How to Plan Your Xi’an Tour – Private Half-Day Terracotta Warriors Tour with Pickup

If you’re traveling to Xi’an and want to make the most of your time, a private half-day tour to the Terracotta Warriors of Qin Shi Huang Di is a must-see attraction. This is a UNESCO-listed world heritage site and one of China’s most popular tourist destinations. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to plan your tour to Xi’an and make the most of your experience.

Experience

This half-day tour is the perfect option for travelers with limited time in Xi’an. You will be picked up at your downtown hotel and driven directly to the Terracotta Warriors without any unnecessary stops at shopping facilities. Our licensed tour guides will share their knowledge and the history behind this archeological wonder.

Highlights

The main highlight of this tour is a visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, which is undoubtedly one of the most impressive archaeological finds in the world. These life-size sculptures of soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried with the first Emperor of China to protect him in the afterlife. Other highlights of this tour include: – Private tour with an English speaking guide – Downtown hotel pickup and drop-off – Entrance fee to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum – Gratuity for your guide and driver

Tour Description

The Terracotta Warriors tour is a quick half-day tour that starts with a pickup from your downtown Xian hotel. You will then be driven to the Terracotta Warriors Museum, which is located about an hour outside of the city. During the drive, your guide will give you an introduction to the history and significance of the site. When you arrive at the museum, your guide will take you on a tour of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses pits. You’ll see thousands of life-size soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried over 2,000 years ago to protect the first Emperor of China in the afterlife. After the tour, you’ll return to your Xian hotel or be dropped off at the airport, Xian North Train Station, or Xian Train Station, depending on the option you choose while booking the tour.

Not Suitable for

It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as the Terracotta Warriors Museum involves a lot of walking.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking this half-day Terracotta Warriors tour in Xi’an, you can do so online through GetYourGuide.com. The tour includes downtown hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking tour guide, entrance fees, and gratuities for your guide and driver. You can add airport/train station pickup or drop-off for an additional fee. Book the tour here and get ready to experience one of China’s most incredible historical sites in great company.

Frequently Asked Questions About Xi’an

Xi’an is a city that has a rich history and culture, attracting tourists from around the world. Here are some frequently asked questions about this fascinating city:

1. What is Xi’an Known For?

Xi’an is known for being the starting point of the Silk Road, a 7,000km trade route from China to Europe. It served as the capital of many Chinese dynasties, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, Tang, and Ming dynasties. Xi’an is also famous for the Terracotta Warriors, a collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The city is also known for its Muslim Quarter, where you can find a bustling market and delicious street food.

2. How Do I Get to Xi’an?

Xi’an is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. The Xi’an Xianyang International Airport has daily flights connecting major cities in China and international destinations like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. The city also has two major railway stations, the Xi’an Railway Station and the North Railway Station, which connect to major cities in China like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Buses from nearby cities like Luoyang and Zhengzhou are also available.

3. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Xi’an?

Aside from the Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an has other great attractions worth visiting. Some of the must-see attractions include the City Wall, which is the largest and most complete ancient city wall in China. The Shaanxi History Museum contains a vast collection of ancient artifacts and exhibits, including many from the Tang Dynasty. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 652 AD, is a Buddhist pagoda that towers over the city and offers great views of the surrounding area.

4. What Is the Best Time to Visit Xi’an?

The best time to visit Xi’an is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Summers in Xi’an can be hot and humid, and winters can be cold and dry. However, visiting during the winter months can be a great time to experience local festivals, like the Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival.

5. What Are Some Local Food Specialties in Xi’an?

Xi’an is known for its delicious street food, influenced by the city’s Muslim population. One of the most famous local dishes is the Roujiamo, a type of Chinese hamburger with juicy meat and crispy bread. Other specialties include Yangrou Paomo, a lamb soup with torn pieces of bread, and Biangbiang noodles, a type of thick, hand-pulled noodle served in a spicy sauce.

6. Is Xi’an Safe for Tourists?

Xi’an is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night. It’s also a good idea to keep your passport and valuables locked up in a hotel safe.

7. What is the Currency Used in Xi’an?

The currency used in Xi’an, like the rest of China, is the Chinese Yuan (CNY) or Renminbi (RMB). Most restaurants and shops accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, but it’s always a good idea to carry small amounts of cash for street vendors and small shops that may not accept credit cards.

8. What Language is Spoken in Xi’an?

The official language of China is Mandarin, which is spoken in Xi’an. However, many locals also speak the Xi’an dialect, which has its own unique characteristics. English is not widely spoken in Xi’an, so it’s a good idea to carry a translation app or brush up on some basic Chinese phrases before your trip.

9. What Are Some Local Customs and Manners in Xi’an?

When visiting Xi’an, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and manners. When greeting someone, it’s customary to bow slightly or nod your head as a sign of respect. Avoid pointing with your index finger, as this is considered rude. When eating, it’s polite to wait for the oldest or most senior member of your group to begin eating before you start. Finally, it’s always a good idea to ask permission before taking someone’s photo, especially if they are a stranger.

10. How Can I Get Around Xi’an?

Xi’an has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, subway, and taxis. The subway system is the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city, with two lines operating. Taxis are also readily available and affordable. If you prefer to walk or bike, many attractions in Xi’an are within walking or biking distance, and bike rentals are available throughout the city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Xi’an

Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi province in China, is a city that is rich in history and culture. It served as the capital of the country for 13 dynasties, and was a major stop on the Silk Road. With its many attractions and museums, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Xi’an. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step plan on how to spend your time in this beautiful city.

Day 1: The Terracotta Warriors and The Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The Terracotta Warriors are undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Xi’an, and are a must-see for any tourist. These life-sized sculptures of soldiers, horses, and chariots were created more than 2,000 years ago to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. To get there, you can take a tourist bus from the city center or hail a taxi. After visiting the Terracotta Warriors, head over to The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a holy place for Buddhists. This ancient structure stands at over 60 meters tall, and was built during the Tang dynasty. You can climb the pagoda to get a great view of the city, or simply stroll around the gardens and take in the scenery.

Day 2: The City Walls and The Great Mosque

The City Walls of Xi’an are a well-preserved example of ancient Chinese military architecture, and are one of the few city walls in the world that you can cycle or walk on. You can rent a bike or simply walk on the walls as you enjoy the view of the city. The city walls are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city below. After experiencing the city walls, head over to The Great Mosque, which combines elements of Chinese architecture with Islamic design. The mosque was built during the Tang dynasty and is one of the largest mosques in China. You can take a guided tour or simply explore the mosque on your own.

Day 3: The Shaanxi History Museum and The Bell and Drum Towers

The Shaanxi History Museum is an excellent place to learn about the history of the city and province. It contains over 370,000 exhibits, including murals, pottery, and coins. The museum is free to enter, but you’ll need to book a ticket in advance to ensure your entry. After visiting the museum, head over to The Bell and Drum Towers, two ancient structures that served as time-telling devices during the Ming dynasty. You can enter both of the towers and explore the exhibitions that are housed inside. You’ll also get a great view of the city from the top of the towers.

Day 4: The Hanyangling Mausoleum and The Tang Paradise

On your final day in Xi’an, head over to The Hanyangling Mausoleum, the tomb of Emperor Jingdi from the Western Han dynasty. The mausoleum is home to thousands of terracotta figurines that were buried with the emperor. You can take a guided tour or explore the site on your own. After visiting the mausoleum, head over to The Tang Paradise, a cultural theme park that is modeled after the Tang dynasty. The park contains a variety of attractions, such as a musical fountain show and amusement rides. You can also sample traditional Tang dynasty cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the park.

Book Your Tour Now

Xi’an is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to see and do. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that Xi’an has to offer, from the Terracotta Warriors to The Tang Paradise. Don’t forget to take the time to wander the streets of the city and explore some of the many local markets and street vendors. Xi’an is a city that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.