City Overview
Xi'an showcases China's imperial past with city walls, palaces, and the famed Terracotta Army. Street food in the Muslim Quarter and cycling on the walls are highlights.
Best Time to Visit
March–May and September–October for pleasant temperatures.
Climate
Continental; hot summers, cold winters, mild spring and autumn.
Terracotta Army
Thousands of life-sized warriors guarding Qin Shi Huang's tomb.
City Walls
Well-preserved Ming walls ideal for walking or biking.
Muslim Quarter Food
Bustling lanes with iconic Shaanxi snacks and night markets.
Must-Visit Attractions
Terracotta Army
UNESCO-listed pits of thousands of terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots.
Go early to avoid crowds; hire a guide for context.
Xi'an City Wall
Walk or bike the broad ramparts for panoramic views of old and new Xi'an.
Evening rides are cooler; bring sunscreen in summer.
Recommended Itineraries
2-Day Essentials
Day 1
- Morning: Terracotta Army
- Afternoon: Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Evening: Music fountain and nearby food streets
Meals: Try biangbiang noodles for lunch.
Day 2
- Morning: Cycle Xi'an City Wall
- Afternoon: Shaanxi History Museum
- Evening: Muslim Quarter for street food
Meals: Roujiamo and pita bread in mutton soup (yangrou paomo) for dinner.
Accommodation
Recommended Areas
- Near Bell/Drum Tower for central sights and food
- Qujiang (Big Wild Goose Pagoda area) for museums and parks
- Around Xi'an Railway Station for transit convenience
Accommodation Types
Mid-range and boutique hotels in the old town; international chains around Qujiang and high-tech zones.
Booking Platforms
Booking.com, Agoda, Trip.com; check proximity to metro stations.
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Food Guide
Local Dishes
Roujiamo
Shaanxi-style pork or beef in a crispy flatbread, often called Chinese burger.
Recommended Places: Muslim Quarter street stalls
Biangbiang Noodles
Wide, hand-pulled noodles with chili, vinegar, and toppings.
Recommended Places: Local noodle shops near Bell Tower
Recommended Restaurants
- Lao Sun Jia - Famous for yangrou paomo (mutton soup with bread) (Mid-range)
Food Notes
The Muslim Quarter is best for street snacks; expect crowds in the evening.
Transportation
Getting There
Fly into Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) or arrive by high-speed rail.
Within the City
Metro network covers major sites; taxis and ride-hailing are convenient.
Transportation Tips
Allow time for airport security; metro is efficient for city wall and pagoda areas.
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Shopping
Shopping Items
- Terracotta warrior replicas
- Paper cuttings
- Jade and calligraphy sets
Shopping Places
Muslim Quarter markets; Shuyuanmen Cultural Street for calligraphy and antiques.
Shopping Tips
Bargain in markets; check quality for jade and crafts.
Practical Information
Language Help
Basic English at major sights; bring a translation app for taxis and markets.
Currency & Payment
Chinese Yuan (CNY); mobile payments common, cash accepted in stalls.
Emergency Contacts
Police: 110, Medical: 120, Fire: 119.
