Top Things to Do in Xi’an, China: 3-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Xi’an isn’t just a city—it’s a time machine to China’s imperial past and a food lover’s paradise, consistently ranked among the top destinations in China for its unparalleled historical treasures. Everyone’s heard of the Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel that draws millions to this ancient capital. But ask travelers about Xi’an, and the next thing they rave about is the food—spicy, bold, and unforgettable.

The Terracotta Warriors aren’t just a bucket-list sight—they’re a jaw-dropping testament to China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, whose 8,000-strong clay army has captivated the world since its discovery in 1974. Each warrior’s unique face feels like a personal greeting from 221 BC, making this one of the top Xi’an attractions for any traveler.

Spanning three excavation pits, this UNESCO site features life-size soldiers, horses, and bronze chariots, providing a glimpse into ancient China’s ambitions. The on-site museum provides context with artifacts such as gold-inlaid swords.

Booking Tickets: Tickets cost 120 CNY and must be reserved up to seven days in advance via the “Terracotta Army” WeChat mini-program or Trip.com, as daily visitor caps fill up quickly.

Timing and Duration: Open 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM (March 16 to November 15) or 6:00 PM (November 16 to March 15). Allow 2-3 hours to explore the pits and museum. Arrive by 9:00 AM to dodge peak crowds.

Getting There: Located 40 km east of Xi’an, take tourist bus line 5 (bus 306) from Xi’an Railway Station (12 CNY, 1 hour), a taxi, or book a private tour for convenience. A free shuttle bus runs from the ticket center to the site.

Insider Tip: Skip the generic audio guides and book an English-speaking guide for stories about the warriors’ craftsmanship. Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven paths between pits.

After your morning at the Terracotta Warriors, you’ll be back in Xi’an’s city center by noon—time to indulge in the city’s famed cuisine.

Tong Sheng Xiang Restaurant (No. 5 West Street, Bell and Drum Tower Square) is your top choice for an authentic local lunch, renowned for its yangrou paomo —a lamb soup served with hand-torn flatbread. This century-old restaurant, established in 1920, exudes Tang Dynasty charm with wooden decor and bustling energy. Expect a lively vibe, with photos of celebrities and locals lining the walls, signaling its status as a Xi’an institution. The second floor offers a quieter, more comfortable dining experience.

Order: Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍). Tear the hard flatbread into fingertip-sized pieces (the smaller, the better for soaking up the broth), hand your bowl to the waiter, and receive it back filled with rich, 48-hour-simmered lamb broth, tender mutton, vermicelli, and herbs. Add chili paste and pickled garlic for a flavor kick.

Alternatively, De Fa Chang (3 West Street, near the Bell Tower) is a must for dumpling lovers, offering a dazzling array of flavors. Founded in 1936, De Fa Chang is a “world of dumplings” with a polished, elegant setting that feels like a culinary museum. Its central location near the Bell Tower draws both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant yet refined dining experience. The sour soup dumplings (酸汤水饺) are a standout for their tangy, savory broth.

Both restaurants are ~10 minutes from the Shaanxi History Museum (your next destination of the day), saving you time for your afternoon.

The Shaanxi History Museum is your afternoon gateway to Xi’an’s 3,000-year legacy, housing more than 380,000 artifacts from prehistoric tools to Tang Dynasty silks. It’s the perfect complement to the Terracotta Warriors, adding to your understanding of Xi’an’s top historical sites. Highlights such as bronze ritual vessels and Tang-era murals reveal Xi'an's prominence on the Silk Road. Free entry makes it accessible, while special exhibitions offer rare insights.

Access and Reservations: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (November 15 to March 15) or 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (March 16 to November 14), closed Mondays. Free admission requires booking via the museum’s WeChat mini-program or website. Reserve 3 days in advance, as spots fill up quickly. Special exhibitions (e.g., Tang Dynasty murals, 30-300 CNY including the museum entry) can be booked via trip.com.

Timing and Duration: Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the four main halls. Visit around 2:00 PM for fewer crowds.

Insider Tip: Prioritize the Tang Dynasty gallery for artifacts that echo Xi’an’s golden age. Rent an English audio guide for a self-guided tour, and check for temporary exhibits for unique finds.

As dusk settles, the Muslim Quarter along Beiyuanmen Street erupts into a foodie’s dream, where Xi’an’s Hui Muslim heritage meets its legendary street food. This is the heart of Xi’an’s must-try culinary experiences, perfect for ending your day with bold flavors and cultural immersion.

The quarter’s neon-lit alleys buzz with vendors serving Xi’an’s iconic dishes, while the Great Mosque offers a serene cultural contrast. It’s a sensory overload of sights, smells, and tastes.

Must-Try Foods:

Biang Biang Noodles (𰻝𰻝面): Wide, hand-pulled noodles slathered in spicy chili oil, a Shaanxi staple. Look for stalls with long queues for the freshest batches.

Lamb Skewers (羊肉串) with Flatbread (波斯烤馕): Cumin-dusted lamb skewers, grilled to smoky perfection, are often paired with crispy sesame-crusted shaobing flatbread or soft, chewy flatbread. Tear the bread to dip in the skewer’s juices for a street-food match made in heaven.

Persimmon Cakes (柿饼): Sweet, sticky treats that balance the savory dishes. It's a seasonal treat available October through February.

Exploring the Great Mosque: Entry costs 25 CNY and is open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Spend 30-45 minutes in its tranquil courtyards, where Chinese and Islamic architecture blend seamlessly.

Timing and Duration: Visit the Great Mosque first to enjoy its calm atmosphere before exploring the food stalls. Plan 2-3 hours from 7:00 PM to soak in the vibrant night market. The quarter stays lively late, with peak energy after sunset.

Day 2 of your essential Xi’an adventures is a thrilling blend of physical exploration, spiritual serenity, and cultural dazzle, perfectly curated to showcase why Xi’an remains China’s heartbeat of history and art. Start your morning pedaling atop the Ancient City Wall, a 14th-century fortress that offers sweeping views and a pulse-racing way to feel Xi’an’s past. Then, step into the tranquil world of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist icon steeped in Silk Road lore. Cap the day with a Tang Dynasty cultural show, where music and dance transport you to Xi’an’s golden age. This lineup balances adventure, reflection, and spectacle, making it one of the best ways to experience Xi’an in a 2-3 day trip.

Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, a 14th-century Ming Dynasty fortress stretching 13.74 km, is one of the top Xi’an adventures, offering a unique vantage point to witness the city’s blend of ancient grandeur and modern energy. Whether you choose to bike, walk, or immerse yourself in a cultural Hanfu experience, this massive, well-preserved wall—China’s largest—delivers a journey through time with watchtowers, moats, and panoramic views.
Built in 1370, the wall encircles Xi’an’s historic core, showcasing Ming-era architecture against a backdrop of skyscrapers. Biking or walking its wide, cobbled top offers a dynamic way to feel Xi’an’s imperial past, while the Hanfu experience lets you embody it.

Access and Tickets: Open 8:00 AM to evening (South Gate until midnight, others until 6:00-9:00 PM, varying by season). Entry is 54 CNY. Bike rentals are available at South, North, East, or West Gates.

Biking Option: Cycling the full loop (1.5-2 hours) is a popular, exhilarating way to explore, offering scenic stops at watchtowers. Children under 12 and adults over 65 are not allowed to bike for safety reasons.

Walking Option: Prefer a slower pace? Walking lets you soak in details, such as vermilion columns and city views, at your leisure. A full loop takes ~4 hours, but you can exit at any gate (e.g., Zhuque or Changle) for a shorter stroll (1-2 hours). Start at South Gate (Yongningmen) for iconic photo spots like the drawbridge.

Hanfu Experience: Step into Xi’an’s Tang Dynasty soul with a Hanfu photoshoot (starting from 280CNY, ~3 hours). Rent flowing Hanfu robes—think crimson, emerald, or light pink—at shops near Yongning Gate or Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-Bright City. Professional stylists provide intricate makeup, hairstyles, and accessories (e.g., hairpieces, fans) to transform you into ancient nobility. A photographer guides you to prime wall spots like the East or West Gates for stunning shots against historic backdrops. Book via Trip.com for English-speaking guides. It’s a cultural immersion perfect for history buffs or photo enthusiasts.

Timing and Duration: Plan 2-3 hours for biking or walking, or 3-4 hours with a Hanfu photoshoot. Arrive around 8:30 AM to beat crowds.

After your morning atop the Ancient City Wall—whether you biked, walked the full 4-hour loop, or posed in a Tang Dynasty Hanfu photoshoot—you’ll be ready for a quick, flavorful lunch to fuel your afternoon at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. While in Xi'an, you must try roujiamo (肉夹馍) and liangpi （凉皮）, two street food staples perfect for a flexible, authentic meal.

Roujiamo (Chinese “Hamburger,” 10-15 CNY):
Roujiamo is a savory, handheld delight—shredded pork or beef, slow-cooked with star anise and cumin, stuffed into a crispy, chewy flatbread (mo). The meat is juicy and fragrant, with a slight spice kick, while the bread’s golden crust adds crunch. Some versions include green peppers or cilantro for a fresh bite.

Look for stalls with long queues of locals, especially near the Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, or Xiaozhai (close to the Pagoda). A busy vendor with meat simmering in a visible pot and bread baked fresh (often in a clay oven) signals quality.Popular spots like those along Beiyuanmen Street or near Yongningmen Station are reliable bets.

Experience Tip: Order “shou rou” (lean meat) or “fei rou” (fatty meat) based on your preference. Pair with a cold Bingfeng soda (a popular Xi'an orange soda) to balance the richness.

Liangpi (Cold Skin Noodles, 15-20 CNY):

Liangpi is a refreshing, tangy dish of slippery rice or wheat noodles drenched in a zesty sauce of sesame paste, chili oil, vinegar, and soy. Topped with cucumber slivers and bean sprouts, it’s a perfect mix of spicy, sour, and nutty flavors, with a chewy texture that’s light yet satisfying—ideal after a morning on the wall.

Seek out stalls with vibrant displays of fresh ingredients (cucumbers, chili oil jars) and a bustling vibe, common around Xiaozhai Station or the Muslim Quarter’s side alleys. Vendors who toss noodles to order—often with a theatrical flourish—are a good sign of freshness. Avoid spots with pre-made liangpi that have been sitting out for too long, as the noodles can lose their bounce.

Experience Tip: Specify “xiao là” (light spice) if the chili oil looks intense. Point to ingredients for custom toppings, as English is not widely spoken. Grab a skewer of candied hawthorn from a nearby stall for a sweet finish.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a 7-story Buddhist masterpiece built in 652 AD, stands as a beacon of Xi’an’s Silk Road heritage. Nestled within Da Ci’en Temple, it’s a serene escape and one of the best cultural experiences in Xi’an, offering a blend of history and tranquility.

The Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India, featuring intricate carvings and surrounding gardens that evoke ancient spirituality. Climbing its 256 steps rewards you with stunning city views.

Access and Tickets: Open 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Temple entry is 50 CNY, with an additional 40 CNY to climb the Pagoda. Visit in April or November for blooming peonies and fewer crowds.

Timing and Duration: Spend 1-1.5 hours exploring the temple grounds and Pagoda. A 20-minute climb (if you choose to ascend) offers a quick but rewarding view.

After a tranquil afternoon at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, cap your second day with a dazzling Tang Dynasty performance that brings Xi’an’s golden age to life through vibrant music, dance, and storytelling. The “Dreams of Tang Dynasty” at Tang Paradise, just steps from the Pagoda, is a must-see Xi’an spectacle, delivering a theatrical indoor epic that immerses you in the opulence of ancient Chang’an. This show, one of the top things to do in Xi’an in 3 days, seamlessly blends traditional Tang artistry with modern flair, providing a perfect cultural finale to your day in the heart of Xi’an.

“Dreams of Tang Dynasty” at Tang Paradise:

Performed at the Phoenix Theater in Tang Paradise (99 Furong West Road, near Big Wild Goose Pagoda), this 70-minute indoor musical epic immerses you in the Tang Dynasty’s opulence. Expect vibrant choreography, intricate costumes (think flowing silk robes and golden headdresses), and modern audiovisual effects that recreate imperial courts, Silk Road scenes, and the world of poet Li Bai. The show blends traditional Tang music with contemporary flair, featuring dances and dramatic narratives that evoke the royal life. Its four scenes evoke a dreamlike journey, making it perfect for families or those seeking a polished and accessible spectacle. English subtitles or brochures make it welcoming for non-Chinese travelers.

Timing: Shows typically run at 7:30 PM or 9:00 PM. Plan 1.5 hours, including pre-show arrival.

Tickets: 200-380 CNY (VIP seats up to 680 CNY). Book 5-10 days in advance via Trip.com to secure central seats, as they tend to sell out on weekends. Tang Paradise entry (120 CNY) is separate but recommended for daytime exploration.

Day 3 of your essential Xi’an activities wraps up your adventure with a perfect blend of historic grandeur and modern sparkle, cementing Xi’an’s status as China’s ancient heart with a contemporary pulse. Start your morning at the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, twin landmarks that pulse with the city’s 14th-century rhythm, anchoring you in Xi’an’s past. The afternoon offers flexibility to dive deeper into history at the Xi’an Museum or Small Wild Goose Pagoda, letting you tailor your 3-day Xi’an itinerary to your pace. Finally, bask in the neon-lit magic of Datang Everbright City, where Tang Dynasty vibes meet modern revelry. This lineup balances iconic sights, personal choice, and a festive farewell.

The Bell Tower and Drum Tower, standing sentinel at Xi’an’s heart since the 1380s, are must-see landmarks in Xi'an, marking the city’s historic core with their Ming-era elegance. These twin icons, once used to signal dawn and dusk, offer a quick yet evocative glimpse into Xi’an’s imperial rhythm, perfect for a compact morning.
The Bell Tower (1384), with its jade-green roof and golden chimes, and the Drum Tower (1380), home to massive ceremonial drums, showcase Xi’an’s role as a dynastic hub. Their central location near the Muslim Quarter makes them a seamless starting point for Day 3.

Access and Tickets: Open 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. A combo ticket for both is 50 CNY (single entry 35 CNY each).

Timing and Duration: Spend 30-45 minutes per tower. The Bell Tower’s upper platform offers city views, while the Drum Tower’s drum exhibition and occasional performances add flair. Visit by 9:00 AM to avoid crowds.

Insider Tip: Start at the Bell Tower for its iconic views, then stroll to the Drum Tower via Huajue Lane for a taste of morning street food. Climb both for different views.

After soaking in the Bell and Drum Towers’ historic charm, spend your final afternoon and evening on one of the must-do Xi’an adventures: a half-day trip to Huaqing Palace and Mount Li, 30 km east of Xi’an. This iconic duo blends Tang Dynasty romance, natural beauty, and modern spectacle, offering a perfect capstone to your trip. In the afternoon, wander Huaqing Palace’s ancient hot springs and pavilions, then hike or ride a cable car up Mount Li for breathtaking views.

Huaqing Palace (Afternoon):

Located at 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Huaqing Palace is a historic gem where the legendary romance between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei unfolded in the 8th century. Explore Tang-style pavilions, steaming hot spring pools, and serene gardens, with exhibits on the Tang Dynasty and the An Lushan Rebellion. The site’s compact layout and vivid history make it a lighter, more scenic historical dive than a museum, perfect for Day 3.

Access and Tickets: Open 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, entry is 120 CNY. Guided tours offer English insights into the love story.

Timing and Duration: Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the palace grounds, hot springs, and Five-Room Hall. Start by 1:00 PM to allow time for Mount Li.

Mount Li (Late Afternoon):

Adjacent to Huaqing Palace, Mount Li (Lishan) offers scenic trails and panoramic views of the Lintong valley, steeped in myths of emperors and poets. Choose a 1-2 hour hike (moderate, ~3 km to the Beacon Tower) or a cable car ride (60 CNY round-trip) to the summit for stunning views, especially at sunset. The mountain’s lush greenery and historical significance make it a refreshing contrast to Xi’an’s urban sites.

Access and Tickets: Open 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Free entry for trails. Cable car: 60 CNY (available for purchase at the Lishan Cableway Station). No booking is needed, but please check the weather for hiking.

Timing and Duration: Plan 1-2 hours for hiking or 45 minutes to an hour for the cable car round-trip. Aim for 3:00-5:00 PM to catch golden-hour views.

Staged at Huaqing Palace (38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, 30 km east of Xi’an, this 70-minute open-air historical drama is a visual masterpiece set against the backdrop of Mount Li and Nine Dragons Lake. Based on Bai Juyi’s poem, it tells the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei through 10 scenes, from their romance to the An Lushan Rebellion and a fairytale reunion. Expect Tang-style dances, poetic narration, and stunning effects—misty waterfalls, fiery spectacles, and starlit skies—blending nature and history. The outdoor setting at the historic site where the romance unfolded adds emotional depth.

The open-air stage, framed by Mount Li’s silhouette and Tang-era pavilions, feels like a portal to the 8th century. The show’s grandeur and historic setting make it a bucket-list experience for history buffs and romantics.

Timing: Shows run April to October at 8:00 PM or 9:30 PM (weather-dependent, 70 minutes). Arrive by 7:30 PM for ticket collection. No performances are scheduled from November to March due to cold weather.

Tickets: 298-988 CNY. Book 10 days in advance via Trip.com, as central seats sell out.

In just 2-3 days, this Xi’an itinerary unlocks the heart of China’s ancient capital, weaving together the best things to do in Xi’an, China, from the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors to the sizzling flavors of the Muslim Quarter. Day 1 immerses you in Xi’an’s imperial legacy and culinary soul, Day 2 blends adventure on the Ancient City Wall with the serenity of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and a dazzling Tang Dynasty show, and Day 3 crowns your trip with the historic romance of Huaqing Palace, Mount Li’s scenic splendor, and the unforgettable “Song of Everlasting Sorrow.”

Pack your curiosity, bring an appetite, and let Xi’an’s timeless charm captivate you—your unforgettable journey through the Silk Road’s gateway awaits!