Things to do in Xi’an, China’s former capital

China’s Xi’an is best known as the home of the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Many travelers stop just long enough to check out the warriors before moving on, but that’s definitely a mistake—there’s so much more to explore in this historic city.

As the starting point of the Silk Road and China’s ancient capital for over a thousand years, Xi’an is packed with fascinating history, mouthwatering food, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re strolling along the ancient city walls, sampling street food in the Muslim Quarter, or stepping back in time at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the attractions in Xi’an will satisfy every traveler.

In this guide, we’ll tell you all about the best things to do in Xi’an beyond the Terracotta Army, so that you can make the most of your China vacation.

15 top things to do in Xi’an, China

Need some ideas on what to do in Xi’an? This comprehensive list will have you spoilt for choice.

1. Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors

No trip to Xi’an is complete without seeing the legendary Terracotta Warriors. Discovered in 1974, this vast underground army was built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. His reign marked the height of dynastic power, and the scale of this burial complex reflects his ambition. With thousands of life-sized soldiers, each uniquely crafted, the site is breathtaking.

The museum has three main pits, with Pit 1 being the most impressive, filled with rows of soldiers, archers, and horses. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Hiring a guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and details of this incredible site.

2. Walk or bike the ancient city wall

Xi’an’s city wall is one of the best-preserved in China, offering a fantastic way to take in the city’s skyline and history. Originally built in the 14th century, this massive structure stretches for 14km, with watchtowers and gates providing great photo opportunities.

Walking the wall takes around three to four hours, but cycling is the most fun and efficient way to explore. Bike rentals are available at the South Gate, and a full loop takes about one to two hours. The wall is especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights start to glow against the ancient stone.

3. Explore the Muslim Quarter

Xi’an was the starting point of the Silk Road, and with the arrival of goods from the West came new cultures—most notably Islam. Today, the city still has a thriving Muslim community, and the bustling Muslim Quarter is one of the most exciting places to visit. The area is packed with street vendors selling delicious snacks.

While the food is the highlight, the architecture is fascinating, too. The Great Mosque of Xi’an, built in a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic styles, is tucked away here and worth a visit.

4. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

One of Xi’an’s most iconic landmarks, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Originally built to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India, this towering pagoda offers stunning views from the top.

The surrounding park is a great place to relax, and if you visit in the evening, you can catch the impressive music and light show at the nearby fountain—the largest musical fountain in Asia. It’s a peaceful yet historic spot that provides a great contrast to the bustling city.

5. Discover the Small Wild Goose Pagoda

Less famous than its big brother, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a quieter, more intimate historical site. Built in the 8th century, it is surrounded by a lovely garden, making it a great place for a peaceful stroll.

The nearby Xi’an Museum provides excellent insight into the city’s history, with a collection of artifacts spanning various dynasties. Since it’s less crowded than the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this is a fantastic alternative for those who prefer a more relaxed visit.

6. Step back in time at the Shaanxi History Museum

Xi’an is home to one of China’s best museums—the Shaanxi History Museum. This impressive collection covers thousands of years of Chinese history, with artifacts from the Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties.

The museum’s standout exhibits include Tang Dynasty murals, intricate bronze works, and relics from the Silk Road. It’s a great place to gain deeper insight into Xi’an’s historical significance, and best of all, entry is free. Just be sure to arrive early, as tickets can run out quickly.

7. Try Xi’an’s famous local dishes

Food lovers will be in heaven in Xi’an. The city’s cuisine is rich in flavors and heavily influenced by Silk Road traders. A must-try is biang biang noodles, known for their thick, hand-pulled texture and spicy sauce. Roujiamo, often called the ‘Chinese hamburger’, is another favorite, featuring tender, slow-cooked meat stuffed inside a crispy flatbread.

For a more unique experience, try yangrou paomo—crumbled flatbread soaked in a rich lamb broth. The best way to sample these dishes is by joining a foodie adventure on your visit or simply wandering the Muslim Quarter and following your nose.

8. Experience a Tang Dynasty show

For a taste of Xi’an’s royal past, don’t miss a Tang Dynasty performance. These colorful shows bring ancient China to life with elaborate costumes, traditional music, and graceful dances.

Many performances include a dumpling banquet, where you can sample dozens of different dumpling varieties while enjoying the spectacle. The Tang Dynasty Palace and Shaanxi Grand Opera House are two of the best venues to experience this cultural delight.

9. Take a day trip to Mount Hua (Huashan)

Just outside Xi’an lies Mount Hua, one of China’s most breathtaking and adventurous hikes. Known for its steep cliffs and stunning views, this sacred mountain has several trails of varying difficulty.

The infamous Plank Walk—a narrow wooden walkway attached to the cliffside—is a heart-pounding highlight. If you’re not up for a strenuous hike, the cable car provides an easier way to enjoy the scenery. Either way, the views from the top are absolutely worth it!

10. Wander through the Great Mosque of Xi’an

Unlike traditional mosques, the Great Mosque of Xi’an blends Chinese and Islamic architectural styles, making it one of the most unique religious sites in China. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it features serene courtyards, elegant calligraphy, and beautifully carved wooden structures. Visitors can explore its peaceful grounds, a quiet retreat from the chaos of the Muslim Quarter.

11. Check out the Drum and Bell Towers

Located in the heart of Xi’an, the Drum and Bell Towers are two of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Of all the bell towers and buildings in China, the Xi’an Bell Tower is the biggest and best-preserved bell tower.

The Bell Tower of Xi’an was historically used to signal the start of the day, while the Drum Tower marked the night. A sister to the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower was built in 1380 during the Ming dynasty and is now used as a museum, displaying collections of various drums and cultural relics. Today, visitors can climb both towers for panoramic views of the city. Inside, you’ll find traditional musical performances that add to the historical charm.

12. Stroll through the Yongxingfang Food Street

For an immersive foodie experience beyond the Muslim Quarter, head to Yongxingfang Food Street. This lively area showcases traditional Shaanxi cuisine, from hand-pulled noodles to unique snacks like persimmon cakes. It’s a great place to sample local flavors in an atmospheric setting.

13. Visit the Hanyangling Mausoleum

Often overshadowed by the Warriors, the Hanyangling Mausoleum is a must-visit for Chinese history lovers. Built for Emperor Liu Qi, the tomb contains thousands of small figurines, reflecting his less powerful reign compared to Emperor Qin Shi Huang.

Unlike the crowded site of the Terracotta army, the Hanyangling site is far less visited, making it an ideal place to explore in peace. The underground glass walkway allows visitors to see the burial pits up close, offering a fascinating glimpse into Han Dynasty history.

14. Explore the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

This shining example of Tang architecture is the only large-scale pedestrian street of its kind in China. The massive block is the first choice for experiencing Tang Dynasty culture in Xi’an. At night, the area is brightly lit up, and the ancient structures take on another life in the play of shadows.

15. Wander through the Beilin Museum

The Beilin Museum (Stele Forest Museum) is a must-visit for history and calligraphy lovers. Housed in a former Confucian Temple, this fascinating museum features over 3,000 stone steles—large stone slabs engraved with ancient texts, poems, and historical records. It’s a treasure trove of Chinese calligraphy, showcasing styles from the Han to the Qing dynasties.

The museum also has Buddhist sculptures and stone carvings, offering a glimpse into China’s rich artistic heritage. Located near the South Gate, it’s an excellent stop after walking the Xi’an City Wall.

How to get to Xi’an

If you’re asking yourself, “where is Xi’an?”, and are curious about the best ways to reach this city in central China’s Shaanxi province, you’ll be glad to know that getting to Xi’an is easy—whether you’re traveling from within China or abroad. The city is well connected by air, train, and road.

By air

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is the main gateway. There are direct flights from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as international destinations like Bangkok, Seoul, and Singapore. From the airport, you can take a taxi (around 45 minutes to downtown), an airport shuttle, or the Xi’an Airport Metro Line for a budget-friendly option.

By train

Xi’an is a major high-speed rail hub, with bullet trains from Beijing (four to six hours), Shanghai (six to eight hours), and Chengdu (three to four hours). The main station is Xi’an North Railway Station, with easy metro access to the city center.

By bus or car

Long-distance buses connect Xi’an with other Chinese cities, but trains are usually the faster option. If you’re on a road trip, highways make for a scenic drive.

Tips for visiting Xi’an: what to know before you go

Xi’an is an exciting city filled with history, culture, and fantastic food, but a little preparation will help you make the most of your trip. Here are a few tips:

• First, be mindful of crowds, especially at major sites. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid peak times.
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as many attractions involve a lot of walking, especially the ancient city wall and the bustling Muslim Quarter.
• A light rain jacket is handy, as Xi’an experiences occasional rain throughout the year.
• Air quality can be an issue, particularly in winter, so bringing a mask may be useful.
• Cash is still widely used, though mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more common—having some yuan on hand is always helpful.
• Carry hand sanitizer and tissues with you; the public restrooms don’t always have soap or toilet paper.
• Don’t leave your sun protection behind—a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for summer visits will keep the burn at bay.
• Finally, bring a power adapter (China uses Type I outlets) and a VPN if you need access to Western websites.

With these essentials in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to explore all the wonders Xi’an has to offer.

Best time to visit Xi’an

The best time to visit Xi’an is in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring outdoor sites like the City Wall and Mount Hua. Fall offers clear skies and crisp air, making it an ideal season for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with peak crowds at Xi’an’s tourist attractions, such as the Terracotta Army. Winter (December to February) is cold but less crowded, and you might even see the city dusted in snow, adding a unique charm to historical sites.

How long to spend in Xi’an

A two to three-day trip is ideal for exploring Xi’an’s highlights. In two days, you can visit the Terracotta Warriors, the city wall, the Muslim Quarter, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. With three days, you can add the Hanyangling Mausoleum, Shaanxi History Museum, or a day trip to Mount Hua for a deeper experience.

Make it happen

Xi’an is a city that blends ancient history with vibrant culture, offering far more than just the Terracotta Warriors. As such, adding it to your China itinerary is an absolute must for an authentic experience of the country’s culture and history. Ready to start planning your trip? Our local experts are ready and waiting to help you tailor-make a trip that’s entirely unique to you, your budget and needs, so simply get in touch.