Standard routes
Xi'an journeys
Our first standard route for Xi'an is being prepared.
Coming soon
Ancient capital · Silk Road · Street food
Xi'an
Terracotta warriors, an intact city wall, Tang-era stories, and one of China's most rewarding food scenes.
- Best days
- 3–4 daysA compact stay for the Terracotta Army, old city, Tang landmarks, and a proper food route.
- Best season
- Spring & autumnComfortable weather for walls and ruins
- Best for
- Ancient history · Food · Short staysTerracotta warriors, an intact city wall, Tang-era stories, and one of China's most rewarding food scenes.
- Pairs with
- Beijing · ChengduA natural high-speed rail stop
The eastern gateway of the Silk Road
Xi'an, Gateway to the Silk Road
Known historically as Chang'an, Xi'an served as the capital of thirteen dynasties and the eastern starting point of the Silk Road. The city compresses centuries of Chinese history into a remarkably approachable stop, from Qin burial armies to Tang-era pagodas and a complete Ming city wall.
Xi'an is not frozen in the past. You can spend the morning with the Terracotta Army, cycle above the old city in the afternoon, then follow food stalls and illuminated Tang-style streets after dark. Its compact center makes deep history easier to experience without the scale of Beijing.
Recommended time
How long to stay
3–4
Days
A compact stay for the Terracotta Army, old city, Tang landmarks, and a proper food route.
Start here
Highlights
01
Terracotta Army
Thousands of life-sized warriors guarding China's first emperor.
02
Ancient City Wall
Cycle or walk above one of China's best-preserved city walls.
03
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
A Tang landmark connected to the history of Buddhism in China.
04
Bell Tower
The illuminated centerpiece of Xi'an's historic street plan.
05
Drum Tower
A grand Ming structure beside some of the old city's busiest lanes.
06
Grand Tang Mall
A theatrical evening promenade inspired by the Tang dynasty.
Xi'an flavors
Taste Xi'an.
Plan at least one local meal into the route — these flavors are part of understanding Xi'an.
- RoujiamoA crisp flatbread filled with slow-cooked meat
- Yangrou paomoFlatbread broken into a rich lamb broth
- LiangpiCool noodles with chili, vinegar, and sesame
- Biangbiang noodlesWide hand-pulled noodles with bold seasoning
- Persimmon cakeA soft, fragrant old-city snack
Know before you go
Practical notes
- Getting there
- Xi'an is well connected by high-speed rail and has direct flights from many major Chinese cities.
- Getting around
- The metro covers central sights; the Terracotta Army requires a separate transfer outside the city.
- Where to stay
- Stay near the Bell Tower or inside the city wall for a compact first visit.
- Planning ahead
- The Muslim Quarter is busiest at night. Explore beyond the main lane for a calmer and broader food experience.
Your Xi'an, made clearer
Make Xi'an part of your China trip.
Send us your dates and pace — we'll fit Xi'an into a smooth, realistic China route.