3-Day Xi'an Itinerary
The perfect plan for first-time visitors
Trip Overview
3
Days
8+
Attractions
Moderate
Difficulty
¥800+
Budget
Day 1: The Ancient City
Morning: Xi'an City Wall
Start your day by exploring the ancient City Wall. Rent a bicycle and ride along the 14km perimeter for stunning views of the city. The wall is one of the most well-preserved in China and offers a unique perspective on Xi'an.
⏱️ 2-3 hours | 🎫 ¥54
Lunch: Muslim Quarter
Head to the Muslim Quarter for lunch. Try roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), yangrou paomo, and various street snacks. The area is packed with food stalls and restaurants.
⏱️ 1 hour | 💰 ¥20-40
Afternoon: Bell & Drum Towers
Visit the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, iconic landmarks in the city center. The Bell Tower houses a large bronze bell from the Ming Dynasty. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
⏱️ 1-2 hours | 🎫 ¥30 each
Evening: Muslim Quarter Night Market
Return to the Muslim Quarter in the evening when it comes alive with street vendors and food stalls. Experience the vibrant night market atmosphere and try more local delicacies.
⏱️ 2 hours | 💰 ¥30-50
Day 2: Terracotta Warriors
Full Day: Terracotta Warriors
Dedicate a full day to visiting the world-famous Terracotta Warriors. Located about 40 minutes from the city center, this archaeological site features thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
⏱️ 3-4 hours | 🎫 ¥120 | 🚕 Taxi or tour bus recommended
💡 Tips for Visiting
- • Arrive early (when gates open at 8:30 AM) to avoid crowds
- • Hire a guide or rent an audio guide for better understanding
- • Visit the on-site museum for more context about the discovery
- • Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking
Optional: Huaqing Palace
If time permits, stop at Huaqing Palace (Tang Dynasty hot springs resort) on your way back from the Terracotta Warriors.
⏱️ 1-2 hours | 🎫 ¥120 (combined ticket available)
Day 3: Culture & Nature
Morning: Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Visit the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty landmark built in 652 AD. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the peaceful gardens. The pagoda offers beautiful views of the modern Xi'an skyline.
⏱️ 2 hours | 🎫 ¥50 (exterior), ¥65 (interior)
Lunch: Nearby Restaurant
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants near the pagoda area. Try biangbiang noodles, a famous Xi'an dish.
⏱️ 1 hour | 💰 ¥25-50
Afternoon: Shaanxi History Museum
End your trip at the Shaanxi History Museum, one of China's best provincial museums. Home to over 1.7 million artifacts, it provides excellent context for understanding Chinese history and culture.
⏱️ 2-3 hours | 🎫 Free (bring ID)
Evening: Da Tang Bureng City
Spend your last evening at Da Tang Bureng City, a modern entertainment district with Tang Dynasty architecture. Enjoy dinner, street food, and the illuminated pagodas.
⏱️ 2-3 hours | 💰 Free to visit
Estimated Budget
Travel Tips
- ✓Download the "Xi'an Metro" app for easy navigation
- ✓Bring comfortable walking shoes
- ✓Carry cash as some places don't accept foreign cards
- ✓Learn a few basic Chinese phrases
- ✓Bring your passport - it's required for museum entry