This inclusive private full day Xi’an tour will allow you to visit most of historical and cultural sites in downtown Xi’an, to explore the beauty of this ancient city and gain a great insight into the local area and life. With a local expert as your tour guide and a comfortable and sizable private transportation, you could get a better understanding of the city and could get around easily and conveniently.
Pickup included
As the best preserved and biggest city wall in China today, this 8.5 miles (14 kilometers) wall has been standing there for over 640 years. It's the best place for people to see the historical Xi'an and to understand the wisdom of working people in ancient China.
Biking on the top of this complete wall is the real highlight for most of visitors. It will show you a broad vista of the past and present Xi'an City.
This pagoda is situated in Daci'en Temple which was religious center of Chang'an in the Grand Tang Dynasty. It used to be the tallest building in the city and only those most capable candidates who could pass the imperial examination were allowed to walk up from inside to the top to show their special honor given by the imperial court and their soaring future. It is such a popular destination today because parents from all over the country would like to come then pray in front of the Buddha in the hope that their kids could be top students in schools.
The Pagoda was fist built for housing Buddhist scriptures brought back to China from India by Master Xuanzang. He was the ultimate pilgrim who traveled altogether 17 years from 629 AD to 645 AD for searching original Buddha’s teaching. He was a great traveller and translator who contributed a lot for the culture exchanges between China and India in ancient time.
The surrounding area of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is also the most beautiful part of the city with lots of buildings built in ancient style. A visit of his place and a stroll in the area will immerse you with Buddhist culture and to see the combination of antiquity and modernity of the city.
As landmarks of Xi'an, Bell Tower and Drum Tower have been standing in the center of the city for over 600 years. They were used for telling time in the past and now they are spectacular skyline decorating the city in its center. With painted beams and delicate wooden structure, they are the biggest Bell and Drum Towers in its kind in China. The twin towers have witnessed the high and low of the city and the huge changes happened in last 30 years. Both towers will be highlighted by light at night and will give a special aroma, taking people back to remote and splendid Xi'an of antiquity.
Located in the city center of Xi'an, the Muslim Quarter is the only historical and cultural part that survived through long history. It's not only the most active but also the most colorful area with full of street foods and restaurants. Various of noises of those hawking vendors and buzzing scooters together with the hustling and bustling of visitors will make you feel that you are in a real China.
A bite of some street food and bargaining with some street vendors will be a real relief in your day.
Xi’an Great Mosque is one of the oldest and the best preserved mosque in China. It was first built in 742 AD in the Tang Dynasty, shortly after the introduction of Islam into China by Silk Road. It is situated in the middle of a very busy area with only narrow lanes and bazaars amongst shabby buildings. With a gorgeous blend of Chinese architecture style and Islamic culture, it’s a main religious sites for Chinese Muslims in the communities around and a great place worthy for a visit.
Lunch:
Stop at a "Shredded Pita Bread Cooked in Lamb Soup".restaurant.
If there is one food could represent Xi'an, it'd be without doubt Yangrou Paomo -- an aromatic, tasty and spicy bowl of shredded flat-bread soaked in mutton broth.
As a local specialty which is widely eaten in Xi’an area, locals always say,“If you have never tried Pao Mo, you can never say that you’ve been to Xi’an.”
Eating Pao Mo is an uniquely fun and relaxing exercise and experience. Here is the right way to do it.
At the beginning you'll be served with two pieces of unleavened flat pita bread or "mo" in Chinese in a bowl. Then it’s your job to break the bread into pieces with sizes from peanuts to soybeans according to your own preference. It’s a time-consuming process but locals believe that the Paomo made by themselves will taste much better.
More importantly, it's the time for people to talk and to communicate while siting together and tearing those hard bread. Then you should return bowl with those shredded bread pieces and your “mo” will be cooked in mutton soup which has been stewed for the whole day until the bits are fully soaked in soup and its rich flavor.
The stew will be cooked with mung bean vermicelli and topped with slices of lamb or beef of your choice, and pickled sweet garlic served at the same time with chili sauce added in will keep a perfect balance of the dish.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Also known as the Chinese burger, it consists of braised pork belly stuffed in a crispy flatbread.
Cold noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a spicy sauce and various toppings.
Lamb soup with bread pieces, a staple dish in Xian.
Wide, hand-pulled noodles with a thick, chewy texture, often served with a spicy sauce.
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.
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
GMT+8
220VV, 50HzHz
Xian is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Xian Railway Station, Xian North Railway Station
Xian Long-distance Bus Station, Xian North Bus Station
The Xian Metro is efficient and covers most major attractions. It's the fastest way to get around the city.
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 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 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.
Price varies by option