Ancient sites
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Terracotta Army | Thousands of life-size clay soldiers, each with a different face, on the World Heritage list. | ¥120, from 8:30 am; about an hour from the city |
| The Xi'an City Wall | China's most complete ancient city wall, about 14 kilometres to walk or cycle on top. | ¥100, 8 am to 11 pm |
| The Big Wild Goose Pagoda | A Tang-dynasty Buddhist pagoda, with dancing fountains around it in the evening. | South of the city |
| The Bell and Drum Towers | Two wooden towers in the heart of the old city, loveliest at night. | Central Xi'an |
| The Shaanxi History Museum | One of China's leading museums, with treasures of the dynasties that ruled from Xi'an. | Book ahead with your passport |
The Muslim Quarter
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Great Mosque of Xi'an | One of China's oldest and largest mosques, in Chinese style with pavilions and gardens. | ¥15 to 25; closed to visitors on Friday mornings |
| Huimin Street | China's best-known halal food market: grilled lamb, meat-filled bread and traditional sweets. | Behind the Drum Tower |
Around Xi'an
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Hua | One of China's most famous mountains, with five peaks, rock paths and cable cars. | About an hour by high-speed train and bus |
Tips before you go
- Xi'an is about four and a half hours by high-speed train from Beijing.
- Book the Terracotta Army ahead with your passport and go early, before the crowds.
- Halal food is plentiful in the Muslim Quarter.
More places nearby
- Things to do in China
- Guangzhou and Shenzhen
- Things to do in Beijing
- Things to do in Shanghai
- Things to do in Chengdu
- Things to do in Guilin and Yangshuo
- Things to do in Zhangjiajie
- Things to do in Hangzhou
- Things to do in Harbin
Visa
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Xi'an?
The Terracotta Army, the city wall, the Great Mosque and Muslim Quarter, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Bell and Drum Towers, the Shaanxi History Museum and Mount Hua.
How much is the Terracotta Army?
¥120, including the three pits and the Lishan Garden.
Is there halal food in Xi'an?
Yes, the Muslim Quarter and Huimin Street are among China's best-known halal food spots.
Planning your trip to China? Read Travel to China from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.