Explore Xian, China in One Day: Ultimate Itinerary

Xian, China

1 days

Terracotta army soldiers in the tomb of Qin Shi Huang
Ancient city at sunset
Ziyun tower, the main building in the Tang Paradise theme park
Giant wild goose pagoda
Historic Bell Tower building

About Xian, China

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Xian, China, a city that served as the ancient capital for 13 dynasties. Marvel at the world-renowned Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing thousands of life-sized soldier statues built over 2,000 years ago. Explore the ancient city walls, the largest and best-preserved in China, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the bustling Muslim Quarter, a hub of local cuisine and traditional markets. Don't miss the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of the city's great historical significance. Xian also offers a variety of museums, temples, and natural beauty, including the stunning Mount Huashan. Experience the fusion of ancient and modern China in Xian.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the historical and cultural treasures of Xi'an

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archaeological site is home to thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. It's a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient history and culture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch. Try some local specialties such as Biang Biang noodles, a type of wide, flat noodle served with a variety of toppings, or Rou Jia Mo, a type of Chinese hamburger.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Ancient City Wall. This well-preserved city wall offers a great view of the city and a chance to learn about Xi'an's history. You can walk, cycle, or even take a golf cart around the wall.

Dinner

For dinner, explore the Muslim Quarter. This bustling area is known for its food stalls offering a wide variety of local snacks and dishes. Don't miss the chance to try some Yang Rou Pao Mo, a mutton stew with bread.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda that's beautifully lit up at night. You can also enjoy the musical fountain show in the square in front of the pagoda.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Terracotta Army

1
Terracotta Army

An archaeological site where thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses were discovered, which were buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.

Attractions
Monuments
Museums
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Artifact
Ancient City Wall

2
Ancient City Wall

One of the oldest and best preserved Chinese city walls, constructed in the 14th century during the early Ming Dynasty.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Muslim Quarter

3
Muslim Quarter

A vibrant area known for its bustling food and market stalls, traditional Muslim cuisine, and unique blend of Chinese and Islamic cultures.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Big Wild Goose Pagoda

4
Big Wild Goose Pagoda

A Buddhist pagoda built during the Tang Dynasty, it is one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China and a symbol of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Yangrou Paomo

Yangrou Paomo

A mutton soup served with bread. It is a traditional dish in Xian and is considered a must-try for visitors.

Roujiamo

Roujiamo

Often referred to as the Chinese hamburger, Roujiamo is a street food staple in Xian. It consists of stewed pork or beef served in a freshly baked bun.

Biang Biang Mian

Biang Biang Mian

These are one of the most popular types of noodles in Xian. They are thick, wide, and served with a variety of toppings.

Liángpí

Liángpí

A cold noodle dish that is a popular street food in Xian. It is typically served with cucumber, bean sprouts, and a spicy sauce.

Jing Gao

Jing Gao

A steamed rice cake that is a traditional dessert in Xian. It is often filled with sweet red bean paste.

Guantang Baozi

Guantang Baozi

These are soup-filled dumplings that are a specialty in Xian. They are typically filled with mutton or beef and a rich broth.

Shaanxi Sausage

Shaanxi Sausage

A traditional sausage from the Shaanxi province, where Xian is located. It is typically made with pork and a variety of spices.

Qishan Saozi Mian

A traditional noodle dish from Qishan, a county in the Shaanxi province. It is known for its sour and spicy flavor.

Shaanxi Cold Noodles

Shaanxi Cold Noodles

A popular summer dish in Xian, these cold noodles are typically served with a spicy and tangy sauce.

Xian Bing

Xian Bing

A type of Chinese stuffed pancake. It is a popular street food in Xian and can be filled with a variety of ingredients.

Hanzhong Rice Skin

A traditional dish from Hanzhong, a city in the Shaanxi province. It is made from rice and served with a variety of toppings.

Shaanxi Laozao

A traditional fermented rice wine from the Shaanxi province. It is sweet and often served warm.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Xian, China is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and crowded, while the winter months (December to February) can be very cold. Spring and autumn also offer beautiful scenery changes, making your visit even more memorable.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 9

Fri

Spring Festival Eve

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year

February 11

Sun

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 12

Mon

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 13

Tue

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 14

Wed

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 15

Thu

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

March 8

Fri

International Women's Day

April 4

Thu

Qing Ming Jie

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 4

Sat

Youth Day

June 10

Mon

Dragon Boat Festival

September 17

Tue

Mid-Autumn Festival

October 1

Tue

National Day

October 2

Wed

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 3

Thu

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 4

Fri

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 5

Sat

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 6

Sun

National Day Golden Week holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Xian has a rapidly expanding metro system that currently consists of 4 lines. It's a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city, with stops at many of the main attractions, including the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Xian's bus system is extensive, covering almost every corner of the city. It's a cost-effective way to get around, especially for short distances. Buses are often crowded during peak hours, but they run frequently.

Xian is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace, especially within the city walls where distances are short and the terrain is flat.

Taxis are readily available in Xian and can be hailed on the street or booked through a hotel. They're metered and relatively inexpensive, making them a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Ridesharing services like Didi Chuxing (the Chinese equivalent of Uber) are popular in Xian. They're often cheaper than taxis and can be booked through a smartphone app. Note that you'll need a Chinese phone number and payment method to use these services.

For a more comfortable and flexible travel experience, you can hire a private car with a driver. This is a good option if you plan to visit attractions outside the city, like the Terracotta Army.

Many of Xian's attractions are located within the city walls, making it a walkable city. Walking is a great way to explore the city's historic streets and soak up the local atmosphere.

Xian offers several sightseeing bus routes that stop at major tourist attractions. These buses are a convenient way to see the city's highlights, especially if you're short on time.

Xian Xianyang International Airport is located about 40km from the city center. There are regular shuttle buses that connect the airport with several locations in the city, including the Xian Railway Station and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency RMB

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 120; Fire: 119; Police: 110, 122 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type CPower socket type I

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Xian, China as a first time visitor

1

Xian is a city with a rich history, being one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. It served as the capital for 13 dynasties over 1,100 years.

2

The local language is Mandarin, but English is not widely spoken. It's recommended to learn a few basic phrases or have a translation app handy.

3

The currency used in Xian is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Xian has a continental monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Average summer temperatures range from 77-91°F (25-33°C) and winter temperatures can drop to 28-44°F (-2-7°C).

5

Xian is known for its delicious street food. Be sure to try local specialties like Biang Biang noodles, Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and Yangrou Paomo (mutton soup with bread).

6

Tipping is not customary in China, and in some places, it may even be considered rude.

7

Public transportation is very efficient in Xian. The city has an extensive bus network and a metro system. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also available.

8

Internet censorship is prevalent in China. Popular western websites and social media platforms like Google, Facebook, and Twitter are blocked. Consider getting a VPN before your trip.

9

Xian is in the China Standard Time zone, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).

10

Tap water in Xian is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks.

11

Xian is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

12

Public restrooms in Xian often do not provide toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry some with you.

13

The voltage in China is 220V, 50Hz AC. The plug types are Type A, C, and I. You may need a power adapter.

14

Xian has strict smoking regulations. Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, workplaces, and on public transportation.

15

Healthcare facilities in Xian are adequate, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

16

Xian is a very pedestrian-friendly city with many pedestrian-only streets and zones. However, traffic can be chaotic, so always be cautious when crossing the road.

17

It's considered impolite to touch someone's head in China. Also, avoid pointing directly with your finger, instead use your whole hand.

18

The Chinese government requires all foreigners to register their place of residence within 24 hours of arrival. If you're staying at a hotel, they will usually do this for you.

19

Xian has a high population density, so be prepared for crowds, especially during peak travel seasons.

20

If you're planning to shop, remember that bargaining is common in local markets. However, it's not accepted in malls or larger stores.

Basic Mandarin Chinese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

你好

Ni hao

Greeting someone

Goodbye

再见

Zai jian

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

谢谢

Xie xie

Showing appreciation

Please

Qing

Making a request

Yes

Shi

Agreeing or confirming

No

不是

Bu shi

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

对不起

Dui bu qi

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

我不懂

Wo bu dong

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

你会说英语吗?

Ni hui shuo Yingyu ma?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

洗手间在哪里?

Xi shou jian zai na li?

Looking for a bathroom

I'm lost

我迷路了

Wo mi lu le

When you are lost

Help

帮助

Bang zhu

In case of emergency

Call the police

报警

Bao jing

In case of emergency

How much does this cost?

这个多少钱?

Zhe ge duo shao qian?

When shopping

I would like to order

我想点菜

Wo xiang dian cai

At a restaurant

Water

Shui

When you want water

Beer

啤酒

Pi jiu

Ordering a beer

Tea

Cha

Ordering tea

Coffee

咖啡

Ka fei

Ordering coffee

Cheers

干杯

Gan bei

Making a toast

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel-sized tissues

  • Prescription medications (if applicable)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Local currency (Chinese Yuan)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for your electronic devices

  • Power adapter (China uses type A, C and I outlets)

  • Portable power bank

  • Camera (if you prefer it to your phone camera)

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Xian

  • Map of Xian (physical or downloaded on your phone)

  • Travel pillow for the flight

  • Earplugs and eye mask for the flight

  • Chinese phrasebook or translation app

Weather Conditions

When visiting Xian, China, it's important to understand that the city experiences a temperate monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is generally mild, but it can still be chilly in the early part of the season, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). It's a good idea to pack layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures. Summer (June to August) in Xian can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's also the rainy season, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Autumn (September to November) is arguably the best time to visit Xian. The weather is comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), and the city is beautifully adorned with autumn foliage. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 20°F (-6°C). Snow is not uncommon during this time, so be sure to pack warm clothing and sturdy shoes. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, remember that air quality can vary, so consider bringing a mask if you're sensitive to pollution. Lastly, keep in mind that Xian is a city rich in history and culture. Regardless of the weather, there are always plenty of indoor attractions to explore, such as the Terracotta Army Museum, the Shaanxi History Museum, and the Xian City Wall.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -4°

January is the coldest month in Xian, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have the city's attractions to yourself.

February

9° / -1°

February sees a slight increase in temperature but it's still quite chilly. The Chinese New Year celebrations can make this a vibrant time to visit.

March

15° / 3°

March marks the beginning of spring in Xian, with temperatures starting to warm up. The city's parks and gardens begin to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April

21° / 9°

April is a pleasant month to visit Xian, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's cherry blossoms are in full bloom, adding to the city's charm.

May

26° / 14°

May is a warm and comfortable month in Xian, perfect for outdoor activities. The city's ancient walls and terracotta warriors are a must-see.

June

31° / 19°

June is the start of summer in Xian, with temperatures rising significantly. It's a great time to visit the city's outdoor attractions, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

July

34° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Xian, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you don't mind the heat, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

August

33° / 21°

August is still quite hot in Xian, but temperatures start to decrease slightly. It's a great time to visit the city's historical sites, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

September

28° / 16°

September marks the beginning of autumn in Xian, with temperatures starting to cool down. The city's parks and gardens are particularly beautiful during this time.

October

22° / 10°

October is a comfortable month to visit Xian, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's ancient walls and terracotta warriors are a must-see.

November

15° / 3°

November sees a significant drop in temperature, with the onset of winter. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have the city's attractions to yourself.

December

8° / -2°

December is a cold month in Xian, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, but the city's Christmas celebrations can make it a vibrant time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Xian, China is one of the oldest cities in China, with a history of over 3,000 years?

1 of 10

Places near by Xian, China

Huashan Mountain

Huashan Mountain

One of China's five great mountains, known for its steep and narrow paths.

2h
120 km / 74.6 mi
How to get there
Terracotta Army

Terracotta Army

A collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.

1h
40 km / 24.9 mi
How to get there
Hanyangling Mausoleum

Hanyangling Mausoleum

The joint tomb of the Western Han Dynasty Emperor Liu Qi and his Empress, Wang.

30m
20 km / 12.4 mi
How to get there
Famen Temple

Famen Temple

A Buddhist temple that holds the finger bone of the Sakyamuni Buddha.

1.5h
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Qianling Mausoleum

Qianling Mausoleum

The tomb of the Tang dynasty Emperor Gaozong and his wife, Empress Wu Zetian.

1.3h
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Mount Li

Mount Li

A notable mountain in China, known for its hot springs and the location of the tomb of the First Qin Emperor.

45m
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How to get there

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