What to Do in Xi'an in 3 Days

Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, is a city rich in history and culture, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. In this three-day itinerary, we will explore the must-see sights, delve into the local cuisine, and provide tips on how to make the most of your time in this historic city.

Day 1: Discover the Heart of Xi'an

Morning: The Terracotta Army

• Start your day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of China's most famous archaeological discoveries. Located about 40 kilometers east of Xi'an, the site features thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and make sure to spend time in each of the three main pits to fully appreciate the scale of the army. Consider hiring a guide to get a deeper understanding of the site's history.

Afternoon: The Ancient City Wall

• Head back to Xi'an to explore the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. The wall dates back to the Ming Dynasty and offers stunning views of the city.
• Tip: Rent a bike and cycle around the top of the wall for a unique perspective. The full circuit is approximately 14 kilometers.

Evening: Muslim Quarter

• In the evening, visit the Muslim Quarter for a vibrant street food experience. This bustling area is famous for its diverse food offerings, including biangbiang noodles, yangrou paomo (lamb stew with bread), and a variety of skewers.
• Tip: Be prepared for crowds and enjoy sampling different street foods. The night market atmosphere is lively and colorful, perfect for soaking in local culture.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration and Modern Xi'an

Morning: Big Wild Goose Pagoda

• Begin your second day with a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist site originally built during the Tang Dynasty. The pagoda is renowned for its historical and architectural significance.
• Tip: Climb to the top of the pagoda for panoramic views of Xi'an and explore the surrounding Da Ci'en Temple complex.

Afternoon: Shaanxi History Museum

• After lunch, head to the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various dynasties. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Xi'an's rich history.
• Tip: The museum is popular, so consider visiting in the afternoon to avoid the morning rush. Admission is free, but you may need to book tickets in advance.

Evening: Tang Dynasty Show

• In the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. This performance showcases traditional music and dance from the Tang Dynasty, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of Xi'an's historical period.
• Tip: The show often includes a buffet dinner, so it's a great way to enjoy local cuisine while being entertained.

Day 3: Local Experiences and Relaxation

Morning: Hanyangling Mausoleum

• Start your final day with a trip to the Hanyangling Mausoleum, the tomb of Emperor Liu Qi of the Han Dynasty. The site features a unique underground museum where you can see small models of the original terracotta figures.
• Tip: The site is less crowded than the Terracotta Army, offering a more peaceful experience.

Afternoon: Xi'an Great Mosque

• Return to the city to visit the Xi'an Great Mosque, a fascinating blend of traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic design. Located in the Muslim Quarter, the mosque is one of the oldest and largest in China.
• Tip: Respect local customs by dressing modestly and removing your shoes before entering.

Evening: Enjoying Local Delicacies

• Spend your final evening relaxing at a local restaurant or café. Try traditional Xi'an snacks like roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) or chao mian (fried noodles).
• Tip: For a more modern dining experience, check out the Tang West Market area, which features a variety of dining options and shops.

Additional Tips

• Transportation: Xi'an's public transportation system includes buses and subways, making it easy to get around. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also widely available.
• Language: English is not widely spoken, so having a translation app or phrasebook can be helpful.
• Weather: Xi'an experiences distinct seasons, so pack accordingly based on the time of year you visit. Summers can be hot, while winters may be cold.

In just three days, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and local cuisine of Xi'an. Whether you're marveling at ancient relics, enjoying local street food, or exploring historical sites, Xi'an offers a memorable experience for every traveler.

Summary

• Day 1: Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter
• Day 2: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum, Tang Dynasty Show
• Day 3: Hanyangling Mausoleum, Xi'an Great Mosque, Local Delicacies