How to Travel Around Xi’an in 2022

Located in North China, Xi’an is one of the major historical cities in the country. The city also once served as a capital city. With so many historical sites and other attractions, Xi’an has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in China. If you are planning to travel to Xi’an during your next holiday and want to know how to navigate your way around the city, this article is for you.

By air

Xi’an’s airport, Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, is located about 47 km from the city centre. Travelling by air is the easiest and the fastest way to get to the city and travel around the country. The country’s major cities are linked to Xi’an through the airport.

In Xian, accommodation providers position themselves close to the airport to make travel easier for tourists coming into the city. For instance, lyf Dayanta Xi'an is located just 40 minutes from the airport.

By taxi

This is one of the easiest ways you can travel around the city. There are plenty of taxis with friendly drivers who will take you anywhere you want. Don’t worry about finding your way back; tourist hotels in Xi’an offer their guests a business card with the hotel name written in English and Chinese.

By bus

The city has regular buses that will take you to every major tourist attraction. Buses operate throughout the day, and there are bus stations everywhere. Remember to take the exact fare amount for the bus.

By bicycle

This is the most common method of travel in Xi’an. Locals still like to get around by bicycle. This might not be the most comfortable way to get around, but it sure makes up for it by allowing you to view the city through the lens of a local.

Getting out of the city

You can travel out of the city by air. There are also trains and buses available.

Public transport is the cheapest way to travel out of the city, and the network is quite extensive. However, you have to be a little cautious when on a bus or a train. Keep a close eye on your belongings, and if possible, keep them with you.

Xi’an railway stations

The city has three railway stations: Xi'an North Railway Station, Xi'an Railway Station, and Xi'an South Railway Station.

Xian Railway Station has a history going back to 1934; this is Northwest China’s main transportation centre. The station is a link between the main travel hotspots in China and Xi’an. The station connects Tibet, Beijing, Guangzhou, Yunnan, and Shanghai with the city. You can get to Xian Railways Station from the airport in about 70 minutes; the airport offers regular shuttle bus services to the station.

North Railway Station is found in Lijiajie Village and operates high-speed trains. You can get to major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan, Chongqing, Jiayuguan, and Zhengzhou from here.

Xi'an South Railway Station, formerly called Chang'an Station, serves as a stop between Xi’an and other major cities.

How to plan your tour

Xi’an is home to a huge number of historical attractions. The city once served as the capital city for 13 dynasties.

You need at least two days to explore all the main cultural attractions. These attractions include the Muslim Quarter, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, the Terracotta Warriors, Shaanxi History Museum, and the Ancient City Wall.

If you have more than two days in the city, you should visit Hukou Waterfall and Mt. Huashan.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit the city. March to May is the first tourist season of the year, and the second one starts in September and ends in October.