Xi'an travel guide
Xi'an Tourism | Xi'an Guide
You're Going to Love Xi'an
Xian is a popular Chinese destination due to its historical significance as the former capital for 13 different dynasties. Thousands of visitors come to explore Xian's many museums, palaces and cultural celebrations each year.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Xi'an
1. Terracotta Army
These 8,000 lifelike terracotta warriors were made in 300 BC in honor of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China
2. Xi'an City Wall
This fortress walls in what was once the ancient capital of China and continues to be one of the best preserved and largest walls in the country.
3. Wild Goose Pagoda
These two Buddhist pagodas were built during the Tang dynasty and became UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2014.
4. Great Mosque of Xi'an
Visit the largest mosque in China, that was built during the Ming dynasty.
5. Huaqing Pool
Here on the mountainside you can relax in the natural hot springs, walk in the gardens and take in many scenic views of Xian.
Where to Eat in Xi'an
Tong Sheng Xiang Restaurant serves traditional local mutton soup with bread or Yang Rou Pao Mo. Prices start at CNY20.
When to visit Xi'an
The best time to visit is in the spring between March and June, with pleasant temperatures and a beautifully colored landscape complete with cherry blossoms.
How to Get to Xi'an
Plane
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is located 25 miles outside of the city center. From London, one way tickets to Xian cost CNY4,100.
Train
Xi'an and Xi'an North Station offer many high-speed train connections to other major Chinese cities. A trip from Beijing to Xian takes between 5-12 hours and costs CNY515.
Car
The G5 and G040 will take you from Beijing to Xian in just under 11 hours.
Bus
There are several bus companies making the 745-mile journey to Xian from Beijing. The trip takes 15 hours and costs roughly CNY300.
Airports near Xi'an
Airlines serving Xi'an
Where to stay in Xi'an
Grand Park Xian is a 5-star hotel in the city center that's within walking distance of the subway and many downtown attractions. Nightly rates start at CNY490.
Popular neighbourhoods in Xi'an
Shaanxi - Here you will find the terracotta warriors and Qin ShiHuang Mausoleum.
Huaqing - This neighborhood boasts an ancient Tang-era palace and natural hot springs.
Lianhu - This area is considered the Muslim corner and is great for shopping and worshiping.
Where to stay in popular areas of Xi'an
Most booked hotels in Xi'an
How to Get Around Xi'an
Public Transportation
There are many buses in Xian which you can pay upon boarding, with a single ride costing CNY1. The line 610 is popular for tourists, as it hits a majority of major attractions.
Taxi
There are many taxis, however fares are not as regulated as in other cities. Trips in the city center cost roughly CNY10.
Car
Daily rental prices start at CNY100 and can be picked up from the airport, train station or downtown locations.
The Cost of Living in Xi'an
Shopping Streets
The bazaar area in the Muslim quarter is a great place to haggle prices over souvenirs such as folk art, bags and watches.
Groceries and Other
Xianfa Supermarket and Chezhan Supermarket are the two main grocery stores. A dozen eggs costs CNY10.