Xi'an 5-Day: Ancient Capital Journey

Introduction

For travelers who want to experience Xi’an beyond the surface, this 5-day itinerary offers a deeper dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.

Day 1: Terracotta Army

• Terracotta Army Museum: Full day exploring the archaeological site.
• Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum: Visit the emperor’s tomb.

Day 2: City Walls and Markets

• City Wall: Bike or walk the ancient walls.
• Bell Tower and Drum Tower: Historic towers.
• Muslim Quarter: Evening market and street food.

Day 3: Temples and Museums

• Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Buddhist pagoda and gardens.
• Shaanxi History Museum: Comprehensive history museum.
• Small Wild Goose Pagoda: Another ancient pagoda.

Day 4: Day Trip

• Mount Hua: Beautiful mountain with hiking trails.
• Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs.

Day 5: Food and Farewell

• Morning: Breakfast at a local market.
• Afternoon: Shopping and last-minute exploration.
• Evening: Farewell dinner with Xi’an specialties.

Travel Tips

• Terracotta Army: Allow at least 3-4 hours for the visit.
• Mount Hua: Start early for a full day trip.
• Local Food: Try roujiamo, cold noodles, and dumplings.

Last Updated: July 2026