Xian Terracotta Warriors Tour & Customized Sightseeings

Xian Terracotta Warriors Tour & Customized Sightseeings
Location: Northern China, China
Price: $185 per person
Duration: 8 hours
Supplier: Yestrips Travel Service
Rating: 5 stars

Quick Overview
This private, 8-hour tour offers a carefully curated experience of Xi’an’s most famous sites, led by an expert guide who truly knows the city. For $185 per person, you’ll explore the legendary Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the chance to tailor your afternoon sightseeing based on your interests—whether it’s the ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, or the lively Muslim Quarter. The tour includes a private vehicle and a professional English-speaking guide, making it a seamless way to absorb Xi’an’s highlights without the hassle of navigating solo.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized approach—you get to choose your sights—and the quality of the guide. Your guide’s local insights turn what could be a standard sightseeing trip into a memorable, authentic experience. However, a small consideration is that entrance fees aren’t included, so you should budget for those separately. This tour suits travelers who value flexibility, expert guidance, and a private setting to explore at their own pace.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet relaxed day discovering Xi’an’s treasures with a knowledgeable guide, this experience hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see the highlights and seasoned travelers wanting a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose your preferred sights.
• Private tour ensures a personalized experience and avoids crowded groups.
• Expert guide enhances your understanding with insightful commentary.
• Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors—a must-see archaeological marvel.
• Includes private transportation for a comfortable, hassle-free day.
• Cost-effective considering the exclusivity and customization options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Pickup and the Journey to History

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel around 9:00 am, where a professional driver and an English-speaking guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private, air-conditioned van. The convenience of being picked up from your hotel means you avoid the chaos of public transport, and you can start your day relaxed.

As we drove toward the Terracotta Warriors, our guide, Lisa, shared stories about Xi’an’s history as a starting point of the Silk Road and the significance of the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. You’ll notice the comfortable pace and the clean, efficient vehicle—small details that make a big difference when you’re on a tight schedule.

The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum: A Wonder of Archaeology

The highlight of this tour is undeniably the Terracotta Warriors. The site is located about 1.5 kilometers east of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum in Lintong, a short drive from the city center. Once you arrive, you’re immediately struck by the scale and detail of this archaeological discovery—hundreds of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, all meticulously crafted around 210-209 BC.

Our guide, Lisa, was excellent at contextualizing the site, explaining that the Warriors were discovered in 1974 and have been called the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century. She highlighted that the site is UNESCO-listed and a symbol of China’s ancient ingenuity. We loved how she pointed out small details, like the different facial expressions among soldiers, which showcase the incredible craftsmanship.

One traveler quoted, “The Warriors are a sensory overload—massive, detailed, and almost surreal. Seeing them in person is like stepping into history.” The museum layout allows for easy navigation, and the site’s large scale helps you appreciate the effort that went into creating an army meant to guard the first emperor in the afterlife.

Tip: To avoid the busiest times, consider arriving early or late in the day. Entrance fees are not included, so plan ahead.

Lunch and Local Flavors

After exploring the Warriors, your guide will recommend local snack spots or restaurants. The tour is flexible here—it’s a good chance to enjoy Xi’an’s famous biang biang noodles or roujiamo sandwiches, which are affordable and flavorful. The guide can point out popular spots, ensuring you taste authentic cuisine without the touristy price hikes.

Customizing the Afternoon: Your Choice of Sights

In the afternoon, the tour’s true value shines—your guide will discuss options based on your interests, traffic, and time constraints. You might choose to visit:

• The City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city fortifications in China, where you can walk or bike along the ramparts.
• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Xi’an’s Buddhist heritage, with its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.
• The Shaanxi History Museum, if open, which offers a deep dive into regional history (note: closed on Mondays).
• The Square of Bell & Drum Towers, vibrant areas filled with shops, cafes, and locals.
• The Muslim Quarter, a lively neighborhood with bustling markets and street food, culminating in the grand Great Mosque.

Based on reviews, travelers appreciated how the guide tailored the itinerary, making sure they saw what interested them most. One noted, “Our guide suggested the city wall and Muslim Quarter, and both were fantastic to experience local life and history.”

Traffic considerations are real in Xi’an. Your guide’s experience helps avoid long waits or crowded sights, making the most of your limited time.

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Return and Reflection

After a full day, your guide and driver will take you back to your hotel. Throughout the day, bottled water is provided, making it easier to stay refreshed. The private nature of the tour means you can ask questions freely and linger at sites that fascinate you, or move on when ready.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention and want a comfortable, flexible day. If you’re curious about history but prefer not to be part of a large group, the private guide makes a big difference. It’s ideal for those who want to balance seeing the main highlights with the freedom to explore at their own pace.

It’s also a good option for families or small groups who appreciate an intimate, tailored experience. Budget-conscious travelers should consider that entrance fees are not included—so factor those into your planning.

If you’re visiting Xi’an and want a well-rounded introduction to its treasures, this tour offers value for money. The combination of the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and the customizable city sightseeing gives you a well-balanced day that’s both educational and enjoyable. The private guide ensures you get nuanced stories and local tips, turning what might be a rushed sightseeing day into a personalized journey.

While the price might seem steep to some, the comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance make it worthwhile, especially if you want to make the most of your limited time in this historic city. It’s perfect for travelers who want quality over quantity, and who appreciate a guided experience that’s tailored specifically to their interests.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included. You should budget separately for visiting sites like the Terracotta Warriors and other attractions you choose to see.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup is generally at 9:00 am from your hotel, but check with the provider for available start times based on your travel dates.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the main sites and enjoy some local cuisine.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private, exclusive experience—perfect for families, friends, or small groups seeking personal attention.

Can I customize my sightseeing options?
Yes, the afternoon sightseeing is flexible. Your guide will discuss options like the City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, or Muslim Quarter, based on your interests.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver are included, making the day smooth and comfortable.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind to your planning.

In essence, this Xi’an tour balances must-see sights with personal touches, making it a smart choice for travelers who want to experience the city’s treasures without feeling rushed or lost in the crowd. It’s a chance to see the iconic Terracotta Army and explore Xi’an’s vibrant streets on your own terms—an authentic and practical way to make the most of a day in China’s ancient capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: