Xi'An Travel Guide
Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, was once the starting point of the Silk Road and served as the capital to 13 imperial dynasties. It’s best known for the Terracotta Army, discovered in the tomb of China’s first emperor and now regarded as one of the world’s great archaeological sites. The city’s cuisine and culture reflect the lasting influence of the Silk Road, where Central Asian and Chinese traditions have long intertwined. For travelers interested in Chinese culture, Xi’an is a must-visit destination on your first trip to China.
Top Attractions In Xi'An
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Terracotta Army
Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological finds. Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots stand in silent formation, guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Each figure has unique facial features and details. The site is located about 40 minutes northeast of downtown Xi’an.
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Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Built during the Tang dynasty, this seven-story pagoda was designed to store Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang. Located inside the Da Ci’en Temple complex, it’s a major landmark and pilgrimage site. The surrounding plaza hosts nightly fountain shows that attract both locals and visitors.
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Shaanxi History Museum
The museum houses more than 370,000 artifacts tracing 3,000 years of Chinese civilization, from bronze vessels and Tang murals to ancient coins and jade ornaments. It’s an ideal place to learn how Xi’an once flourished as the starting point of the Silk Road. Admission is free but requires online reservation.
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Muslim Quarter
Located behind the Drum Tower, this bustling neighborhood is famous for its street food and vibrant night market. Vendors serve local favorites like roujiamo (meat sandwiches), biangbiang noodles, and pomegranate juice. As night falls, the lights and aromas of street food make the alleys even more vibrant.
Discover all the top attractions in Xi'An with our complete guide.
Cultural Experiences In Xi'An
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Xi'An City Wall
One of the best ways to experience Xi’an’s history is by exploring the Xi’an City Wall — the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. You can walk, cycle, or ride an e-bike along its broad ramparts to feel how the city was once defended. From the top, the view opens on both sides: weathered watchtowers and grey brick walls below, and a modern skyline stretching beyond. Visit around sunset, when the walls catch the last warm light of day, and stay into the evening, when the wall and skyline glow softly under the lights.
Accommodation In Xi'An
Staying in Xi’an can mean waking up inside centuries-old courtyard walls or in a sleek hotel overlooking the modern skyline. Choices range from heritage guesthouses with local charm to practical, budget-friendly rooms close to the metro.
Where to Stay:
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For Those Seeking Proximity to Major Attractions: Hotels near the Bell Tower and Drum Tower are among the most convenient in Xi’an, putting major attractions like the City Wall and the Muslim Quarter within easy reach. Because the area is highly sought after, average room rates tend to be a bit higher than elsewhere in the city.
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Travelers Looking for a More Traditional Experience: Boutique hotels and courtyard guesthouses inside the old city wall or near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda offer a calm setting with a touch of history. Many feature wooden beams, tiled roofs, and private courtyards that reflect traditional Chinese design. The authentic atmosphere makes them especially popular among travelers interested in Chinese culture.
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For Those on a Budget: Economy hotels and hostels around the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and near Xi’an North Railway Station offer comfortable stays at accessible prices. Many provide clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to metro lines connecting to the city centre. These hotels offer great value for money and are ideal for travelers on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice convenience.
Food and Dining In Xi'An
Xi’an’s cuisine is known for the bold, hearty flavors of China’s northwest, featuring a generous use of spices and wheat-based food. Signature dishes include Biang Biang noodles, roujiamo (meat-filled flatbread), liangpi (cold noodles), and cumin-spiced lamb skewers. Dining here is casual and down-to-earth, with the real gems often found at humble stalls rather than fancy restaurants.
Ready to eat like a local? Check out our Xi'An food guide.
Planning your first trip to Xi'An? Check out our essential Xi'An travel tips.
