What to See in Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors and Old City Walls

Xi’an is one of those rare cities where history does not just sit in museums – it surrounds you in every street, every stone, and every city gate. Once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and capital to more than a dozen Chinese dynasties, Xi’an offers an unforgettable blend of imperial grandeur, lively street life, and impeccable food. If you are asking yourself what to see in Xi’an, two icons immediately stand out: the legendary Terracotta Warriors and the imposing Old City Walls.

This long-form guide walks you through everything you need to know to enjoy them to the fullest: how to visit, when to go, what to look for, and how to weave these sights into a deeper experience of Xi’an. Whether you have one intense day or several leisurely ones, this is your roadmap to the city’s most essential experiences.

Why Xi’an Should Be on Your Travel Map

For many travelers, China’s big names are Beijing, Shanghai, and maybe Hong Kong. Xi’an, however, is where you truly feel the weight of 3,000 years of history in a concentrated, walkable center. It was here that emperors ruled vast territories, traders from Central Asia arrived with exotic goods, and artisans created one of the most spectacular archaeological legacies on earth: the Terracotta Army.

Today, Xi’an blends this deep past with a dynamic present. The Old City Walls encircle a vibrant grid of streets, electric bicycles whiz by bell towers and drum towers, and food stalls perfume the air with cumin, chili, and fresh-baked flatbreads. It is one of the best cities in China to connect landmarks, everyday life, and food into a single, coherent travel story.

• Best for: History lovers, photographers, culture-focused travelers, foodies.
• Ideal stay: 2–4 days to see the key attractions and explore beyond the basics.
• Top highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Old City Walls, Muslim Quarter, Drum & Bell Towers, Great Mosque, local noodles and dumplings.

The Terracotta Warriors: Xi’an’s Timeless Army

No list of what to see in Xi’an is complete without mentioning the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Discovered by farmers in 1974, this archaeological site – part of the vast mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang – has become one of the world’s most fascinating windows into ancient China.

A Brief History Behind the Terracotta Army

In the third century BCE, Qin Shi Huang unified China for the first time and founded the Qin dynasty. To guard him in the afterlife, he commanded the creation of a full-scale, life-sized army made of terracotta. Each soldier has unique facial features and expressions, hairstyles and armor details, suggesting that real soldiers may have served as inspiration.

The site lay buried for more than 2,000 years until a group of farmers digging a well struck hard clay instead of water. What they had found was the beginning of what we now know as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Excavations continue today, and only a portion of the complex has been uncovered.

What You Will See at the Terracotta Warriors Site

The official name of the site is the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses. It consists of several pits and exhibition halls under protective hangars, with walkways that allow you to observe the warriors from different angles and heights.

• Pit 1: The largest and most famous hall, home to thousands of warriors in battle formation. This is the classic postcard view: rows and rows of infantry soldiers, with some horses and officers.
• Pit 2: Smaller but more varied, with archers, charioteers, and cavalry. Some of the most detailed and well-preserved figures have been found here.
• Pit 3: Considered the command post of the army. Fewer figures, but crucial for understanding the structure of the imperial guard.
• Exhibition halls: Display individual warriors up close, including high-ranking officers, kneeling archers, and the famous bronze chariots.

Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours at the Terracotta Army to walk slowly, read interpretive panels, and let the enormity of the undertaking sink in.

How to Get to the Terracotta Warriors from Xi’an

The Terracotta Warriors are located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of downtown Xi’an. You have several options for getting there:

• Public bus: Tourist buses and regular lines leave from central Xi’an (e.g., near the railway station). It is the most economical option, though not the fastest. Expect 60–90 minutes.
• Organized tours: Many agencies offer half-day or full-day tours including transportation, entrance tickets, and guide services. Good for first-time visitors who want historical context.
• Taxi or ride-hailing: More expensive but convenient, especially if you are traveling with others or tight on time. Travel time is usually around one hour depending on traffic.

Whichever option you choose, aim to arrive early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and to have time to see the museum at a slower pace.

Best Time of Day and Season to Visit

Xi’an has four distinct seasons, and the Terracotta Warriors are an indoor-outdoor experience, so timing matters:

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and relatively clear skies. One of the best times to visit.
• Autumn (September–November): Comfortable weather, ideal for combining the museum with outdoor walks around Xi’an.
• Summer: Hot and often crowded, especially during school holidays. Go at opening time.
• Winter: Cold but usually less crowded. Dress warmly for waiting areas and any outdoor sections.

Inside the pits, it can still feel cool and slightly humid. Wearing layers is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring every corner.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

To turn your stop at the Terracotta Warriors into a truly memorable experience, consider these practical tips:

• Start with the museum exhibits: Some visitors rush straight to Pit 1. Instead, begin with the introduction displays that explain the site’s discovery, excavation techniques, and restoration processes. You will appreciate the main pits more afterward.
• Take your time at Pit 1: Walk around the entire perimeter. Different angles reveal different expressions, damaged sections, and ongoing restoration work.
• Use binoculars or a good zoom: The closest soldiers in Pit 1 are still several meters away. A compact pair of binoculars or a camera with zoom lets you appreciate details such as braids and armor plates.
• Look for diversity: Notice how each warrior has unique features. This is not a uniform, mass-produced army; artisans created individual personalities in clay.
• Bring water and snacks: There are vendors around the complex, but lines can be long in high season. Having a bottle of water with you keeps you comfortable and focused.

For many travelers, seeing the Terracotta Army is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so do not rush it. Give yourself time to read, contemplate, and take photos without racing from one pit to the next.

The Old City Walls of Xi’an: Walking Along History

If the Terracotta Warriors show the power of Xi’an’s emperors in death, the Old City Walls reveal how the city protected itself in life. The walls form a nearly perfect rectangle around the historic core of Xi’an and are among the best-preserved ancient city walls in China.

A Living Monument You Can Walk or Cycle

Originally built during the Ming dynasty on the foundations of earlier fortifications, Xi’an’s city walls stretch about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) in circumference. Unlike many historical walls that can only be admired from below, these are fully accessible. You can climb up to the top and walk or cycle along the broad path, passing watchtowers, gates, and views over the modern city on all sides.

The walls are wide enough to feel like an elevated park: stone under your feet, crenellations to lean on for photos, and the city unfolding around you. It is one of the most atmospheric ways to understand Xi’an’s scale and layout.

Best Sections and Gates to Explore

You can access the Old City Walls from several gates, but some are particularly interesting or convenient for visitors:

• South Gate (Yongning Gate): The most popular entry point, often used for ceremonies and performances. It is close to many central hotels and easy to integrate into a walking tour.
• North Gate: Offers impressive views toward the Drum Tower area and is convenient if you are arriving from the railway station side.
• East and West Gates: Less crowded and good choices if you want quieter stretches for cycling or photography.

You can either walk a small section and descend through the next gate or commit to a full circuit. A complete loop can take 3–4 hours on foot, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.

Walking vs. Cycling on the Walls

One of the classic experiences in Xi’an is renting a bicycle and riding along the top of the city walls. Rental points are located near the main gates, and you can usually choose between single or tandem bikes. Rates are typically by the hour, with a deposit required.

To decide between walking or cycling, consider:

• Walking: Ideal if you want to linger at viewpoints, take lots of photos, and focus on details such as watchtowers and inscriptions. Choose a shorter segment, like South Gate to East Gate, if you are limited on time.
• Cycling: Perfect for covering more ground while still enjoying panoramic views. The stone surface can be uneven in some places, so ride slowly and carefully.

Whether walking or cycling, comfortable shoes are essential. There is little shade on the walls, so a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will make your visit far more enjoyable, especially in spring and summer.

When to Visit the Old City Walls

The walls can be visited year-round, but some times create especially memorable experiences:

• Early morning: Soft light, fewer people, and pleasantly cool temperatures in warm months. Great for photographers.
• Late afternoon and sunset: Golden light over the rooftops, long shadows on the stones, and a chance to see the city transition into night.
• Nighttime (when illuminated): Sections of the walls and gates are lit up, making for a romantic, atmospheric stroll with views of neon-lit Xi’an below.

Be sure to check the latest opening hours locally, as they can vary with the season and special events.

Beyond the Icons: Other Essential Sights Near the City Walls

Once you have ticked off the Terracotta Warriors and the Old City Walls, you will still have plenty to see in Xi’an, many of them within or just outside the walls. These additional attractions help round out your understanding of the city’s history and daily life.

The Bell Tower and Drum Tower

In the very heart of the city stand two elegant structures: the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower. Historically, they marked the time and served ceremonial functions, but today they also act as visual anchors for Xi’an’s compact center.

• Bell Tower: Surrounded by busy traffic circles, it is especially beautiful at night when illuminated. Inside, small exhibitions explain its history, and you can climb up for a 360-degree view over central Xi’an.
• Drum Tower: Located slightly to the west, near the entrance to the Muslim Quarter. It houses an array of drums and sometimes hosts drum performances.

Visiting both towers provides a sense of the traditional city planning and the role of sound – bells at dawn, drums at dusk – in marking daily life in imperial China.

The Muslim Quarter: Street Food and Silk Road Heritage

Just west of the Drum Tower lies one of Xi’an’s most colorful neighborhoods: the Muslim Quarter. This bustling area reflects the city’s role as a Silk Road hub, where merchants from Central Asia and the Middle East settled and formed a vibrant Muslim community that endures to this day.

Today, the streets are packed with food stalls, small restaurants, and shops selling everything from pomegranate juice to hand-pulled noodles. It is one of the best places to savor Xi’an’s culinary side.

Do not miss trying:

• Roujiamo: Sometimes called a “Chinese hamburger”, it is a flatbread filled with tender, slow-cooked meat seasoned with spices.
• Biangbiang noodles: Wide, hand-pulled noodles served with chili, vinegar, vegetables, and sometimes meat. Famous for their satisfying chewiness.
• Lamb skewers: Grilled over charcoal and dusted with cumin and chili, reflecting Central Asian flavors.
• Pomegranate juice and dried fruits: A nod to Silk Road trade routes and the region’s long connection with western China and beyond.

While the main streets can feel commercial, wandering into side alleys reveals quieter courtyards, local mosques, and daily life beyond the souvenir stalls.

The Great Mosque of Xi’an

Hidden inside the Muslim Quarter, the Great Mosque is one of the most intriguing religious sites in Xi’an. Unlike many mosques around the world, its architecture closely resembles that of a traditional Chinese temple, with courtyards, pavilions, and upturned eaves – but it serves Islamic worship.

Peaceful gardens and stone paths make this a welcome break from the crowded streets outside. Signs provide context for the mosque’s history and the development of Islam in China, linking Xi’an once again to its role as a crossroads of cultures.

Pagodas and Temple Culture

Xi’an’s spiritual heritage extends beyond mosques to important Buddhist sites as well. Two pagodas in particular are worth including as you decide what to see in Xi’an:

• Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Located in the southern part of the city, this pagoda dates back to the Tang dynasty and was closely linked to the monk Xuanzang, whose pilgrimage to India inspired legends and literature. The surrounding square is lively, especially in the evening.
• Small Wild Goose Pagoda: Quieter and more contemplative, with a peaceful park around it. A good stop if you enjoy photography and a calmer side of Xi’an.

Both pagodas connect you with Xi’an’s role as a center of Buddhist learning and translation, where scriptures traveled along the Silk Road just as goods and people did.

Planning Your Time: Suggested Itineraries in Xi’an

Knowing what to see in Xi’an is only half the equation; the other half is fitting it all into your schedule. Here are sample itineraries to help you prioritize.

One-Day Whirlwind: Xi’an in 24 Hours

If you only have one full day, focus on the two musts: the Terracotta Warriors and the Old City Walls, with a taste of the center in between.

1. Morning: Go early to the Terracotta Warriors. Spend at least 3 hours exploring the pits and museum.
2. Early afternoon: Return to Xi’an and have lunch near the city center or in the Muslim Quarter.
3. Late afternoon: Enter the Old City Walls via South Gate. Walk or bike a segment, enjoying views and taking photos at sunset.
4. Evening: Stroll through the Muslim Quarter for dinner, then admire the illuminated Bell and Drum Towers before returning to your hotel.

This schedule is intense but gives you a solid overview of what makes Xi’an special.

Two to Three Days: A Deeper Dive

With two or three days in Xi’an, you can slow down, revisit your favorite areas, and add more cultural stops.

Day 1: Icons and Old Walls

• Morning at the Terracotta Warriors.
• Afternoon on the Old City Walls (walk or cycle).
• Evening in the Muslim Quarter for food and atmosphere.

Day 2: Towers, Pagodas, and Neighborhoods

• Visit the Bell Tower and Drum Tower in the morning.
• Explore the Great Mosque and quieter corners of the Muslim Quarter.
• Head south in the afternoon to see the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
• Enjoy the evening lights and perhaps a cultural show nearby.

Day 3 (Optional): Slow Xi’an

• Return to a favorite area for more photos, coffee, or people-watching.
• Visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and surrounding park.
• Sample more local dishes or visit a market to pick up food-friendly souvenirs.

By spreading out your visits, you avoid sightseeing fatigue and leave room for small discoveries – an old courtyard, a tiny workshop, or a street musician under the city walls.

Practical Tips for Visiting Xi’an

Knowing what to see in Xi’an goes hand in hand with understanding how to move around, what to pack, and how to stay comfortable while exploring the Terracotta Warriors and the Old City Walls.

Getting Around the City

Xi’an has a modern, efficient transport system that makes it relatively simple to navigate, even if it is your first time in China.

• Metro: Several lines cover the main central areas, including stops near the city walls and railway stations. It is fast, inexpensive, and clearly signposted.
• Buses: Extensive network but may be confusing if you do not read Chinese. Still, some routes to major sights are tourist-friendly.
• Taxi and ride-hailing: Widely available and useful at night or for door-to-door trips. Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
• Walking and cycling: Within the Old City Walls, many distances are walkable, especially between the towers, markets, and gates.

Weather, Clothing, and Comfort

Because your main activities – visiting the Terracotta Warriors and exploring the Old City Walls – involve both indoor halls and outdoor paths, packing smartly makes a big difference.

• Layered clothing: Temperatures can change quickly between shaded pits, sunny walls, and air-conditioned interiors.
• Comfortable shoes: Expect long walks on stone surfaces. Sneakers or walking shoes are far better than sandals or dress shoes.
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially on top of the walls where shade is minimal.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated as you move between sites. Many hotels have kettles; you can fill up before heading out.

Cultural Etiquette and Respectful Behavior

Xi’an welcomes millions of visitors each year, and a few simple habits help preserve its treasures and maintain a positive atmosphere for everyone.

• Respect barriers and signs: At the Terracotta Warriors, do not cross railings or lean too far over pits. Artifacts are fragile and ongoing restoration requires controlled conditions.
• Quiet tones in religious sites: In places like the Great Mosque or Buddhist temples and pagodas, speak softly and avoid interrupting worship.
• Photo awareness: Ask before photographing people up close, especially in markets or religious areas.
• Queuing and patience: Popular attractions may have queues at peak times. Follow local lines and avoid pushing.

Food Experiences to Pair with Your Sightseeing

No guide to what to see in Xi’an would be complete without mentioning what to eat. Between a morning at the Terracotta Warriors and an evening walk on the Old City Walls, Xi’an’s cuisine adds another layer to your understanding of the city.

Key Dishes to Look For

• Liangpi: Cold, chewy noodles made from wheat or rice flour, dressed with chili, vinegar, and sesame. Refreshing on warm days.
• Yangrou paomo: Crumbled flatbread soaked in lamb broth, often customized at the table. Hearty and comforting, especially in winter.
• Dumplings (jiaozi): Xi’an is known for delicate dumplings filled with meat and vegetables. Some restaurants offer dumpling banquets with many varieties.
• Roujiamo and biangbiang noodles: As mentioned earlier, they are street food staples and easy to find throughout the city.

Sampling these dishes in small local restaurants or busy food streets is as much a cultural experience as visiting a monument. Each bowl and skewer carries stories of migration, trade, and centuries of adaptation.

Why the Terracotta Warriors and Old City Walls Belong Together in Your Itinerary

One of the most rewarding ways to think about what to see in Xi’an is to connect the city’s flagship attractions rather than treating them as isolated stops. The Terracotta Warriors and the Old City Walls are like two chapters in the same story.

The Terracotta Army shows the ambition and reach of the first emperor, a ruler who wanted to command an entire clay army in the afterlife. The city walls, built centuries later, reveal how the urban fabric of Xi’an evolved to defend its people and wealth on earth. Walking on the walls after visiting the warriors is like flipping forward in a long-running historical novel: you see how power, defense, and daily life changed over time, even as the city’s strategic importance remained.

When you leave Xi’an, your memories will likely include the silent gazes of clay soldiers and the vast views from the ramparts above the streets. Together, they form a complete, immersive answer to the question of what to see in Xi’an – and why this city still captivates travelers today.