City scores
Practical info
Xi'an is renowned for its ancient city wall, one of the oldest and best preserved in China. Stretching over 13 kilometers, it offers a unique way to see the city by bicycle. The wall encircles the old city, providing a panoramic view of both the historic and modern parts of Xi'an. The Muslim Quarter, with its narrow alleys and extensive street food scene, is ideal for culinary enthusiasts. Here, you can try yangrou paomo, a traditional lamb stew served with crumbled flatbread, or the local favorite, roujiamo, often likened to a Chinese hamburger. Beyond the city center, the Shaanxi History Museum showcases the region's rich cultural heritage, with artifacts spanning thousands of years. It’s a compelling stop for history buffs interested in the Silk Road's influence. The museum's collection includes ancient pottery, coins, and the famous Tang dynasty murals. For those interested in religious history, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is a significant Buddhist site, originally built in 652 AD to house sacred scriptures brought from India.
Best time to visit
September to October — mild weather and fewer tourists make it ideal for exploring outdoor sites.
Month by month
Cold and dry with occasional snow; dress warmly for outdoor sites.
Still cold; Chinese New Year brings festivals and crowds.
Temperatures rise; spring blossoms begin to appear in parks.
Warm days perfect for exploring the city wall and other outdoor attractions.
Pleasant weather with clear skies; great for sightseeing.
Warm and occasionally humid; start of the summer tourist season.
Hot and humid; indoor attractions provide relief from the heat.
Peak summer heat; best to explore in early morning or late afternoon.
Cooling down; perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.
Mild temperatures; National Day celebrations increase visitor numbers.
Crisp air and fewer tourists; ideal for cultural sites.
Cold with clear skies; dress warmly for city exploration.
Highlights
- ✦Xi'an City Wall — Rent a bike and ride the 13-kilometer ancient wall for city views.
- ✦Shaanxi History Museum — Home to Tang dynasty murals and Silk Road artifacts.
- ✦Muslim Quarter — Known for street food like yangrou paomo and roujiamo.
- ✦Giant Wild Goose Pagoda — Historic Buddhist site dating back to 652 AD.
- ✦Terracotta Army — Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Biking the City Wall is best in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- ·Visit the Terracotta Army early in the day to beat the crowds.
- ·Public transport is efficient; buses and the metro cover most tourist sites.
- ·Carry cash; many smaller vendors do not accept credit cards.
- ·Haggle in markets, but not in fixed-price shops.
Budget estimate
¥500–800 CNY / day (mid-range)
