Zoella Última actualización 07 Sep 2026
Xi'an sits at the heart of China's Shaanxi province, serving as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and the capital for 13 Chinese dynasties. If you're wondering where is Xi'an, China, it's about 4.5 hours by high-speed train from Beijing or 6-7 hours from Shanghai. Many travelers include Xi'an as part of their China tours itinerary, often combining it with Beijing and Shanghai.
This Xi'an travel guide covers everything you need to know for your visit, from the world-famous Terracotta Army to the busy Muslim Quarter. You'll find practical information about what to do in Xi'an, how to get around, and how to make the most of your time in this historically rich city. If you're planning a multi-city trip, consider choosing China vacation packages that include Xi'an along with other major destinations.
Best Xi'an Multi-Day Tours
About Xi'an
Xi'an (formerly known as Chang'an) was one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of the world. The city served as the capital during the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties, making it a political and cultural center for over 1,000 years. Today, Xi'an blends ancient history with modern development, offering visitors a chance to walk through millennia of Chinese civilization.
The city is home to over 13 million people and attracts millions of tourists annually, most coming to see the Terracotta Warriors. But Xi'an offers much more than just one attraction. The well-preserved Ancient City Wall, the dynamic Muslim Quarter, and numerous temples and museums make it a destination worth spending several days exploring.
Getting There and Getting Around Xi'an
How to Get to Xi'an
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) receives flights from major Chinese cities and some international destinations. The airport is located 41 km northwest of downtown Xi'an. Airport buses and taxis connect to the city center in about an hour.
High-speed trains offer the most convenient way to reach Xi'an from other major cities. From Beijing, the journey takes 4.5 hours. From Shanghai, it's 6-7 hours. The Xi'an North Railway Station serves high-speed trains, while the main Xi'an Railway Station handles slower trains. Both stations connect to the city metro system.
Getting Around the City
Xi'an's metro system covers most tourist attractions and operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. A single ride costs 2-6 yuan depending on distance. The metro is clean, efficient, and has English signage.
Taxis are plentiful and affordable, starting at 9 yuan for the first 2 kilometers. Most drivers don't speak English, so have your destination written in Chinese characters. Ride-hailing through Didi works well and avoids language barriers since you enter your destination in the app.
For the Ancient City Wall, you can rent a bicycle and cycle the entire 13.7-kilometer circumference. Bike rentals cost about 45 yuan for 2 hours and offer a unique perspective on the city. Top Attractions and Must-Sees in Xi'an
Terracotta Army: China's Most Famous Archaeological Discovery
The Terracotta Army is Xi'an's crown jewel and one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well, this collection of over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers was built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Each warrior has unique facial features, hairstyles, and expressions. Many Xi'an tours include this site as a highlight.
The museum consists of three pits. Pit 1 is the largest and contains the main army formation with over 6,000 warriors. Pit 2 holds cavalry and archers in more complex formations. Pit 3 serves as the command center. The bronze chariots displayed in the museum represent some of the finest ancient metalwork ever found.
The Terracotta Army is located 40 km east of Xi'an city center. Take tourist bus 5 (306) from Xi'an Railway Station, which costs 7 yuan and takes about an hour. Alternatively, join a guided tour that includes transportation. The entrance fee is 150 yuan. Allow 3-4 hours for a complete visit. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Ancient City Wall: Cycling China's Best-Preserved Fortress
Xi'an's Ancient City Wall is the best-preserved city wall in China and one of the largest ancient defensive systems in the world. Built during the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century, the wall stretches 13.7 kilometers around the old city center. The wall stands 12 meters high and is surrounded by a moat.
The most popular way to experience the wall is by bicycle. You can rent a bike at the top of the wall and cycle the entire circumference in about 1.5-2 hours at a leisurely pace. The wall offers elevated views of the city and passes through 18 gates. Sunset rides are particularly striking as the city lights begin to glow.
The entrance fee is 54 yuan, and bike rental costs an additional 45 yuan for 2 hours. The wall is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM in summer and 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in winter. You can access the wall at several points, with the South Gate being the most popular entry.
Muslim Quarter: Xi'an's Culinary and Cultural Heart
The Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) is a lively neighborhood located just north of the Drum Tower. This area has been home to Xi'an's Hui Muslim community for over 1,000 years, dating back to the Silk Road era when Arab and Persian traders settled in the city.
The main street, Beiyuanmen, is lined with food stalls, restaurants, and shops selling Islamic-inspired goods. The neighborhood is famous for its street food, particularly roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), yangrou paomo (crumbled flatbread in lamb soup), and biangbiang noodles (thick, hand-pulled noodles). The Great Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in China, sits quietly within the quarter, blending Chinese and Islamic architecture.
The Muslim Quarter is most lively in the evening when food stalls set up and the streets fill with locals and tourists. Come hungry and be prepared for crowds. Most dishes cost 10-30 yuan, making it an affordable way to sample Xi'an's famous cuisine.
Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Buddhist Heritage
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty to house sutras and figurines brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. The seven-story pagoda stands 64 meters tall and represents an important example of traditional Chinese architecture.
The pagoda is located in the Da Ci'en Temple complex. You can climb to the top for views of the city, though the stairs are steep and narrow. The surrounding area has been developed into a large cultural park with fountains, gardens, and statues. In the evening, a musical fountain show takes place in the north square.
Entrance to the temple costs 40 yuan, with an additional 30 yuan to climb the pagoda. The site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The pagoda is accessible by Metro Lines 3 and 4.
Bell and Drum Towers: Historical Timekeepers
The Bell Tower and Drum Tower stand at the geographical center of ancient Xi'an. Built during the Ming Dynasty, these towers once housed large bells and drums that marked the time each day. The Bell Tower sits at the intersection of the city's four main streets, while the Drum Tower is located 250 meters to the northwest.
Both towers are beautifully illuminated at night and serve as popular photo spots. You can climb the Drum Tower to see a collection of 24 traditional drums and enjoy views of the Muslim Quarter below. The Bell Tower houses a large bronze bell and offers exhibits on the city's history.
The combined entrance fee for both towers is 50 yuan. The towers are open from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Both are within walking distance of the Muslim Quarter and the city center.Best Neighborhoods to Explore
Muslim Quarter: Food and Culture
As mentioned earlier, the Muslim Quarter is a must-visit for food lovers and anyone interested in Xi'an's multicultural history. Beyond the main tourist street of Beiyuanmen, explore the smaller alleys like Dapi Yuan and Xapi Yuan for a more local experience. You'll find residents going about daily life, small mosques, and neighborhood eateries that cater to locals rather than tourists.
South Gate Area: Modern Amenities and City Views
The area around the South Gate (Yongning Gate) combines historical significance with modern development. This is the most impressive of the city wall gates, with three entrance archways and a complex of defensive structures. The surrounding area has shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants. The South Gate is also a common starting point for cycling the city wall and offers easy metro access.
Where to Eat in Xi'an
Muslim Quarter Street Food
The Muslim Quarter is Xi'an's food paradise. Must-try dishes include roujiamo, often called a Chinese hamburger, made with chopped meat stuffed into a flatbread. Yangrou paomo is a hearty lamb soup where you tear flatbread into small pieces before the broth is added. Biangbiang noodles are thick, hand-pulled noodles served with various toppings. Other specialties include liangpi (cold noodles in spicy sauce), Soup dumplings, and persimmon cakes.
Local Restaurants Outside the Muslim Quarter
For a more comfortable dining experience, several local restaurants serve authentic Shaanxi cuisine. Defachang Restaurant, located near the Drum Tower, is famous for its dumpling banquet featuring dozens of different dumpling shapes and fillings. Chang'an Dadong Restaurant offers traditional Shaanxi dishes in a more upscale setting. For vegetarian options, try the Buddhist restaurants near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Xi'an. Temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius with low humidity. Summer (June to August) brings heat and occasional rain, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius. Winter (December to February) is cold and dry, with temperatures dropping below freezing, but crowds are smaller and prices lower.
Avoid Chinese national holidays, especially October 1-7 (National Day) and Chinese New Year (late January to mid-February), when domestic tourism peaks and prices increase significantly.
What to Know Before You Go
Xi'an is a major tourist destination, so the Terracotta Army and other popular sites can be crowded. Visit early in the morning (right when sites open) or later in the afternoon to avoid the worst crowds. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the city wall, museums, and historical sites involves significant walking. Bring water and snacks, especially when visiting the Terracotta Army, as food options inside the site are limited and expensive.
Most attractions accept mobile payment through WeChat Pay or Alipay, but some smaller vendors in the Muslim Quarter may prefer cash. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Conclusion
Xi'an offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese civilization while maintaining the energy of a modern city. From the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army to the delicious street food of the Muslim Quarter, things to do in Xi'an span thousands of years of history and culture.
Whether you're exploring the city independently or looking for a hassle-free experience, Tours4fun has options to suit your travel style. Browse Xi'an tours that include guided visits to the Terracotta Army with expert commentary on the site's history and significance. For a more comprehensive experience, check out Xi'an vacation packages that combine multiple attractions with accommodations and transportation.
FAQ
How many days do you need in Xi'an?
You need at least 2-3 days to see Xi'an's main attractions. One full day for the Terracotta Army, one day for the Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and Bell and Drum Towers, and a half day for the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and other sites. If you want to include day trips to Mount Hua or the Hanyangling Tombs, add another 1-2 days.Is Xi'an worth visiting?
Yes, Xi'an is absolutely worth visiting. The Terracotta Army alone is a world-class attraction that draws millions of visitors annually. Beyond that, the well-preserved Ancient City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its unique food culture, and the city's rich history as an ancient capital make it one of China's most rewarding destinations for history and culture enthusiasts.How far is Xi'an from Beijing?
Xi'an is approximately 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) southwest of Beijing. By high-speed train, the journey takes 4.5 hours. By plane, it's about 2.5 hours. Many travelers combine Beijing and Xi'an in the same trip, often adding Xi'an as a stop between Beijing and Shanghai or other destinations.Can you do a day trip to the Terracotta Army from Xi'an?
Yes, you can easily do a day trip to the Terracotta Army from Xi'an. The site is located 40 km east of the city center. Take tourist bus 5 (306) from Xi'an Railway Station, which departs every 10-15 minutes and takes about an hour. Alternatively, book a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Allow 3-4 hours at the site, plus travel time. You can easily return to Xi'an by early evening.What is the best time to visit Xi'an?
The best time to visit Xi'an is spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities like cycling the city wall. These seasons also offer clear skies, which is important for photography at the Terracotta Army and other sites. Avoid summer heat and winter cold if possible, and definitely avoid Chinese national holidays.
