I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the city of Xi’an , so I thought I’d write a mini Xi’an travel guide to help you plan your trip. Most people who visit Xi’an will only spend 2 or 3 days in the city, specifically to see the infamous Terracotta Warriors, and then move on. But Xi’an is so much more than that.
Budget $40 and below Mid-range $120 and below Deluxe $120 and above
Dorm Bed
Eat Street Food
Free Museum
Subway and bike share
How to get to Xi’an
Arriving by train, right in the city, you can easily hop on a bus or metro to reach your hotel.
The airport is about 45 minutes from the hotel, so you’ll have to take a cab or use the drop app again for a cheaper price. There are also buses that run from here to the city center. Find times here.
How to get around Xi’an
The metro is efficient
Within the city walls you can walk or even rent a bicycle and explore the walls by bike.
Drip, if you’ve read my other blog posts about China, you’ll know this is a taste of life.
Xi’an Accommodation
If you want to be close to great food and all the action, stay inside the city walls. The metro station is conveniently located.
Xi’an Budget Accommodation
Xi’an Budget Accommodation
Xi’an Han Tang House
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Xi’an Han Tang House is ideally located outside the city walls. Convenient access by metro. Interesting and lively bars and short trips are nearby. Dormitories and private rooms available.
Xi’an See Tang Inn
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Xi’an See Tang Inn is just steps away from the South Gate entrance on the city wall and the subway station. This lovely hostel has a rooftop terrace and is the ideal place to stay in Xi’an if you are on a budget.
Mid-range accommodation in Xi’an
Places to stay in Xi’an, China
Xi’an Zhonglou Hotel
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Xi’an Zhonglou Hotel is located in the city center, near the Drum Tower. Some rooms enjoy views of the Bell Tower and the airport bus stop is just a few steps away from the hotel, which is a plus in Xi’an travel guides.
The best places to stay in Xi’an with luxury
Places to stay in Xi’an with luxury
Jinmao Hotel Xi’an Gulou
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Jinmao Hotel Xi’an Gulou is adjacent to the Drum Tower and Xi’an Huimin Market. This hotel is newly built with modern decor and a trendy bar.
Xi’an Attractions and Fun
Terracotta Warriors and Horses
Xi’an, China is known for being the closest city to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. About an hour’s drive from Xi’an is the Terracotta Warriors site/grounds.
The Terracotta Warriors are displayed in 3 different pits and can you believe that local farmers didn’t discover the Terracotta Warriors until 1974?!!! You can read more about how to access the site and what to expect here.
Bicycle tour of the city walls
Xi’an is one of the few cities in China where the original city walls have been preserved. Most of the Xi’an city wall has been restored and it is possible to walk around the wall. A common activity is to rent a bicycle at the top of the wall and enjoy the view from the top while you ride.
*Download the bike share app so you can easily rent a bike.
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is the most famous landmark in Xi’an and is easily accessible by subway. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is lit up every night and has a light show that is well worth seeing.
* Be prepared for major crowds, especially at night, as everyone is there to watch the light show. The grounds around the pagoda are well preserved and there are concrete “benches” on the grass for you to sit on.
If you want a seat, come early and don’t walk to the roped-off area. If you cross the line, security will not hesitate to blow the whistle!
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
