Xian Weather: Climate, Temperatures, Best Time to Visit & Seasons
Xian boasts pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for tourists at any time. The city enjoys a warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate, characterized by distinct four seasons and well-timed rainfall.
Compared to the southern regions of China, Xian is relatively dry. Therefore, staying hydrated and carrying body lotions and creams are recommended when visiting. The average temperature in Xian is 13°C / 55°F, with highs exceeding 35 °C / 95°F in July and lows dropping to -10 °C / 14°F in winter. The temperature fluctuates significantly between day and night.
Xian receives an average of 578 mm (22.8 in) of precipitation annually, with an average of 48 mm (1.9 in) each month. This diverse climate ensures that visitors can experience a range of weather conditions throughout the year, adding to the city’s charm and appeal.
The Best Time to Visit Xian
The optimal seasons to visit Xian are Spring and Autumn, with September and April being particularly ideal. However, it is advisable to avoid scheduling your Xian adventure during weekends and Chinese holidays, such as the Chinese Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, National Day (beginning of October), Labor Day (beginning of May), Tomb-sweeping Festival, and others.
▶ Keep Reading: Best Time to Visit Xian
Average Xian Temperature by Month
| Month | Recommended Rate | Max Temp. | Min Temp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan. | 5°C | -4°C | |
| Feb. | 8°C | -1°C | |
| Mar. | 14°C | 4°C | |
| Apr. | 26°C | 10°C | |
| May. | 21°C | 14°C | |
| Jun. | 31°C | 19°C | |
| Jul. | 32°C | 22°C | |
| Aug. | 31°C | 21°C | |
| Sep. | 25°C | 16°C | |
| Oct. | 20°C | 10°C | |
| Nov. | 12°C | 3°C | |
| Dec. | 6°C | -3° |
Xian Seasons to Go
Xian Spring (March – May)
Spring in Xi’an is a delightful season characterized by warm and comfortable weather. Temperatures typically range between 6°C / 43 °F and 20°C / 68 °F, creating the perfect conditions for plants to flourish and flowers to bloom. The city is often bathed in sunlight during this time, making it an ideal season for exploring all that Xi’an has to offer. As spring progresses, temperatures gradually increase, setting the stage for the arrival of summer. This makes spring one of the best times to embark on a tour of Xi’an, allowing visitors to experience the city at its most vibrant and welcoming.>>Learn More about Xian Spring Travel
What to Wear
During the early spring months, the weather can still be quite chilly. To stay warm and comfortable, it is advisable to dress in layers. Consider wearing windbreakers, jackets, sweaters, trousers, long-sleeve shirts, and other appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the cold. By layering up, you can ensure that you stay cozy and stylish while braving the brisk temperatures of the season.
Seasonal Activities
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Ancient City Wall to immerse yourself in the ancient charm of Xian. Explore the picturesque Huaqing Pool Garden and Xian Exercise Park to witness the vibrant beauty of spring in Xian. These popular public parks cater to people of all ages and backgrounds, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
★ Recommended Xian Tour: >> 2 Days Xian City Break
Xian Summer (June – August)
Summer in Xi’an is known for its relatively high temperatures, with an average ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 26°C (79°F). While the mornings and evenings may be cool, the daytime can be quite hot. July and August see a significant amount of rainfall, accounting for about 37% of the annual precipitation. Additionally, the strong ultraviolet rays in Xi’an can lead to temperatures reaching as high as 34°C (93°F). To protect yourself from the sun, it is recommended to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and an umbrella with you.>>Learn More about Xian Summer Travel
What to Wear
It is highly recommended to wear a sunblock shirt, sunhat, sunglasses, cotton and linen shirts, thin skirts, thin T-shirts, and other breathable clothing when spending time outdoors. Whether it is raining or sunny, it is advisable to bring along some sunscreen and an umbrella for added protection.
Seasonal Activities
Summer can be scorching, but there is no better place to beat the heat than the newly renovated Xian Natatorium. This state-of-the-art facility is well-equipped and perfect for cooling off. Additionally, exploring the vibrant Muslim Quarter and sampling the delicious local cuisine is a must-do experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a magnificent project commissioned by Qin Shihuang, the first emperor in Chinese history. For a deeper dive into the region’s rich history, a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum to admire its priceless cultural relics is highly recommended.
★ Recommended Xian Tour: >> 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
Xian Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the ideal season to explore Xian, with the months of September to November offering cool and comfortable weather. Temperatures typically range between 10°C / 50°F and 23°C / 73°F, providing a pleasant climate for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that temperatures can fluctuate significantly between daytime and nighttime, so it is advisable to dress in layers to ensure comfort throughout the day.>>Learn More about Xian Autumn Travel
What to Wear
It is recommended to wear shirts, long skirts and thin sweaters, windbreakers, casual clothes, jackets, suits, etc.
Seasonal Activities
Exploring the Ancient City Wall by bike during the autumn season is truly a remarkable experience. The crisp, cool air and pleasant weather make it the perfect time to take in the stunning views. Additionally, celebrating Mid-Autumn Day in China provides a unique opportunity to partake in an authentic festival and indulge in delicious moon cakes.
Furthermore, a visit to the majestic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is a must. The pagoda’s beauty is truly breathtaking, especially against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. Here, you can immerse yourself in the legendary story of Xuan Zang, a renowned monk in Chinese history.
★ Recommended Xian Tour: >> 3 Days Xian Cultural & Culinary Tour
Xian Winter (December – February)
Winter in Northern China, including Xian, is typically characterized by cold and dry weather. The daily temperatures in Xian during this season range from 0 °C / 32 °F to 12 °C / 54 °F, with the possibility of dropping below -10 °C. While snow is rare in the city itself, venturing to the outskirts of Xian presents the opportunity to experience the picturesque snowscape.
What to Wear
To stay warm during the cold weather, it is advisable to wear a variety of layers such as overcoats, sweaters, winter coats, woolen jackets, gloves, down jackets, and scarves. The Air Quality Index (AQI) can exceed 100 due to the dry climate, so it is recommended to wear a mask when engaging in outdoor activities.
Seasonal Activities
Experience the magic of winter in Xi’an with a variety of exciting programs taking place on the Ancient City Wall and Tang Paradise. The Christmas and New Year festivities in Xi’an are truly captivating, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the ringing of the Bell Tower to usher in the new year. For a more adventurous experience, venture to Mount Huashan, located approximately 120km from the city, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking snowscape.
★ Recommended Xian Tour: >> 4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking
How to Plan Your Xian Tour
As the ancient capital city of China for 13 dynasties, ruled by 73 emperors, Xian boasts a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. In just two days, you can visit key sites such as the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, the majestic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and the vibrant Muslim Quarter where you can sample local cuisine. Additionally, biking along the Ancient City Wall, delving into history at the Shaanxi History Museum, and enjoying the Tang Dynasty Show are all must-do activities during your time in Xian. With the option of a 144-hour Visa-Free Transit in Xian, you can embark on a history and culture tour or photography expedition to discover the city’s captivating attractions without the need for a visa.
For those with more time, consider exploring nearby destinations such as Luoyang, the breathtaking Hukou Waterfall, and the renowned Mt. Huashan, located just 120km from Xian. You can also kick off a silk road journey from Xian, following in the footsteps of Marco Polo, or use Xian as a starting point for your travels from Beijing, Shanghai, or even Lhasa to the west. China Discovery offers a variety of classic China tour packages that include Xian, and we can tailor a personalized itinerary just for you. Contact us now to begin planning your unforgettable journey.
★ Top-Recommended Xian Tour
>>2 Days Xian City Break
>>4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking
>>5 Days Beijing Xian Highlights Tour by High Speed Train
Beijing's Top Picks
