How to Plan your Private Day Tour to Terra Cotta Warriors and Optional City Attractions in Xian
If you are visiting China and have limited time to explore Xi’an, this private day tour of the Terra Cotta Warriors and other city attractions is a must-see. With the assistance of a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, you can make the most of your time in this historic city.Overview
On this customizable tour, you will meet your private guide and driver at your desired location and embark on a journey to explore one of Xi’an’s most famous attractions – the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. After exploring the museum, you will be taken to a local Chinese restaurant for an authentic lunch. After lunch, you can choose two of the following attractions to visit:- The Muslim Quarter
- The Xian City Wall
- The Shaanxi History Museum
- The Temple of the Eight Immortals
Explore Xian with a Private Guide and Driver
With the help of a professional English-speaking guide and a private car and driver, you will be able to explore Xi’an with ease. You can sit back and relax as your guide takes you from one attraction to another.Tour the Terracotta Warriors and Your Choice of Two Downtown Attractions
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is one of Xi’an’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 8,000 life-size clay warriors, horses, and chariots that were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang in 210 BC. In addition to the Terracotta Warriors, you can choose to visit two other downtown attractions. The Muslim Quarter, known for its lively street markets and delicious snacks, is a great place to explore if you are interested in trying out new foods or haggling for souvenirs. If you are interested in history, the Shaanxi History Museum is a fascinating place to visit. The museum is home to over 370,000 cultural relics, including bronze wares, pottery, and jade. For a more relaxed experience, you can visit the Temple of the Eight Immortals or take a stroll along the Xian City Wall. The temple is a Taoist temple built in the 2nd century AD, while the city wall is one of the best-preserved ancient walls in China.Feast on an Authentic Local Lunch in a Chinese Restaurant
The tour includes a delicious local Chinese lunch at a carefully selected restaurant. Your guide will be able to recommend dishes that are popular in the area and help you navigate the menu if needed.Relax on Transfers to or from the Airport, Fast-Train Station, and Downtown
If you are arriving in Xi’an by plane or fast train, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the airport or fast-train station. If you are already in downtown Xi’an, the tour will pick you up from your hotel.What’s Included
This tour includes the following:- Professional English-speaking guide
- Private car and driver
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Authentic local lunch at a Chinese restaurant
Meeting and Pickup
The tour starts at 8:30 AM, and pickup is available from any hotel within the third ring road of Xi’an downtown.Book the Tour Here
If you are interested in booking this private day tour in Xi’an, you can do so through Viator. Viator is a third-party company that offers a wide range of tours and activities around the world. You can book the tour here: Book the Tour Here.Book Your Tour Now
With this private day tour, you can make the most of your time in Xi’an and explore some of its most famous attractions with a knowledgeable guide. Whether you are interested in history, food, or just want to relax and explore the city, this tour has something for everyone. Book your tour today and get ready to experience the wonders of Xi’an.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xian
Q: Where is Xian?
Xian is located in the central-northwest region of China, in the province of Shaanxi. It is one of the oldest cities in China and was the capital of several dynasties, including the Qin, Han, and Tang.
Q: How do I get to Xian?
There are several ways to get to Xian:
- By air: Xian Xianyang International Airport has connections to many domestic and international destinations.
- By train: Xian has many train stations, including Xian Railway Station and North Railway Station, with connections to other cities in China.
- By bus: Xian has an extensive bus network with connections to nearby cities and towns.
Q: What are the must-see attractions in Xian?
Xian is known for its rich history and cultural attractions. Some of the must-see attractions include:
- The Terracotta Warriors: a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top tourist attractions in China.
- The City Wall: an ancient fortification that encircles the Old City of Xian.
- The Great Mosque: a well-preserved example of Chinese Islamic architecture.
- The Bell Tower and Drum Tower: two ancient towers located in the center of Xian.
Q: What is the best time to visit Xian?
The best time to visit Xian is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be very cold and dry.
Q: What is the local cuisine like in Xian?
Xian is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, which includes dishes such as:
- Roujiamo: a type of sandwich filled with seasoned meat and vegetables.
- Biang Biang Noodles: a type of thick, hand-pulled noodle.
- Yangrou Paomo: a hearty lamb stew served with unleavened bread.
Q: Is Xian safe for tourists?
Overall, Xian is a safe city for tourists. However, as with any major city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious when walking alone at night.
Q: What are some lesser-known attractions in Xian?
While the Terracotta Warriors and City Wall are the most famous attractions in Xian, there are also many lesser-known attractions worth visiting, such as:
- The Shaanxi History Museum: a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Shaanxi province.
- The Huaqing Palace: a historic hot springs resort that was frequented by Chinese emperors.
- The Tang Paradise: a theme park that recreates the ambiance of the Tang Dynasty.
Q: What are some cultural customs and etiquette in Xian?
When visiting Xian, it is important to be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Some tips include:
- Covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or other cultural sites.
- Removing your shoes when entering someone’s home.
- Using two hands to pass or receive items, such as business cards or gifts.
Q: What is the currency in Xian?
The currency in Xian is the Chinese yuan (CNY). It is recommended to exchange money at a bank or authorized exchange center to ensure you receive a fair exchange rate.
Q: Can I use my credit card in Xian?
Most major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in larger restaurants, hotels and shops in Xian. However, it is recommended to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more rural areas.
Q: What is the language spoken in Xian?
The official language in Xian is Mandarin Chinese. While not all locals may speak English, many signs and tourist information are also displayed in English.
Q: Are there any local customs or traditions that visitors should be aware of?
One local custom that visitors should be aware of when in Xian is to not touch the head of a child as it is considered disrespectful. Additionally, when entering a traditional Chinese home, it is common to bring a small gift, such as fruit or tea, as a sign of respect.
Q: What is the nightlife like in Xian?
Xian has a lively nightlife scene with several bars and nightclubs located around the city. The Muslim Quarter is also a popular destination for late-night street food and shopping.
Q: Is it necessary to tip in Xian?
Tipping is not a common practice in China, and locals are generally not expecting a tip. However, it is becoming more common in tourist areas to leave a small tip at restaurants or for services such as taxi rides.
Q: What are some popular shopping destinations in Xian?
Xian is known for its unique and traditional handicrafts, such as calligraphy brushes and antique pottery. Some popular shopping destinations include:
- The Muslim Quarter: a bustling market area with streets lined with shops selling food, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
- Xi’an Antique Market: a large market selling antiques and cultural artifacts.
- Century Ginwa Shopping Mall: a modern shopping complex with a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
Q: What is the best way to get around Xian?
Xian has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis. Additionally, bikes and electric scooters are available for rent throughout the city. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially around the historic Old City area.
Q: What are some day-trip options from Xian?
There are many interesting day-trip options from Xian, such as:
- The Hua Shan Mountain: known for its dramatic peaks and scenic views.
- The Ancient City of Pingyao: a walled city that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- The Famen Temple: a Buddhist temple that is home to many ancient artifacts and relics.
Q: Is Xian wheelchair accessible?
Xian is not the most wheelchair-accessible city in China. While some attractions, such as the City Wall and Muslim Quarter, can be easily accessed with a wheelchair or mobility device, others, such as the Terracotta Warriors or some of the ancient temples, may pose more of a challenge due to stairs or uneven pathways.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Xian
Xian, located in the Shaanxi province of China, is a city with a rich history and culture. It is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China and is home to the Terracotta Army, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. Here is a guide to make the most of your time as a tourist in Xian:1. Visit the Terracotta Army
Located about 40km east of the city, the Terracotta Army is a must-visit attraction. Built over 2,000 years ago, the army of thousands of life-size clay warriors and horses were constructed to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. You can easily reach the site by taking a bus, hiring a taxi or joining an organized tour. The entrance fee is reasonable, and there is a museum, souvenir shops, and restaurants on-site as well.2. Walk on the Ancient City Wall
With a length of 13.7 km, the Ancient City Wall is the most well-preserved city wall in China. Built-in the Ming Dynasty, the wall is about 12 meters tall, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city by walking or cycling on it. Admission is reasonable, and bicycle rental is also available.3. Explore the Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter, located in the center of the city, is a fascinating place to visit. The area is home to many famous food stalls, souvenir shops, and historic architecture. You can also visit the Great Mosque of Xian, which was built in the Tang Dynasty and is one of the oldest and largest mosques in China. It’s always bustling with life there, and it’s interesting to see the how the Muslim culture is combined naturally with Chinese culture.4. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is another must-visit attraction in Xian. The museum is home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and statues that date back to the Han Dynasty. You can easily spend a few hours here and learn a lot about the rich history of China. Admission is free, but you need to get a ticket before you can enter.5. Walk Along the Bell and Drum Tower Square
Located in the city center, the Bell and Drum Tower Square is a historic landmark in Xian. The Bell Tower was built in the 14th century and was used to keep time in ancient China, while the Drum Tower was used to warn the people of a fire or an invasion. You can climb the Bell Tower to enjoy an amazing view of the city or watch a performance of ancient music at the Drum Tower at night. There are also lots of food vendors and souvenir stands around the square.6. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, located on the outskirts of the city, is an ancient Buddhist temple that was built during the Tang Dynasty. The pagoda is about 64 meters tall and has seven stories. It’s a great place to learn about Buddhism and enjoy the beautiful architecture. There is also a musical fountain show at night that is worth checking out.7. Taste Xi’an’s Famous Foods
Xi’an is known for its famous foods, such as the Chinese hamburger (roujiamo), the cold noodle (lilomian), pita bread soaked in mutton soup (yangroupaomo), and many tasty snacks. Be sure to try these foods when you visit Xian, and you can also join a food tour to taste various local dishes.Final Words
Xian is an amazing city with wonderful tourist attractions and delicious food. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Xian. Be sure to plan your trip in advance, and have a great time exploring this beautiful city.Table of Contents
