High-End Travel

  • Stay in 5-star hotels for exceptional service and amenities.
  • Indulge in fine dining experiences at top restaurants.
  • Arrange private car transfers for seamless travel.
  • Opt for private tours with a guide to attractions and excursions, and consider spa treatments.
Priority Pass access to the airport lounges can enhance your luxury journey. Explore Priority Pass.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Maximize your experience without overspending.

Smart Saving

  • Travel during shoulder seasons for better prices and fewer crowds.
  • Book a place to stay and how to get around in advance for savings.
  • Utilize mobile payment discounts, which are common in China.
  • Prioritize experiences over expensive souvenirs.

Seasonal Exploration

Time your visit with Ningbo’s seasonal offerings for unique moments.

Seasonal Highlights

  • Summer: Enjoy water activities at Dongqian Lake, indoor museums, and evening Old Bund strolls.
  • Winter: Visit indoor attractions, enjoy hot pot, and experience Lunar New Year festivities (late Jan/Feb).
  • Festivals: Plan travel around major Chinese holidays for cultural events or temple fairs.
  • Off-Season: Benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds. Be prepared for specific weather conditions.

Ningbo Gulou Visual

An iconic historical landmark in Ningbo.

Historic Drum Tower

  • The Gulou (Drum Tower) marks an ancient city entrance, a significant historical site.
  • It offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during evening hours.
  • The surrounding area is a lively pedestrian street with shops and eateries.
  • It acts as a hub for exploring Ningbo's historical core.

Final Planning Tip

Always check opening hours and transportation schedules adjacent to your travel dates, because these might change.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Ningbo itinerary to your specific passions.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities and places suitable for all ages.

Fun for Everyone

  • Ningbo Museum: Interactive exhibits be interesting to younger visitors.
  • Moon Lake Park: Features playgrounds, open spaces, and easy walks.
  • Dongqian Lake: Cycling, boating, and comprehensive open areas.
  • Old Bund: Offers evening strolls and family-friendly dining options.
Consider age-appropriate tours for specific attractions.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Explore Ningbo's aesthetic and structural marvels.

Visual Delights

  • Ningbo Museum: Admire Wang Shu's striking architectural design.
  • Ningbo Art Museum: Experience local and national collections of art.
  • Old Bund: Observe charming colonial-era architecture.
  • Traditional Temples: Discover unique design elements and spiritual artistry.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

A journey for inner peace and contemplation.

Sacred Spaces

  • Tiantong Temple: A serene mountain temple for religious ambiance.
  • Asoka Temple: A historic Buddhist site offering a calm escape.
  • Qita Temple: An urban temple known for its ancient pagoda and spiritual practices.

Wellness Focus

  • Explore wellness centers in contemporary hotels.
  • Relish quiet contemplation in Ningbo's numerous parks and green spaces.
  • Consider arranging a temple retreat, though this requires prior arrangement.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Uncover centuries of Ningbo’s past.

Deep Dive into History

  • Tianyi Pavilion: Asia's oldest private library.
  • Old Bund & Gulou: Historic quarters with unique architecture.
  • Ningbo Museum: Showcases local history and culture.
  • Cicheng Historic Town & Zhenhai Ancient City: Explore traditional town life and fortifications.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Savor the genuine flavors of Ningbo.

A Taste of Ningbo

  • Old Bund Restaurants: A variety of dining options with riverside views.
  • Gulou Street Food: Sample local snacks and traditional delicacies.
  • Area Seafood Restaurants: Experience freshly caught fish from the East China Sea.
  • Tangyuan Shops & Wet Markets: Find specialty desserts and fresh ingredients.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Lakeside Exploration

Cycle around Dongqian Lake, offering scenic routes and fresh air. Enjoy boating on the lake's tranquil waters.

Mountainous Treks

Hike in Xikou Scenic Area for natural beauty plus waterfalls, or explore the more challenging trails of Siming Mountain.

Route Customization

Tailoring your route to specific interests makes your Ningbo visit truly unique and memorable.
← Previous
Sustainable Travel in Ningbo
← Back to Ningbo
Next →
Ningbo Travel Hacks

Next Up: Ningbo Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Continue to Ningbo Travel Hacks