Xi'an Tours

Xi'an Travel FAQs

• 1. Why should I visit Xi'an?  

  Visiting Xi'an is like entering a living museum where ancient history and modern life coexist harmoniously. As the ancient capital of 13 dynasties and the starting point of the legendary Silk Road, Xi'an is a treasure trove of Chinese civilization, most famously home to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. 
  In addition, the city's vibrant Muslim Quarter offers a sensory feast with its bustling markets and unique blend of Chinese and Islamic culture. Traditional arts, such as shadow puppetry and calligraphy at Gao Family Mansion, offer a deep cultural immersion. Dressed in classical Chinese attire, you can follow experts in making traditional sweets and pastries, enhancing the authenticity of the experience. Mount Huashan offers thrilling hikes with breathtaking views for adventure seekers. 

• 2. How can I get to Xi'an?  

  Whether arriving from abroad or traveling domestically, getting to Xi'an is convenient. Xi'an Xianyang International Airport provides direct flights to and from major European and Asian cities, while its North Railway Station connects the city to numerous destinations across the country. Popular rail routes include the Beijing-Xi'an line, Beijing-Luoyang-Xi'an line, and Xi'an-Chengdu/Chongqing line, making your China tour comfortable and efficient. Additionally, the strategic location of Xi'an makes it an excellent base for further travel to western provinces such as Gansu, Xinjiang, and Tibet.

• 3. When is the best time to visit Xi'an?  

  Xi'an experiences distinct seasons, with spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offering the most comfortable weather. It's advisable to avoid the big crowds in summer(July to Auguest) and major public holidays like National Day in early October and Labor Day in early May. If you plan to visit during these busy periods, booking in advance is essential. Rest assured, our experienced travel advisors will help you navigate the crowds and ensure a memorable Xi'an trip.

• 4. What are the must-see attractions in Xi'an?  

  Xi'an's most iconic attractions include the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, where you can marvel at the world-renowned Terracotta Army and the delicate Bronze Chariots and Horses. The bustling Muslim Quarter is another must-visit for its vibrant street food scene and rich cultural atmosphere, while Tang Paradise (Daming Palace) offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient China.

• 5. What are other sites to recommend beyond the Terracotta Warriors?  

  If you're eager to explore more of Xi'an's hidden gems, here are the suggestions for your reference:
  For History buffs, don't miss Hanyangling, the tomb of Emperor Jing of Han. Here, you will find smaller-sized terracotta figures vividly displaying the court life in the Han Dynasty.
  Famen Temple, housing the sacred relic of the Buddha's finger bone, is a must-see for those interested in a spiritual Buddhist journey.
  For a deeper delve into imperial history, consider visiting the Qianling Mausoleum, resting the only female emperor in Chinese history. Another noteworthy site is Maoling, the grand tomb of Emperor Wu of Han.
  If you're drawn to the outdoors, Mount Huashan is an exhilarating destination with its steep trails and breathtaking views. Another natural wonder, the Qinling Mountains, locates some of China's rarest wildlife, including the brown panda, Qizai. 

• 6. How can I get around in Xi'an?  

  Getting around Xi'an is easy and convenient with its well-connected metro and bus systems. You can also opt for a minibus, pedicab, or even rent a private car for more flexibility. For added convenience, you can use the Didi app to book taxis via your smartphone. Additionally, shared bikes are a fun and eco-friendly way to explore nearby snack streets and sights at your own pace.

• 7. Do you recommend hiking Mount Huashan for a family with unadult children?  

  It depends on your starting point. The hike from the North Peak is quite strenuous, requiring good physical fitness due to the long and challenging trails, and not suitable for families with unadult children or seniors.
  The West Peak offers a more family-friendly option as you can take a cable car up and down. From there, you can enjoy spectacular views of the cliffs and surrounding landscape. Hiking from the West Peak through the South Peak, East Peak, and Middle Peak typically takes around three hours, with the longest continuous hike lasting about one hour. This approach provides a more manageable and scenic experience suitable for most people.

• 8. What is the local cuisine like in Xi'an?  

  Xi'an's local cuisine is a flavorful tapestry of influences from its historical position on the Silk Road. The city is famous for its diverse pasta food, such as Biangbiang noodles, Roujiamo (a Chinese-style hamburger), and Yangrou Paomo (lamb stew with crumbled flatbread), and features bold flavors and rich spices. The bustling Muslim Quarter is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of street foods like savory kebabs and spicy dumplings.

• 9. Any activities you suggest to experience local life and culture?  

  To truly immerse yourself in Xi'an's local life and culture, consider participating in a family visit to experience traditional hospitality and daily routines firsthand, enjoy a shadow puppetry performance showcasing local storytelling traditions, or try your hand at Chinese calligraphy for an insight into traditional artistic skills. Additionally, dressing in Han or Tang dynasty costumes and capturing the experience in photos allows you to appreciate the grandeur of historical Chinese fashion. 

• 10. What should I take along with me while I do Xi'an tours?  

  It is recommended that you bring comfortable shoes. You will undoubtedly be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sunscreen is recommended, as well as carrying bottled water with you. If you are a photography lover, do not forget your camera, film, and batteries, or you will never forgive yourself.

• 11. What are accommodations like?  

  There are many star-rated hotels in Xi'an. At the same time, there are a lot of guesthouses available. Although they lack many of the amenities found in star-rated hotels, the guesthouses are family-run and quite clean.

• 12. What is the ATM system in Xi'an like?  

  Foreign currencies cannot be used directly in Xi'an, but you can exchange your money at the many Bank of China outlets throughout the province. Most major hotels in Xi'an will accept major credit cards. Your hotels also can change money for you and ATMs are easy to find.

• 13. Will there be problems with the language barrier?  

  If you travel with us, there is no need to worry about the language barrier. Each visitor will have an English-speaking tour guide, and most of the staff in the star-rated hotels can speak English.