Xian Travel Guide: Attractions, Food, Weather, Hotels, Itinerary...

Facts of Xi'an

Xi'an Bell Tower

• English: Xi'an/Sian/Hsi-an/Chang'an
• Chinese: 西安/xī ān
• Area: 10,097 km²
• Metro population: 13.1676 million
• Tour time: 2-4 days
• Where: Xi'an is located in the northwest of China, south of central Shaanxi Province.

Shaanxi Province is bordered by several culturally and geographically significant regions: Henan(Luoyang) to the east, Sichuan and Chongqing to the south, Gansu and Ningxia to the west, and Shanxi to the northeast. These neighboring areas offer a wealth of travel opportunities, from the imperial heritage of Luoyang to the spicy cuisine and relaxed lifestyle of Chengdu. As the capital of Shaanxi, Xi’an serves as an ideal hub for exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultural traditions of central and western China.

Brief Introduction

Xi'an City Wall

Xi'an is one of the four ancient capitals in China that served 13 imperial capitals for about 1,120 years. It is the eastern terminal of the Silk Road. Xi'an was referred to as "Chang'an" before the Ming Dynasty. With a history of more than 3,100 years, Xi'an is a world-famous tourist destination. It is a treasure trove full of historical and cultural relics. Among them is the Terracotta Warrior built in the Qin Dynasty, which is the most well-known home and abroad.

If China is a big tree, then Beijing would be the crown of the tree, while Xi'an is the root. In this ancient capital, the 5,000 years of Chinese culture are still spreading, including customs, virtues, traditions, and among other aspects. Xi'an, a great ancient city compared to Athens, Cairo, and Rome, has the spirit of a great city unrestrained.

There are a few national treasures or a pile of bricks from the Qin Dynasty that can be dug. The buildings and tombs cannot be present in this ancient city, because there the atmosphere is filled with classics and legends. Thinking of the camel bell at the beginning of the Silk Road goes back to a time when people from other parts of the world went there to pay respect to the Emperor, Monk Xuanzang. He translated lections under the light, and Yang Guifei danced in a luxurious dress. One may unconsciously have a mixed feeling of modernity and history while walking along the streets and city walls.

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Top Attractions: what to do in Xi'an

Terracotta Warriors

The walls of the city of Xi'an remain still and Wild Goose Pagoda is erected high. There is a myriad of skyscrapers and cars. Restaurants spread all over the city offer a feast for the stomach of visitors. It is impossible to describe Xi'an in a few paragraphs. You can get your feeling of Xi'an when you set foot on this charming land and experience the past and present all in one place.

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Local Food and Snacks

Xi’an, both the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and the place where China’s rich culinary culture began its journey across regions. Every dish tells a story of cultural exchange and prosperity in this historic city. From imperial dishes like Gourd Chicken to street food favorites such as Roujiamo (Chinese burger) and Yangrou Paomo (mutton soup with flatbread), Xi’an offers a delicious journey through its vibrant cultural heritage. When exploring the authentic flavors of Shaanxi cuisine in Xi’an, we highly recommend trying the “two feasts” and the “two paomos.”

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Best Things to Do in Xi'an

Xi’an is more than just an ancient capital; it’s a living museum of Chinese civilization and a gateway to the past. From its legendary Terracotta Army to vibrant street life in the Muslim Quarter, Xi’an offers travelers a rich tapestry of experiences that blend the old with the new. Don’t miss wandering through the Muslim Quarter for flavorful street food, or visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda to soak in the city’s spiritual heritage.

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Activities to Experience in Xi'an

Bustling Muslim streets, the dazzling night view of the Great Tang All Day Mall, and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. Like a magnetic stone, Xi’an draws people from all over the world to explore this thousand-year-old capital.

Beyond its iconic sights, you can take part in immersive cultural experiences that reveal the spirit of ancient Chang’an. Try to make your own miniature clay warrior in a traditional cave dwelling in the village, learn to make dumplings with locals, dive into Xi’an’s culinary traditions, practice Chinese calligraphy, or enjoy a traditional shadow puppet performance. These hands-on activities offer a deeper connection to the city’s timeless charm.

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Luxury Hotel in Xi'an

Hotels in Xi’an offer a comfortable stay with a touch of local culture. Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an stands out for its historic charm and elegant service. Shangri-La Hotel Xi’an provides modern luxury with traditional Chinese accents. Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square is stylish and convenient, close to many city attractions. These hotels blend comfort, culture, and convenience, making them great choices for exploring the ancient capital.

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Best Time and Season to Visit Xi'an

The best/most suitable time to visit Xi’an is widely considered to be during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant—ideal for exploring the city's rich and diverse attractions. Whether you're enjoying flower blossoms, hiking in the mountains, savoring local cuisine, or immersing yourself in cultural experiences, spring and autumn offer something special for every traveler.

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How to Plan an Itinerary in Xi'an

Visiting the top classic attractions in Xi’an takes about 2 full days. Adding arrival and departure time, you'll need approximately 3-4 days.

Here some suggestion for 4 days sightseeing in Xi’an

• Day 1: Arrive at Xi'an, Xi'an Academy Gate, Xihuamen Avenue, and Muslim Street
• Day 2: The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the music fountain or Tang Dynasty Show
• Day 3: Mountain Huashan, night tour to Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
• Day 4: Shaanxi History Museum, Forest of Stone Steles Museum where you can learn calligraphy, and departure
• All the itinerary are flexible. Justcontact us, please. We would be honored to customize a perfect, personalized itinerary specifically for you.

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The Starting Point of the Silk Road

Xuanzang

In the 2nd century A.D., to widen areas of Western Han, Emperor Hanwu adopted the policy of associating with distant countries and attacking nearby ones creating the "Silk Road" starting from Xi'an which connected Europe, Asia, and Africa.

At the time of Western Han of two thousand years ago, Zhang Qian, starting from the ancient Chang'an, was sent to western countries for two diplomatic missions. This is the first and largest economic exchange activity in western countries in Chinese history. Since then, the Silk Road has become notable around the world. The Silk Road started from the ancient Chang'an in the east and went across Xinjiang from two roads south and north respectively from the Hexi corridor to Dunhuang and until Europe. The overall length is more than 7,000 kilometers. It became the main road for China to communicate with western countries over more than 1,000 years. Due to the great power of the Western Han and the prosperity of the imperial Chang'an city, Chang'an is known for the creation of the Silk Road in material and execution.

Customize Your Unique Xi'an Tour

If you are interested in one of the Xi'an itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Xi'an Tour, please visit our Xi'an Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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