Xi'an travel guide for foreigners
Published: April 29, 2026
Short Answer
Xi'an is China's ancient capital and home to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. The city blends 3,000 years of history with a vibrant Muslim Quarter, a walkable city wall, and incredible street food. Plan 2-3 days to cover the highlights, and arrive early at popular sites to beat the crowds.
Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an
Deep Dive
Getting to Xi'an
- Flights: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is about 40km from the city center. Airport bus (25 RMB, 1 hour) or metro Line 14 to Beidajie, then transfer to Line 1 or 2.
- High-speed rail: Xi'an is well-connected by high-speed rail. From Beijing: 4.5 hours, ~520 RMB. From Chengdu: 3 hours, ~260 RMB. From Shanghai: 6 hours, ~650 RMB. The main station is Xi'an North (Xi'an Bei).
- Getting around: Metro (6+ lines), taxis (8 RMB flag fall), and DiDi all work well. The city center is compact and walkable.
Must-See Attractions
Terracotta Warriors (Bingmayong)
The absolute highlight. Over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang around 210 BC. The site has three pits plus a museum. Pit 1 is the largest and most impressive -- rows upon rows of warriors, each with unique facial features. Allow 3-4 hours. Entry is 120 RMB (peak season) or 100 RMB (off-season). Take bus 306 (游5) from Xi'an Railway Station (5 RMB, 1 hour). Arrive before 9 AM to avoid tour groups.
Ancient City Wall
One of the best-preserved city walls in China, dating to the Ming Dynasty (14th century). It's 14km around, 12 meters high, and wide enough to cycle on top of. Rent a bike at any of the four main gates (45 RMB for 2 hours, single bikes) and ride the full loop in about 1.5 hours. Entry is 54 RMB. Best at sunset when the wall is lit up.
Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie)
A maze of streets northwest of the Bell Tower, home to Xi'an's Hui Muslim community for over 1,000 years. The area is famous for its food stalls, especially along Beiyuanmen Street. Try:
- Roujiamo: Chinese hamburger -- braised meat in a crispy flatbread. 10-15 RMB.
- Biangbiang noodles: Wide, belt-like noodles with chili oil and toppings. 15-25 RMB.
- Yangrou paomo: Crumbled flatbread soaked in lamb soup. A Xi'an specialty. 25-40 RMB.
- Persimmon cakes (shi zi bing): Fried sweet cakes filled with persimmon paste. 5-10 RMB.
- Pomegranate juice: Freshly pressed, 5-10 RMB per cup.
The quarter is best explored in the evening when it comes alive with lights and crowds.
Bell Tower and Drum Tower
The Bell Tower (35 RMB) sits at the exact center of Xi'an, at the intersection of the four main streets. The Drum Tower (35 RMB) is a short walk west, at the entrance to the Muslim Quarter. Both offer good views and historical exhibits. A combined ticket is 50 RMB.
Shaanxi History Museum
One of China's best museums, with over 370,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the Qing Dynasty. Free entry (book online in advance with your passport), but the special exhibition hall costs 30 RMB and is worth it. Allow 2-3 hours.
2-3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive, check in. Walk or cycle the city wall in the afternoon. Evening: explore the Muslim Quarter for dinner.
Day 2: Full day at the Terracotta Warriors (morning). Afternoon: Huaqing Hot Springs (nearby, 120 RMB) where Yang Guifei once bathed. Evening: Bell Tower area, more street food.
Day 3: Morning: Shaanxi History Museum. Afternoon: Big Wild Goose Pagoda (40 RMB) and the surrounding plaza. Evening: Defu Xiang (a street of bars and cafes in a hutong setting).
Where to Stay
- Bell Tower / Drum Tower area: Central, walkable to the Muslim Quarter and city wall. Best for 2-3 day trips.
- Near the train station: Convenient for early buses to the Terracotta Warriors, but the area is a bit chaotic.
- Budget: Hostels 60-100 RMB/night. Mid-range hotels 200-400 RMB. Luxury 500+ RMB.
Practical Tips
- Terracotta Warriors tip: Book tickets online in advance on the official WeChat mini-program or through Trip.com. The site can sell out during peak season.
- Avoid "black taxis" at the train station offering rides to the warriors. Use the official bus 306 (游5) instead.
- Tang Dynasty Show: A popular evening show with traditional music and dance. Tickets 200-500 RMB including dinner. Book at your hotel or through Trip.com.
- Day trip to Huashan: Mount Hua (Huashan) is about 1.5 hours by high-speed train. One of China's Five Sacred Mountains with thrilling cliff-side plank walks. Full day trip.