Things to do in Xi'an

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Drum Tower which includes heritage architecture and a city
Xi\'an which includes a city
Xi\'an
Terracota Army showing interior views and heritage elements
Xi\'an showing outdoor art, a bridge and flowers

Xi'an Attractions

When you're in one of the oldest great cities in one of the world's oldest civilizations, there's plenty to see and do. Along with Stone Age villages to terracotta soldiers, terrace farms and towering brick pagodas, you're surrounded by great food, arts, and traditions that reflect a few thousand years' worth of heritage. Get to know the styles and colors of the Tang Dynasty court, the incredible view from one of China's sacred mountains, and a terrific selection of things to do in Xi'an and among the towering stone hills of the countryside.


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Xi'an must see attractions

1. Terracotta Army

The rows of thousands of figures that make up the Terracotta Army is among the most astonishing sites in the country. These sculpted soldiers, horses and chariots depict the armies of first Emperor of China Qin Shi Huang, serving to protect him in the afterlife. Get face to face with these fascinating relics for a sense of their large size.
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Terracota Army which includes a statue or sculpture and interior views

2. Xi'an Bell Tower

For one of the most iconic sights in Xi’an City Center, visit the Bell Tower, whose traditional tiered architecture dates back to the 14th century. Historical displays fill the exhibition halls of its floors, which provide excellent views of the area. See the majestic structure at night, when it beams with bright light.
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Bell Tower

3. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is a symbolic leaning structure that lights up the night sky. The tower rises to a height of 210 feet (64 meters) and has an elegant square cone design. It is part of the Da Ci’en Temple Complex and draws Buddhist pilgrims from across the world. Gaze up at the tall seven-story structure from afar to appreciate its splendor.
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Giant Wild Goose Pagoda featuring a garden and a temple or place of worship

4. Xi'an City Walls

Xi’an City Walls are among the oldest and best-preserved municipality fortifications in China. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty of the 14th century, the walls enclose an area of 8,960 acres (3,625 hectares). See the gates at night, when their towers and bridges are illuminated.
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Xi\'an City Walls showing a temple or place of worship and religious elements

5. Great Mosque of Xi'an

The Great Mosque of Xi’an is among the oldest and most significant Islamic spiritual homes in China. Founded during the Tang dynasty, it consists of several structures and picturesque grounds in an area of 3 acres (1.2 hectares). Relish the serene ambiance, as you traverse the four landscaped gardens.
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Great Mosque of Xi\'an featuring religious aspects and a mosque

What to do in Xi'an

Free Things to Do in Xi'an

Traveling to Xi'an on a budget? The following can be seen for nix.

Forest of Stelae Museum - Stroll the halls and take in the impressive exhibits and unique collections at this respected museum.

Zhangxueliang Residence - Wander around this historic site and discover a couple of secrets from times past.

Xi'an Qujiang International Convention Center - Speak to a local resident and learn why many travelers stop by this place.

Xi'an Town's God Temple - Get a deeper understanding of the local religion at this holy site.

Qujiangchi site Park - Refresh your mind and soul by spending time with Mother Nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Xi'an

Old City

Surrounded by some of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, Xi'an's historic center features 14th-century landmarks and modern shopping malls laid out around the old street grid. Hotels, restaurants, and amusement parks share the area with parkland, towers, and places of worship that have been part of the cityscape since the Middle Ages.

Yanta

A cluster of newer developments built away from the walls and outside Xi'an's second ring road, Yanta takes advantage of the extra space. Eighth-century pagodas and royal retreats rest alongside suburban neighborhoods, which lead to commercial districts of office towers, performance halls, and museums.

Weiyang

Set in a triangle in northern Xi'an between the second ring road and the banks of the Weihe and Bahe rivers, modern Weiyang is known for its corporate headquarters and science and technology parks. Along with the dumpling shops filled with Chinese professionals, though, the area hosts some of the city's oldest relics, with fortifications and palace ruins that date back to the Han Dynasty 1,000 years ago.

What to See in Xi'an

The army of terracotta figures crafted back in the second century BC is easily Xi'an's most famous attraction, but they aren't the oldest or biggest draw in town. You can check out the immense city walls that have kept the same iconic design since the 1300s, or visit the Banpo archaeological site to see one of the earliest settlements found in the country. You can admire the 1,400-year-old elegance of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda or the rebuilt gates of Daming Palace, home of the Tang Dynasty's emperors for more than 200 years. The Great Mosque of Xi'an is a showcase of uniquely Chinese design, and a former Confucian temple holds a trove of stonework and calligraphy in the Stele Forest.

Sightseeing in Xi'an

If you're having trouble deciding which of Xi'an's grand historic sites to visit first, there are plenty of guides you can turn to for advice. There's a private tour that shows off the vast range of architecture the city has collected over the years, another that features a 2,000-year-old tomb and even older Stone Age relics, and a trip to explore the origins of Taoism at Chongyang Palace.

For a look back at the city's heyday as the center of Chinese life, you can spend an evening at a theme park that recreates the brilliance of the Tang Dynasty or treat yourself to a dumpling banquet with live entertainment that could have come straight from the imperial court. And if you're more in the mood for Xi'an's modern nightlife, a guide can take you on a walking tour to some of the best dishes in town.

To get some time in the countryside, take a day trip to admire the views from the peak of Mount Hua or take a ride across Pingyao County to visit an ancient city where it almost seems like the Ming Dynasty never ended. If you have the time to spare, a high-speed train can carry you to Luoyang for a tour through another of China's great ancient capitals.


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Xi'an

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Xi'an

Bell Tower

Xi’an City Center

4.5/5(124 area reviews)

Impressive city walls, a moat and towers from the 14th century offer awe-inspiring views of the city and insights into an intriguing history.

Xi’an City Center
Xi\'an which includes heritage elements and a city

Zhonglou Shangquan

While you're in Zhonglou Shangquan, take in top sights like Xi'an Bell Tower and jump on the metro at Zhonglou Station to see more of the city.

Zhonglou Shangquan
Terracota Army showing building ruins and interior views

Lintong District

5/5(3 area reviews)

While visiting Lintong District, you might make a stop by sights like Terracotta Army and Tomb of Qin Shi Huang.

Lintong District
Xi\'an

Muslim Quarter

A lively market and the Drum Tower stand at the center of a zone that has become a proud hub of Muslim culture and history.

Muslim Quarter
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda which includes a temple or place of worship and heritage architecture

Yanta Qu

You might enjoy the historic sites while in Yanta Qu. Shaanxi History Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Wei 1-jie Station or Xiaozhai Station to see more of the city.

Yanta Qu
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda featuring a garden and a temple or place of worship

Qujiang New District

Cultural parks and a vast temple complex provide insights into local customs and traditions, while malls and restaurants keep families entertained.

Qujiang New District

 

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Popular day trips from Xi'an

Frequently asked questions

Is Xi'an worth visiting?
Xi'an has an interesting mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional food, there's a lot you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Xi'an?
Shaanxi History Museum and Datang Everbright City are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Xi'an while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Xi'an?
You can't leave without checking out Shaanxi History Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Xi'an.
Is three days enough to stay in Xi'an?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city attractions, such as Shaanxi History Museum, Datang Everbright City and Xi'an Museum. The average stay in Xi'an is three days. If you have the time to extend your escape, Yanta Qu isn't far away.
Is Xi'an a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Xi'an, including Shaanxi History Museum and Xi'an Museum, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.3 miles from the city center of Xi'an is Xi'an City Center and Zhonglou Shangquan is 0.1 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Xi'an with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all of your group, check out these awesome ideas for what to do in Xi'an with kids.

What to do in Xi'an for adults?
Andingmen and Xi'an Calligraphy Museum are just a few of the things to do in Xi'an. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Xi'an?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Xi'an. If you're stuck for ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Datang Everbright City is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.