Xian , China

Essential Xian Layover Private Day Tour

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour allows you to visit the essential of Xi’an in limited layover time. No worries about where to go, what to eat, and how to get to the site. Your local guide knows them all. You just need to get off the plane and follow your guide’s lead. By taking this tour, you will visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, the ancient City Wall, and the Muslim Street. You will have time to ponder upon history, cycle around the city wall and try out various strange Chinese snacks. Convenient transfer from and to the airport makes the tour easy enough for you.

Available options

Essential Xian Layover Private Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Professional licensed driver

English-speaking tour guide

Bottled water

Airport pick-up and drop-off

Entrance ticket fees

Local lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts from your local friendly tour guide and experienced driver picking you up from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport based on your given flight details. Your guide will hold a sign with your name on it while waiting at the customs exit.

Your first stop in Xi’an will be the world famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. The museum was listed by UNESCO in 1987 as one of the world’s cultural heritages. It takes around 1 hour’s driving to get there. Upon arrival, your tour guide will accompany you to visit the three pits displaying those life-size warriors and horses. Each pit is like an enduring mystery that remains hidden within its depth. No one knows the exact story behind those vivid figures but everyone has a story for them deep in mind by imagination. Gazing at them, you will travel through time to the Ancient Qin dynasty of China. Your guide will give you a thorough explanation of this historical site.

Stop 2

After enjoying a typical Chinese lunch, you will proceed to visit the ancient City Wall. Xi’an city wall is worth visiting because it is the most complete one existing in China and also one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. Walking on the wall, you may see the modern Xi’an outside the wall and the old Xi’an inside. If you are daring, you may ride a bicycle to quickly tour around it.

After that, your guide will lead you to a bustling and lively area, the Muslim Street. This is the place you can try out most Xi’an food such as Shredded Pancake in Beef Soup or Lamb Soup, Cold Noodles and Roujiamo etc. You are sure to find your favorite food or snacks here. If you are looking for a souvenir to take back home, buy it here. Your guide will be pleased to offer you some advice and help. At last, spend a leisure time around the Bell & Drum Tower Square to say goodbye to this ancient capital.

Afterwards, you will be transferred back to Xi’an Xianyang International airport to catch your departure flight. Your Xi’an tour concludes here.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Tour guide will hold a sign with your name and wait for you at the exit

It usually takes more than an hour to exit the airport and go through customs

Basically you are required to be back to the airport 2-3 hours prior to your departure flight

Please make sure you have enough layover time to take the tour, basically taking 10-12 hours

Transportation is also applicable for train station or hotel, please advise if you prefer

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.