China, Made Clear
Verified city guide

Xi'an

Reserve the Terracotta Warriors first, then use the metro and compact old-city routes for the City Wall, towers and a careful evening food walk.

Last verified 2026-06-29
Explore clearly

Choose a route

Plan your arrival journey
first visit

Xi'an essentials: Terracotta Warriors and the old city

Est. Full day · 6 km walking

transit

Xi'an airport to the old city: a cautious transit day

Est. 8-10 hours outside the airport · 4 km walking

go deeper

Xi'an evening food route around the old city

Est. Half day · 4 km walking

Practical essentials

Before you go

Verified guide

How to pay for Xi'an Metro as an international visitor

The official provincial guidance lists single-journey tickets and Alipay as metro options. Set up mobile payment before traveling, but keep cash as a backup and ask station staff for the current purchase method if needed.

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Xi'an attraction reservations: start with the Terracotta Warriors

Book the Terracotta Warriors through the museum's official channel before planning transport. Check every other attraction's current official notice separately.

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Xi'an airport transfer without guessing

Metro Line 14 connects the airport side of the network with Xi'an North Railway Station. Use the live station map or ask staff for the current onward route to the old city.