2026 May Day holiday travel guide

The 2026 May Day holiday runs from May 1 to 5. iSuzhou has prepared a travel guide to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable holiday in the city.

Weather Forecast

Clear skies are expected tomorrow. From Saturday night to Sunday, there will be another round of moderate precipitation. Sunny conditions will return on Monday and Tuesday. As temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night, remember to dress accordingly to avoid catching a cold.

Toll-free Policy

Passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer will be exempt from expressway tolls from May 1 to 5.

Metro Service

April 30 & May 1 to 3:
Lines 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 will extend operating hours by about 30 minutes compared with regular weekends. Lines 7, 8 and 3/11 will extend service by about 70 minutes compared with regular weekdays.
May 4 to 5:
Lines 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 will operate on regular weekend schedules. Lines 7, 8 and 3/11 will extend service by about 40 minutes compared with regular weekdays.

Boat Tours

Photo/苏州文旅 (WeChat ID: whsuzhou11)
Most boat tour programs will extend their service hours.
Bai Juyi Wharf: service hours extended to 9:30 p.m.
Shantang River: service hours extended to 9 p.m.
Yangcheng Lake: one departure every 30 minutes
Jinji Lake: service hours extended to 10 p.m.

Friendly Reminder

Suzhou will receive an influx of tourists during the holiday. It is recommended to book train tickets in advance via the Railway 12306 app and purchase bus tickets via the Bus Steward app. Before visiting popular attractions such as the Suzhou Museum, the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lingering Garden, make sure you have made reservations or bought tickets via official WeChat accounts or mini programs. Planning your itinerary in advance will help you avoid crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience.

(Source: Suzhou Meteorological Observatory, 苏州交通运输 (WeChat ID: SZTOCC), 苏州交警 (WeChat ID: szjxjzd))
Source：iSzhou