Ultimate Xi'an Travel Guide

Xi'an is a city rich in history and cultural charm. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to help you better plan your trip. Must-Visit Attractions: Emperor Qin's Terra-cotta Warriors Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "Underground Empire." Visit Pits 1, 2, and 3, and enhance your experience at the VR Experience Center. Admission: ¥120 (includes shuttle bus). Giant Wild Goose Pagoda & Grand Tang Mall: The pagoda houses Master Xuanzang's Buddhist scriptures. The mall features a nightly light show and interactive experiences with the "Roly-poly Girl." Climb the pagoda for city views during the day and explore Poetry Street and musical fountains at night. Xi'an City Wall: China's most complete ancient city wall, stretching 13.74 kilometers. Cycle through history by renting a bike for a two-hour ride around the wall. Yongning Gate section offers stunning night views with lanterns. Huaqing Palace: Site of the love story between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Features hot spring ruins and Mount Li scenery. Watch "The Song of Everlasting Sorrow" live performance with water screen effects. Muslim Quarter: Xi'an's food hub featuring local delicacies like Roujiamo, Yang Rou Paomo, and soup dumplings. Try Gao Family Courtyard shadow puppetry (¥30) and Jia San's soup dumplings (around ¥40 per person). Shaanxi History Museum: Houses 370,000 artifacts showcasing Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang civilizations. Free admission with 3-day advance reservation; closed Mondays. Audio guide recommended (¥30). Tang Paradise: Features world's largest water screen film "Tang Dynasty Dream" and Ziyun Tower's magical night views. Try the "Chang'an Twelve Hours" immersive role-play (¥198/person). Beilin Museum: Calligraphy art sanctuary housing works by Yan Zhenqing and Liu Gongquan. Stone rubbing experience (¥50/time), close-up view of Kaicheng Stone Classics. Bell and Drum Towers: Xi'an landmarks with thousand-year tradition of morning bell and evening drum. Night illumination spectacular. Joint ticket (¥50) recommended. Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi'an Museum: Tang Dynasty pagoda combined with museum. "Morning Bell of Wild Goose Pagoda" is one of Eight Views of Guanzhong. Free admission, closed Mondays. Cherry blossoms in spring. Local Food Recommendations: Roujiamo: Crispy flatbread filled with minced braised meat Yang Rou Paomo: Hearty mutton soup with crumbled flatbread Soup Dumplings: Thin-skinned dumplings with flavorful soup Liangpi: Smooth cold noodles with chili oil and vinegar Qishan Minced Noodles: Long noodles with savory meat sauce Hot Oil Noodles: Handmade noodles with scallions and chili powder Zeng Gao: Steamed glutinous rice cake with dates Persimmon Cake: Made from Lintong crystal persimmons Transportation Guide: External Transportation: Airport: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, connected by airport buses and taxis Railways: Xi'an Station and Xi'an North Station Internal Transportation: Buses: Extensive network, ¥1-2 per ride Subway: Multiple lines operating, convenient and fast Taxis/Ride-hailing: Convenient and reasonably priced Accommodation Suggestions: Bell and Drum Towers area: Convenient location, abundant food options, suitable for those who enjoy bustling areas Giant Wild Goose Pagoda area: Close to Grand Tang Mall, beautiful night views City Wall area: Experience ancient city atmosphere, some hotels offer wall views Best Time to Visit: Xi'an has four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for traveling. April is cherry blossom season at Tang Paradise and Qinglong Temple. Visit before 9 AM to avoid crowds. Hope this guide helps you have an enjoyable journey in Xi'an!