Xian, located in central China’s Shaanxi province, is one of the country’s oldest and most historically rich cities. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Xian was the capital of multiple Chinese dynasties and served as the starting point of the famous Silk Road trading route. Today, it is a bustling metropolis that attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of China’s most popular tourist destinations. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, and cultural experiences to have in Xian.

Top Sights in Xian

  1. Terracotta Warriors: The Terracotta Army is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Xian, and for good reason. The army of life-size terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses was buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, over 2,000 years ago and was only discovered in 1974. It is considered one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century.
  2. City Walls: Xian’s ancient city walls are one of the most well-preserved in China. Built in the 14th century, the walls stretch over 13 kilometers around the city and offer stunning views of Xian’s skyline.
  3. Big Wild Goose Pagoda: The pagoda is a symbol of Xian and was built in the 7th century during the Tang Dynasty. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was originally built to house Buddhist sutras and figurines brought back from India.
  4. Shaanxi History Museum: The museum is dedicated to the history of Shaanxi province and features over 370,000 relics, including bronze ware, pottery, and jade.
  5. Muslim Quarter: Xian’s Muslim Quarter is a bustling market filled with street food, souvenirs, and traditional crafts. It is also home to the Great Mosque of Xian, which is one of the oldest and largest mosques in China.

Things to Do in Xian

  1. Try Local Cuisine: Xian is known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its street food. Some of the most famous dishes include rou jia mo (Chinese hamburger), biang biang noodles, and yangrou paomo (lamb stew with bread).
  2. Take a Bike Ride on the City Walls: Rent a bike and ride along the top of Xian’s ancient city walls for stunning views of the city.
  3. Attend a Tang Dynasty Show: Experience traditional Chinese music, dance, and costume at a Tang Dynasty Show. The show is held in a theater in the center of Xian and is a popular attraction for tourists.
  4. Visit Huaqing Hot Springs: The hot springs were once a royal bathing spot during the Tang Dynasty and offer stunning views of Mount Li. Relax in the natural hot springs and take in the beauty of the surrounding area.
  5. Walk through the Bell and Drum Towers: The Bell and Drum Towers are two of the most iconic landmarks in Xian and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Where to Stay in Xian

Xian offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

  1. Grand Park Xian: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Xian, just a short walk from the Bell Tower and the Muslim Quarter.
  2. Xian Skytel Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the city center, just a 5-minute walk from the Drum Tower.
  3. The Westin Xian: A five-star hotel located near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, offering beautiful views of the city.

Getting Around Xian

Xian has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro lines, and taxis. The metro system is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with lines connecting major tourist attractions and city centers. Taxis are also readily available, but it is important to negotiate a price before getting in the car.

For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, Xian is a very walkable city, with many of its major tourist attractions located within walking distance of each other. Additionally, biking is a popular way to explore the city, with bike rentals available throughout the city.

How to Get from the Airport to the City

Xian Xianyang International Airport is located about 40 kilometers northwest of the city center. There are several transportation options available for travelers to get from the airport to the city, including:

  1. Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport and offer a convenient way to get to the city. The ride takes about 40 minutes and costs around 120-150 RMB ($18-23 USD).
  2. Airport Shuttle Bus: There are several shuttle bus lines that run between the airport and the city center. The bus ride takes about an hour and costs around 25-30 RMB ($4-5 USD).
  3. Metro: The airport is connected to the city’s metro system, with a dedicated airport express line. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around 25-30 RMB ($4-5 USD).

Best Time to Visit Xian

The best time to visit Xian is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers in Xian can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and dry, with occasional snowfall.

Travel Tips for Xian

  1. Purchase Tickets in Advance: Many of Xian’s popular tourist attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors, have limited daily ticket sales. To avoid long lines and ensure entrance, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online or through a tour operator.
  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Xian is a very walkable city, but its tourist attractions often involve a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
  3. Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted at some restaurants and shops, cash is still the preferred method of payment in Xian. It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations to make transactions easier.
  4. Be Aware of Scams: As with any popular tourist destination, scams can be common in Xian. Be cautious of unsolicited tour guides, fake currency, and overcharging at markets and shops.

Conclusion

Xian is a fascinating and culturally rich city that offers visitors a glimpse into China’s ancient history and modern development. From the Terracotta Warriors to the Muslim Quarter, Xian has something for every type of traveler. With a variety of accommodation options, transportation choices, and dining and entertainment opportunities, Xian is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to China. Plan your trip ahead of time, follow these travel tips, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Xian.