Xi'an Street Food Discovery Tour: 10+ Curated Local Tastings
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2h - 3h
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About this experience
Renowned as the culinary heart of ancient China, Xi’an boasts a unique fusion of Silk Road and Sino-Islamic flavours in its time-honoured street food, and this immersive evening tour unlocks the very best of the city’s authentic gastronomic treasures—guided by seasoned local insiders, you’ll wander the iconic Muslim Quarter and hidden local haunts around Drum Tower Square, savouring over 10 classic signature dishes including Rougamo, Yangrou Paomo and the famed local "bold speciality" Marinated Jelly Noodles, plus a host of customisable street bites, and sip on fresh local pomegranate juice and traditional drinks while hearing fascinating Silk Road stories behind the flavours.
We offer two flexible packages for this tour, one with a meeting point check-in with your guide and another inclusive of private car round-trip transfers, crafting a tailored, unforgettable food and culture experience for every adventurous food lover.
Available options
Option 1: Meet Guide
Option 1: Meet Guide: Meeting point: In front of Bell Tower Hotel Xi'an(西安钟楼饭店-碑林区南大街 110 号).Take Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station, exit from C3
Option 2: Food Tour+Transfer
Option 2: Food Tour+Transfer: Choose this option to enjoy the food tour with downtown hotel pick up and drop off by private car<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Snacks
English speaking tour guide
Round trip hotel transfer if you choose option 2
Detailed itinerary
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Renowned as the culinary heart of ancient China, Xi’an’s street food is a vivid fusion of Silk Road and Sino-Islamic flavours forged by a thousand years of cultural blending. This immersive evening tour takes you to handpicked local eateries and hidden haunts frequented by our seasoned local guides, where you’ll savour iconic dishes, sip refreshing local drinks and hear fascinating Silk Road stories—an unmissable deep dive into the city’s unspoiled gastronomic culture for food lovers and adventurous travellers alike.
We offer 2 flexible packages for your convenience: Meet-up Package (gather with your guide at the designated meeting point) and Private Transfer Package (including comfortable round-trip private car hotel transfers).
After meeting your guide, you’ll wander the iconic Drum Tower Square and the winding lanes, secret backstreets of the Muslim Quarter—Xi’an’s historic culinary core where Tang Dynasty grandeur meets modern vibrancy, and the most authentic local flavours hide.
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Your Iconic Xi’an Flavour Tasting
1: Rougamo (Chinese Hamburger) – Slow-cooked braised pork in a crispy fluffy wheat bun, a classic Xi’an staple.
2: Liangpi (Cold Noodles) – Hand-rolled cold noodles with chili oil, vinegar and sesame paste sauce, fresh and zesty.
3: Freshly Squeezed Pomegranate Juice – Xi’an’s iconic drink, sweet-tangy and icy cold, perfect with savoury bites.
4: Xinjiang-style Grilled Lamb Skewers – Charred juicy lamb with cumin and chili, a fragrant Muslim Quarter classic.
5: Crispy Beef Pie – Golden flaky pastry with savoury juicy beef filling, hand-kneaded dough, local favourite.
6: Lu Zhi Liang Fen (Marinated Jelly Noodles) – Silky mung bean jelly with savoury sauce, pickles and fried dough sticks, Xi’an’s famed speciality.
7: Yangrou Paomo (Lamb Soup with Shredded Bun) – Slow-simmered lamb broth with hand-torn buns, Xi’an’s most famous dish.
8: Jinggao (Sweet Rice Cake) – Soft rice cake with red bean paste and sesame, mild traditional sweet treat.
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9: Persimmon Cakes – Golden fried pastries filled with sweet gooey persimmon puree, crispy on the outside and creamy inside.
10: Hand-pulled Noodles – Fresh hand-stretched silky noodles in rich meat broth with vegetables, a showcase of Xi’an’s masterful wheat-based cuisine.
11: Steamed Dumplings – Juicy, flavourful pork or vegetable filled steamed dumplings, a classic local comfort food.
Youcha Mahua (Sesame Drink with Fried Dough Twists) – Creamy nutty sesame drink paired with crispy fried dough twists, a warm sweet-savoury local favourite.
12: Customisable Closing Bites – A final choice of sweet steamed buns, crispy fried snacks or fresh fruit from a local street stall.
Xi’an is a city famous for its wheat-based delicacies, and the above selection is more than enough to fill you up and let you experience the best of local flavours. If you wish to try more local snacks during the tour, simply discuss your preferences with your guide for a tailored tasting experience.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transpotation fee if you choose option 1
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our guide will hold a sign with your name on waiting in front of Bell Tower Hotel Xi'an.
Taxi : 西安钟楼饭店
Address: 中国陕西省西安市碑林区南大街 110 号(No.110 South Street, Beilin District)
By Subway
Take Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station, exit from C3 (the closest one, 50 meters to the hotel).
About Xian
Xian is one of the oldest cities in China, serving as the capital for 13 dynasties, including the famous Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its rich history, ancient architecture, and as the starting point of the Silk Road. The city offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Top Attractions
Terracotta Army
Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Historical
2-3 hours
150 RMB (including museum)
Ancient City Wall
The Ancient City Wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. It encircles the old city and offers a unique perspective of Xian's history and urban landscape.
Historical
1-2 hours
54 RMB (including bike rental)
Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is a bustling area known for its vibrant street food scene, historic mosques, and unique Islamic architecture. It offers a glimpse into the multicultural history of Xian.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (food and shopping costs extra)
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a famous Buddhist pagoda and a symbol of Xian. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding area is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Historical
1-2 hours
50 RMB (including museum)
Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the most important museums in China, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Shaanxi region. It houses a vast collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years.
Museum
1-2 hours
Free (but requires a reservation)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Roujiamo
Also known as the Chinese burger, it consists of braised pork belly stuffed in a crispy flatbread.
Snack
Contains pork
Liangpi
Cold noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a spicy sauce and various toppings.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Yangrou Paomo
Lamb soup with bread pieces, a staple dish in Xian.
Dish
Contains lamb
Biangbiang Noodles
Wide, hand-pulled noodles with a thick, chewy texture, often served with a spicy sauce.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Lishan Mountain
Biking along the Ancient City Wall
Visiting Huaqing Palace hot springs
Tea tasting in local teahouses
Exploring the Terracotta Army
Visiting the Shaanxi History Museum
Walking the Ancient City Wall at sunset
Trying local street food in the Muslim Quarter
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This is the best time to visit Xian as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this period.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Xian is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Xian Xianyang International Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Xian Railway Station, Xian North Railway Station
By bus
Xian Long-distance Bus Station, Xian North Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Xian Metro is efficient and covers most major attractions. It's the fastest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Yanta District
Beilin District
Muslim Quarter
Qujiang New District
Day trips
Huaqing Palace
15 km from city center • Half day
Huaqing Palace is a complex of hot springs and palaces known for its historical significance and beautiful gardens. It was a favorite retreat for emperors and is associated with the Tang Dynasty.
Lishan Mountain
20 km from city center • Full day
Lishan Mountain is a scenic area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and historical sites. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Famen Temple
120 km from city center • Full day
Famen Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in China, known for housing the relics of the Buddha. It is a significant pilgrimage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Festivals
Chinese New Year • January or February (varies)
Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month
Qinling Mountain Marathon • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Try local street food, but choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and food safety.
- Use the metro or bike-sharing services to get around the city efficiently and affordably.
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the Terracotta Army in advance to avoid long queues.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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