Xian

Question

I'm going on a tour in china and xian is not included and I like to extend my stay to visit from Beijing. How many days should I stay please? Thank you

Answer

Xian is a historic city with many cultural and archaeological attractions, most famously the Terracotta Army. Extending your stay from Beijing to visit Xian is highly worthwhile. For a comfortable visit without rushing, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.

Here’s a suggested breakdown:

Day 1: Arrival in Xian, check in, and explore the Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter for local food and evening atmosphere.
Day 2: Visit the Terracotta Army, which is outside the city (about 1 hour by car or bus). In the afternoon, explore Big Wild Goose Pagoda or local museums such as the Shaanxi History Museum.
Day 3 (optional): For a deeper cultural experience, you can visit Huaqing Hot Springs or take a walking tour of Xian’s ancient neighborhoods. This day is optional if you prefer a more relaxed schedule or have limited time.

Additional tips:

High-speed trains between Beijing and Xian take around 4.5–6 hours, which allows you to travel comfortably in the morning or evening.
Flights are also available (about 2 hours), which may save time if you have limited days.
Plan your visit to the Terracotta Army early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Xian is walkable in the city center, and taxis or ride-hailing apps are convenient for attractions farther away.

In summary, 2 full days are sufficient to cover Xian’s main attractions, but 3 days allow for a more relaxed pace and additional sightseeing.