4 must-see attractions and 5 total things to do.
From its ancient landmarks to its modern food scene, Xi'an rewards travellers who take their time. I've narrowed it down to 4 must-sees out of 5 attractions worth your time.
Most visitors spend 2–4 days here. With 4 must-see attractions, I recommend pacing yourself — hit 2–3 per day and leave room for spontaneous discoveries.
兵马俑
Over 8,000 life-sized warriors guarding China's first emperor — each with a unique face.
回民街
A maze of food streets and markets in the heart of the old city.
西安城墙
China's best-preserved city wall — 14km around the old city.
陕西历史博物馆
One of China's best museums — treasures from 13 dynasties spanning 1 million years.
大雁塔
A Tang Dynasty pagoda with a spectacular fountain show and night market in the square.
In Xi'an, the food is an adventure in itself. Here are my picks for what to eat — if you skip these, you haven't really been.
BiangBiang面 · ¥15–25
Wide, hand-pulled noodles served with chilli oil, garlic, and minced pork — Xi'an's signature dish.
where Muslim Quarter (look for places making noodles by hand)
羊肉泡馍 · ¥25–40
Lamb soup with crumbled flatbread — you tear the bread yourself, then it's cooked in lamb broth.
where Lao Sun Jia in the Muslim Quarter
烤羊肉串 · ¥3–5 per skewer
Cumin-spiced grilled lamb skewers — Xi'an style, some of the best in China.
where Beiguan Alley, Muslim Quarter
History, culture, and food that'll change how you think about China
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The legendary city of West Lake — tea plantations, classical gardens, and poetic beauty
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Peng planned our entire two-week honeymoon across China. She found us a guide in Xi'an who brought the Terracotta Warriors to life in a way I'll never forget. Every detail was handled — train tickets, restaurant reservations, even a bouquet waiting at our hotel in Shanghai.
James & Lisa
Toronto, Canada
The Silk Road itinerary Peng put together was incredible. Dunhuang, Turpan, Kashgar — places I'd dreamed about but had no idea how to navigate. She arranged local guides who were actual historians. Came back with photos I'll treasure forever.
Alex
Berlin, Germany
I've helped hundreds of travellers plan their perfect Xi'an trip.
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