Xi’an is a city that practically wears its past on its sleeve. As one of China’s oldest capitals, it offers an incredible array of sights that can fill two days with memorable experiences. Whether you’re itching to stand face-to-face with the legendary Terracotta Warriors, stroll along ancient city walls, or enjoy authentic local eats, Xi’an has something for every traveler. We especially recommend tours that blend historical sites with local flavor—like the 2-day In-depth Tour of Terracotta Army & Xian Top Sites, which offers a flexible private experience, or the 2-Day tour from Beijing to Xi’an Discovery by Bullet Train, perfect for those eager to see the highlights and learn how to craft their own terracotta warrior. These tours stand out because they combine culture with expert guidance, making each moment in Xi’an both meaningful and fun.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll compare three excellent 2-day tours in Xi’an. From private, customizable experiences (Top Highlights Private Tour) to fast-paced trips from Beijing, you’ll find options that suit different interests and budgets. Each offers a chance to explore famous sites, enjoy local cuisine, and gain insider knowledge, helping you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. 2-day In-depth Tour of Terracotta Army & Xian Top Sites
At number one, this 2-day private tour provides a flexible schedule that covers up to 6 top sites in Xi’an, including the famous Terracotta Army. What sets this tour apart is the ability to customize your itinerary — if you’re not keen on the standard route, you can tell your guide which sites interest you most. The tour includes two local lunches, giving you an authentic taste of Xi’an’s cuisine, and the private format ensures personalized attention. With a rating of 4.6/5, travelers appreciate the flexibility and local flavor.
During these two days, you might explore the Ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, or the Shaanxi History Museum — all tailored to your preferences. The guide will help you skip the crowds at major sites and focus on what interests you most. The price of $299 per person is quite reasonable for what you get, especially considering the flexibility and private service. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a tailored experience, with the option to add or skip sites as they wish.
Bottom Line: If you value customizing your sightseeing and want a relaxed pace with local lunches, this private tour offers great value with a personal touch.
$299 per person
2. 2-Day tour from Beijing to Xi’an Discovery by Bullet Train
For those starting from Beijing, this 2-day trip hits the sweet spot for a quick yet comprehensive Xi’an experience. Priced at $699 per person, it includes travel via high-speed bullet train, making the journey part of the adventure. Rated 4.8/5, travelers love its efficient schedule and the chance to see the world-famous Terracotta Warriors in just two days.
Your guide will take you behind the scenes with a lesson on how to make a terracotta warrior, which is a fun and hands-on experience that adds depth to your visit. You’ll also walk the City Wall to soak in panoramic views of the ancient capital, visit the Muslim Quarter to taste local snacks, and explore the Great Mosque with its distinctive Chinese architecture. The tour is designed for travelers who want a well-rounded, fast-paced overview and are comfortable with a packed schedule.
Bottom Line: If you’re coming from Beijing and want an immersive yet efficient Xi’an experience, this trip packs in history, culture, and local flavor, making the most of your two days.
$699 per person
3. Xi’an: Top Highlights Custom-Made 2-Day Private Tour
At number three, this custom-made private tour is ideal for travelers who prefer to tailor their experience. Costing $238 per person, it allows you to select up to 7 attractions from a list of 11 options. From the ancient Terracotta Warriors to the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter, you design your perfect itinerary.
What makes this tour special is the personalized guidance from an experienced expert, plus inclusions like local lunches and private transfers. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with one guest praising guide Rosa’s knowledge and local insights. The flexible approach means you won’t waste time on sites that don’t interest you, and you’ll gain a rich understanding of Xi’an’s culture and history.
This tour suits travelers who want to control their pace, explore specific sites, and enjoy private service. The main limitation is that entry tickets are not included, so be prepared for a bit of planning ahead.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a fully personalized Xi’an experience with the comfort of private guides and the freedom to choose their highlights, this is an excellent option.
$238 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Xi’an 2-Day Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your priorities. If you prefer a tailored private experience and want to select your own sites, the Top Highlights Private Tour offers the most flexibility. For travelers eager to combine efficiency with hands-on experiences, the Beijing to Xi’an Bullet Train Tour provides a swift journey with a good mix of highlights. And if you’re new to Xi’an or traveling on a budget but want a rundown, the In-depth Tour of Xi’an’s Major Sites offers a solid, customizable package.
Consider your budget, interest in historical sites, and desire for local food and authentic experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially if you want to secure a spot on popular tours or during peak travel seasons.
Final Thoughts
Xi’an offers a variety of ways to explore its timeless charm in just two days. For history lovers and culture seekers, private tours that emphasize customization or local insights will deepen your understanding of this ancient capital. For those pressed for time or traveling from Beijing, efficient tours that combine high-speed train travel and key sights make the most of limited days.
No matter which option you choose, remember that early booking guarantees better availability and options. With so much to see and delicious food to taste, Xi’an’s 2-day tours are a perfect way to learn about China’s past while enjoying its present.