Things To Do
in Xi’an
Xi’an is a city where ancient dynasties left their imprint on a modern, vibrant center. It houses the world-renowned Terracotta Army and a remarkably preserved ancient city wall, anchoring a fascinating blend of history and today. The Muslim Quarter sizzles with lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and bustling markets that reveal the city’s Silk Road flavors.
With nearby mountains and accessible rail links, Xi’an serves as a gateway to China’s deep past and lively present.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely bicycle ride atop the 14-kilometer Ancient City Wall, feeling the wind rush past as you gaze at Xi’an’s skyline. Towers, watchtowers, and crenelations pass by, each offering a glimpse into the city’s grand past. An early tea at one of the wall-top pavilions sets a serene tone for the adventure ahead.
Descend into the bustling Muslim Quarter, where narrow lanes overflow with fragrant lamb kebabs, spicy liangpi noodles, and glistening sesame cakes. Sample hand-pulled noodles at a sidewalk stall while vendors call out their specialties in lively banter. Wander among vendors selling silk scarves, calligraphy brushes, and jade trinkets before resting at a courtyard teahouse.
As dusk falls, head to Drum and Bell Tower Square to watch street performers play traditional instruments and tumbling acrobats defy gravity. Soft lantern light illuminates the towers’ ancient brickwork, casting long shadows across the plaza. Finish the night sipping mulled hawthorn juice while the rhythmic drumbeats echo off the walls.
Travel east to the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Army site and watch archaeologists uncover life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots in Pit 1. The soft morning light reveals intricate armor details and the determined gazes of thousands of clay warriors lined up for battle. A guide brings the narrative to life, recounting Qin Shi Huang’s quest for immortality.
Explore the on-site museum to examine rare bronze chariots, weapons, and burial artifacts recovered from the royal mausoleum. Touch a fragment of painted pottery and marvel at the vibrant pigments preserved for over two millennia. Pause for lunch at the museum café, sampling Shaanxi curry chicken and local wheat cakes.
Return to Xi’an city and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the North Square of the station, admiring the illuminated modern architecture. Sip jasmine tea at a nearby café while reflecting on the day’s breathtaking discoveries. The gentle glow of lanterns drapes the surrounding halls in golden hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $2-5 |
| 🍜Local street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚖Taxi (short ride within city) | $2-8 |
| 🎟️Museum admission | $6-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history with iconic sites like the Terracotta Army and City Wall
- Affordable and diverse street food scene
- Compact historic core that is highly walkable
- Efficient rail connections to other Chinese destinations
- Crowds in peak seasons at major sights
- Air quality can vary, affecting outdoor plans
- Some sites require long travel times for day trips
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
- "你会英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "我需要水" - I need water
Places to Visit in Xi’an
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic life-sized soldiers and chariots; early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for dramatic portraits.
Ancient ramparts surrounding the old city; great for elevated city shots and long exposures along the walls.
Center of the old city; capture both towers with dusk illumination and busy street life.
Historic pagoda with surrounding gardens; sunset and golden hours provide warm tones.
Dense collection of stone steles and inscriptions; textures and calligraphy offer unique close-ups.
Food in Xi’an
Xi’an Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, hand-pulled noodles in a spicy, garlicky sauce. Look for local noodle houses in the Muslim Quarter or along the old lanes.
Must-Try!
A filled flatbread sandwich with seasoned meat; a classic street bite near Beiyuanmen.
Crumbled flatbread soaked in mutton broth with morsels of lamb; a must-try at many Muslim Quarter eateries.
Chilled wheat-starch noodles with shaved cucumber, peppers, and a tangy chili sauce; popular in hot weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic street full of stalls offering biangbiang noodles, paomo, kebabs, and other snacks.
Vibrant lanes with many snack stalls and casual eateries offering bite-sized classics.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake is common; address people by surname with appropriate titles; remain calm in public spaces.
Dress modestly; keep voices low in sacred sites; avoid pointing feet at sacred objects.
Use chopsticks properly; avoid upright placement of chopsticks in bowls; sharing dishes is common.
Safety
Tipping in Xi’an
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not common in casual restaurants; it may be appreciated in upscale venues or with private guides.
Cash (CNY) is widely accepted; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous and often preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; wear breathable clothing, carry water, and plan shaded stops. Afternoon thunderstorms are common—have indoor options ready.
Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies; excellent for city photography and hiking in the Qinling foothills.
Cold and dry; occasional snowfall. Museums are ideal indoor options, and layering is key for outdoor strolls.
Mild temperatures with possible dust and wind; flowers bloom, making late afternoons especially scenic.
Xi’an at Night
Hiking in Xi’an
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of China’s Five Great Mountains; dramatic peaks with cable cars and steep paths—best planned with daylight and safety in mind.
Highest peak in Shaanxi; Qinling range with forested trails and seasonal scenery; a longer day trip from Xi’an.
Airports
How to reach Xi’an by plane.
Main international gateway to Xi’an; easily accessible to the city by express train or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group with diverse regional backgrounds.
A significant minority concentrated around the Muslim Quarter.
A smaller but growing presence of travelers and residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and accessible in gyms and parks.
Popular sport in schools and community courts.
Common in gymnasiums and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xi’an.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian by omitting meat; enjoy tofu- and mushroom-based options, but confirm broth ingredients with staff. If in doubt, ask for ‘qing cai’ (vegetarian dishes) or request staff recommendations.