How to Plan a Xi’an Tour: 6 Things to Know

Xi'an was once the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and the capital of thirteen dynasties. Today, it has become one of China’s most fascinating tourist destinations. Traveling in Xi’an is like opening a window to three thousand years of history. In this city, ancient city walls and modern streetscapes complement each other, while traditional flavors and contemporary vitality blend perfectly. If you want to plan a trip to Xi’an, this guide has you covered with essential Xi’an travel tips.

Top Attractions in Xi’an

At the mention of Xi'an, the Terracotta Army—that awe-inspiring underground legion—likely comes to mind. But there’s far more to discover in this 13-dynasty capital, where countless historical treasures and attractions await your visit.

Best Things to Do in Xi’an

No Xi'an trip is complete without exploring the Eighth Wonder of the World - the Terracotta Warriors, and making clay warriors is also one of the top things to do in Xi'an with kids. Going to the Shaanxi History Museum to learn about this ancient capital's history should also be included on your Xi'an tour. Don't miss Xi'an's culinary delights - from hand-pulled noodles to street snacks. For thrill-seekers, hiking on the death-defying plank walk at Mount Hua must be an exciting experience.

The illuminated Xi'an at night is also not to be missed for any trip to Xi’an, China. You can start a Xi’an walking tour at the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City to experience the prosperity of the golden age of Tang. In addition, there are various must-see performances throughout the city, including The Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show at Huaqing Palace, shadow puppetry at Gao Family Compound, and Asia's largest musical fountain show at Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Complete your night tour by exploring vibrant night markets.

How Long to Stay in Xi’an | Inspiring Xi’an Itineraries

The ideal length for a Xi'an trip varies based on your travel style. 3 days typically cover the highlights nicely, but if you only have 1-2 days, you can still enjoy yourself in Xi'an. For full immersion of history and culture as well as local life, 4-5 days will be perfect.

Best Time to Visit Xi’an

Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons to travel to Xi'an, when the temperatures are mild and the climate is pleasant for visiting historical sites and natural scenery. In Spring, the cherry blossoms paint Qinglong Temple pink, tulips blanket Xingqing Park, and peonies reign at Daming Palace, all of which make it perfect for flower viewing! You can also stroll through outdoor attractions like the Ancient City Wall and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.

In autumn, the thousand-year-old golden ginkgo tree at Ancient Guanyin Temple and the red leaves in Qinling Mountains are absolutely stunning. Besides, during the Mid-Autumn Festival, traditional lantern festivals or folk activities await your experience. Just avoid visiting during the Chinese National Day Holiday, and your wallet and sanity will thank you.

>> Check out Xi’an weather in different seasons

Where to Stay in Xi’an | Xi’an Hotels

Where you stay plays an important role in your Xi’an trip planning. Xi'an's attractions are concentrated, so it's best to book accommodation near subway stations for convenient access everywhere. Below are the best areas to stay in Xi’an.

1. The Bell Tower Area

It is the prime choice for first-time visitors. Whether you prefer five-star hotels or budget homestays, this area delivers effortless access to iconic landmarks like the Drum Tower and the Muslim Quarter's food paradise. It keeps you steps from Metro Line 2's convenient connection to major sites like the Wild Goose Pagoda.

2. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Area

This area is unbeatable for immersing yourself in Tang Dynasty nightscapes on your Xi’an tours! It's super close to the Grand Tang Ever-bright City and Shaanxi History Museum - just a 5-minute walk away. This zone has clusters of upscale hotels in quieter surroundings. Prices may be more reasonable than in the Bell Tower area, with newer hotel options.

3. The South Small Gate Area

It is perfect for those craving local authenticity! Most homestays here feature courtyard designs with retro charm. Surrounded by old Xi'an neighborhoods, you can visit morning markets for traditional breakfasts like fried dough twists in oil tea.

What to Eat | Xi’an Local Food

Xi'an is a paradise for food lovers. The cuisine here blends Northwestern flavors with street-style authenticity. From royal Tang Dynasty recipes to humble yet irresistible snacks, each dish is guaranteed to make your mouth water on your trip to Xi’an.

Xi’an Street Food

Sink your teeth into Xi'an's legendary Roujiamo - golden crispy outside, juicy inside, with flavors that linger. Don't miss Fatty's warm, sticky-sweet rice cakes for breakfast. Besides, the uniquely textured Liu Ming's persimmon paste fritters, the aromatic Ma Bo's grilled meat, and Su Family's sesame sauce cold noodles are all unmissable street foods in Xi'an.

Xi’an Muslim Quarter Snacks

The Muslim Quarter is a millennium-old halal food landmark and a must-visit during your Xi'an food tour. It gathers Xi'an's various snacks like sizzling giant squid, smoky ice cream, red willow skewers, and spiral-cut potatoes - each one is so addictive! Lao Mi Family's Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup is incredibly delicious. Shi's steamed buns have generous fillings with great texture and are very popular. The handmade Junjun mung bean cakes taste amazing and are perfect edible souvenirs.

Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show with Dinner

Dining at Tang Paradise while enjoying the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show is a unique experience on your Xi'an tours. Transport yourself back to the Tang golden age through this immersive dining spectacle—where Cantonese-influenced imperial dishes meet modern plating. It's China's earliest and most distinctive Tang-style divided banquet, also offering local Shaanxi specialty feasts like dumpling banquets.

Xi’an Transportation | How to Get to/around Xi’an

How to Get to Xi’an

By Air

Flying to Xi'an is convenient, with Xianyang International Airport connecting directly to global hubs like Singapore, San Francisco, and Seoul, plus quick 2-3 hour trips from most Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Chengdu. The airport is a short 37 km from downtown. Upon arrival, just hop on the 25 yuan shuttle bus to reach the city center hassle-free.

By Train

Bullet trains are also an excellent way to reach Xi'an. The city has three railway stations, with Xi'an Railway Station (for normal trains) and Xi'an North Railway Station (for high-speed trains) being the most frequently used. Both rail hubs have numerous departures and allow you to reach downtown in 30 minutes by metro.

How to Travel from Beijing to Xi’an

Travelers from Beijing can start a Xi’an trip by convenient 2-hour flights (available from both Daxing and Capital airports) or comfortable 4-5 hour high-speed rails (departing from Beijing West/North stations) with affordable 600 yuan second-class seats.

How to Travel from Shanghai to Xi’an

Flying to Xi'an from Shanghai is the quickest option (2.5 hours from either Hongqiao or Pudong airports), which often tends to be more economical than high-speed trains with early-bird deals. Alternatively, you can take a bullet train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Xi'an North Railway Station, with the fastest journey time of 5.5 hours and second-class tickets priced around 700 yuan.

How to Get around Xi’an

By Metro

Currently, Xi'an's metro system comprises 10 lines covering almost all the attractions. Fares are calculated by distance, with a starting price of 2 yuan (covering 6 kilometers) and a maximum fare of 13 yuan. On your Xi’an tours, you can take Metro Line 2 to the Bell Tower, Lines 3 or 4 to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Datang Ever-bright City, Line 4 to Datang Furong Garden, and Line 9 to Huaqing Paradise.

By Tourist Bus

This is also an optimal way to explore Xi'an. One of the most popular routes is Tourist Line 5 (Bus 306), which goes to attractions like Mount Li, Huaqing Paradise, and the Terracotta Warriors. Tourist Line 8 (Bus 610) can take you to the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Zhuque Gate, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum, and Tang Paradise, with a fare of 2 yuan.

By Taxi

If you prefer private Xi’an travel or miss the last public transport after late-night adventures, don't worry—Xi'an taxis are available everywhere. Daytime fares start at 8.5 yuan for the first 3 km, with 2 yuan per extra km. After 23:00, it's 9.5 yuan for 3 km plus 2.3 yuan per additional km.

Travel to Xi’an with Easy Tour China

Planning a trip to Xi’an can be overwhelming, but this Xi’an travel guide makes it so much easier. For a worry-free experience, consider traveling with Easy Tour China. With over two decades of expertise in China tours, our local travel experts will customize the perfect Xi'an itinerary based on your time and interests. If you prefer ready-made tour routes, take a look at our China tour packages that include Xi'an below.