Xi’an Travel Guide: A Complete Journey Through China’s Ancient Capital
Your Ultimate Guide to Xi’an: Things to Do, Where to Eat, and Best Hotels
Hey travelers! Planning a trip to Xi’an, China? You’ve come to the right place. As one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China and former home to thirteen dynasties, Xi’an (formerly known as Chang’an) offers an unparalleled journey through Chinese history, world-class cuisine, and stunning landscapes. This comprehensive Xi’an travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this incredible city, from must-see attractions to hidden food gems and the best places to stay.
Table of Contents
- Best Time to Visit Xi’an
- Top Xi’an Attractions
- Best Xi’an Food and Restaurants
- Where to Stay in Xi’an
- Xi’an Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Xi’an
Before diving into the attractions, let’s talk about when to visit. The best time to visit Xi’an is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold but offers fewer crowds and lower prices.
Peak Season: April-May, September-October Low Season: December-February Average Visit Duration: 3-5 days
Top Xi’an Attractions
1. Shaanxi History Museum: China’s Treasure Trove
The Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆) ranks among China’s best museums and is an absolute must-visit when exploring Xi’an attractions. This world-class institution houses over 370,000 artifacts spanning Chinese history from prehistoric times through the Qing Dynasty.
What to See at Shaanxi History Museum
Permanent Exhibitions (Free): The main galleries showcase the cultural heritage of Shaanxi Province, featuring pottery, bronze ware, jade, and ancient coins that tell the story of China’s ancient civilizations.
Tang Dynasty Treasures – Hejiacun Hoard (Admission required): This special exhibition displays extraordinary Tang Dynasty artifacts discovered in the Hejiacun treasure hoard. Highlights include:
- Gilt Silver Pot with Dancing Horse Holding Cup Design (鎏金舞马衔杯纹银壶): One of only two Chinese national treasures prohibited from international exhibition, this exquisite silver pot depicts horses performing at Tang Dynasty banquets
- Agate Cup with Beast Head (兽首玛瑙杯): An incredibly rare Tang Dynasty wine vessel carved from agate, considered one of China’s most precious artifacts
Tang Dynasty Mural Gallery (Admission required): Features stunning ancient Chinese wall paintings from Tang Dynasty tombs, offering insights into daily life, fashion, and customs of ancient Chang’an.
Visitor Information
- Address: No. 91 Xiaozhai East Road, Yanta District, Xi’an
- Admission: Free entry (advance online booking required); Special exhibitions: 30 RMB (Treasure Gallery), 300 RMB (Mural Gallery)
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30 AM-6:30 PM (last entry 4:30 PM); Closed Mondays
- Recommended Duration: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Pro Tip: Book tickets at least 3 days in advance through the official website or WeChat account
2. Xi’an City Wall: Walk Through History
The Xi’an Ancient City Wall (西安城墙) is the most complete ancient city fortification in China and one of the best-preserved medieval defensive systems in the world. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1370-1378 AD) on the foundation of the Tang Dynasty Imperial City Wall, this architectural marvel stretches 13.7 kilometers around the old city center.
Things to Do on Xi’an City Wall
Walking or Cycling the Wall: The top of the wall offers spectacular views of both ancient and modern Xi’an. You can rent bicycles (45 RMB for single, 90 RMB for tandem) to circle the entire wall, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Four Main Gates to Explore:
- Yongning Gate (South Gate, 永宁门): The most impressive and popular entrance, featuring elaborate Tang Dynasty-style architecture
- Changle Gate (East Gate, 长乐门): Known for its peaceful atmosphere
- Anding Gate (West Gate, 安定门): Less crowded, great for sunset views
- Anyuan Gate (North Gate, 安远门): Closest to the train station
Night Illumination: Visit during evening hours when the wall is beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photography.
Visitor Information
- Address: Multiple access points; South Gate (Yongning Gate) is most popular
- Admission: 54 RMB per person
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM-10:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
- Recommended Duration: 2-4 hours
- Best Access Point: South Gate (Yongning Gate) for first-time visitors
- Pro Tip: Start your walk at sunset to experience both daylight and evening illumination
3. Mount Hua: One of China’s Five Sacred Mountains
Mount Hua (华山, Huashan) stands as one of China’s Five Great Mountains and is legendary for being the most dangerous hike in China. Located 120 kilometers east of Xi’an in Huayin County, this granite mountain features five peaks, with the highest (South Peak) reaching 2,154 meters.
The Famous Plank Walk Experience
Mount Hua is world-famous for its death-defying plank walk (长空栈道), where hikers traverse narrow wooden planks bolted to the cliff face thousands of meters above ground. This thrilling experience isn’t for the faint of heart!
Five Peaks of Mount Hua:
- East Peak (Sunrise Peak): Best for watching sunrise
- South Peak (Landing Wild Goose Peak): Highest peak with breathtaking views
- West Peak (Lotus Flower Peak): Most elegant and scenic
- North Peak (Cloud Terrace Peak): Most accessible via cable car
- Middle Peak (Jade Maiden Peak): Associated with ancient legends
How to Visit Mount Hua
Option 1 – Cable Car Route: Take the North Peak or West Peak cable car to reduce climbing time. The West Peak route offers more dramatic scenery.
Option 2 – Full Hiking Route: The traditional hiking trail from the North Peak entrance takes 4-6 hours to reach the summit.
Visitor Information
- Address: Huayin City, Weinan, Shaanxi Province (华阴市华山镇)
- Admission:
- Peak season (March-November): 160 RMB
- Low season (December-February): 100 RMB
- Ticket + North Peak shuttle: 180 RMB
- Ticket + West Peak shuttle: 200 RMB
- Cable Car Fees:
- North Peak: 80 RMB (one way), 150 RMB (round trip)
- West Peak: 140 RMB (one way), 280 RMB (round trip)
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM-7:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (winter)
- Recommended Duration: Full day (8-12 hours)
- Getting There: Take a high-speed train from Xi’an North Station to Huashan North Station (35 minutes), then shuttle bus to the mountain entrance
- Pro Tips:
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- Bring gloves for chain-assisted sections
- Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat
- Check weather conditions before visiting
Other Must-Visit Xi’an Attractions
Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (秦始皇兵马俑): The world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s underground army (90 minutes from downtown, full-day trip recommended)
Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔): Ancient Buddhist pagoda built in 652 AD, symbol of Xi’an’s Tang Dynasty heritage
Muslim Quarter (回民街): Bustling food street in the heart of Xi’an’s Muslim community, perfect for street food exploration
Tang Paradise (大唐芙蓉园): Large theme park recreating Tang Dynasty royal gardens with cultural performances
Best Xi’an Food and Restaurants
Xi’an cuisine is one of China’s Eight Great Culinary Traditions and is famous for its bold flavors, wheat-based dishes, and Muslim influences. Beyond the famous Muslim Street (Huimin Street) and Yongxingfang Food Street, here are three outstanding restaurants that offer authentic Shaanxi food.
1. Ziwu Road Zhang’s Roujiamo: Best Chinese Hamburger in Xi’an
If you’re searching for the best roujiamo in Xi’an, look no further than Ziwu Road Zhang’s Roujiamo (子午路张记肉夹馍). This local favorite serves some of the most authentic Shaanxi cuisine in the city.
What to Order
Roujiamo (肉夹馍): Often called the “Chinese hamburger,” this iconic Xi’an street food features slow-braised pork stuffed into a crispy flatbread. Zhang’s version stands out for its perfectly balanced meat-to-bread ratio and non-greasy, flavorful braised pork.
Liangpi (凉皮): Cold rice noodles dressed in spicy, tangy sauce – refreshing and addictive
Qishan Noodles (岐山面): Traditional thin noodles in savory broth with vegetables and tofu
Bingfeng Soda (冰峰汽水): Xi’an’s beloved orange-flavored soft drink, the perfect accompaniment to any meal
Restaurant Information
- Average Cost: 25-35 RMB per person
- Hours: Open 24 hours daily
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Xi’an (子午路店 most famous)
- Payment: Cash and mobile payment accepted
- Best For: Quick, authentic lunch or snacks
- Must-Try: Roujiamo + Liangpi + Bingfeng combo (approximately 30 RMB)
2. Xiao Yang Barbecue: Premier Xi’an Lamb Restaurant
Xiao Yang Barbecue (小杨烤肉) is a legendary Xi’an restaurant established in 1999, specializing in Xinjiang-style lamb barbecue that has become synonymous with Xi’an’s dining scene. With multiple locations across the city, this restaurant chain maintains consistently high quality.
Signature Dishes
Grilled Lamb Skewers (烤羊肉串): Hand-cut lamb chunks marinated in cumin, chili, and secret spices, grilled to perfection over charcoal. The meat is incredibly tender and aromatic – order several rounds!
Roasted Lamb Ribs (烤羊排): The restaurant’s most famous dish. These succulent ribs arrive at your table sizzling hot, with meat so tender it falls off the bone. The exterior is perfectly caramelized while the interior remains juicy.
Lamb Leg (烤羊腿): A whole roasted lamb leg served for sharing, ideal for groups
Spicy Cucumber Salad (拍黄瓜): Refreshing cold dish to balance the rich meat
Restaurant Information
- Average Cost: 80-120 RMB per person
- Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM (next day)
- Locations: Multiple branches; Xiaozhai location and Zhonglou (Bell Tower) location most popular
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially weekends
- Best For: Dinner with friends, group dining
- Atmosphere: Casual, lively, authentic local vibe
- Pro Tip: Arrive before 6:30 PM to avoid peak dinner rush
3. Biangbiang Noodles: Xi’an’s Most Famous Noodle Dish
No Xi’an food tour is complete without trying Biangbiang noodles (BiángBiáng面), the city’s most iconic noodle dish. Named after the sound noodles make when slapped against the preparation table, these are the widest hand-pulled noodles in China.
What Makes Biangbiang Noodles Special
These belt noodles (裤带面) are approximately 2-3 inches wide and incredibly long – sometimes over a meter! The noodles are hand-pulled to order, ensuring perfect chewiness. They’re typically served with:
Oil-Splashed Preparation (油泼面): Hot oil infused with chili peppers is poured over the noodles, creating an aromatic, spicy dish
Traditional Toppings: Minced meat, vegetables, garlic shoots, bean sprouts, and Xi’an’s signature spicy oil
The Perfect Combination: Take a big bite of noodles, crunch some raw garlic, and wash it down with cold Bingfeng soda – the ultimate Xi’an eating experience!
Where to Find the Best Biangbiang Noodles
Yuliang Biangbiang Noodles (裕郎Biángbiáng面): Near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda Laosun Family Restaurant (老孙家): Historic restaurant chain with multiple locations Street Vendors: Small family-run noodle shops often serve the most authentic versions
Dish Information
- Average Cost: 15-30 RMB per bowl
- Portion Size: Very generous – one bowl is usually sufficient
- Spice Level: Medium to high (can request mild)
- Best Paired With: Bingfeng soda, cold appetizers
- Pro Tip: Watch the noodle-making performance – many restaurants prepare them in open kitchens
More Xi’an Foods You Must Try
Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍): Lamb soup with torn bread pieces, Xi’an’s comfort food Guokui (锅盔): Crispy stuffed flatbread, perfect street snack Persimmon Cake (柿子饼): Sweet fried pastry made with persimmons Jing Gao (镜糕): Small steamed rice cakes topped with jam and nuts Liangpi Varieties: Try different types including rice, wheat, and hot varieties
Where to Stay in Xi’an: Best Hotels for Every Budget
Choosing the right Xi’an accommodation can greatly enhance your travel experience. Based on my personal stays, I highly recommend properties from the Marriott family of brands for their consistent quality, excellent service, and strategic locations.
Luxury Choice: Xi’an Renaissance Hotel (西安万丽酒店)
The Xi’an Renaissance Hotel represents the pinnacle of upscale hospitality in the ancient capital. As part of Marriott International’s distinctive boutique collection, this five-star property perfectly blends contemporary design with historical inspiration.
Why Choose Xi’an Renaissance Hotel
Strategic Location: The hotel sits in the heart of Xi’an’s Qujiang New District, surrounded by major attractions:
- 10-minute walk to Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Walking distance to Tang Paradise (大唐芙蓉园)
- 40 minutes from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport
- 10-minute walk to Convention Center Metro Station (Line 2)
- 50 minutes by car to Terracotta Warriors Museum
Design Philosophy: The hotel’s architecture and interior design draw inspiration from Xi’an’s Tang Dynasty heritage, incorporating modern amenities with classical Chinese elements. The grand lobby features contemporary art installations alongside traditional motifs.
Room Features:
- Spacious rooms starting from 40 square meters
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with city or pagoda views
- Luxury bedding and rainforest showers
- High-speed WiFi and smart room controls
- Coffee/tea making facilities
Dining Options:
- Silk Road Restaurant: All-day dining featuring international and local cuisine
- Lobby Lounge: Afternoon tea and evening cocktails
- In-room dining: 24-hour service available
Hotel Facilities:
- Fitness center open 24/7
- Indoor swimming pool
- Executive lounge for club-level guests
- Business center and meeting rooms
- Concierge service for tour bookings
Hotel Information
- Star Rating: 5-star luxury
- Number of Rooms: 304 rooms and suites
- Average Rate: 800-1,500 RMB per night (varies by season)
- Address: No. 8 Ci’en Road, Yanta District, Xi’an
- Phone: +86 29 8872 8888
- Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, business travelers
- Loyalty Program: Marriott Bonvoy points eligible
- Booking Tip: Check Marriott’s official website for exclusive member rates and promotions
Mid-Range Choice: Xi’an Lanhaixing Courtyard by Marriott (西安蓝海风万怡酒店)
The Xi’an Lanhaixing Courtyard by Marriott offers exceptional value for families and budget-conscious travelers without compromising on quality or service.
Family-Friendly Features
Themed Kids’ Rooms: The hotel offers unique themed family rooms featuring:
- Little Yellow Duck Room: Complete with duck-themed bedding, toys, and bath amenities
- Big Mouth Monkey Room: Colorful monkey decorations throughout
- Children’s tent and rocking horse in each themed room
- Kid-sized bathrobes and slippers
Book Wall & Cultural Experience: The hotel features China’s only 100-meter book wall in a hotel setting, creating an intellectual atmosphere for guests. With your room key, you can access the adjacent Manxiang Bookstore with special discounts.
Location Advantages:
- Connected to Lanhaixing Shopping Mall with restaurants, cinema, and shops
- Near major shopping districts
- Easy access to city center via public transportation
- Family-friendly neighborhood with parks
Dining at Wan Hui Xuan: The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant features:
- Extensive international buffet with Chinese, Western, and Japanese stations
- Fresh seafood selection
- Individual hot pot option
- Unlimited soft drinks
- Kids eat free promotions (check seasonal offers)
Hotel Information
- Star Rating: 4-star upper-midscale
- Number of Rooms: 264 rooms including themed family rooms
- Average Rate: 400-700 RMB per night
- Address: No. 168 Keji Road, Yanta District, Xi’an
- Best For: Families with children, extended stays, budget travelers
- Special Feature: Only Courtyard by Marriott in Xi’an with themed kids’ rooms
- Package Deals: Look for family packages including breakfast and attraction tickets
Budget Options in Xi’an
Hostel Recommendation: Han Tang Inn Xi’an Bell Tower (汉唐驿国际青年旅舍) offers dorm beds from 50 RMB and private rooms from 150 RMB, with excellent location near the Bell Tower.
Business Hotels: Home Inn (如家) and Hanting Express (汉庭) chains offer clean, affordable rooms (200-300 RMB) throughout Xi’an.
Xi’an Travel Tips: Essential Information
Getting to Xi’an
By Air:
- Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) serves domestic and international flights
- 50-minute airport express bus or 40-minute taxi to city center
- Metro Line 14 connects airport to downtown (under construction, opening 2025)
By Train:
- Xi’an Railway Station: Central location, older station handling regular trains
- Xi’an North Station: Modern high-speed rail hub, 30 minutes north of city center
- High-speed trains from Beijing (4.5 hours), Shanghai (6 hours), Chengdu (3 hours)
By Bus: Long-distance buses arrive at multiple stations; train is generally more convenient
Getting Around Xi’an
Metro System:
- 9 lines operating (expanding network)
- Fare: 2-9 RMB depending on distance
- Download Alipay or WeChat Pay for easy payment
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Public Buses:
- Extensive network covering entire city
- Fare: 1-2 RMB
- Can be crowded during rush hours
Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis start at 9 RMB
- Didi Chuxing (Chinese Uber) widely used
- Download app and link payment method before arrival
Bicycle Rentals:
- Shared bikes available through Mobike and Hellobike apps
- Perfect for exploring the old city area
- Cost: 1-2 RMB per 30 minutes
Xi’an Travel Budget
Budget Traveler: 200-400 RMB per day (hostel, street food, public transport) Mid-Range Traveler: 500-1,000 RMB per day (3-star hotel, restaurants, taxis, entrance fees) Luxury Traveler: 1,500+ RMB per day (5-star hotel, fine dining, private tours)
Best Xi’an Itinerary Suggestions
3-Day Xi’an Itinerary:
- Day 1: Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Hot Springs, Tang Dynasty Show
- Day 2: Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter
- Day 3: City Wall cycling, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, shopping
5-Day Xi’an Itinerary:
- Add Mount Hua day trip and Hanyangling Museum
What to Pack for Xi’an
Spring/Fall: Layers, light jacket, comfortable walking shoes Summer: Light clothing, sun protection, water bottle Winter: Warm coat, scarf, gloves (temperatures can drop below 0°C) Year-Round: Comfortable walking shoes, power bank, VPN (for accessing Western websites)
Important Cultural Tips
- Respect Muslim customs in the Muslim Quarter (no pork, dress modestly)
- Bargaining is acceptable at markets but not in established stores
- Learn basic Chinese phrases – English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist areas
- Bring cash – some small vendors don’t accept mobile payment
- Download translation app like Google Translate or Pleco
Useful Xi’an Travel Resources
Official Tourism Website: https://xiancitytravel.com/
Emergency Numbers: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire)
Tourist Hotline: 12301 (24-hour tourism complaint and inquiry)
Conclusion: Why Visit Xi’an in 2025
Xi’an offers an unmatched combination of ancient history, authentic Chinese culture, and delicious regional cuisine. Whether you’re marveling at the Terracotta Warriors, cycling along the ancient City Wall, savoring hand-pulled Biangbiang noodles, or hiking the treacherous paths of Mount Hua, every moment in this ancient capital creates lasting memories.
The city’s perfect blend of historical attractions and modern amenities makes it accessible for all types of travelers. With excellent hotels like the Xi’an Renaissance and Courtyard by Marriott, convenient transportation options, and an incredible food scene, there’s never been a better time to plan your Xi’an adventure.
Start planning your journey to Xi’an today and discover why this ancient capital continues to captivate visitors from around the world!
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Last Updated: October 2025
