Xi'an, China: things to do, prices and tips 2026

Things to do in Xi'an (China): Terracotta Army, Xi'an City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Prices, opening times and the author’s tips.

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What to see

🗿Terracotta Army

Thousands of life-size clay warriors have guarded the tomb of the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, for over 2,200 years. Each one has its own face.

Price 120 yuan

Insider tip Start with Pit 3, then Pit 2, and save the biggest, Pit 1, for last — the effect is stronger. Book online and hire an official guide at the ticket office, not at the entrance.

🚴Xi'an City Wall

China's best-preserved city wall: 14 km around, and you can cycle along the top above the rooftops of the old town.

Price Entry about 54 yuan, bike about 45 yuan for 3 hours

Insider tip Start at the South Gate a couple of hours before sunset — by the end of the loop the lanterns will be lit. A full loop by bike takes about 1.5–2 hours.

🥙Muslim Quarter

Bustling streets of Hui food: roujiamo, the Chinese burger; biangbiang noodles as wide as a belt; lamb skewers; and paomo, soup with torn flatbread.

Price Snacks 10–30 yuan

Insider tip Huimin Street itself has tourist prices. Turn into Sajinqiao and Dapiyuan lanes — that's where locals eat, and it's cheaper.

🪷Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

A 7th-century pagoda built for the sutras the monk Xuanzang brought back from India. In the evening there's a musical fountain show on the square.

Price Temple grounds about 40 yuan, climbing the pagoda extra

Insider tip The fountain show usually runs in the evening around 8–9 pm; check the schedule on site. From here it's a short walk to Datang Everbright City.

🏮Datang Everbright City night street

A two-kilometre boulevard styled after the Tang dynasty capital: illuminated palaces, costumed street performers and dancing in the street.

Price Free

Insider tip Come after 8 pm when everything is lit. Many visitors rent a hanfu costume with hairstyling and make-up — about 100–200 yuan.

⛰Mount Hua (Huashan)

A sacred mountain with a plank walk over the abyss — for those with a head for heights.

Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide

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