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Xi'an Trip Idea

Walk Through 3,000 Years of History and Culture in Xi’an.

Xi'an Tour FAQs

Is the Terracotta Army worth visiting?

Absolutely! It’s one of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries, featuring thousands of life-sized clay warriors built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.

What food should I try in Xi’an?

Must-try local dishes include biangbiang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese burger), lamb skewers, yangrou paomo (flatbread soup), and cold skin noodles (liangpi). Check out our Xi'an Food Trip Ideas for a better idea of what foods to eat in Xi'an.

Can I rent a bike to explore the City Wall?

Yes! Bicycle rentals are available at several entrances to the Ancient City Wall, making it a fun and scenic way to see the city from above.

Is Xi’an expensive for tourists?

Xi’an is relatively affordable compared to cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Street food, public transport, and entry tickets are reasonably priced.

What’s the Silk Road connection to Xi’an?

Xi’an was the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, a trade route that connected China to Central Asia and Europe, spreading goods, culture, and ideas.

Xi'an City

Authentic Silk Road Tours: Pure Experiences, No Shopping Stops.

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  • We Promise: 100% No Shopping Stops
  • Customised Itineraries for All Ages and Abilities
  • What You See Is What You Pay
  • Eat Like a Local – Real Chinese Dishes
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Xian City Wall

Xi’an Tour: China’s Timeless Gateway to History and Culture

  • Welcome to Xi’an, the ancient capital of thirteen Chinese dynasties and a living museum of the country’s glorious past.

  • Located in central China’s Shaanxi province, Xi’an is where emperors reigned, trade routes began, and legends were born.

  • As one of the oldest cities in China, Xi’an offers a fascinating glimpse into over 3,000 years of Chinese civilisation.

  • It was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, making it a historic crossroads of culture, trade, and ideas.

  • Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or culture enthusiast, Xi’an has something to spark your wanderlust.

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Top Places to Visit in Xi’an

Xi'an Tour Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army – China’s Greatest Archaeological Discovery

  • A visit to Xi’an isn’t complete without seeing the world-famous Terracotta Warriors.

  • Discovered in 1974, this underground army of over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots was built to guard the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Each figure is uniquely detailed, making the site a jaw-dropping tribute to ancient craftsmanship and imperial power.

xi'an tour ancient city wall cycling

Ancient City Wall – Walk or Cycle Through History

  • Xi’an boasts one of the most complete and well-preserved city walls in China. Stretching 13.7 km around the old city, the Ancient City Wall offers panoramic views and a unique way to explore the city—whether on foot or by bike.

  • Don’t miss the watchtowers and gates that hint at its strategic military past.

xian tour muslim quarter

Muslim Quarter – A Culinary and Cultural Hotspot

  • Step into the bustling Muslim Quarter for a feast of flavours, sights, and sounds.

  • This lively area is home to Xi’an’s Hui Muslim community and is famous for its night markets, street snacks, and fusion of Chinese and Islamic culture.

  • Be sure to try the spicy lamb skewers, roujiamo (Chinese burger), and hand-pulled biangbiang noodles.

xian tour big wild goose pagoda

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda – A Spiritual Landmark of the Tang Dynasty

  • Built in the 7th century, this iconic Buddhist pagoda is not only a spiritual site but also a symbol of Xi’an.

  • It played a key role in the translation and dissemination of Buddhist texts brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. The surrounding Da Ci’en Temple and musical fountain square make for a serene yet captivating stop.

xian tour great mosque of xi'an

Great Mosque of Xi’an – Where East Meets Islamic Architecture

  • Hidden within the Muslim Quarter, the Great Mosque is one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in China.

  • Unlike traditional Middle Eastern mosques, it features Chinese-style pavilions, gardens, and intricate calligraphy—a peaceful retreat and a symbol of cultural harmony.

xi'an tour bell tower

Bell and Drum Towers – Echoes of Imperial Timekeeping

  • Located at the heart of the old city, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower are impressive Ming Dynasty structures that once marked time and signalled the city’s rhythm.

  • Today, they offer exhibitions, live performances, and great views of Xi’an’s bustling streets below.

xian tour huaqing palace

Huaqing Palace & Mount Li – A Scenic and Romantic Escape

  • Just outside Xi’an lies Huaqing Palace, a royal hot spring resort dating back to the Tang Dynasty.

  • This is the legendary site of Emperor Xuanzong’s love story with his concubine Yang Guifei. Nearby Mount Li provides a beautiful natural backdrop and panoramic hikes.

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Why Xi’an Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

  • Few cities offer such a rich tapestry of heritage, food, and living culture in one accessible destination.

  • Xi’an delivers immersive experiences, from walking atop centuries-old walls to tasting the best of northern Chinese cuisine in lantern-lit alleys.

  • Its unique fusion of the ancient and the modern makes every moment in Xi’an both meaningful and unforgettable.

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Xi’an: The Eastern Gateway to the Silk Road

xian tour xian
  • As the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an is more than just a city—it’s a portal to one of the world’s greatest trade routes.Imagine standing where merchants, monks, and explorers once set off across deserts and mountains toward Central Asia and beyond.

  • Starting your Silk Road journey in Xi’an allows you to trace the footsteps of history with authenticity and wonder.

  • From here, we highly recommend continuing westward into Gansu, Dunhuang, and even as far as Xinjiang for the ultimate Silk Road adventure.

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