21 Things to do in Xian, China (2026)

These things to do in Xian (often written as Xi’an), cover the best attractions, markets & historic landmarks for your next trip.

There is so much culture and history here coupled with a bustling atmosphere, amazing neighbours along with authentic and interesting alleyways that offer hidden gems serving steaming hot lamb stews and massive bowls of BiangBiang Noodles. Xi’an is easily one of the best places to visit in China, so let’s look at the best things to do in the city!

Best things to do in Xi’an China

1) Terracotta Warriors

The main attraction for many who visit Xi’an, the Terracotta Warriors stand in their hundreds in a complex just an hour away from the city centre. Explore the 3 pits and read the brief information and history of the warriors in this best things to do in Xian. You can choose to pay for a tour guide on arrival or opt for a group tour when visiting one of the best places to visit in China.

Private and group tours are available from most hostels, hotels and guesthouses. There is also a tourist bus (306) on bus line 5 that runs from Xian Railway Station to the museum within an hour; this costs 7 RMB per person.

2) Xi’an City Wall

The city wall surrounds the city centre and makes a great day cycle or evening stroll. Head to either the South, East, West or North gate and explore the city from above; easily one of the best things to do in Xian.

When planning your China travel cost, note that the entrance costs 54 RMB and the South Gate entrance is open from 8am to 8pm throughout the year. You can pay extra to rent a bike and cycle around or those who struggle with the walk can jump on a buggy.

3) Xi’an Bell Tower

A stone’s throw away from each, the Bell and Drum Tower sit in the city centre and are popular spots for visiting tourists and another one of the unique things to do in Xian. Many chain hotels and decent hostels surround the Bell Tower along with major shops, restaurants and fast food/coffee chains.

The Drum Tower also sits at the bottom of Muslim Street and both towers are accessible and home to a small museum on Chinese history.

4) Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Open 8.00 – 16.00 and costing 50 RMB, the pagoda is another one of the more historic things to do in Xian, just 10 minutes outside the city walls. You can catch the subway line 2 to Xiaozhai Station exit c and walk eastward for 10 minutes or you can catch a taxi or Didi for around 20-25 RMB. Didi is similar to Uber elsewhere and one of the best apps for China travel.

Built during the Tang Dynasty (around 1300 years ago!), the Pagoda is an incredibly popular choice for tour groups and visitors – so get here early to enjoy a quieter visit!

5) Muslim Quarter

One of my biggest requests on our first visit to China 4 years ago, was not trying enough amazing local food – I had just stopped being a vegetarian and was afraid of everything making me ill.

Needless to say, I no longer have that fear and LOVED trying everything at Muslim Quarter; another fun things to do in Xian and a must on your China bucket list. Head into one of the restaurants for a cheap sit-down meal (70 RMB for two dishes and two drinks) or wander along the road, trying the various snacks along the way (ranging from 2 – 20 RMB).

6) Great Mosque of Xi’an

Hidden in the alleyways of Muslim Street, the Great Mosque is China’s biggest mosque; built in the 13th century. For 25 RMB you can walk around the mosque grounds but only locals may enter the mosque itself; one of the more local things to do in Xian.

7) Guangren Temple

We had never heard of this temple on our first visit but I am so glad we heard about it from a local in a nearby restaurant. This is a gorgeous and picturesque Tibetan Buddhist temple that is simply stunning and one of our favourite things to do in Xian.

We visited midday on a Sunday and it was fairly quiet too – we were the only tourists visiting among the locals who were praying.

8) Drum Tower

Just a short walk from the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower offers another glimpse into Xi’an’s rich past. Built in 1380, this structure once served to mark time and warn the city of emergencies.

Today, visitors can admire its collection of large ceremonial drums and enjoy traditional drumming performances throughout the day. The tower overlooks the lively streets of the Muslim Quarter, making it the perfect spot to start an evening food adventure.

9) Shaanxi History Museum

If you want to understand Xi’an’s immense historical significance, the Shaanxi History Museum is the place to go.

Its vast collection spans prehistoric times through the Tang Dynasty, featuring ancient pottery, bronze artifacts, murals, and coins. Highlights include Tang-era treasures and relics from the Qin and Han dynasties. The museum offers free admission but requires advance booking, so plan ahead. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in China’s deep cultural roots.

10) Small Wild Goose Pagoda

Often overlooked in favor of its larger counterpart, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a tranquil and elegant site that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It’s located within a peaceful park filled with trees and ponds, providing a welcome respite from the bustle of downtown.

The pagoda leans slightly due to centuries of earthquakes, adding to its charm. The surrounding Jianfu Temple and museum are also worth exploring for a quieter, more reflective cultural experience.

11) Huaqing Palace

Nestled at the foot of Mount Li, Huaqing Palace was once the royal hot spring retreat for emperors and their consorts. The site blends natural beauty with romantic legend, most famously the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Lady Yang Guifei.

Visitors can stroll through traditional courtyards, bathe in historic hot springs, and watch the famous evening performance “The Song of Everlasting Regret.” It’s a captivating combination of history, scenery, and storytelling.

12) Mount Huashan

One of China’s five sacred mountains, Mount Huashan is known for its breathtaking beauty and thrilling hiking trails. Steep stairways and narrow plank paths cling to the cliffs, offering adrenaline-filled adventures and stunning panoramic views.

You can hike or take the cable car to the peaks, where temples and shrines dot the landscape. The sunrise from the East Peak is particularly spectacular, making an early start worthwhile for adventurous travelers.

13) Tang Paradise

Tang Paradise is a vast cultural theme park that recreates the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty and another one of the best things to do in Xian.

Set around a large lake, it features gardens, pavilions, and traditional performances that transport you back to Xi’an’s golden age. Stroll along scenic bridges, enjoy live music, and stay for the spectacular night show, which combines lights, fountains, and storytelling. It’s a family-friendly and photogenic destination that blends entertainment with history.

14) Xi’an Museum

Located near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, the Xi’an Museum is another excellent stop for history enthusiasts. It houses thousands of artifacts from the city’s ancient past, including pottery, jade, calligraphy, and Buddhist sculptures. The museum grounds include beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a quiet cultural afternoon.

15) Daming Palace National Heritage Park

Once the imperial palace of the Tang Dynasty, Daming Palace was larger than Beijing’s Forbidden City. Today, it’s a UNESCO-listed archaeological park featuring reconstructed palaces, foundations, and a museum that brings Tang architecture and daily life to life. The vast open space and modern exhibits make it a great blend of ancient heritage and contemporary design.

16) Yongxingfang Food Street

Food lovers shouldn’t miss Yongxingfang, a modern food street celebrating traditional Shaanxi cuisine and one of the tastiest things to do in Xian.

Here, you can watch chefs prepare local specialties by hand and taste everything from hand-pulled noodles to sweet rice cakes. The street often hosts performances and cultural events, making it a lively and delicious stop for both locals and visitors.

17) Xi’an Banpo Museum

The Banpo Museum displays the remains of a Neolithic village that existed over 6,000 years ago. Excavated in the 1950s, it offers a fascinating glimpse into early human life, with preserved houses, tools, and burial sites. It’s a unique opportunity to see how people lived long before China’s dynasties emerged.

18) Beilin Museum (Stele Forest)

This museum houses thousands of stone steles and inscriptions, some dating back over a thousand years. It’s an extraordinary collection of ancient calligraphy and literature carved in stone. Walking among these massive slabs feels like stepping through a library of stone — a must-see for art, history, and language enthusiasts.

19) Datang Everbright City

This pedestrian avenue comes alive at night with lights, street performances, and Tang-inspired statues. Datang Everbright City captures the festive spirit of ancient Xi’an with modern flair. Enjoy open-air shows, local snacks, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s one of the city’s most vibrant spots after dark.

20) Xi’an Tang Dynasty Show and Dinner

Round off your visit with the Tang Dynasty Show, a cultural performance featuring music, dance, and costumes from Xi’an’s golden era. Many venues pair the performance with a dumpling banquet — a delicious way to enjoy traditional cuisine while being immersed in Tang-era elegance. It’s a perfect final evening activity that celebrates the history and artistry of this ancient capital.

21) Xi’an Botanical Garden

Our final best things to do in Xian is a little more calmer.

For a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle, the Xi’an Botanical Garden offers lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and beautifully landscaped gardens spread over hundreds of acres. It’s a wonderful spot for nature lovers, families, or anyone seeking a slower pace after exploring Xi’an’s historic sites.

The garden showcases diverse plant species from across China, along with themed sections such as the rose garden, bamboo grove, and lotus pond. In spring, the vibrant blossoms create a colorful spectacle, while autumn brings golden leaves and cool, crisp air. It’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll surrounded by nature’s beauty.

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Things to Know Before You Go to China

Best things to do in Xian FAQ

What is Xi’an best known for?

Xi’an is best known as the home of the Terracotta Army — thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. It’s also famous for its ancient city wall, rich Silk Road history, and delicious local cuisine.

How many days do you need in Xi’an?

Most travelers spend 2 to 3 days in Xi’an. This gives you enough time to visit the Terracotta Army, explore the City Wall, stroll through the Muslim Quarter, and see key attractions like the Wild Goose Pagodas and Shaanxi History Museum.

Is Xi’an worth visiting?

Absolutely! Xi’an offers a perfect blend of ancient history, cultural heritage, and lively street life. It was once China’s capital and the starting point of the Silk Road, making it one of the most historically significant cities in the country.

What are the top attractions in Xi’an?

The top attractions include:

• The Terracotta Army
• Xi’an City Wall
• Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
• Muslim Quarter
• Shaanxi History Museum
• Mount Huashan
• Great Mosque of Xi’an
• Huaqing Palace

Each site showcases a different side of Xi’an — from imperial history to natural beauty and vibrant street culture.

Can you see the Terracotta Army in one day?

Yes, you can easily visit the Terracotta Army in half a day. It’s located about an hour’s drive from central Xi’an. Many travelers combine it with a visit to Huaqing Palace or Mount Li for a full-day trip.

What is the best time to visit Xi’an?

The best time to visit Xi’an is in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are cold but often less busy.

How do you get around Xi’an?

Xi’an has an efficient metro system, affordable taxis, and bike rentals on the City Wall. Most major attractions within the city are easy to reach by metro or bus, while tours and private cars are best for visiting sites outside the city, such as the Terracotta Army or Mount Huashan.

Is Xi’an safe for tourists?

Yes, Xi’an is considered a very safe city for visitors. Locals are friendly and helpful, and the main tourist areas are well-patrolled. As with any busy city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and markets.

What food should I try in Xi’an?

Xi’an’s food scene is legendary! Be sure to try roujiamo (Chinese burger), biang biang noodles, yangrou paomo (crumbled bread in lamb soup), and spicy skewers in the Muslim Quarter. Food lovers will find endless street snacks and traditional dishes to enjoy.

Can you climb Mount Huashan without a guide?

Yes, you can climb Mount Huashan independently. The trails are well-marked, though steep and challenging in places. Many travelers take the cable car up and hike down or stay overnight on the mountain to catch the sunrise.

Are there any free things to do in Xi’an?

Yes! You can walk around the City Wall area, visit the Bell and Drum Towers (viewed from outside), stroll through Datang Everbright City at night, and enjoy the music fountain show near the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda — all without spending much.

What souvenirs can I buy in Xi’an?

Popular souvenirs include Terracotta Warrior figurines, calligraphy brushes, paper-cut art, and local snacks like dried persimmons or pomegranate wine. The Muslim Quarter and Yongxingfang Food Street are great places for souvenir shopping.

Do people in Xi’an speak English?

English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist attractions, but many young people and hotel staff speak basic English. Carry a translation app or learn a few Mandarin phrases to make communication easier.

How do I get to Xi’an?

Xi’an is well connected by air, train, and high-speed rail. The Xi’an Xianyang International Airport has flights to major Chinese and international cities. You can also take the high-speed train from Beijing (around 4.5 hours) or Chengdu (about 3.5 hours).