Get to know the place
An ancient capital, still full of life.
The Terracotta Army belongs to the mausoleum complex of China's first Qin emperor, outside the central city. Seeing the excavated figures in place gives a sense of scale that photographs cannot fully capture.
Back in Xi'an, keep time for the city wall and the streets around the old centre. Separate the museum outing from your city day so the trip feels less like a string of transfers.
Make room for these
Places & experiences
Terracotta Army
兵马俑Visit the excavated pits as part of the Qin mausoleum museum outing. A guide or the museum's interpretation helps put the figures in context.
Xi'an City Wall
西安城墙Explore a manageable section of the wall and its views. Check access and any cycling restrictions before planning a ride.
Old-city food streets
古城美食Try local noodles and breads, and seek out quieter lanes as well as the best-known food streets. Confirm ingredients if you have dietary needs.
A glimpse before you go
See the landscape. Feel the scale.
A starting point, not a schedule
A slower first-time route
Old-city arrival
Walk a small section of the old centre and leave the evening for local food.
The Qin mausoleum museum
Give the museum an unrushed outing with time for transport and the exhibits.
Wall and neighbourhoods
Pair the wall with one nearby district, rather than returning to the outer-city museum area.
An editorial route idea. Check actual travel times, weather, reservations and accessibility before booking.
