Xian, China-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: The Terracotta Warriors

Morning

  • Terracotta Warriors Museum: Start your day by visiting the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of these ancient artifacts.
  • Lunch: Head to Jin Yang Lou (金阳楼), a local restaurant near the museum serving authentic Sichuan cuisine.

Afternoon

  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this iconic 7-story pagoda, built in 652 AD. It’s a great spot for panoramic views of Xi’an.
  • Xian City Wall: Take a stroll along the ancient city wall, one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in China.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Shaanxi cuisine at Shaanxi Ancient Folk House Restaurant (陕西古民居餐厅).
  • Nightlife: Explore the lively Muslim Quarter, known for its vibrant night market and delicious street food.

Day 2: Historical Xi’an

Morning

  • Xi’an Museum: Visit this museum to learn about the city’s rich history, from the Qin and Han dynasties to modern times.
  • Lunch: Grab a snack or meal at Xi’an Muslim Restaurant (西安回族餐馆), serving a variety of Chinese dishes.

Afternoon

  • Bell Tower: Explore this historic bell tower, which was built in 1384 and features stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.
  • Drum Tower: Visit the smaller drum tower next door, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Evening

  • Dinner: Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hua Xiang Restaurant (华巷酒家), known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

Day 3: Ancient Ruins

Morning

  • The Grand Mosque: Visit this stunning mosque, one of the oldest in China, built by a Persian architect.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Islamic cuisine at Hua Xiang Restaurant’s courtyard, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

  • Banpo Museum: Explore this museum showcasing ancient artifacts and relics from the Yangshao culture (5,000 BC).
  • Shaanxi History Museum: Visit this impressive museum featuring an extensive collection of historical artifacts.

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor local flavors at Wang’s Kitchen (王家厨房), a renowned restaurant serving authentic Shaanxi cuisine.
  • Nightlife: Relax in the tranquil atmosphere of the city walls or explore the lively streets around the Bell Tower.

Day 4: Great Tang All Day Mall

Morning

  • Great Tang All Day Mall: Visit this massive shopping mall, one of the largest in Asia, featuring a vast array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Lunch: Enjoy international cuisine at The Ritz-Carlton’s restaurant, offering stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Xian Ancient City Museum: Learn about the history of Xi’an’s ancient city walls, towers, and gates.
  • Xi’an City History Museum: Visit this museum showcasing the city’s development from ancient times to modern day.

Evening

  • Dinner: Savor local flavors at Feng Wei Xuan Restaurant (风味轩餐馆), known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere.
  • Nightlife: Explore the lively streets of the Tang All Day Mall or relax in a traditional tea house.

Day 5: Xi’an’s Hidden Gems

Morning

  • Xian Ancient Folk House Restaurant: Visit this local restaurant serving authentic Shaanxi cuisine.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Chinese dishes at Xin Xiang Restaurant (新乡餐馆).

Afternoon

  • Xi’an Museum of Terracotta Culture: Learn about the history and significance of terracotta artifacts in China.
  • Banpo Village: Visit this charming village, home to many artisans and craftspeople.

Evening

  • Dinner: Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Wang’s Kitchen (王家厨房), a renowned restaurant serving authentic Shaanxi cuisine.
  • Nightlife: Relax in the tranquil atmosphere of the city walls or explore the lively streets around the Bell Tower.

Accommodations

  • Hotel: Stay at the luxurious The Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an, located near the Great Tang All Day Mall and offering stunning views of the city.
  • Budget Option: Consider staying at a local hostel, such as Xi’an Youth Hostel, which offers affordable rates and a lively atmosphere.

Getting Around

  • Metro: Use the convenient metro system to get around the city. The metro runs from 6am to 11pm.
  • Taxi: Hail a taxi on the street or book in advance through a ride-sharing app.
  • Bicycle Rental: Rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques. Remove your shoes before entering sacred areas.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Shaanxi cuisine, which is distinct from other Chinese regional flavors.
  • Bargain: Haggling is a common practice in markets and shops. Be prepared to negotiate prices.

Other Tips

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China. Learn basic phrases like "" (hello) and "" (thank you).
  • Weather: Xi’an has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Pack accordingly.
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions to protect yourself from pickpocketing and petty theft.

Other Activities

  • Traditional Shaanxi Opera: Attend a performance of traditional opera at the Shaanxi Ancient Folk House Restaurant.
  • Calligraphy Class: Learn traditional Chinese calligraphy techniques with a local artist.
  • Cooking Class: Savor authentic Shaanxi cuisine by taking a cooking class at a local restaurant.

Transportation

  • Airport Shuttle: Take a shuttle bus from the airport to your hotel or a nearby metro station.
  • Long-Distance Bus: Use the long-distance bus system to travel to other cities in China.
  • Train Station: Visit the Xi’an Railway Station for domestic and international train schedules.

Additional Information

  • Government Website: Visit the official website of the Chinese government for information on tourism, culture, and history.
  • Tourist Bureau: Contact the local tourist bureau for assistance with planning your trip and answering any questions you may have.