There are 2 way(s) to get from Nanjing to Shenzhen
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Popular high-speed train routes, especially on weekends or holidays, can sell out days in advance. To avoid disappointment, aim to book your tickets as soon as your travel dates are firm, ideally 2-4 weeks out. Platforms like 12go.asia allow you to book securely from abroad.
Major Chinese cities often have multiple train stations (e.g., Nanjing South, Nanjing Station). Always confirm the exact station name on your ticket to avoid going to the wrong one. Use mapping apps with English names for clarity.
When booking any train or plane ticket in China, your passport is mandatory. Ensure you enter your details accurately as they appear on your passport. You'll also need your physical passport to collect tickets and board.
Second class on high-speed trains is incredibly comfortable and offers excellent value. Unless you specifically need more legroom or a quieter environment, it's generally the best choice for independent travellers. First class and business class are available for a premium.
Chinese train stations and airports are vast and can be overwhelming. Aim to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before your scheduled train departure and 2-3 hours for flights, especially for international connections, to allow time for security and finding your gate.
🛣️ The journey experience
When travelling between Nanjing and Shenzhen, you're faced with a classic China travel dilemma: train or plane? Both offer distinct advantages depending on your priorities. For many independent travellers like you, balancing speed, comfort, and cost is key. Let's break down the options so you can make an informed choice and avoid any travel headaches.
For this particular route, the high-speed train is a strong contender, clocking in at around 6 hours and costing approximately €81. It offers a comfortable, scenic journey across China's impressive landscapes. Alternatively, a direct flight will get you there in about 2 hours for a similar price of €80, not including airport transfers and check-in time. While the flight is faster in the air, the overall door-to-door time might be quite similar when you factor in travel to and from airports.
My advice? High-speed rail often beats flying on routes of this duration in China. With multiple stations in mega-cities, knowing which one to use is crucial – always check your ticket carefully! The biggest hurdle is booking in advance, as popular trains do sell out days ahead, and you'll need your passport. Booking through a reliable platform like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn in English is your best bet to secure your seat before you even arrive in China, ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey.
Frequently asked questions — Nanjing → Shenzhen
For this route, the choice is primarily between high-speed train and plane. Given the distance, buses are too slow, and ferries are not an option. The high-speed train offers a comfortable journey without airport hassles, making it a strong contender for many. Flights are faster in the air but require more time for airport procedures, often making the door-to-door journey similar.
The high-speed train from Nanjing to Shenzhen typically takes around 6 hours. Prices for a second-class seat usually range from €75 to €85, depending on the specific train and booking time. First-class options are also available for a higher price, offering more space and amenities. Booking early can sometimes secure slightly better fares.
It's highly recommended to book your high-speed train tickets at least a few days to a week in advance, especially during peak travel times. For peace of mind, booking 2-4 weeks out is ideal. Yes, you absolutely can book from abroad! Use reputable English-language platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn, which allow you to pay with international credit cards and use your passport for identification.
Most high-speed trains from Nanjing to Shenzhen depart from Nanjing South Railway Station (南京南站). Always verify this on your ticket. As for classes, Second Class is perfectly comfortable and offers great value, making it the most popular choice for independent travellers. First Class provides more space and slightly better amenities if you prefer extra comfort.
✨ Why visit Shenzhen?
- ✓ Explore the futuristic architecture of the Ping An Finance Center and Shenzhen Bay Sports Center.
- ✓ Immerse yourself in Chinese culture at Splendid China Folk Village, featuring miniature replicas of famous landmarks.
- ✓ Discover vibrant art districts like Dafen Oil Painting Village and OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park.
- ✓ Enjoy theme parks such as Window of the World, showcasing global landmarks, or Happy Valley Shenzhen.
- ✓ Shop for electronics and fashion in bustling commercial areas like Huaqiangbei and Dongmen Pedestrian Street.
☀️ When to visit Shenzhen?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to December — pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall make it ideal for sightseeing.
What to do in Shenzhen?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Shenzhen?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days is ideal to experience Shenzhen. This allows you to explore major attractions like Window of the World, OCT Loft, and Huaqiangbei. With less time, focus on one or two districts; with more, consider day trips to nearby areas like Hong Kong or Guangzhou.
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