How to Plan A Xian Trip

How To Plan A Trip To Xi’an: Xi’an Trip Planner 

“If you have not visited Xian, you have not truly experienced China!” This statement holds true as Xian, along with Beijing and Shanghai, forms the famous Golden Triangle of Chinese tourism that no traveler should overlook. In ancient times, Xian was known as Chang’an (Eternal Peace) and served as the capital for Zhou, Qin, Han, Tang, and 13 other dynasties for over a thousand years. More than 70 ancient emperors ruled China from this historic city, resulting in a wealth of historical sites, ruins, museums, and ancient relics.

One of the most iconic sites in Xian is the Terracotta Warriors, where over 8,000 life-size figures were hand-molded and buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. In addition to this, Xian boasts other must-see attractions such as the well-preserved Ancient City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter with the Great Mosque, the impressive Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and the majestic Bell Tower. For those seeking adventure, a visit to the nearby Mount Huashan with its Plank Road in the Sky offers a thrilling experience.

Planning a trip to Xian can be overwhelming, but our Xian Trip Planner is here to assist you in organizing your itinerary. We provide guidance on must-see attractions, accommodation options, dining recommendations, ideal travel times, and other essential information to ensure a seamless and memorable trip. Let us help you make the most of your visit to Xian!”

① What Must See in Xi’an? – Terraccotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall…	② What Must Do in Xi’an? – Cycling, Hunting Local Snacks…
③ Do Not Miss Mount Huashan – Plank Road in the Sky…	④ How Long to Stay and how to create itineraries in Xi’an
⑤ Travel in Xi’an With or Without Visa? – 72 Hours Transit Visa Free	⑥ Best Time to Visit Xi’an – mid-September to November
⑦ How to Get to & around Xi’an? – Flights, Trains and Highways	⑧ Where to Stay in Xi’an? – Bell & Drum Towers, Xincheng District…
⑨ What and Where to Eat in Xi’an? – Flatbread in Mutton Soup, Meat Burger…	⑩ 8 Best Xian Tour Packages

What You Must See in Xi’an?

Xi’an is renowned for its rich history and diverse cultural influences, setting it apart from picturesque destinations like Yangshuo. A visit to Xi’an is akin to delving into the pages of China’s storied past, with numerous historical sites and museums offering a glimpse into the country’s fascinating heritage.

◆ Places You Must See in Xi’an:

Terracotta Warriors-The UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Mausoleum of the First Emperor of China is often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World. Despite the potential for crowds of tourists, there are countless reasons to visit this historic site. Located in the northeastern suburb of Xi’an, it is just a 1.5-hour drive away.

Ancient City Wall –The Xi’an City Wall, originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is a blend of original and restored sections. Exploring the wall on foot or by bike offers a truly awe-inspiring experience, providing unique perspectives of both the ancient and modern areas of Xi’an.

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda -Xi’an is a shining gem along the Silk Road, boasting exceptional architectural beauty, invaluable Buddhist relics, a deep religious culture, and captivating tales of the renowned ancient monk Xuan Zang.

Bell & Drum Towers –Two grandiose towers were once used to tell time in ancient times, and now they serve as great vantage points to enjoy panoramic views of Xi’an.

Shaanxi History Museum –One of the most significant museums in China is the art palace that beautifully showcases the history, culture, and ancient civilization of Shaanxi.

If you find yourself with extra time, other recommended places to visit include the Tangbo Art Museum, Hanyangling Mausoleum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, and more.

What You Must Do in Xi’an

Sightseeing is a crucial aspect of any trip, but engaging in local activities can truly enhance your experience, making it more enjoyable, interesting, and memorable. Xian offers a plethora of unique activities to partake in, and below are some of the most popular ones:

Cycling on the Ancient City Wall –This is a one-of-a-kind experience. Cycling on the ancient wall is like cycling through the history of China. You can rent a bike on the ancient wall for only 45 CNY per person.

Hunt for local food and snacks at Muslim Quarter –The Muslim Quarter not only offers local delicacies, but also a wide variety of snacks and cuisine from other provinces and even other countries. Additionally, visitors can find bars and beverage shops within the area.

Enjoy a hearty dumpling meal – Xi’an is renowned for its delectable dumplings in China. The city is known for hosting special banquets featuring a wide variety of dumplings, showcasing the rich culinary tradition of the region.

Watch a magnificent cultural night show – Xi’an offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Chinese culture while also enjoying some relaxation. Two must-see night shows in the city are the Tang Dynasty Show, featuring mesmerizing dancing and musical performances, and The Song of Everlasting Sorrow, an outdoor live-action show. These shows provide a captivating glimpse into the rich history and traditions of China, making them a perfect way to unwind and learn at the same time.

Do Not Miss Mount Huashan

It is highly recommended to set aside a day to hike Mount Hua during your trip to Xi’an. This legendary mountain, one of the most beautiful in China, is only a two-hour drive from Xi’an. Solo travelers can easily reach Mount Huashan by high-speed train or tourist bus from Xi’an.

Mount Huashan boasts five stunning peaks: South Peak, North Peak, East Peak, West Peak, and Central Peak. Stone steps connect the peaks, making them steep but accessible. The highlight of the mountain is the Plank Road in the Sky, considered one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world. This trail was constructed on the vertical cliff of the South Peak by a Taoist over 700 years ago.

It is advisable to complete your hike on Mount Huashan in a day, as the guesthouses on the mountain are both poor and expensive. To save time and energy, consider taking the North Peak Cable Car to ascend the mountain and the West Peak Cable Car to descend.

Recommended Xi’an Huashan Tour Packages:

– 3 Days Xian Mount Huashan Leisure Tour
– 4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking

How Long to Stay and How to Create Itineraries in Xi’an

1 Day in Xi’an – While a day trip may be too short to fully experience the essence of Xi’an, it can certainly provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. A suggested itinerary could include a visit to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors in the morning, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Ancient City Wall and exploration of the nearby attractions. 1 Day Xian Essence Tour

2 Days in Xi’an–Two days provide ample time to experience the iconic sights of Xi’an. On the first day, explore the Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and Bell Tower. On the second day, immerse yourself in the rich history of the region at the Shaanxi History Museum and marvel at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Conclude your visit by catching a flight or train to your next destination.2 Days Xian City Break

3 Days in Xi’an–You can leisurely explore the city at your own pace. In addition to the must-see attractions, you may discover hidden gems by including smaller places in your itinerary, such as the Tangbo Art Museum, Hangyangling, and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. If you’re not in a rush, you can even visit both Xi’an and Mount Huashan in just three days.3 Days Classic Xian Tour

4 Days in Xi’an -The ideal length for a Xi’an tour is 4 days, offering great flexibility for travelers. During this time, you can dedicate a full day to hiking Mount Huashan and the remaining days to exploring Xi’an’s historical sites, sampling its delicious food, and immersing yourself in its rich cultural activities. You won’t have to rush to catch flights or trains, allowing you to fully enjoy your time in this fascinating city. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can easily swap Mount Huashan for a visit to Luoyang. 4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking

5 Days in Xi’an –If you have 5 days in Xi’an, you can enjoy the city at your leisure. Additionally, you have the option to choose from a variety of extension trips, including Mount Huashan, Hukou Waterfall, Shaolin Temple, Pingyao, and more. Make the most of your time in Xi’an by exploring these exciting destinations

– 3 Days Best Xian City Tour Plus Hukou Waterfall
– 4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Sidetrip to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes
– 6 Days Xian to Luoyang Highlights Tour with Sidetrip to Shaolin Temple

Travel in Xi’an With or Without Visa? – 144 Hours Transit Visa Free

Xi’an offers the convenient 144-Hour TWOV (Transit Without Visa) option for travelers from 53 specified countries. This allows those making transits at Xi’an Xi’anyang International Airport, and holding valid passports and connecting flight tickets to a third country or region, to stay in the Xi’an area for up to 3 days without needing a Chinese visa. For example, travelers could go from Singapore to Xi’an to Hong Kong, or from London to Xi’an to Macau.

At Xi’an Xi’anyang International Airport, there are 144-Hour Visa-free Counters with English signs to assist travelers. It’s important to note that the Lintong District, where the Terracotta Warriors are located, is included in the 144-Hour TWOV, while Mount Hua is not, as it is not part of Xi’an administratively.

Since Xi’an does not have many international flights and is often a stop on a larger China tour, it is recommended to apply for a China Tourist Visa (L Visa) before arriving in China. This will allow for a more secure and flexible travel experience. Chinese visas can be obtained at Chinese Embassies and consulates in your home country. In most cases, applicants can receive a Chinese Visa within 1 to 4 working days, and sometimes even on the same day as submission, barring any special circumstances.

Best Time to Visit Xi’an

Xi’an boasts a warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate, characterized by distinct four seasons. Summer brings hot and rainy weather, while winter is cold with less rainfall and snow. Spring is warm and misty, and autumn is cool and comfortable. The average annual temperature in Xi’an hovers around 13°C / 55°F, with July reaching highs of 35°C / 95°F and January dropping to lows of -10°C / 14°F. Daily temperature fluctuations between day and night are significant.

Precipitation levels vary greatly from year to year, with approximately 78% of rainfall occurring between May and October. July to September alone accounts for 47% of the annual rainfall, often accompanied by heavy downpours. The average annual relative humidity is around 70%, and the prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, with an average speed of 1.8 m/s.

Xi’an is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, but the optimal times to visit are from March to June and mid-September to early November. During these periods, the weather is mild, avoiding extreme temperatures, and the number of tourists is relatively lower compared to the peak summer season.

How to Get to & around Xi’an? – Flights, Trains and Highways

Situated in the heart of China, Xi’an is easily accessible from most major cities in the country by train, flight, and highways. The city boasts an international airport, three railway stations, four subway lines, and hundreds of bus stations, making it a convenient hub for travelers.

Get to Xi’an by Flight

Xi’an is easily accessible from over 50 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Macau, Taipei, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok. Additionally, Xi’an is well-connected domestically with flights from major cities in China such as Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. Whether you prefer nonstop, stopover, or connecting flights, there are plenty of options available to reach this historic city.

Get to Xi’an by Train

Many major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou, offer high-speed bullet trains or fast trains to Xi’an. There are approximately 50 high-speed bullet trains operating between Beijing and Xi’an daily, making it a convenient and popular mode of transportation. Chengdu also provides high-speed train services to Xi’an, further enhancing connectivity between the two cities. Additionally, Shanghai offers an overnight bullet train to Xi’an, catering to travelers who prefer to travel during the night.

Xi’an has three railway stations, each serving different types of trains. Xi’an North Railway Station is dedicated to high-speed trains, while Xi’an Railway Station accommodates normal trains. Xi’an South Railway Station is rarely used by travelers, as it primarily serves other purposes. This variety of train options and stations makes traveling to Xi’an from various cities in China efficient and accessible.

Get Around Xi’an by Highway

Xi’an boasts an extensive highway system that provides convenient access to various tourist destinations in Shaanxi Province. Travelers have the option of taking a bus or utilizing private cars from travel agencies to reach their desired locations. The majority of highways in the region are well-maintained, ensuring smooth and efficient travel. However, it is important to note that traffic congestion is a common occurrence on the roads in Xi’an, particularly on routes leading to popular attractions such as the Terracotta Warriors and Mount Huashan.

Where to Stay in Xi’an? – Bell & Drum Towers, Xincheng District…

Finding accommodation in Xi’an is a breeze, with a wide range of options available from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious international brands. However, it is crucial to choose a hotel with a prime location to make your stay more convenient and enjoyable. A strategic location will save you time when looking for transportation, dining options, supermarkets, and more. Below are some of the top areas to stay in Xi’an:

Bell & Drum Towers Area – This area comes highly recommended for first-time visitors, offering easy access to the Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and popular restaurants. While hotel rates may be higher compared to other areas, you will have a plethora of choices to suit your preferences.

Xincheng District – Situated not far from the city center and Xi’an’s main attractions, Xincheng District is ideal for families. Here, you can find shopping centers and parks to enjoy a leisurely stroll during your stay.

Yanta District – Located to the south of the city center, Yanta District is in close proximity to major attractions such as the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and History Museum. This area boasts many budget-friendly hotels for travelers looking to save on accommodation costs.

Sofitel on Renmin Square Xi’an (No.319 Dongxin Street, Xi’an)
ET House (Xi’an Bell Drum Towers) (Crossing of Dachejia Alley and Fen Alley, Beilin District)
Sheraton Xi’an North City Hotel(No.32 Weiyang Road, Xi’an)
Grand Mercure Xian Renmin Square (No.319 Dongxin Street, Xincheng District, Xi’an)
Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel (No.172 Lianhu Road, Xi’an)
Ramada Bell Tower Hotel Xi’an (No.79 North Street, Xi’an)

What and Where to Eat in Xi’an?

Xi’an plays a crucial role in Chinese food culture, boasting a unique culinary tradition influenced by the Silk Road and Muslim culture. Unlike Sichuan or Cantonese cuisines, Xi’an offers a distinct array of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From savory cooked wheaten snacks to flavorful mutton dishes, the city is renowned for its culinary delights such as Flatbread in Mutton Soup, Meat Burger, Cold Noodles, Pepper Beef Ball Soup, and Biangbiang Noodles.

For those seeking the most authentic Xi’an dining experience, look no further than the bustling streets of the Muslim Quarter and Yongxingfang Area, particularly in the evening when these areas come alive with food vendors and restaurants. The Muslim Quarter is a hub for halal-style local delicacies, while Yongxingfang offers a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine. Additionally, there are several other popular food streets throughout Xi’an that are worth exploring for a diverse culinary experience.

Beiyuanmen Night Market 北院门夜市
Location: Bell-Drum Tower Square, Lianhu District, Xi’an 西安市莲湖区钟鼓楼广场

Eastern Street Night Market 东新街夜市
Location: Eastern Street in the middle of Jiefang Road, Xi’an City. 西安市新城区解放路中段

Nanshaomen Night Market 南稍门夜市
Location: Outside the South Gate in Yanta District. 西安市雁塔区南门外南稍门

Boshulin Night Market 柏树林夜市
Location: Near Forest of Steles Museum, Duanlvmen, Xi’an City 西安市新城区端履门内，碑林博物馆旁

Keep Reading:
– Popular Xian Food, Snacks & Cuisines
– Top 10 Best Xian Restaurants