Xian Travel Package: Private Xi'an 3-Day Highlights Tour with Terracotta Warriors

Summary

DAY 1 Xian: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xian Ancient City Wall
DAY 2 Xian: Morning market, Xi'an Mosques, Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter
DAY 3 Xian:  Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Museum, Xian departure

Day 1 Arrive in Xian

You’ll be warmly greeted by our tour guide at your hotel in downtown Xi'an or at the Xi'an train station, holding a "Your Way Holiday" welcome sign. Embracing our "Travel Like a Local" approach, your guide will ensure a smooth start to your visit by assisting with your hotel check-in and offering valuable local tips. Meanwhile, our driver will handle the journey with care, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free transfer. This seamless service is designed to help you settle in effortlessly and make the most of your time in Xi'an.

After breakfast, our guide will meet you in your hotel lobby to continue your Xi'an exploration. You will then be driven to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a journey of approximately 40 minutes each way. This visit is the centerpiece of your Xi'an adventure. The Terracotta Army, an extraordinary collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures, was created to accompany Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, in the afterlife. Dating back to 210–209 BCE, these figures were buried in elaborate pits to serve as protectors of the emperor's tomb. The site includes three main pits filled with thousands of soldiers, chariots, and horses, each meticulously crafted with distinct facial expressions and detailed armor. The museum not only highlights the grandeur of ancient Chinese military art but also offers insights into the scale and complexity of the emperor's funerary preparations. This monumental discovery remains one of the most significant archaeological finds in history, illustrating the impressive artistry and organization of the Qin Dynasty.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, you'll savor lunch at a local Chinese restaurant renowned for its authentic cuisine. Your guide will recommend local specialties, such as Xi'an’s famous Yangrou Paomo (lamb and bread stew), a hearty dish combining tender lamb with crumbled flatbread in a rich broth. Another must-try is the Liangpi (cold noodles), often served with a tangy, spicy sauce and fresh vegetables. If you’re in the mood for something unique, don’t miss the Roujiamo (Chinese-style hamburger), a flavorful meat-filled flatbread. Your guide will help you navigate the menu to ensure you experience the best of Xi'an’s culinary offerings. Meanwhile, your driver will provide a smooth and comfortable transfer to and from the restaurant, making sure you enjoy your meal without any hassle. This thoughtful service guarantees a pleasant and authentic dining experience as part of your Xi'an adventure.

Next you'll be driven to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of historic Xi'an and a revered Buddhist site. Located in the southern suburbs of the city, this well-preserved ancient structure exemplifies traditional Chinese architecture. The pagoda, built in the 7th century during the Tang Dynasty, is renowned for its bracket-style construction—a technique that supports the pagoda's impressive height and durability. One of its standout features is its construction with layers of bricks, meticulously laid without cement, making the seams between each layer and the "prisms" on each side of the pagoda clearly visible. This design not only contributes to its majestic and solemn appearance but also highlights the advanced architectural techniques of the time. The pagoda's grand, towering structure and its role as a significant Buddhist monument make it a captivating example of Chinese architectural heritage, reflecting both historical and spiritual significance.

Your tour will continue with a visit to the Xi'an Ancient City Wall. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable fortification was constructed in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. Originally built as a military defense system to protect ancient cities, the wall stands as one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China. Stretching approximately 14 kilometers in length and rising 12 meters high, it represents a quintessential example of feudal rampart architecture. The current structure is an enhancement of the earlier Tang Dynasty wall, reflecting the emperor’s ambitious construction efforts. Today, the Xi'an Ancient City Wall is a must-see attraction, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to cycle along its length and fully appreciate the grandeur of ancient Chinese military engineering.

After concluding your tour, your guide and driver will ensure a seamless transition back to your hotel.  Your guide will be on hand to offer any last-minute advice or recommendations, making sure you have all the information you need for the remainder of your stay.  Meanwhile, your driver will handle the route with care, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.  

Day 2 Xian

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your day. First, you will head to the Xi'an Morning Market, a lively and colorful market that offers a glimpse into daily life in the city. The market is teeming with local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and other goods. As you walk through the market, you’ll have the chance to sample local street food such as steamed buns and fried snacks, giving you an authentic taste of Xi’an's vibrant food culture. This is also a great opportunity to see the energy of the local community and observe the hustle and bustle of Xi'an's early morning activities. The market is a fantastic introduction to the city's blend of traditional and modern life.

Next, your tour takes you to one of Xi’an's most significant religious sites—the Great Mosque of Xi'an. Founded during the Tang Dynasty (618–907), it is one of the oldest and largest mosques in China. The mosque is a unique fusion of Islamic and traditional Chinese architectural styles, with its tranquil courtyards, wooden pavilions, and elegant arches. The Great Mosque stands as a symbol of Xi’an’s historical role as a gateway between China and the Middle East during the Silk Road era. Inside, you will see intricate carvings and calligraphy, as well as peaceful garden spaces that reflect the Islamic principles of harmony and serenity. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a window into the city’s rich Islamic heritage.

Continue your tour with a visit to the Bell Tower, a magnificent structure located at the heart of Xi'an. Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), the Bell Tower served as a timekeeper for the city, with the bell ringing at dawn to signal the start of the day and the drum ringing at dusk. The Bell Tower stands at the intersection of the city’s main roads—east, south, west, and north—and was strategically positioned to oversee the entire city. The tower’s architectural style is an exquisite representation of traditional Chinese design, with its multi-tiered eaves, golden ornaments, and large wooden beams. From the top of the tower, you’ll have stunning panoramic views of Xi’an’s historic city center, where you can spot ancient city gates, bustling streets, and surrounding landmarks. Inside, you can explore the relics housed there, including ancient bells and inscriptions that provide insight into Xi’an’s cultural heritage.

Your last stop is the Muslim Quarter, a lively and culturally rich area that’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Xi’an's unique cultural landscape. Spanning approximately 500 meters from south to north, this bustling district is home to the city's Muslim community and showcases a wonderful mix of food, culture, and local handicrafts. As you stroll through the narrow, shaded alleys, you’ll notice the distinctive architecture—traditional Chinese buildings adorned with Islamic elements. The street is lined with small shops selling everything from intricate silver jewelry to colorful textiles, as well as food stalls offering local delicacies like lamb skewers, biangbiang noodles, and flatbread. The Muslim Quarter is not only a place to indulge in delicious food but also a space where you can feel the pulse of Xi'an’s multicultural heritage. It’s a vibrant reminder of the city’s diverse history, from its role as the starting point of the Silk Road to its enduring influence as a cultural crossroads.

After a fascinating day exploring the sights of Xi'an, your guide and driver will take you back to your hotel. Feel free to ask your guide any questions you may have or request more recommendations for your time in Xi'an. Once back at your hotel, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the diverse experiences of the day, from the bustling market to the tranquil mosques and historic landmarks.

Day 3 Xian

After a short break, your tour will continue with a visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. Your expert guide will provide you with a detailed introduction to the pagoda's history, explaining its importance as a Buddhist site and its connection to the famous monk Xuanzang. As you explore the site, your guide will share fascinating stories about the pagoda’s construction during the Tang Dynasty and its role in preserving sacred Buddhist scriptures. The guide will help you understand the architectural features of the pagoda, such as its unique tiered design and intricate brickwork, and explain their spiritual symbolism. While you wander through the peaceful Jianfu Temple and surrounding gardens, your guide will also point out the tranquil elements that contribute to the spiritual atmosphere of the site, offering insightful commentary about its significance in both religious and cultural contexts.

Next, your journey will take you to the Xi'an Museum. As you enter the museum, your guide will provide an overview of its diverse collections, explaining the significance of the exhibits that span the long history of Xi'an and its cultural heritage. The museum houses artifacts from ancient bronze ware and Tang Dynasty pottery to jade and calligraphy, offering a window into the rich history of this ancient city. Your guide will walk you through the various galleries, highlighting the historical periods represented and their importance in Chinese civilization. For instance, you’ll learn about the artistic and technological advancements of the Tang Dynasty, see exquisite examples of ancient Chinese bronze work, and explore the cultural influences that shaped the region through time. If you have any particular interests, your guide will be happy to offer additional details and answer any questions you may have. With the guide's expertise, you will gain a deeper understanding of Xi'an's pivotal role as the ancient capital of China and a key point along the Silk Road, where Eastern and Western cultures once met and mingled.

After exploring the xian museum, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable return to your hotel or train station. Your guide will be available to answer any questions you might have about the day’s experiences or to provide recommendations for dinner and other activities. Meanwhile, your driver will navigate the journey back with care, ensuring a relaxing ride. This attentive service allows you to unwind after your sightseeing and ensures a seamless end to your day's adventures.

Price Per Person in US Dollars