1. Introduction to Xi’an, China

Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in China and served as the ancient capital for 13 dynasties, making it a cornerstone of Chinese history. Located in Shaanxi Province, it was historically the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Xi'an blends deep history with modern energy, making it a must-visit city for travelers interested in culture, history, and architecture.

2. How to Get to and Around Xi’an?

As one of the most famous tourist cities in China, visitors can reach Xi’an by various transportations, including:

2.1. Transportation to Xi’an

Airplane and train are the two most popular ways to get to Xi'an.

• By Air: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is one of the largest airports in China, operating many direct flights to major cities in China and other Asian countries. International travelers can fly directly to this airport to start their journey exploring Xi'an.
• By train: China's high-speed rail system is very developed, connecting Xi'an with major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. For a unique experience, travelers can take a high-speed train with travel times ranging from about 4 to 7 hours depending on the departure location.

As one of the most famous tourist cities in China, visitors can reach Xi’an by various transportations

2.2. Getting Around Xi’an

Similar to other big cities in China, Xi'an has a well-developed public transport system with many options for travelers:

• Metro: Xi'an's subway system is modern, fast, and affordable. Stations have English signs, making it easy for foreign tourists to navigate. This is the ideal way to travel to major tourist spots in the city.
• Bus and taxis: Buses are cheap and convenient but often crowded during peak hours. Taxi fares in Xi'an are reasonable, and apps like Didi make booking easy. However, travelers should ask drivers to turn on the meter for transparent pricing.
• Bicycles/E-bikes: Renting a bike or electric bike is a good choice for those who want to explore the City Wall and central areas. Bikes can be rented at the City Wall gates or nearby shops.

3. What Is Xi’an Known For? Top Historical Highlights

As the capital of 13 Chinese dynasties, Xi'an has many valuable historical and cultural sites. Famous attractions that visitors must not miss include:

3.1. The Terracotta Army

Discovered by chance in 1974, the Terracotta Army is one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the world. It is a collection of thousands of life-sized statues of soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, to protect him in the afterlife.

The Terracotta Army is famous for the large number of statues of soldiers, horses and chariots buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang (Source: Freepik)

With outstanding artistic and military techniques of the Qin dynasty, the Terracotta Army is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore three main excavation pits and admire the diversity and detail of the statues. Pit 1 is the largest and most impressive with the highest number of figures.

Life-sized statues demonstrate the outstanding sculptural talent of the Qin Dynasty (Source: Freepik)

3.2. The Ancient City Wall

This is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, with a circumference of 13.7 km, surrounding the center of Xi'an. It demonstrates the advanced construction skills of the Ming dynasty. Visitors can rent bikes or electric bikes to ride around the wall or walk on sections of it. From the high points of the City Wall, you can see the whole city, especially impressive at sunset.

Standing from the Great Wall, visitors can admire the natural scenery and part of Xi'an city (Source: Freepik)

3.3. Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Small Wild Goose Pagoda

These two Buddhist temples were built during the Tang dynasty and show Xi'an's important role in the flourishing development of Buddhism. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built to store Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is the place to display the Buddhist scriptures that Xuanzang brought from India

Visitors can explore the architecture, walk around the square, or climb the pagoda for city views. Near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, the Xi'an Museum displays artifacts proving the strong Buddhist development here.

3.4. Drum Tower and Bell Tower of Xi’an

Located in the city center, the Drum Tower and Bell Tower are symbols of Xi'an. The Bell Tower was built to signal morning time, while the Drum Tower was used to signal evening. Both structures have beautiful architecture with magical light shows at night, attracting many visitors.

The Drum Tower and the Bell Tower located in the center of Xi’an, which are the symbol architects of this city (Source: Internet)

3.5. Tang Paradise

This is a cultural and entertainment complex built in Tang dynasty style, showing the magnificent beauty of that era. Visitors can explore the palaces, gardens, and lakes, or enjoy impressive music, dance, and drama performances.

3.6. Shaanxi History Museum

For those who love to learn about the history of China’s 13 dynasties, the Shaanxi History Museum is a must-visit. It is one of the largest museums in China, exhibiting thousands of archaeological and cultural artifacts from prehistoric times to famous dynasties like Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang.

Shaanxi History Museum is the destination for those who want to explore about the Chinese’s history and culture (Source: Internet)

Visitors can explore exhibits arranged by timeline and admire precious collections such as Buddha statues, ceramics, bronzes, and paintings. Tickets are free but visitors should be booked early and avoid weekends due to crowds.

The artifacts on display at the museum include statues, ceramics, and calligraphy (Source: Internet)

3.7. Grand Tang Mall

This is a long cultural and entertainment street designed in Tang dynasty style, filled with many shops, restaurants, and cafes. At night, visitors can enjoy light and art shows that recreate the prosperous atmosphere of the Tang era. It is a perfect place for shopping, dining, and enjoying city life at night.

The Grand Tang Mall is the complex of entertainment, attracts visitors in Xi’an (Source: Internet)

The vibrant night life at Grand Tang Mall with many activities like shopping, walking and watching traditional performances (Source: Internet)

3.8. Daming Palace National Heritage Park

Once the largest royal palace of the Tang dynasty, this site has been transformed into a green park in the city center. Visitors can walk or bike around archaeological areas and visit the Daming Museum to learn about the glorious Tang dynasty.

Daming Palace National Heritage Park is the ideal destination for those who want to explore the Tang dynasty (Source: Internet)

3.9. Xi'an Beilin Museum

For those who love archaeology and calligraphy, the Xi'an Beilin Museum is a must-see. It holds more than 3,000 stone tablets with inscriptions, calligraphy masterpieces, and important historical documents. Visitors can admire the tablets arranged chronologically and learn about different Chinese calligraphy styles.

Xi’an Beilin Museum is the place for those who want to explore the Chinese’s culture (Source: Internet)

4. Where to Stay in Xi’an?

As a famous tourist city in China, Xi’an has a well-developed accommodation system with many options for travelers.

4.1. Best Areas

The most popular accommodation areas chosen by travelers visiting Xi'an include:

• Bell Tower/Downtown: This is one of the most prime locations in Xi'an, close to famous landmarks like the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter, as well as shopping centers, restaurants, and subway stations. It is suitable for first-time visitors or those who want to stay in a lively central area.
• Muslim Quarter: Famous for its diverse street food and lively night atmosphere. If you choose to stay here, visitors can easily access old mosques and the Bell Tower.
• South Gate Area: Near the City Wall, accommodations here offer impressive views and a peaceful atmosphere. This is the ideal choice for travelers who want to have a quiet, relaxing trip.

South Gate Area is the suitable area for visitors who want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere during the trip (Source: Internet)

4.2. Accommodation Types

Xi'an offers a variety of accommodation types to meet all visitors' needs, tastes, and budgets:

• Budget hostels: Suitable for those who want to save on accommodation, with prices around RMB 50 - 150 per night (~USD 7 - 21). Suggestions include Hantang Inn Youth Hostel, Xian Shuyuan International Youth Hostel, and Xian 7 Sages Youth Hostel International.
• Guesthouses/Boutique homestays: For those who like unique, cozy rooms that feel like home, prices range from RMB 200 - 400 per night (~USD 28 - 56). Suggestions include Guan Erjie Boutique Homestay, Xi'an Manyue Boutique Homestay, and Yuijian Xianshe Boutique Homestay.
• International hotel chains: These are high-end hotels with luxury services, modern amenities, and international standards. Prices range from RMB 500 - 1000+ per night (~USD 70 - 140+), depending on room type and booking time. Suggestions include Sofitel, Hilton, Shangri-La, etc.

5. Xi’an Travel Tips and Practical Information

To make your trip to Xi'an more enjoyable and convenient, here are some tips:

• Language: Mandarin is the main language in Xi'an. Staff at luxury hotels and popular tourist spots can speak some English. Travelers should use translation apps to communicate smoothly during the trip.
• Currency: The Chinese Yuan (RMB) is the official currency. You can pay by WeChat Pay or Alipay when shopping or using services at stores and malls. Don't forget to download these apps before the trip and carry some cash for emergencies.
• Connectivity: To access foreign websites and apps like Facebook and Instagram, visitors need to use a VPN. WiFi is available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also buy a local SIM card for 4G/5G internet.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly with clothes covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
• Weather Overview by Season: Xi'an has four distinct seasons, each with its own beauty and experience:
  • Spring (March-May): Mild and comfortable weather, very suitable for sightseeing. Light rain sometimes occurs, so visitors should bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with temperatures above 30°C. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and avoid outdoor sightseeing at noon.
  • Autumn (September-November): This is the ideal time to visit Xi'an with clear skies and cool weather. This is the season when leaves turn golden, creating beautiful landscapes. However, this is peak travel season in Xi'an, so visitors should book flights and hotels early to avoid being sold out.
  • Winter (December-February): The weather is cold and sometimes snowy. It is low season with cheaper prices. If you are planning to travel to Xi'an in winter, remember to bring thick coats, scarves, and gloves.

The fall season in Xi’an with the beautiful landscape of golden leaves (Source: Internet)

6. Sample Itinerary: 3 Days in Xi’an

For first-time visitors to Xi’an, here is a suggested itinerary by Vietnam Airlines to explore the city fully:

Xi’an is a city rich in ancient Chinese culture with historical relics that are loved by many tourists. Hopefully with this article from Vietnam Airlines, everyone will have a complete journey to explore this city!