How to explore Xi'an in 3 days

How to explore Xi'an in 3 days

Xi'an, this ancient capital with a long history, boasts countless cultural treasures and delicious cuisine. For travelers who want to fully experience the charm of Xi'an in a short period of time, a carefully planned 3-day itinerary is essential. Now, let me share with you a detailed 3-day personal itinerary for Xi'an, to make your independent trip to Xi'an smoother and more fulfilling. If you have any questions or would like to customize your trip, please contact us! 

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Day 1: Traveling through ancient and modern times, experiencing the charm of history

Morning: Terra Cotta Warriors Museum

Arrive in Xi'an in the morning, and the first stop is The Terra Cotta Warriors Museum. This is one of the Eight Wonders of the World, as well as an excellent place to learn about the history of the Qin Dynasty and experience the glorious legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang for generations to come. Entering the museum, the orderly and magnificent Terra Cotta Warriors suddenly came into sight, making people feel as if they had gone back to that glorious era.

Terra Cotta Warriors.jpg

Afternoon: Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang Dynasty Night City

After lunch, head to the big wild goose pagoda. This ancient Buddhist pagoda temple is not only a landmark building in Xi'an, but also carries a profound cultural heritage. Climbing to the top of the tower and overlooking the entire Xi'an city, there is a unique flavor. Subsequently, take a stroll through the Tang Dynasty city that never sleeps, admire the antique architecture, taste authentic Xi'an snacks, and experience the hustle and bustle of the ancient capital.


Evening: Exploring the cuisine of Huimin Street

How can we miss the Huimin Street during dinner time? This is the gathering place of Xi'an cuisine. There are all kinds of special snacks, such as Roujiamo, Pita bread soaked in Lamb Soup, Liangpi, etc. Strolling through the dimly lit streets, savoring delicious cuisine, and enjoying the nightlife of Xi'an.


Day 2: Explore historical sites and appreciate cultural charm

Morning: Shaanxi History Museum

The next morning, we went to the Shaanxi History Museum. This place houses a rich collection of cultural relics and historical materials, making it an excellent window to learn about Xi'an culture and Shaanxi history. Strolling inside the museum, it feels like crossing a long river of history and experiencing the profoundness of Chinese civilization.

Shaanxi History Museum.jpg

Afternoon: Cycling experience on The Ancient City Wall

After lunch, we arrived at the ancient city wall of Xi'an. Rent a bicycle and ride along the city wall, feeling the gentle breeze brushing your face and enjoying the beautiful scenery of the ancient city. This is not only a unique experience, but also a tribute to history.


Evening: Night view of Bell and Drum Towers

In the evening, head to the Bell and Drum Tower Square. The night here is brightly lit, and the bell and drum tower appears particularly solemn and mysterious against the backdrop of the lights. Strolling on the square, enjoying the beautiful night view and feeling the tranquility and peace of Xi'an.


Day 3: Step into nature and enjoy leisurely time

Morning: Huaqing Palace and Lishan Scenic Area

On the third day, why not step out of the city and head to Huaqing Palace and Lishan Scenic Area. Not only does it have beautiful natural scenery here, but it also has rich historical and cultural heritage. Strolling inside the Huaqing Palace, admiring the ancient architecture and beautiful gardens, feeling the royal luxury and grandeur. Subsequently, climbing up Mount Li and overlooking the entire scenic area, one feels relaxed and happy.

Afternoon: Little Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi'an Museum

After lunch, head to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi'an Museum. As another iconic building in Xi'an, the Xiaoyan Pagoda also carries a profound cultural heritage. The Xi'an Museum, on the other hand, has a rich collection of cultural relics and historical materials, making it another excellent place to learn about Xi'an culture.


Evening: End the trip and leave beautiful memories

In the evening, return to the city and move around freely. You can choose to shop in a mall, taste delicious food in a restaurant, or rest in a hotel. Looking back on the three-day itinerary, my heart is filled with nostalgia and reluctance for Xi'an. The charm of this ancient capital is endless, making people linger and forget to leave.

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What Our Clients Say?

Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews

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Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s): Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 08,2024
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Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories. Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s): Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of Experience: June 02,2025
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Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic! Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale. For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return. A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s): Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: May 08,2025
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