Xi’an Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Food, Hotels & Insider Tips
Xi’an, one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, is a city where history meets modern energy. Famous for the Terracotta Army, the Silk Road, and its well-preserved city walls, Xi’an offers a perfect blend of culture, food, architecture, and adventure. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning to discover more, this travel guide will help you explore Xi’an like a local and create unforgettable memories.
Top Attractions You Can’t Miss in Xi’an
1. Terracotta Army
Considered the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Terracotta Warriors are a must-see. Explore the massive archaeological site with thousands of life-sized soldiers guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb.
2. Xi’an City Wall
Walk or bike along the ancient wall that surrounds the city center—one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Sunset rides offer incredible city views.
3. Muslim Quarter (Hui Min Jie)
A lively food street filled with barbecue skewers, pomegranate juice, noodles, and specialty pastries. It’s the best place to experience Xi’an’s multicultural food heritage.
4. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
A peaceful Buddhist site known for its ancient relics and nightly fountain show, located in a modern, vibrant part of the city.
5. Shaanxi History Museum
One of China’s top museums. Discover Silk Road artifacts, Tang Dynasty treasures, and ancient ceramics.
6. Mount Hua (Hua Shan)
A dramatic mountain famous for its cliffside plank walk and beautiful sunrise views. Great for hikers and thrill-seekers.
Must-Try Xi’an Food
Xi’an is a food paradise. Don’t miss these iconic dishes:
- Biang Biang Noodles — thick, hand-pulled noodles with spicy sauce
- Rou Jia Mo — a Chinese-style meat sandwich
- Yangrou Paomo — lamb soup with crumbled pita
- Cold Skin Noodles (Liangpi) — refreshing, spicy street food
- Eight Treasures Congee — traditional, sweet comfort food
The city’s flavors are bold, hearty, and deeply rooted in history.
Where to Stay in Xi’an
Best Areas for Travelers
- Bell Tower / Drum Tower — central, walkable, great for first-timers
- Qujiang District — modern, stylish, close to Wild Goose Pagoda
- Near Xi’an Railway Station — convenient for day trips
Types of Accommodation
- Luxury hotels
- Boutique cultural hotels
- Family-friendly stays
- Budget hostels
How to Get Around Xi’an
Xi’an is easy to navigate thanks to its modern public transportation:
- Metro: fast and reliable
- Buses: budget-friendly
- Taxis and ride-hailing: convenient
- Biking on City Wall: a must-do experience
Most major attractions are connected by metro lines.
Best Time to Visit Xi’an
The ideal months are:
- Spring (March–May) — warm weather, great for outdoor attractions
- Autumn (September–November) — clear skies and comfortable temperatures
Avoid national holidays when crowds peak.
Shopping in Xi’an
Popular shopping areas include:
- Tang Paradise Shopping Street
- Muslim Quarter stalls
- Kaiyuan Shopping Mall
- Calligraphy and antique shops near the city wall
Look for local specialties like silk products, paper cuttings, and shadow puppets.
Day Trips from Xi’an
- Hua Shan — mountain adventure
- Hanyangling Mausoleum — unique burial museum
- Terracotta Army (if not already visited)
- Qinling Wildlife Park — great for families
Tips for an Amazing Xi’an Trip
- Bring comfortable walking shoes
- Learn basic Chinese phrases or carry a translator app
- Try street food early to avoid nighttime queues
- Reserve Terracotta Army tickets in advance
- Stay near the Bell Tower for easy access to landmarks
FAQ
1. What is Xi’an best known for?
Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Army, its ancient city wall, Silk Road history, and diverse street food scene. It’s one of China’s most culturally rich destinations.
2. How many days do you need to visit Xi’an?
Most travelers spend 2–3 days in Xi’an to see major attractions like the Terracotta Army, City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and historical museums.
3. What is the best time to visit Xi’an?
The best months are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
4. Is the Terracotta Army worth visiting?
Yes. The Terracotta Army is considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world, showcasing thousands of life-sized warriors and horses from the Qin Dynasty.
5. How do you get around Xi’an as a tourist?
Xi’an has a modern metro system, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Most major attractions are metro-accessible, making the city easy to explore.