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5 Days in Xi'an Exploring History and Cuisine

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5 Days in Xi'an Exploring History and Cuisine

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5 Days in Xi'an Exploring History and Cuisine Itinerary

Last updated: 2025 Feb 15

Discovering Ancient Wonders

Morning

Start your day at the iconic Drum Tower (Gulou), a symbol of Xi'an's rich history. This impressive structure offers a glimpse into the city's past and stunning views from the top. Spend about 1-2 hours exploring the tower and its surroundings, which are filled with local shops and street vendors selling traditional snacks.

Afternoon

After visiting the Drum Tower, head to the nearby Muslim Quarter, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Enjoy a walking tour of this vibrant area, famous for its street food stalls and unique architecture. Don't miss trying some local delicacies like Yangrou Paomo (bread soaked in mutton soup) or Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger). Allocate around 2-3 hours for this experience.

Evening

For your evening entertainment, attend The Legend of Kung Fu Show at the Red Theatre. This spectacular performance showcases traditional Chinese martial arts through an engaging story. The show starts around 7:30 PM, so plan to arrive early to find your seat and enjoy a light dinner nearby at Hua Jia Yi Yuan before the show.

Where to stay in Xi'an

Find amazing hotels in Xi'an.

Exploring Historical Treasures

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of China's most significant archaeological discoveries. Located about an hour from Xi'an city center, it's best to join a guided tour for an insightful experience that lasts approximately 3 hours. Marvel at thousands of life-sized soldiers that were buried with China's first emperor.

Afternoon

Return to Xi'an for lunch at De Fa Chang, known for its dumplings and traditional Shaanxi cuisine. Afterward, visit the ancient City Wall of Xi'an, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. You can rent a bike or walk along its top for panoramic views of both ancient and modern parts of the city; allocate around 2 hours here.

Evening

Wrap up your day with dinner at Jia San Guan Tang Bao, famous for its soup dumplings. After dinner, consider taking an evening stroll through the illuminated streets near Bell Tower Square or enjoy some tea at Tea House. If you're up for it, you can also catch a cultural performance such as Tang Dynasty Music & Dance Show.

Where to stay in Xi'an

Find amazing hotels in Xi'an.

Cultural Immersion in Xi'an

Morning

On your third day, start by visiting the Shaanxi History Museum (Shaanxi Lishi Bowuguan), which showcases artifacts from various dynasties that once ruled China. Spend about 2-3 hours here absorbing ancient history through fascinating exhibits.

Afternoon

For lunch, try Lao Sun Jia, renowned for its authentic local dishes like Liangpi (cold noodles) and other specialties from Shaanxi province. Post-lunch, head over to Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta), an important Buddhist site with beautiful gardens surrounding it; allow around 1-2 hours to explore this serene location.

Evening

In the evening, indulge in some local nightlife by visiting Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (Maozhuxi Jinian Tang) if time permits or relax at a cozy café like Café de Flore where you can unwind after a busy day.

Where to stay in Xi'an

Find amazing hotels in Xi'an.

Art and Culture Exploration

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Xi'an Art Museum, where you can appreciate contemporary and traditional Chinese art. Spend about 2 hours exploring the exhibits that showcase local artists and historical pieces. This museum provides a great insight into the cultural evolution of Xi'an.

Afternoon

After the museum, enjoy lunch at Wei's Dumplings, famous for its handmade dumplings and local flavors. Post-lunch, head to the Great Mosque of Xi'an, one of the largest mosques in China, which beautifully blends Islamic architecture with traditional Chinese design. Allocate around 1-2 hours to wander through its peaceful courtyards and admire its intricate details.

Evening

For dinner, try Xi'an Famous Foods, known for its authentic Shaanxi dishes like Biang Biang noodles. After dinner, consider visiting 798 Art District for an evening stroll through this vibrant area filled with galleries, shops, and cafes showcasing modern art.

Where to stay in Xi'an

Find amazing hotels in Xi'an.

Final Day of Discovery

Morning

On your final day in Xi'an, start by visiting the Confucius Temple (Kong Miao), a serene place dedicated to Confucius that reflects traditional Chinese architecture. Spend about 1-2 hours here enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and learning about Confucianism's influence on Chinese culture.

Afternoon

For lunch, savor some local flavors at Huang Cheng Lao Ma, known for its spicy hot pot. Afterward, visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes (Renmin Yingjie Jinian Bei), an important historical site commemorating those who fought for China's liberation; spend around 1 hour here reflecting on its significance.

Evening

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Bao Yu Restaurant, which offers a range of traditional dishes in a cozy setting. If time allows before your departure, take one last stroll through the Muslim Quarter to pick up souvenirs or enjoy some street food snacks.