Xi'an City Centre takes you back in time with its Ming Dynasty treasures. The ancient Bell Tower stands tall among narrow streets while the Drum Tower anchors the lively Muslim Quarter. City walls dating from imperial times encircle this historic district where past and present merge seamlessly. Explore vibrant markets along Muslim Street where food stalls serve steaming noodles and lamb skewers. The metro makes getting around easy with stations at key locations. Cultural gems like Beilin Museum showcase the area's rich heritage while traditional courtyards offer quiet escapes from bustling streets.
Xi'an's Zhonglou Shangquan area reveals the ancient capital's 1,400-year legacy through its iconic Bell Tower. This cultural heart blends Ming dynasty architecture with the lively Muslim Quarter. The historic district invites travellers to explore cobblestone alleys lined with traditional courtyard houses and red lanterns. Discover the area's rich heritage at the Drum Tower with its evening performances and Great Mosque. The bustling market streets offer everything from hand-crafted souvenirs to famous Shaanxi noodles and roujiamo sandwiches. Metro Line 2 makes exploring Xi'an's other treasures remarkably convenient.
Yanta Qu blends ancient history with academic energy in the heart of Xi'an. The impressive Giant Wild Goose Pagoda towers over Tang Paradise's imperial gardens. Buddhist temples stand alongside the Shaanxi History Museum, where bronze artifacts tell stories of China's past. Students bring youthful vibrancy to this cultural district. Explore Tang Paradise's 165-acre gardens featuring ornamental lakes and traditional bridges. Morning tai chi sessions in South Lake Park offer a glimpse into local life. Metro stations make getting around simple, while street food stalls near university gates serve authentic Shaanxi specialties at student-friendly prices.
Xi'an's Muslim Quarter buzzes with energy along narrow cobblestone lanes. The historic area blends Chinese and Islamic influences, creating a unique cultural experience. Hundreds of food stalls fill the air with aromatic spices and sizzling lamb. The Great Mosque stands as a stunning example of ancient Chinese-Islamic architecture. Nearby, the Drum Tower marks the entrance to this vibrant district. Visitors can browse traditional Hui crafts and sample authentic hand-pulled noodles. The quarter is best explored in early morning or evening when the crowds thin.
Beilin is a destination travelers like for its historic sites, and you might hop aboard the metro at Yongningmen Station or Nanshaomen Station to explore sights like Xi'an Wall Yongningmen (North Gate).
Discover the most popular places to visit in Xi'an
Xi'an Bell Tower
8.8/10 (288 reviews)
You can browse the exhibits at Xi'an Bell Tower, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Xi'an. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Xi'an City Walls
9.2/10 (270 reviews)
Relish the Chinese style of the elegant moat, towers and historic walls of one of the world’s largest military defence systems.
Terracotta Army
9.4/10 (320 reviews)
Marvel at the thousands of sculpted soldiers, horses and chariots keeping the first Emperor of China company in the afterlife.
Photo by Natalie Robinson
Open Photo by Natalie Robinson
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
8.8/10 (209 reviews)
Admire engravings and statues as you ascend the twirling staircase of this tower for a panoramic view of the city of Xi’an.
Great Mosque of Xi'an
8.6/10 (91 reviews)
See an intriguing blend of Islamic customs with traditional Chinese architecture in this religious complex of gardens and historic buildings.
Photo by Anna Erdman
Open Photo by Anna Erdman
Xi'an Jiaotong University
8.6/10 (29 reviews)
Explore the campus of Xi'an Jiaotong University during your visit to Xi'an. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Datang Everbright City
9.4/10 (8 reviews)
You can search for that perfect souvenir at Datang Everbright City during your visit to Xi'an. While in the area, you can find time to visit its temples.
Huaqing Hot Springs
8.0/10 (53 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Huaqing Hot Springs during your travels in Xi'an. Make time to visit the spas and shops while you're in the area.
What to do in Xi'an
Terracotta Army Ticket Booking - with Guide Option
"We arrived at the Renaissance Xi'an Hotel without particularly high expectations, but the hotel exceeded them in every way. We had a truly enjoyable stay.
One of the highlights was the Executive Lounge. The evening offerings included an excellent variety of high-quality food, making it one of the better hotel lounges we have experienced. Breakfast was also outstanding, with a wide selection of choices and excellent service.
The staff were professional, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. We were...
"The hotel was clean, comfortable, and well located, with friendly staff who provided excellent service throughout my stay. The room was spacious and quiet, and the amenities were well maintained. Check-in was smooth, and overall experience exceeded my expectations. I would definitely stay here again and recommend it to others."
"Personnel super serviable, excellent petit-déjeuner.
La chambre est petit et bris de la porte de douche qui ne ferme pas et isolation des fenêtres moyennes car on entend les gens à l’extérieur. Mais globalement très agréable."
"I had high expectations for the Grand Hyatt Xi'an, but unfortunately our stay did not live up to its five-star reputation.
The hotel itself is beautiful and impressive in size, but that's where the "grand" experience ended for us. We booked two rooms, and the air conditioning in one of them did not work. We reported the problem, but it was never fixed during our stay.
Our late-night check-in was disappointing. The front desk agent did not explain the hotel amenities, breakfast, or lounge access,...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be thrilled with how little a vacation to Xi'an costs! Our packages simplify travel planning and maximize your savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Xi'an?
You can typically find lower rates and greater availability in December, January and February. Check out our cheap Xi'an vacation packages and you could get some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Xi'an?
Xi'an vacations come in many shapes and sizes, but to really get a feel for this place, we think 3 days is a good ballpark. With this timeframe, you can visit major attractions like Drum Tower and Shaanxi History Museum as well as underrated gems. Don't miss out on cool areas such as Xi’an City Centre and Zhonglou Shangquan either. If you're smart with your time, you may even be able to take a day trip or two from Xi'an too.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Xi'an?
It's easy to see why a Xi'an vacation is on the to-do list of many travellers. Popular attractions like Xi'an Bell Tower and Drum Tower are just the start of what you can explore here.
How to find the best Xi'an package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to find some tempting Xi'an package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or search for Xi'an package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to lock in your vacation package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Xi'an vacation as a package?
An Expedia vacation package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to arranging accommodations and flights separately. Better still, you can tailor your Xi'an escape to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a vacation package to Xi'an?
If you're planning a spontaneous Xi'an getaway, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can score sensational deals on your flights and hotels by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Xi'an?
Pick your travel dates: What you'd like to do in Xi'an and your preferred season will help you decide when to travel.
Work out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from dining out and transportation to experiences and flights. Your hotel will likely be the biggest expense during your trip to Xi'an.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you're up to speed on Xi'an, you can work out the right length of your break. Put together a draft itinerary and allocate enough time for all the things you want to do.
Combine your accommodations and airfare: After you've settled on your dates and duration, book the ideal Xi'an vacation package for you.
Xi'an offers a rich cultural experience perfect for family and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping areas and malls while enjoying educational tours. Key activities include various Xi'an tours, private tour options, day trips, and tour packages, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience in this historic city.
Shopping
For a vibrant shopping experience in Xi'an, visit Golden Eagle, a bustling shopping mall featuring entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out larger malls like Jiefang Road Shopping District for a wider variety of local and international brands.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at Shaanxi Xi'an Yajian International Golf Club, where you can enjoy serene golf amidst stunning landscapes. For cultural enrichment, explore performances at Yisu Grand Theater and Yisu Community Theater, offering a blend of romance and entertainment perfect for families and couples alike.
Adventure
At Bailuyuan Ski Area, experience exhilarating skiing amidst stunning scenery, perfect for thrill-seekers. For a splash of fun, visit Maya Beach Water Park, where families can enjoy adventurous water slides and entertainment options, creating unforgettable memories in Xi'an's vibrant atmosphere.
Nightlife
Xi'an's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Visit the Muslim Quarter for street food and lively markets. For a chill evening, check out the Tang Dynasty Show for cultural performances. Enjoy cocktails at the trendy Bar 21 or dance the night away at the popular Nightclub 88.
Find the best attractions in Xi'an
Xi'an is an excellent destination for culture-themed, family, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including modern universities, historic towers, and temples. The city's offerings cater to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. For a fulfilling trip, consider participating in group tours, visiting the Xi'an Museum, and discovering other notable destinations throughout China.
Terracotta Army: Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, an archaeological marvel that showcases thousands of life-sized statues of soldiers, horses, and chariots. Created to accompany China's first emperor in the afterlife, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese culture and artistry, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit the majestic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. This iconic structure stands tall at 64 meters and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a serene atmosphere for contemplation and appreciation of Chinese culture.
Great Mosque of Xi'an: Experience the unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architecture at the Great Mosque of Xi'an. As one of the oldest and largest mosques in China, it features stunning courtyards and intricate carvings, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Best time to go to Xi'an
The best time to visit Xi'an can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Xi'an falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Xi'an falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Xi'an
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Xi'an during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.