If you are interested in discovering the beauty and majesty of imperial China, you should not miss out on a visit to Xi’An.

The former Chang’An is one of the Great Four Capitals of China and a trove of cultural treasures, landmarks and museums of outstanding importance and beauty.

In this page we outline a 36-hour programme, suitable for the first visit to the city. The itinerary aims to offer a wide picture of Xi’An.

 

Xi'An 1,5-day itinerary

Xi’An is a huge city but it is in its core that the majority of its places of interest are concentrated. It is therefore possible to organise the visit to Xi’An quite easily. Public transportation is quite efficient and most sites can be reached by bus and subway.

Taxis are plentiful and quite cheap and efficient. For such a short trip we suggest you do not count out the option of using the taxi.

 

Itinerary: Terracotta Army Archaeological Site, Xi’An city centre

Finding a convenient hotel in the centre is quite easy. There is a great number of structures that can cater for any kind of traveller. Advance booking is recommended.

 

Xi'An 1,5-day itinerary

Terracotta Army Archaeological Site, Xi’An city centre, historical pagodas

Evening arrival

Where to stay

City Centre, (Bell Tower, BeiLin)

Day 1

Destinations:

  • Morning excursion to the Terracotta Army Archaeological Site

  • Xi’An city centre (Bell Tower, Drum Tower, city wall enclosure)

 

Other options: Shaaxi History Museum

 

How to get around:

  • Excursion by bus to the archaeological site arranged by the tour operator

  • In the city centre: by bus and on foot

Day 2 (morning)

Destinations:

  • Giant Goose Pagoda

  • Small Goose Pagoda

 

How to get around:

  • Between the city centre and the historical pagodas: by bus or taxi

 

Morning arrival

If you reach Xi’An by noon, we suggest you leave your baggage at the hotel and begin your journey right away with a visit to the city centre. The next day can be devoted to the visit to the archaeological site and the historical pagodas. In this case you may opt for a tourist package.

 

Related articles:

China 14-day itinerary

Xi'An 2-day itinerary

 

Other destinations:

Beijing 4-day itinerary

Suzhou 1-day itinerary  |  Suzhou 2-day itinerary

Hangzhou 1-day itinerary  |  Wuzhen 1-day itinerary