Xi’an isn’t just about ancient walls and legendary warriors — it’s also a fantastic city for flavorful, authentic lunch experiences. Whether you’re craving a traditional family meal in a local village or eager to explore the city’s bustling streets after visiting the Terracotta Army, Xi’an offers options that satisfy curiosity and appetite alike. Among the standout experiences, we especially like the exclusive Terracotta Army tour that includes a home-cooked family lunch—offering a taste of local life. For a deeper dive into Xi’an’s highlights paired with regional delicacies, the Day Tour including the City Wall is a great pick. And if you prefer a private, immersive experience, the Private Tour with an optional lunch provides a personalized story behind the world’s most famous army of soldiers.
To help you choose, here’s a quick overview:
- Tours combining must-see attractions like the Terracotta Army with local family meals.
- Full-day excursions that explore Xi’an’s city highlights, including the City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and more.
- Private experiences tailored with optional lunches at local restaurants, perfect for those wanting flexibility and depth.
- Cultural tours featuring calligraphy, shopping, and historical museums with included meals.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each option and what makes them special.
1. Xi’an Exclusive Terracotta Army Tour with Local Family Lunch
At number 1, the Xi’an Exclusive Terracotta Army Tour with Local Family Lunch offers an intimate experience that combines a visit to the world-famous Terracotta Army with the warmth of a genuine local family meal. This small-group or private tour is designed for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at the 8,000+ clay soldiers; it provides a chance to see this UNESCO World Heritage site with an expert guide and enjoy a meal in a traditional Chinese village home.
What makes this tour stand out is the authentic family lunch, served in a local village, giving you a taste of regional cuisine away from tourist restaurants. The guide, who speaks fluent English, will also help you understand the significance of each part of the site, making the experience both educational and personal. The hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a smooth day, freeing you from logistical worries.
This tour is an excellent value at $25 per person, offering a rare opportunity to connect with local life while exploring one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. With a 4.9/5 rating from over 200 reviews, travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and the authenticity of the lunch.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want a personal touch and an authentic meal in a peaceful village setting.
2. Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch
Number 2 on the list is the Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch — a comprehensive day trip that combines seeing the famous Terracotta Warriors with exploring other top sights like the Muslim Quarter and Bell Tower. This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Xi’an, ideal for first-time visitors with limited time.
The tour includes hotel transfers and a family-style lunch in a local household, giving you a taste of authentic regional flavors. The guide, speaking fluent English, will navigate the busy sites and share stories behind the city’s history. This tour is particularly attractive for its all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, entry tickets, and meals—making it straightforward for travelers wanting convenience.
At $25 per person, it provides excellent value, especially given the full itinerary and local dining experience. Reviewers appreciate the ease of seeing major sites in one day and the chance to enjoy a home-cooked meal amid Xi’an’s vibrant street life.
Bottom line: A great option for travelers craving a full day of cultural highlights with a personal touch in the meal.
3. Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors Private Tour with Optional Lunch
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors Private Tour with Optional Lunch provides a flexible way to explore the World Heritage site at your own pace. The private guide, who is notably knowledgeable, will tailor the visit to your interests, sharing insights that make the history come alive.
This 5 to 6-hour tour includes a detailed exploration of the Terracotta Army, which features over 7,000 sculptures waiting to tell their story. The highlight is the ability to stop and ask questions freely, avoiding the crowds of larger groups. You can also opt for a Qin-dynasty-style lunch at a local restaurant, adding a delicious historical twist.
Guests praise the organized itinerary and the guide’s fluency and enthusiasm. One reviewer mentioned, “The private guide made the experience much more engaging and informative.” At $127 per person, it’s a worthwhile splurge for travelers who value intimacy and in-depth attention.
Bottom line: Best suited for history fans or those wanting a customizable experience with a private guide and optional authentic meal.
4. Xi’an Day Tour Terracotta Warriors & City Wall Option Lunch
Number 4 combines the key highlights of Xi’an in a full-day adventure, with a focus on both archaeological marvels and the city’s historic defenses. It includes a visit to the Terracotta Army, a walk along the Ancient City Wall, and a Qin-dynasty-style lunch.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a balanced view of Xi’an’s history and culture. After marveling at over 7,000 terracotta sculptures, you’ll stroll on the city wall—one of the best-preserved in China—and even rent a bike if you’re feeling energetic. The lunch in a local restaurant adds a taste of regional cuisine, and the Muslim Quarter visit offers vibrant street food scenes.
The tour’s reviews highlight the comfortable transportation, the knowledgeable guide Sasha, and the value of visiting multiple landmarks in one day. The $177 price includes all entries and meals, making it a convenient option for visitors wanting depth and variety.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day with multiple highlights and a delicious local lunch.
$177 per person
5. Xi’an: History and Culture Day Tour with Lunch and Dinner
Number 5 offers a cultural deep dive into Xi’an, blending museums, calligraphy, and historic sites in one full-day tour. This experience is ideal for those interested in understanding the art, history, and everyday life of the city.
Highlights include a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum, where artifacts tell stories of Xi’an’s past, and a calligraphy workshop that allows you to create your own masterpiece. The tour also features a delicious regional lunch, as well as visits to Bell and Drum Towers and the Muslim Quarter.
This tour is priced at $198, and reviews mention the informative guides and well-organized schedule. It’s suitable for travelers who want a culture combined with good food, especially those interested in the arts.
Bottom line: Ideal for culture enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on activities and want to explore Xi’an beyond the major attractions.
$198 per person
6. Xi’an: Terracotta Army & Culture Walk (Tickets & Lunch Incl.)
Rounding out the list at number 6, this all-inclusive experience covers tickets, a culture walk, and a food tour, making it a one-stop-shop for a full day. You’ll marvel at the life-sized Terracotta Warriors, walk the ancient city walls, and sample street food in the Muslim Quarter.
The tour includes traditional calligraphy and handicrafts, offering a taste of local artistry. The tickets are included, so you skip the lines, and the walking tour provides context for the sites visited. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with plenty of local flavor.
While reviews are not yet available, the comprehensive nature makes it attractive for those who want everything bundled together. The price of $230 per person reflects the full experience, including all tickets and activities.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers wanting a complete, ticket-inclusive day with cultural and culinary highlights.
$230 per person
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Xi’an
When selecting your ideal lunch experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interest in history or local culture. For a personalized private experience, the Private Tour with optional lunch offers flexibility and depth. If you prefer a full-day immersion that combines key attractions and local flavors, the Terracotta Army & City Wall Tour is a solid choice. For those eager to connect with local life and enjoy authentic family meals, the Exclusive Terracotta Army Tour with Local Family Lunch is ideal.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value of tours at around $25, while others seeking a richer experience might opt for the more comprehensive full-day options. Remember to book early during peak travel seasons, especially if you want private or small-group tours, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Xi’an offers a range of lunch experiences that go beyond just eating—these tours reveal stories, traditions, and local flavors that turn a meal into a memorable part of your trip. Whether you choose a private exploration with a home-cooked meal, a full-day sightseeing adventure with a delicious lunch, or a cultural walk with street food tasting, there’s something for every type of traveler.
For those with limited time, a half-day private tour might be perfect, while history buffs will love the full-day options. Don’t forget to book in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot for popular tours. Happy exploring—your taste buds and curiosity will thank you!