Attractions
Must-See Attractions in Xi'an
From the world-famous Terracotta Warriors to hidden local gems. 12 attractions with practical guides on tickets, timing, and insider tips.
Quick Decision Guide
First time in Xi'an with limited time? Here is how to prioritize:
Each attraction below has a full guide with ticket prices, opening hours, how to get there, insider tips, and FAQs. Click through for everything you need.
What Kind of Traveler Are You?
History Buff
Terracotta Warriors, Shaanxi Museum, Han Yangling, Daming Palace, Bell & Drum Towers
Food Lover
Muslim Quarter, endless street food, night markets, local noodle shops
Photographer
City Wall at sunset, Big Wild Goose Pagoda at night, Tang Paradise lanterns
At a Glance: Attraction Comparison
| Attraction | Time | Cost | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terracotta Warriors | 3-4h | $18 | Archaeology |
| City Wall | 2-3h | $8 | Outdoor/Active |
| Muslim Quarter | 2-3h | Free | Food/Culture |
| Shaanxi Museum | 2-4h | Free | Museum |
| Mount Huashan | Full day | $24 | Hiking |
| Big Wild Goose Pagoda | 1-2h | $6 | Architecture |
Tap any card below for a full guide with tickets, hours, tips, and FAQ.
Terracotta Warriors
The 8th Wonder of the World
- 8,000 life-sized soldiers in Pit 1
- Arrive at 8:30 AM for empty halls
- Book online 7 days ahead
Ancient City Wall
China's best-preserved fortification
- Cycle the 14km loop (2-3 hours)
- Sunset rides at South Gate
- Red lanterns after dark
Muslim Quarter
Street food paradise
- Go after 7 PM for peak energy
- Biangbiang noodles + lamb skewers
- 1,300 years of Hui culture
Mount Huashan
China's most dramatic hike
- The famous Plank Walk
- 30 min by high-speed train
- Sunrise from East Peak
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
1,300-year-old Buddhist landmark
- Free musical fountain show
- Climb for city skyline views
- Great Tang Mall at night
Shaanxi History Museum
China's best provincial museum
- Free (must book online)
- Tang Dynasty gold and jade
- 1.7 million artifacts
Huaqing Hot Springs
Tang Dynasty imperial baths
- 10 min from Terracotta Warriors
- Winter hot springs in snow
- Night show: Song of Sorrow
Bell & Drum Towers
The heart of the old city
- 360-degree city views
- Live drum performances
- Gateway to Muslim Quarter
Han Yangling Mausoleum
The quieter mausoleum
- Glass-floored museum walkways
- Almost zero crowds on weekdays
- Miniature Han Dynasty figurines
Tang Paradise
Tang Dynasty theme park
- Nightly water and light show
- Best visited after dusk
- Costume rentals for photos
Daming Palace Ruins
Largest palace ever built
- 4.5x the size of Forbidden City
- Tang Dynasty imperial palace
- Underground museum
Compare Attractions
Side-by-side comparison tool
- Compare any two attractions
- Prices, crowds, best times
- Find your perfect match