China Tripos

Xi'an Attractions

6 must-see attractions — from world-famous landmarks to local gems

Terracotta Warriors
MuseumsBook AheadTickets Required

Terracotta Army Terracotta Warriors

This is one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological discoveries in human history. Standing at the railing in front of Pit No. 1 and looking down upon the military formation of more than 6,000 terracotta figures, the sheer grandeur of the scene will give you goosebumps.

3–4 hours (about half a day, including round-trip transportation)Very Crowded120 yuan (half price for students: 60 yuan)
Xi'an City Wall
LandmarksTickets Required

Xi’an City Wall Xi'an City Wall

Cycling around the city wall is one of Xi’an’s most unique experiences. The full circuit is 13.7 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours to complete. Climb the wall at dusk to watch the sunset cast its glow on the eaves of the ancient city; when the sounds of the bells and drums ring out, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back to the Tang Dynasty.

2–3 hours (about 2 hours to cycle the full loop)Busy54 yuan
Muslim Quarter
Shopping & Markets

Hui Muslim Street Muslim Quarter

Xi’an is one of China’s greatest culinary cities, and the deep alleys of Hui Muslim Street are the heart of this culinary journey. Remember: Just stroll along the main street; for dining, head deeper into the alleys.

2–4 hoursVery CrowdedFree
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Temples

Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Tang Dynasty Everbright City Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda epitomizes the grandeur of the High Tang Dynasty. Strolling through the Great Tang Never-Sleeping City at night, surrounded by dazzling lights, feels like stepping back in time to the Lantern Festival in Chang’an during the Tang Dynasty.

2–3 hours (recommended: late afternoon to evening)Very CrowdedSquare & Everbright City: free; Ci’en Temple: 10 yuan; pagoda climb: 25 yuan (tiered admission).
Shaanxi History Museum
MuseumsBook Ahead

Shaanxi History Museum Shaanxi History Museum

If the Terracotta Army is Xi’an’s star attraction, the Shaanxi History Museum is its true cultural heart. It’s a top-tier museum with free admission, and the treasures inside are far more impressive than those at many “attractions” charging 200 yuan.

3–4 hoursVery CrowdedFree (requires a reservation made 7 days in advance; spots are extremely hard to secure)
Bell Tower & Drum Tower
LandmarksTickets Required

Bell Tower & Drum Tower Bell Tower & Drum Tower

The night view of the Bell Tower is a visual icon of Xi’an. Whether or not you climb the tower during the day depends on your budget, but you must definitely come at night to see the night view and take photos.

1 hourBusyCombined ticket for the Bell and Drum Towers: 50 yuan (individual tickets: 30 yuan each)