Terracotta Army & Flexible City Sightseeing Tour

Xian , China

Terracotta Army & Flexible City Sightseeing Tour

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About this experience

Discover the iconic Terracotta Warriors and explore Xi'an's top attractions on this full-day guided tour. After marveling at the Terracotta Army, customize your experience by selecting two additional city highlights, such as the historic City Wall,Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Muslim Quarter. A perfect way to immerse yourself in Xi'an's rich history and culture!

Available options

Terracotta Army & Flexible City Sightseeing Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch at a local restaurant

Private air-conditioned car

Pick up and drop off

Professional English speaking guide

All required taxes, fees and entrance tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your morning starts with a private pickup—your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby at your preferred time (8am is recommended, but it’s your trip, so you decide!). From there, you'll head to the Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring over 7,000 life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried for over 2,200 years. Discover the three main pits: Pit 1, the largest and most impressive; Pit 2, showcasing cavalry and infantry units; and Pit 3, believed to be the command center. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Qin Dynasty and China’s ancient history.

Stop 2

The Xi'an City Wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it stretches around 14 kilometers, encircling the heart of Xi'an. Visitors can walk, bike, or even take a golf cart ride along the top of the wall, enjoying panoramic views of the city and its blend of ancient and modern architecture. The wall's massive gates, watchtowers, and fortifications offer a glimpse into Xi'an's historical significance as a key cultural and military hub. It's a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the city's rich heritage.

Stop 3

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, or Dayan Pagoda, is a iconic landmark in Xi'an, built in the Tang Dynasty. It was originally constructed to store Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. Standing at 64 meters tall, this seven-story pagoda is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture. Located in the scenic Da Ci'en Temple complex, it's surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and cultural sites. The pagoda is a symbol of Xi'an's rich history as a center of Buddhism and Silk Road trade, making it a must-see for visitors.

The Muslim Quarter, or Huimin Street, is a vibrant and bustling area in the heart of Xi'an, famous for its rich Islamic culture and delicious street food. This historic neighborhood is home to the city's Muslim community and features narrow lanes lined with food stalls, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can savor local specialties like lamb skewers, roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), and persimmon cakes, while exploring its unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture. A lively and flavorful experience, the Muslim Quarter is a must-visit for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Stop 5

The Great Mosque of Xi'an, located near the Muslim Quarter, is one of the oldest and most renowned Islamic mosques in China. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it combines traditional Chinese architecture with Islamic elements, featuring courtyards, pavilions, and intricate wooden carvings. Unlike typical mosques, it lacks domes and minarets, blending seamlessly into its surroundings. Still an active place of worship, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling Muslim Quarter. A visit here provides a unique glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of Chinese and Islamic cultures.

What's not included

Personal expense

Gratitude(suggested)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ZH-CN

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.