Xi'an is one of China's most historically important cities and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Chinese culture, ancient architecture, and the Silk Road. Once known as Chang'an, Xi'an served as the capital of several Chinese dynasties and became the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road.
Today, visitors can explore world-famous archaeological sites, walk along ancient city walls, discover traditional neighborhoods, and enjoy some of the best street food in China.
This Xi'an travel guide covers the top attractions, local food, cultural experiences, and a few lesser-known places worth adding to your itinerary.
1. Terracotta Warriors – Xi'an's Most Famous Attraction
The Terracotta Army is the attraction most travelers associate with Xi'an. Thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots were created more than 2,000 years ago to accompany China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, into the afterlife.
The figures are displayed across several excavation pits, and each soldier has distinctive facial features and details.
Allow at least half a day for the journey from central Xi'an and the museum itself.
2. Walk or Cycle the Ancient City Wall
Xi'an's Ancient City Wall is one of the best-preserved historic city walls in China.
Visitors can walk along the top or rent bicycles to explore a larger section. From the wall, you can see traditional buildings inside the historic center alongside the modern city beyond it.
Late afternoon is an excellent time to visit, allowing you to experience the wall during daylight and watch the city lights appear after sunset.
3. Explore the Muslim Quarter
Xi'an's Muslim Quarter is one of the best places to experience the city's famous food culture.
The neighborhood is filled with restaurants, food stalls, souvenir shops, traditional architecture, and busy pedestrian streets. Its history reflects Xi'an's centuries-old connections with merchants and communities traveling along the Silk Road.
Popular foods include roujiamo, lamb dishes, noodles, dumplings, and local snacks.
4. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is one of Xi'an's most recognizable historical landmarks.
The pagoda is closely connected with Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who traveled to India and returned to China carrying Buddhist texts and teachings.
The surrounding area has developed into a major cultural district with public spaces, restaurants, shopping, and impressive nighttime displays.
5. Bell Tower and Drum Tower
Located near the center of Xi'an, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower are two of the city's most recognizable traditional buildings.
They are particularly beautiful after sunset when illuminated against the modern city. Their central location also makes them easy to combine with an evening visit to the Muslim Quarter.
Hidden Gems in Xi'an
Beyond the major attractions, Xi'an has several quieter places worth exploring.
The Great Mosque of Xi'an combines traditional Chinese architecture with Islamic cultural influences and provides an interesting look at the city's Silk Road heritage.
Travelers interested in history should also consider the Shaanxi History Museum, which contains important artifacts from several periods of Chinese history.
For something more relaxed, explore smaller streets away from the busiest tourist areas, where you'll find local restaurants, cafés, traditional shops, and everyday neighborhood life.
