Xi'an
Step back in time at the ancient capital with the Terracotta Army and City Wall. Taste amazing Muslim Quarter street food.
Last reviewed October 23, 2026 · conditions change — confirm opening times and permits before you go
Why Xi’an
Xi’an is the other must-see history city: 13 dynasties used it as a capital, and the Terracotta Army alone justifies the trip. If your route is Beijing–Shanghai, reroute through Xi’an — the high-speed train makes it a 4.5-hour hop from Beijing.
How to plan your days
Two full days works. Day one: Terracotta Army early (the site is an hour east of the city — go before 9 am to beat tour groups), afternoon at the City Wall, evening in the Muslim Quarter. Day two: Shaanxi History Museum (reserve days ahead) and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda area. A third day opens day trips to Huaqing Palace or Mount Hua.
Getting around
The metro reaches the City Wall, Muslim Quarter and near the museum, but not the Terracotta Army. Take bus 306/游5 from the railway station or a DiDi (about ¥100). Inside the wall, walking and cycling beat taxis.
Where to stay
Inside the City Wall, near the Bell Tower or South Gate, so the wall walk and Muslim Quarter food street are on foot. Hotel prices here are lower than Beijing or Shanghai — a good room near the Bell Tower often costs ¥300–500.
What to eat
Xi’an food is wheat-country food: roujiamo (meat in flatbread), biangbiang noodles, lamb paomo (crumbled bread in mutton soup). The Muslim Quarter is touristy but still the best single street for first-timers. Ask locals for a quieter paomo shop just outside the quarter.
Practical notes
The Terracotta Army gets brutally crowded from 10 am; the late afternoon is the second-best slot. Most museums here require advance online reservation — do not arrive expecting to buy at the gate. Summers are hot; spring and autumn are ideal.
Routes that include Xi'an
Xi’an 2-Day Highlights
Two efficient days in Xi’an: the Terracotta Army, City Wall, Muslim Quarter and the museum pieces that matter most on a short stop.
View day-by-day →Beijing to Xi'an 5 Days
Beijing and Xi’an in five days by high-speed rail: Forbidden City, Great Wall, Terracotta Army and where to eat in the Muslim Quarter.
View day-by-day →Panorama China 10 Days
Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin and Shanghai in ten days — with the internal flights, rail legs and booking order that make the route actually work.
View day-by-day →Other destinations
Beijing
China's capital, from the Great Wall and Forbidden City to hutongs and night markets: what to see, how many days you need and when to go.
Best time: April - May, September - October
Shanghai
Experience the dynamic blend of East and West in China's most cosmopolitan city. Explore historic Bund, modern Pudong, and vibrant food scenes.
Best time: March - May, October - November
Chengdu
Home of giant pandas and Sichuan cuisine, a city that combines tradition and modernity. Enjoy hot pot, tea houses, and slow pace of life.
Best time: March - June, September - November
Questions about your trip?
If you want help with routes or want to ask me something directly, you can find me here.