Xi’an is the capital of Shaanxi Province, with 11 districts and 2 counties under its jurisdiction, covering a total area of 10108 square kilometers. As of the end of 2024, Xi’an has a permanent population of 13.1676 million and has become a new first tier city in China.

Xi’an is a “World Historical City” designated by UNESCO in 1981. It is one of the important birthplaces of Chinese civilization and the Chinese nation, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, and is on par with world-famous ancient cities such as Rome, Athens, and Cairo. Therefore, there is a popular saying in China: “One Xi’an city, half of Chinese history.” This also illustrates the core position and unique value of Xi’an, as an ancient capital of 13 dynasties, in the long river of Chinese history.

Xi’an is one of my favorite cities in China, and I have visited many cities in China. When I return to Xi’an, the first thing is to have a meal of Liangpi and Roujiamo. The delicious food always reminds me of many childhood memories. It is a wonderful thing to invite some old classmates and friends to ride on the city wall of Xi’an. I can’t put down this ancient and heavy city.

Xi’an is also a city that many friends aspire to in the world. According to official statistics, Xi’an received 1.1126 million inbound tourists in 2023, and the number of domestic and foreign visitors to Xi’an continues to grow every year. Xi’an is not only a city favored by foreign friends, but also by political leaders from various countries. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, leaders from more than 200 countries have visited Xi’an, second only to Beijing and Shanghai in China.

Xi’an, this eternal city, is like a living open-air museum. She not only has the shock of the Terra Cotta Warriors and the thickness of the city wall, but also is filled with the fireworks of the Huimin Street, which beats the vigorous pulse of the modern city.

The indigenous people of Xi’an Travel Guide will help you plan your journey and accompany you to explore this ancient and mysterious city!

1、visit terracotta warriors – Imperial Power & Ancient Engineering.

Witness one of archaeology’s greatest discoveries – 8,000+ life-sized clay soldiers guarding China’s First Emperor for eternity.

• Explore all 3 pits: Pit 1 (main army) is jaw-dropping, Pit 2 shows excavation in progress, Pit 3 (command center) reveals strategy.
• Hire a guide or use an audio tour to understand the craftsmanship (each face is unique!) and Qin Dynasty history.
• See the Bronze Chariots in the museum annex – intricate 2,200-year-old masterpieces.
• Pro Tip:Go early (8 AM) to avoid crowds. Allow 3-4 hours. Combine with a visit to the tomb mound (unexcavated).

2、Bike or Walk the Ancient City Wall – Timeless Defense & Urban Evolution

Cruise atop the world’s largest & best-preserved medieval city walls (14 km long!), soaking in panoramic views where past meets present.

• Rent a bike (1-2 hours for full loop) – the most exhilarating way to experience it.
• Walk a section (South Gate is busiest/most scenic; East Gate is quieter).
• Catch sunset from the wall – watch the city lights come alive.
• Visit the gate towers & watchtowers for mini-museums on city defense.
• Pro Tip:Enter via South Gate (YongNingMen) for the grandest entrance & evening light shows.

3、Get Lost in the Muslim Quarter & Feast – Living History & Culinary Soul

Dive into Xi’an’s heart – a maze of lantern-lit alleys buzzing with 1,000+ years of Hui Muslim culture and legendary street food.

• Eat your way:Try Roujiamo (Chinese “burger”), Yangrou Paomo(lamb bread soup – tear the bread yourself!), Biángbiáng noodles, persimmon cakes, spiced beef.
• Explore beyond Drum Tower’s main street – venture into Beiyuanmen Market’s side alleys for authenticity.
• Visit the Great Mosque (DaQingZhenShi) – serene Chinese-Islamic architecture hidden behind market stalls.
• Pro Tip:Go hungry! Visit around 6 PM for maximum atmosphere (lights, crowds, sizzling grills).

4、Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Fountain Show – Spiritual Legacy & Modern Spectacle

Climb the iconic 7-story Tang Dynasty pagoda where monk Xuanzang stored Buddhist scriptures from India, then witness Asia’s largest musical fountain spectacle.

• Explore Da Ci’en Temple complex housing the pagoda.
• Ascend the pagoda** for city views (requires separate ticket).
• Wander the Tang-themed North & South Squares with statues and gardens.
• Must-See: The night fountain show (usually 7:00 PM & 9:00 PM) – thousands of jets dance to epic music with the pagoda illuminated.
• Pro Tip:Combine with the nearby Shaanxi History Museum (book tickets weeks ahead online!).

5、Explore the Bell & Drum Towers – Historic Heartbeat & City Landmarks

Admire Xi’an’s geographical and symbolic center – twin Ming Dynasty towers that once regulated city time with bell and drum beats.

• Climb the Drum Tower for views over the Muslim Quarter entrance & watch short drum performances (timings vary).
• See the Bell Tower from its traffic island pedestal – especially magical lit at night.
• Wander the surrounding squares and underground passages for people-watching.
• Pro Tip: Best viewed/photographed at dusk when lights turn on. Visit interiors if you love historic historic building.

Why This List Works for Foreigners:

• Iconic & Unique:Features Xi’an’s globally unmatched treasures (Terracotta Army).
• Balanced:Mixes ancient sites (Walls, Pagoda) with vibrant culture (Muslim Quarter).
• Experiential:Prioritizes *doing* (biking, eating, watching shows) over passive viewing.
• Practical:Highlights manageable top sights within the city/city reach.
• Authentic:Captures Xi’an’s essence – where dynasties rose, Silk Road thrived, and flavors explode.

Other Things to See and Do in Xi’an

Beyond the iconic “Big 5,” Xi’an offers a wealth of deeper cultural dives, unique experiences, and fascinating day trips. Here’s your curated list of **other exceptional things to see and do in Xi’an:

For History & Culture Buffs:

1、Shaanxi History Museum – Chronological journey through Shaanxi’s central role in Chinese civilization

Why: The essential context for everything you see in Xi’an. Houses over 370,000 artifacts spanning Zhou to Tang dynasties. Its Tang Dynasty murals and exquisite bronzes are world-class.

Do This: Book FREE basic tickets WELL in advance (official WeChat or website) – they vanish instantly! Consider the paid “Treasure Gallery” for the best pieces. Allow 3+ hours.

2、Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi’an Museum – Tang Dynasty serenity & focused city history

Why: A quieter, more atmospheric alternative to the Big Goose Pagoda. The elegant, slightly leaning Tang pagoda sits within Jianfu Temple grounds. The adjacent Xi’an Museum focuses specifically on the city’s history and culture, with excellent exhibits and models.

Do This: Enjoy the peaceful temple complex. Climb the pagoda (if open). Explore the modern, well-curated Xi’an Museum. Often less crowded.

3、Banpo Neolithic Village Museum – Prehistoric life on the Yellow River plains

Why: Step back 6,000 years! Explore the remarkably preserved remains of a matriarchal clan community from the Yangshao culture, complete with dwellings, pottery kilns, and burial grounds.

Do This: Walk over the excavated site on elevated walkways. See reconstructed houses. View artifacts like fish-patterned pottery. Offers a profound perspective on ancient Chinese origins.

4、Hanyangling Mausoleum – Han Dynasty funerary practices & artistry

Why: Often called the “Other Terracotta Army,” but uniquely different. Features thousands of smaller (1/3 life-size), nude, articulated terracotta figures (officials, servants, animals) buried with the Han Dynasty emperor. The underground viewing corridors are incredibly atmospheric.

Do This: Walk the glass floors over the burial pits. See the eerily realistic figures. Appreciate the sophisticated Han Dynasty aesthetics. Much less crowded than Qin Shi Huang’s tomb.

For Unique Experiences & Atmosphere:

1、Explore the Calligraphy & Antique Scene – Living traditions of Chinese literati culture

Why: Stroll this charming, traditional street near the South Gate. Browse shops overflowing with brushes, inkstones, rice paper, seals, replicas, and genuine antiques. Watch masters practicing calligraphy.

Do This: Buy unique souvenirs (seals with your name!). Try your hand at calligraphy (some shops offer quick lessons). Soak in the scholarly vibe. Visit the nearby Forest of Stone Steles Museum (Beilin Museum) if deeply interested in epigraphy.

2、Experience the Tang Dynasty Show – Extravagant Tang Dynasty performing arts

Why: Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Tang Dynasty through dazzling song, dance, and costume. Two main options:

• Tang Dynasty Palace (唐乐宫):** Dinner & show in the city center. Colorful and accessible.
• Song of Everlasting Sorrow (长恨歌): World-class outdoor spectacular at Huaqing Palace (near Terracotta Warriors). Uses the mountain as a backdrop, water effects, flying performers.

3、Wander Yongxingfang Food & Culture Block – Regional Shaanxi culinary showcase in a festive setting

Why: A more curated and modern alternative to the Muslim Quarter, focusing on Shaanxi province cuisine (not just Hui Muslim). Cleaner layout, often less chaotic, with many non-meat options.

Do This: Try specialties from different regions of Shaanxi: Xianyang “Biángbiáng” noodles, Hanzhong rice noodles, Tongguan meat buns, Yan’an millet dishes. Watch traditional crafts. Famous for the “Stomping Wine Glass” ritual (less common now, but may see it).

4、Relax at Huaqing Hot Springs – Imperial leisure, romance, and natural geothermal wonders.

Why: Luxurious imperial bathing pools used since the Western Zhou dynasty, famously by Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei during the Tang Dynasty. Beautiful gardens and palace architecture nestled at the foot of Lishan Mountain.

Do This: Explore the historic pools and pavilions. Combine with the *Song of Everlasting Sorrow* show in the evening. You can sometimes dip your feet in hot spring channels.

For Day Trips & Active Adventures：

1、Climb Mount Hua (Huashan) – Taoist sacred mountain, dramatic natural beauty.

Why: One of China’s Five Great Mountains, famed for its sheer granite peaks, precipitous plank paths bolted to cliffs, and breathtaking scenery. A serious hike or cable car adventure.

Do This: Take the high-speed train (35-55 mins). Use cable cars to access different peaks. Brave the “Plank Walk in the Sky” if you dare. Best as an overnight trip to catch sunrise. Requires good fitness.

2、Visit Famen Temple – Buddhist pilgrimage & Tang Dynasty religious treasures

Why: Houses the finger bone relic of Sakyamuni Buddha, discovered in its underground crypt in 1987 alongside thousands of Tang Dynasty treasures – considered one of the most significant Buddhist archaeological finds.

Do This: See the impressive modern stupa and pagoda. Visit the museum showcasing the exquisite gold, silver, glass, and ceramic artifacts from the Tang crypt. A profound pilgrimage site.

Where to Stay in Xi’an

Xi’an’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination, but choosing the right neighborhood can elevate your trip from good to unforgettable. Here’s a breakdown of Xi’an’s best areas to stay, tailored to your travel style:

1. Bell & Drum Towers

Best For: First-time visitors, history buffs, nightlife seekers.

Why Stay:

Iconic Landmarks: Steps from the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Muslim Quarter.

Central Location: Walking distance to subway lines 1/2/6, connecting you to Terracotta Warriors, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and more.

Dining & Shopping: Bustling with restaurants, street food, and malls like SKP Xi’an.

Hotels:

Luxury: Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel (historic charm).

Mid-Range: Hilton Xi’an (modern comfort).

Budget: Han Tang Inn Hostel (social vibe, rooftop bar).

2. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Best For: Culture lovers, families, photography enthusiasts.

Why Stay:

Tang Dynasty Vibes: Near the Tang Paradise theme park and Da Ci’en Temple.

Music Fountain: World’s largest outdoor music fountain show at night.

Quieter Pace: Less crowded than downtown, with leafy parks and lakes.

Hotels:

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an (sleek design, spa).

Mid-Range: Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square (French-Chinese fusion).

Budget: 7Days Premium Xi’an (clean, affordable).

3. Xi’an High-Tech Zone

Best For: Business travelers, luxury seekers, modern amenities.

Why Stay:

Upscale Living: Skyscrapers, high-end malls, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Efficient Transport: Direct metro to historic sites; 30-minute drive to airport.

Peaceful Retreat: Away from tourist crowds, with parks like Tang City Wall Ruins Park.

Hotels:

Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Xi’an (river views, indoor pool).

Mid-Range: Hyatt Regency Xi’an (contemporary style).

Budget: Hanting Express (no-frills, reliable).

4. Terracotta Warriors Area

Best For: History enthusiasts, day-trippers.

Why Stay:

Proximity to Sights: 10-minute drive to Terracotta Army and Huaqing Hot Springs.

Resort Vibes: Luxury hotels with onsen pools and spa services.

Avoid Crowds: Skip the 1-hour commute from downtown.

Hotels:

Luxury: Wyndham Grand Xi’an South (onsen, golf course).

Mid-Range: Howard Johnson Ginwa Plaza Hotel (classic elegance).

Budget: Limited options; better for day trips.

5. Xi’an North Railway Station Area

Best For: High-speed rail travelers, budget-conscious visitors.

Why Stay:

Transport Hub: Direct access to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu via bullet trains.

Affordable Stays: Newer hotels with modern amenities at lower prices.

Quiet Surroundings: Away from downtown hustle, with easy metro access.

Hotels:

Mid-Range: Crowne Plaza Xi’an North (sleek, business-friendly).

Budget: Jinjiang Inn (reliable chain).

Pro Tips for Booking:

Avoid Scams: Use reputable platforms like Booking.com or Ctrip. Verify hotel locations on Google Maps.

Peak Season: Book 2-3 months in advance for spring/autumn (Apr-May, Sep-Oct).

Local Experience: Opt for a minsu (B&B) in the Muslim Quarter for authentic courtyard living.

Xi’an Travel Costs: A Detailed Budget Guide (2025)

Planning a trip to Xi’an? Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses to help you budget wisely, from dorm beds to dumpling feasts:

1. Accommodation (Per Night)

Budget Hostels: ¥50–¥150 ($7–$21)

Example: Han Tang Inn Hostel (Bell Tower area) – Dorm bed from ¥60, private rooms from ¥200.

Mid-Range Hotels: ¥200–¥500 ($28–$70)

Example: Hanting Express ( Muslim Quarter) – Double room from ¥250.

Example: Grand Mercure Xi’an (Renmin Square) – Double room from ¥400.

Luxury Hotels: ¥800+ ($112+)

Example: Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel – Historic suite from ¥1,200.

Example: Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an – River-view room from ¥1,500.

2. Food & Drinks (Per Day)

Street Food: ¥10–¥30 ($1.40–$4.20)

Examples: Roujiamo (Chinese burger) ¥8–¥15, Liangpi (cold noodles) ¥10–¥20.

Casual Restaurants: ¥30–¥80 ($4.20–$11)

Examples: Biangbiang noodles ¥15–¥25, Yangrou Paomo (lamb stew) ¥30–¥40.

Mid-Range Dining: ¥100–¥200 ($14–$28) per person

Examples: Shaanxi history-themed restaurant (De Fa Chang) – 3-course meal ¥150.

High-End Restaurants: ¥300+ ($42+) per person

Examples: Tang Palace fine dining – 8-course imperial meal ¥500.

3. Transportation (Per Day)

Metro/Bus: ¥3–¥10 ($0.42–$1.40)

Single Ride: ¥3–¥8 (distance-based).

Day Pass: ¥15 (unlimited metro/bus).

Taxi/Didi: ¥10–¥50 ($1.40–$7)

Example: Bell Tower to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda ≈ ¥25.

Bicycle Rental: ¥1.5/30 mins ($0.21)

Example: HelloBike – Scan-to-ride e-bikes.

4. Attractions (One-Time Costs)

Must-See Sites:

Terracotta Warriors: ¥120 ($17) – Includes access to all three pits.

City Wall: ¥54 ($7.60)–Bikerentalextra¥45($6.30).

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: ¥50 ($7)–Enterthepagodafor¥30($4.20).

Combo Tickets:

Museum Pass: ¥100 ($14) – Skip lines at Shaanxi History Museum.

Free Attractions:

Muslim Quarter: Stroll for free (food costs extra!).

Qujiang Chi Park: Evening light shows (free entry).

5. Extra Costs to Consider

Guided Tours:

Terracotta Warriors: ¥200–¥300 ($28–$42) – Includes hotel pickup.

Cultural Experiences: ¥150–¥300 ($21–$42) – Calligraphy/pottery classes.

Souvenirs:

Terracotta Warrior Replicas: ¥20–¥500 ($2.80–$70).

Silk Road Textiles: ¥100–¥800 ($14–$112) – Handmade scarves/rugs.

Emergency Fund: ¥500 ($70) – For unexpected expenses or splurges.

Sample Daily Budgets

Backpacker: ¥200–¥300 ($28–$42)

Breakdown: Hostel dorm ¥60, street food ¥50, metro ¥10, attractions ¥80.

Mid-Range Traveler: ¥500–¥800 ($70–$112)

Breakdown: Mid-range hotel ¥400, meals ¥150, taxi ¥50, tours ¥200.

Luxury Traveler: ¥1,500+ ($210+)

Breakdown: 5-star hotel ¥1,200, fine dining ¥500, private tours ¥800.

Pro Tips to Save Money

Visit Off-Peak: Avoid holidays – hotels drop rates by 30–50%.

Use Public Transport: Metro covers 90% of sites; taxis add up fast.

Eat Like a Local: Muslim Quarter snacks ≈ 50% cheaper than restaurants.

Free Walking Tours: Join groups at Bell Tower for history insights (tips appreciated).

Total Trip Cost Estimate (3 Days):

Budget: ¥900–¥1,500 ($126–$210)

Mid-Range: ¥2,000–¥3,500 ($280–$490)

Luxury: ¥5,000+ ($700+)

Xi’an, a city blending ancient history and modern vibrancy, doesn’t require a royal budget to explore. Here’s how to experience its wonders without overspending:

1. Accommodation Hacks

• Opt for Hostels/Guesthouses:
  • Stay in the Muslim Quarter or Bell Tower area for budget-friendly hostels like Han Tang Inn (dorms from ¥60/night).
  • Book via Ctrip or Booking.com for last-minute deals.
• Mid-Range Bargains:
  • Use Dianping (Chinese Yelp) to find discounted rates at 3-star hotels (e.g., Hanting Express from ¥200/night).
• Avoid Peak Season:
  • Visit in winter (Dec–Feb) or summer (Jul–Aug) for 30–50% cheaper rooms.

2. Eat Like a Local (For Less)

• Street Food Feasts:
  • Muslim Quarter: Snack on ¥8 roujiamo (Chinese burgers) and ¥10 yangrou paomo (lamb stew).
  • Avoid Tourist Traps: Skip restaurants with English menus; opt for bustling local joints.
• Group Meals:
  • Split a ¥30–¥50 biangbiang noodle bowl (feeds 2–3) or ¥60–¥80 hotpot sets.
• Free Water:
  • Carry a reusable bottle; many cafes/restaurants offer free hot water.

3. Transport on a Budget

• Metro Magic:
  • Buy a 1-day pass (¥15) for unlimited rides. A single trip costs ¥3–¥8.
  • Key routes: Line 2 connects Bell Tower to North Railway Station; Line 4 reaches Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
• Bike Share:
  • Rent HelloBike e-bikes (¥1.5/30 mins) for short trips.
• Avoid Taxis:
  • A 10-minute taxi ride (e.g., Bell Tower to City Wall) costs ¥15–¥20; metro/bike is cheaper.

4. Sightseeing for Free/Cheap

• Free Attractions:
  • Giant Wild Goose Pagoda North Square: Nightly music fountain show (free).
  • Qujiang Chi Park: Stroll lakeside paths and watch free light shows.
  • Xi’an City Wall: Walk/run for free (biking costs ¥45/hour).
• Discounted Tickets:
  • Terracotta Warriors: Book online (¥120) vs. walk-up (¥150).
  • Shaanxi History Museum: Reserve free tickets online (arrive early!).
• Combo Deals:
  • The City Wall + Bell Tower + Drum Tower combo ticket saves ¥30 vs. individual tickets.

5. Shopping Smart

• Souvenir Bargains:
  • Buy terracotta warrior replicas at local markets (¥20–¥50) vs.景区 stores (¥100+).
  • Haggle at Kangfu Road Night Market for silk scarves (start at ¥30).
• Avoid Tax-Free Stores:
  • Focus on local crafts, not luxury goods (no significant tax refunds).

6. Avoid Tourist Traps

• Fake “Cultural Shows”:
  • Skip unsolicited offers for ¥200+ Tang Dynasty shows; official venues (e.g., Tang Paradise) offer better deals (¥150–¥180).
• Overpriced Tea Ceremonies:
  • Politely decline free tea samples in Muslim Quarter shops; they often lead to pressure purchases.

7. Seasonal Deals

• Winter Visit:
  • Hotels and flights drop 20–40% in price; bring warm layers.
• Shoulder Seasons:
  • Visit in March–April or September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Sample 3-Day Budget

• Accommodation: ¥180–¥300 (hostel/budget hotel).
• Food: ¥90–¥150 (street food/casual meals).
• Transport: ¥30–¥50 (metro/bike).
• Attractions: ¥200–¥300 (discounted tickets).
• Total: ¥500–¥800 (70–112) per person.

Final Tip: Carry ¥100–¥200 in cash for small vendors; mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are widely accepted elsewhere.

Xi’an’s blend of ancient walls and modern infrastructure means getting around is a breeze. Here’s how to navigate the city efficiently, whether you’re chasing history or hopping between food stalls:

1. Metro (Subway): Fast & Cheap – xian metro

Coverage: 8 lines (as of 2025) connecting key spots:

Line 1: North Railway Station ↔ Fangzhicheng (airport shuttle).

Line 2: Weiqi Nan ↔ Beikezhan (Bell Tower, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda).

Line 4: Xi’an North Station ↔HangTianXinCheng (Daming Palace, Shaanxi History Museum).

Cost: ¥3–¥8 per ride (distance-based).

Tips:

Buy single-journey tickets or a 1-day pass (¥15) for unlimited rides.

Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) if possible.

2. Buses: For Local Flavor

Network: Over 300 routes covering even metro-less areas.

Cost: ¥2 per ride (air-conditioned buses ¥3).

Payment: Alipay/WeChat Pay or cash (exact fare needed).

Key Routes:

Route 603: Xi’an Railway Station ↔ Golden Eagle (Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter).

Route 307: Tang Paradise ↔ Terracotta Warriors (direct, 1.5 hours).

3. Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Convenient but Pricier

Taxis:

Flagfall: ¥8.5 (first 3 km), then ¥2/km (daytime) or ¥2.4/km (23:00–6:00).

Example: Bell Tower to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda ≈ ¥25.

Didi (China’s Uber):

Fares similar to taxis but with transparent pricing.

Use the app for English interface and promo codes.

4. Bicycles & E-Scooters: Ideal for Short Trips

Shared Bikes:

Meituan, HelloBike, DiDiQingJu: Scan to ride (¥1.5/30 mins).

Best Areas: City Wall inner ring, Qujiang Park paths.

E-Scooters:

Xiaoju: ¥3 unlock fee + ¥0.3/min.

Restrictions: No riding on sidewalks or major highways.

5. Walking: Discover Hidden Gems

Best Areas:

Muslim Quarter: Stroll through bustling food stalls.

City Wall: Walk the ramparts (14 km, 3–4 hours).

Shuyuanmen Cultural Street: Browse art shops and cafes.

6. Airport & Train Station Transfers

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY):

Metro Line 14: Airport ↔ Xi’an North Station (¥16, 30 mins).

Airport Shuttle: Line 3 (Bell Tower, ¥25, 1 hour).

Taxi/Didi: ¥100–¥150 to downtown (45–60 mins).

Xi’an North Railway Station:

Metro Line 2/4: Direct to Bell Tower (¥4, 20 mins).

7. Day Trips: Terracotta Warriors & Beyond

Public Bus:

Route 307: Tang Paradise ↔ Terracotta Warriors (¥7, 1.5 hours).

Tour Bus:

Xi’an Tourism Bus: Departs from Bell Tower (¥30 round trip).

Taxi/Didi:

¥120–¥150 round trip (negotiate a flat fee).

8. Special Tips for Travelers

Avoid Scams: Insist on meter usage for taxis; ignore “flat fee” offers.

Traffic Jams: Rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) can double travel times.

Language Barrier: Save key locations in Chinese (e.g., “钟楼” for Bell Tower) for drivers.

Final Verdict:

Best Combo: Metro for long distances, bikes for short hops, and Didi for late nights.

Pro Move: Buy a Chang’an Tong Card (¥18 deposit) for 10% discounts on metro/buses.