Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in China and holds a significant place in Chinese history and culture. Known as the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi'an was the capital of 13 dynasties, including the famous Tang Dynasty, making it a treasure trove of ancient relics and architectural wonders. The city is most famous for the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring thousands of life-sized soldier and horse statues.
Xi'an also offers a rich culinary scene, with local specialties like Biang Biang noodles and Yang Rou Pao Mo (mutton soup with bread). Despite its historical significance, Xi'an is a modern, bustling city with a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene.
Average Cost of Hotels in Xi'an
You don't have to worry about accommodations when traveling to Xi'an. Here, there are more than 738 hotels for you to choose from.
- There are 53 five-star hotels in Xi'an at an average price of 97 USD per night.
- There are 140 four-star hotels in Xi'an at an average price of 46 USD per night.
- There are 193 three-star hotels in Xi'an at an average price of 32 USD per night.
- There are 281 two-star hotels in Xi'an at an average price of 21 USD per night.
Xi'an has many well-known chain hotels which are suitable for both business trips and vacations. Ramada is the top choice of many travelers in Xi'an. A popular hotel in Xi'an, Skytel Xi'an is also one of the highest rated. Many tourists also stay at Citadines Central Xi’an.
Must-Experience Attractions for First-Time Visitors
- Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum: One of the most famous archaeological finds in the world, the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is a must-visit attraction for first-time visitors to Xi'an.
- Xi'an City Wall: The ancient city wall of Xi'an is one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the wall stretches for 13.7 kilometers and offers a unique perspective of the city.
- Shaanxi History Museum: This world-class museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Shaanxi province, with artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period. Highlights include treasures from the Han and Tang dynasties, as well as a collection of terracotta figurines and pottery.
- Bell Tower: The Bell Tower, built during the Ming Dynasty, houses a large iron bell that was used to mark the time.
- Mount Huashan: For those seeking adventure, a trip to Mount Huashan is a must. One of China's Five Great Mountains, Huashan is known for its steep cliffs, narrow paths, and breathtaking views.
Transportation in Xi'an
- Xi'an Xianyang International Airport: The main gateway to the city, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
- High-Speed Trains: Xi'an's train network connects it to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, with fast and frequent services.
- Subway: A convenient way to navigate the city, with lines that reach most of the popular tourist sites.
- Buses and Taxis: Affordable and widely available, buses and taxis are great for short-distance travel within the city.
Better to Know Before Visiting Xi'an
- Language: The official language in Xi'an is Mandarin Chinese. While some locals may speak English, it is helpful to learn a few basic Chinese phrases to help you communicate with locals.
- Currency: The currency used in Xi'an is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It is recommended to carry cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards. You can exchange money at banks, hotels, and exchange kiosks.
- Weather: Xi'an has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Safety: Xi'an is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
- Etiquette: Chinese customs and etiquette may be different from what you are used to. It is important to be respectful and observe local customs. For example, tipping is not common in China, and it may be considered rude in some situations.
Must-try Food in Xi'an
- Roujiamo: Often referred to as the Chinese hamburger, Roujiamo is a popular street food in Xi'an. It consists of a meat filling, usually pork, stewed for hours in a soup containing over 20 spices and seasonings, sandwiched in a freshly baked bun.
- Biang Biang Noodles: These are one of the "Eight Strange Wonders of Shaanxi". They are thick, wide, and incredibly long, often served with a spicy sauce, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
- Yangrou Paomo: This is a mutton soup served with wheat flour flat bread. The bread is broken up and added to the soup, along with vermicelli noodles, pickled garlic, and hot sauce.
- Liangpi: A cold noodle dish made from rice or wheat flour, served with a tangy, spicy, and savory sauce. It's a refreshing dish often enjoyed in the summer.
- Guantang Baozi: These are large, juicy dumplings filled with meat and a rich, savory broth. They are usually served with a straw to drink the soup before eating the dumpling.
- Shaanxi Sandwich (La Zhi Rou Jia Mo): This is a traditional snack in Shaanxi Province. The bread is crispy and the meat inside is juicy and tender.
Best Time to Visit Xi'an
The best time to visit Xi'an is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is comfortable and suitable for outdoor activities. The summer can be hot and rainy, while the winter can be quite cold. Additionally, these off-peak seasons often have fewer tourists, making sightseeing more enjoyable.
Average Temperature
• January to March: 6.64°C during the day, 1.93°C at night
• April to June: 23.15°C during the day, 17.25°C at night
• July to September: 26.94°C during the day, 22.03°C at night
• October to December: 10.36°C during the day, 5.74°C at night
Average seasonal Rainfall
• Spring: 14.53 cm
• Summer: 51.3 cm
• Autumn: 92.4 cm
• Winter: 30.03 cm
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