Filter Tours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: CNY
- Languages: Mandarin Chinese, Ningbo dialect, English (in tourist areas)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Shanghai
- Population: Approximately 9.5 million
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to Ningbo generally require a visa to enter China unless they are from visa-exempt countries. Citizens from the US, EU, and UK must obtain a Chinese visa prior to arrival, typically a tourist (L) visa. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-free transit for up to 144 hours in certain Chinese cities, including Ningbo, if arriving and departing by air. E-visa options are not widely available for China; travelers should apply through Chinese embassies or consulates. Visa on arrival is generally not available for Ningbo.
About Ningbo
Ningbo is a vibrant coastal city in Zhejiang Province, China, known for its rich history, thriving port, and blend of modernity with tradition. As one of China's oldest cities, Ningbo offers visitors a unique glimpse into ancient culture alongside bustling urban life. Its strategic location on the East China Sea has made it a key trading hub for centuries, reflected in its lively markets and diverse cuisine. Tourists are drawn to Ningbo for its scenic waterfront, historic temples, and well-preserved traditional neighborhoods. The city’s blend of cultural heritage and contemporary development creates a compelling destination for travelers interested in history, shopping, and authentic Chinese experiences. Ningbo’s accessibility by air, rail, and sea makes it an ideal base for exploring the broader Zhejiang region and nearby attractions. Visitors will appreciate the city’s welcoming atmosphere, delicious local food, and the chance to experience a less touristy, yet culturally rich, part of eastern China.
Top Attractions
1. Tianyi Pavilion - The oldest private library in China, renowned for its ancient books and beautiful garden setting. 2. Ningbo Museum - A striking modern architectural landmark showcasing the city’s history and culture. 3. Baoguo Temple - A historic Buddhist temple dating back over 1,000 years, offering spiritual insight and traditional architecture. 4. Dongqian Lake - The largest freshwater lake in Zhejiang, perfect for boating, hiking, and enjoying natural scenery. 5. Old Bund - A historic waterfront area with colonial-era buildings, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy cultural tours of ancient temples and museums, boat rides on Dongqian Lake, and shopping in bustling local markets. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike nearby hills or cycle along scenic routes. Food lovers can take culinary tours to sample Ningbo’s seafood and traditional dishes. The city also offers festivals and performances that highlight local customs and arts.
Ningbo Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Eastern China
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy cultural tours of ancient temples and museums, boat rides on Dongqian Lake, and shopping in bustling local markets. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike nearby hills or cycle along scenic routes. Food lovers can take culinary tours to sample Ningbo’s seafood and traditional dishes. The city also offers festivals and performances that highlight local customs and arts.
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella for occasional rain. Respect local customs by greeting politely and removing shoes when entering homes or temples. Ningbo is generally safe, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas. Cash is useful for small purchases, but credit cards are accepted in many places. Learning a few Mandarin phrases enhances the experience.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $180
3 Available Tour Excursions in Ningbo
Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. Old streets, beautiful temples, museums, and lakes, among others, combine to make Ningbo a lovely place. You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Do you know that Tengtou Village in Ningbo is a famous eco-tourism attraction in China? You will be surprised how many stories lay hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Ningbo. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. It is perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most of it!
Price: $493.54
Duration: 2 hours
You will have a hassle-free ride with our private transfer service. When you arrive the airport/hotel lobby, your driver is waiting at the exit of arriving hall with your name tab. Meet your driver at the exit/hotel lobby, get your luggage to the vehicle by the driver, and then enjoy reliable, hassle-free private transfer service to your hotel/airport • Transfer from airport to your hotel or transfer from your hotel to airport • the vehicle we provide is compliance with relevant laws and regulations,the insurance is provided ,fully insured • Transfer by a private, air-conditioned vehicle • Relax as a professional driver helps with luggage • 7*24 hrs emergency customer service ,if you reserve the vehicle before 12 PM, you could ask for the multilingual customer assistant any help when you in trouble • 48 hrs free cancellation
Price: $60.00
Duration: 1-2 hours
An exclusive tour for all the romantics of the world! Together with the local professional guide, you will visit the most romantic places in the city. Springs, parks, and lakes are popular spots for couples in Ningbo. You will feel spellbound in a charming atmosphere. Where is considered as one of the best places to have a date in the city? Where can you take lovely photos? You will be surprised how many historical love stories there are hidden in the streets, buildings, parks of Ningbo. From heartbreaking and tragic, to the hilarious or spicy ones. Why was the city named Ningbo (Tranquil Waves)? What is the most famous historical couple in China? Have you heard the tragic Ningbo tale of a student and his ghost lover? A tour especially recommended in the Saint Valentine period!
Price: $493.54
Duration: 2 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Ningbo.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Ningbo cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood, light flavors, and emphasis on natural taste. Signature dishes include steamed sea bass, Ningbo tangyuan (sweet rice balls), and seafood congee. Dining customs favor communal eating with shared dishes. Noteworthy restaurants include local favorites like Lao Waitan Seafood Restaurant and Tianyi Pavilion Restaurant, where visitors can savor authentic Ningbo flavors in traditional settings.
Getting Around
Ningbo is accessible via Ningbo Lishe International Airport with flights connecting major Chinese cities and some international destinations. The city has an efficient metro system, extensive bus network, and taxis for local travel. High-speed trains connect Ningbo to Shanghai and other regional hubs. Getting around is affordable and convenient, with metro fares typically low cost and taxis metered.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella for occasional rain. Respect local customs by greeting politely and removing shoes when entering homes or temples. Ningbo is generally safe, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas. Cash is useful for small purchases, but credit cards are accepted in many places. Learning a few Mandarin phrases enhances the experience.
Culture & Customs
Ningbo’s culture blends traditional Chinese values with modern influences. Respect for elders and polite social behavior are important. Festivals such as the Ningbo International Fashion Festival and traditional Chinese New Year celebrations are significant events. Visitors should observe etiquette like addressing people formally and avoiding loud conversations in public. Gift-giving and hospitality are valued customs.
