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ToggleTop 10 Things to Do in Xi’an: A Traveler’s Must-Do Guide | Travel Diaries
If you’re visiting Xi’an for the first time, you’ll need to plan ahead for essentials like visas and transportation—check out our comprehensive Xi’an Travel Guide for all the details. Xi’an, the ancient heart of China, is where history whispers from every corner. As a traveler who’s wandered its streets and savored its flavors, I’ve fallen for this city’s blend of past and present. From the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors to the vibrant Muslim Quarter, here are the top 10 things to do in Xi’an—each tested by my own adventures and packed with tips to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors
No Xi’an trip is complete without seeing the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors, an army of over 8,000 clay soldiers guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb. Standing in Pit 1, I was struck by their lifelike faces, each unique.
Tip: Book tickets online via Ctrip ($17, ¥120) to skip lines. Arrive early (8:30 AM) to beat crowds. Take tourist bus 306 from Xi’an Railway Station (¥7, 1 hour) or a Didi ride (¥100–150). Allow 2–3 hours, and grab an audio guide (¥40) for context.
Keyword: Xi’an Terracotta Warriors day trip guide
Tip: Book tickets online via Ctrip ($17, ¥120) to skip lines. Arrive early (8:30 AM) to beat crowds. Take tourist bus 306 from Xi’an Railway Station (¥7, 1 hour) or a Didi ride (¥100–150). Allow 2–3 hours, and grab an audio guide (¥40) for context.
Keyword: Xi’an Terracotta Warriors day trip guide
2. Cycle the Ancient City Wall
Riding a bike atop Xi’an’s 14th-century City Wall is a must. The 13.7-km loop offers views of the city’s skyline and moat. I started at South Gate at sunrise, when the path was quiet.
Tip: Rent a single-speed bike (¥45 for 100 minutes) and check brakes—some rentals are wobbly. Go counterclockwise to avoid afternoon winds, and watch for uneven bricks near North Gate. Pack sunscreen; shade is scarce.
Keyword: Xi’an City Wall cycling guide
Tip: Rent a single-speed bike (¥45 for 100 minutes) and check brakes—some rentals are wobbly. Go counterclockwise to avoid afternoon winds, and watch for uneven bricks near North Gate. Pack sunscreen; shade is scarce.
Keyword: Xi’an City Wall cycling guide
3. Stroll the Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter’s bustling alleys are a foodie’s paradise. I wandered through at dusk, dodging vendors selling yangrou paomo (lamb stew, ¥20) and roujiamo (meat buns, ¥10).
Tip: Try Defachang for dumplings, but explore smaller stalls for authentic biang biang noodles. Bargain for souvenirs like mini warriors (¥20–50). Avoid peak dinner hours (7–9 PM) to dodge crowds.
Keyword: Xi’an Muslim Quarter food guide
Tip: Try Defachang for dumplings, but explore smaller stalls for authentic biang biang noodles. Bargain for souvenirs like mini warriors (¥20–50). Avoid peak dinner hours (7–9 PM) to dodge crowds.
Keyword: Xi’an Muslim Quarter food guide
4. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
This 7th-century Buddhist pagoda is a serene escape. I climbed its seven stories for panoramic views, though the stairs are steep. The surrounding gardens and nightly fountain show (8 PM, free) are magical.
Tip: Entry is ¥50; book via Trip.com for ease. Visit in the afternoon to catch the sunset glow.
Keyword: Xi’an Big Wild Goose Pagoda guide
Tip: Entry is ¥50; book via Trip.com for ease. Visit in the afternoon to catch the sunset glow.
Keyword: Xi’an Big Wild Goose Pagoda guide
5. Explore the Bell and Drum Towers
Xi’an’s Bell and Drum Towers, lit up at night, are iconic. I climbed the Bell Tower (¥35, combo with Drum Tower ¥50) for views of the city’s heart. The evening drum performance at Drum Tower is a highlight.
Tip: Go at dusk for fewer crowds and better photos. Nearby street food stalls sell liangpi (cold noodles, ¥10).
Keyword: Xi’an Bell Tower things to do
Tip: Go at dusk for fewer crowds and better photos. Nearby street food stalls sell liangpi (cold noodles, ¥10).
Keyword: Xi’an Bell Tower things to do
6. Wander Huaqing Palace
Just 10 km from the Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace blends Tang Dynasty history with hot springs and gardens. I loved the romantic tale of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei told through the site’s exhibits.
Tip: Combo tickets with the Warriors save ¥20–30. Visit post-Warriors for a half-day trip (¥150, 2 hours).
Keyword: Xi’an Huaqing Palace day trip
Tip: Combo tickets with the Warriors save ¥20–30. Visit post-Warriors for a half-day trip (¥150, 2 hours).
Keyword: Xi’an Huaqing Palace day trip
7. Taste Xi’an’s Street Food at Yongxingfang
Yongxingfang Food Street is less touristy than the Muslim Quarter but equally delicious. I tried guantang baozi (soup dumplings, ¥15) and sesame cakes.
Tip: Go for lunch to avoid evening crowds. Use WeChat Pay for quick transactions—cash is rarely used.
Keyword: Xi’an Yongxingfang food guide
Tip: Go for lunch to avoid evening crowds. Use WeChat Pay for quick transactions—cash is rarely used.
Keyword: Xi’an Yongxingfang food guide
8. Step Back in Time at Shaanxi History Museum
This free museum (reserve tickets online) showcases Xi’an’s Silk Road legacy. I spent 2 hours marveling at Tang Dynasty artifacts, like gilded Buddhas.
Tip: Arrive at 9 AM to secure a spot—daily quotas fill fast. Audio guides (¥30) add depth.
Keyword: Xi’an Shaanxi History Museum guide
Tip: Arrive at 9 AM to secure a spot—daily quotas fill fast. Audio guides (¥30) add depth.
Keyword: Xi’an Shaanxi History Museum guide
9. Catch the Tang Dynasty Show
For a dose of culture, the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show is a colorful spectacle. I watched at Shaanxi Grand Opera House (¥200–300), enthralled by the costumes and music.
Tip: Book via Ctrip for better seats. Pair with a dumpling banquet at Defachang afterward.
Keyword: Xi’an Tang Dynasty show tickets
Tip: Book via Ctrip for better seats. Pair with a dumpling banquet at Defachang afterward.
Keyword: Xi’an Tang Dynasty show tickets
10. Hike Mount Huashan (Day Trip)
For adventure seekers, Mount Huashan, 120 km from Xi’an, offers thrilling trails and stunning views. I took the cable car to the West Peak (¥140 round-trip) and hiked for 4 hours.
Tip: Take a high-speed train to Huashan North (¥55, 30 minutes), then a shuttle (¥40). Start at 6 AM to avoid crowds and heat.
Keyword: Xi’an Mount Huashan day trip guide
Tip: Take a high-speed train to Huashan North (¥55, 30 minutes), then a shuttle (¥40). Start at 6 AM to avoid crowds and heat.
Keyword: Xi’an Mount Huashan day trip guide
Why Xi’an Steals Your Heart
Xi’an isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey through time. From the silent gaze of the Terracotta Warriors to the rhythm of pedals on the City Wall, every moment feels alive. These 10 experiences blend history, food, and adventure, making Xi’an a must-visit.
Plan Your Trip 👇:
- Hungry after your ride? Check our Food Guide for the best roujiamo and liangpi spots in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter.
- Want more history? Dive into our Cultural Musings for stories behind Xi’an’s ancient landmarks.
- Plan your next stop with our main site’s Xi’an Attractions and Food Guide.
- Ready to shop? Explore local markets and souvenirs in our Xi’an Shopping Guide.
- Craving a day trip? Discover nearby gems like Mount Huashan in our Xi’an Day Trips.