Xi’an is a city bursting with history and culture, and it offers some of China’s most memorable tours. From exploring the legendary Terracotta Army to catching traditional dance shows, Xi’an provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. We particularly love tours that skip the shopping factory traps and focus on authentic culture—like the exclusive Terracotta Army tour with a local family lunch, or the mini group that ensures personalized attention and avoids touristy detours. If you’re after a deep dive into history or just a quick cultural fix, Xi’an delivers.
Quick overview: Our list includes guided tours, ticket-only options, private experiences, and multi-attraction days. Whether you want a half-day or full-day adventure, enjoy skip-the-line tickets or personalized guides, all designed to maximize your time in this incredible city. Keep reading for detailed reviews of each experience and tips on choosing the right tour for you.
1. Xi’an: Terracotta Army Mini Group or Private Tour
At number one, we highly recommend the Xi’an: Terracotta Army Mini Group or Private Tour for its balance of personalized service and hassle-free access. This tour includes skip-the-line tickets and a knowledgeable English guide who can answer all your questions. What sets this apart is the small group size—limiting clients so your guide can give you plenty of individual attention, unlike the big bus tours. Best of all, it avoids the typical factory shopping stops, so you’re truly focusing on the magnificent Terracotta Warriors and their story. Rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on over 500 reviews, travelers love how seamless and informative this experience is.
Bottom line: It’s a great choice if you prefer an intimate, well-organized tour with expert guidance and no sales pitches.
2. Xian: Terracotta Army Ticket & Guided Bus Tour with Options
For a quick yet comprehensive visit, the Terracotta Army Guided Bus Tour with Options is perfect, especially if your time in Xi’an is limited. This tour offers over 7,000 warriors brought to life with a guide explaining their significance. It’s valued for its affordability—just $20 per person—and the half-day format makes it ideal for travelers on a tight schedule. The tour helps you skip ticket queues and avoid sold-out days, which can be a nightmare during peak seasons. A notable feature is the flexibility to choose different options, tailoring your experience. With a 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews, this tour is praised for efficiency and ease.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a reliable, half-day tour with expert insights without breaking the bank.
3. Xi’an Exclusive Terracotta Army Tour with Local Family Lunch
Experience the exclusive small-group or private tour that offers more than just the warriors. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus an authentic local family lunch—a rare chance to taste genuine Xi’an flavors in a village setting. The guide is licensed, English-speaking, and ready to answer all your questions, making this a more personalized experience. Rated 4.9, travelers say the local lunch and ease of access make this tour stand out. It’s perfect if you want a combination of history and local culture in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking an authentic, immersive experience with a focus on cultural richness and comfort.
4. Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch
If you want to see the best of Xi’an in one day, this full-day tour delivers. It combines the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with visits to city highlights like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and city walls. The included family-style lunch in a local household gives you a taste of authentic cuisine. The tour offers hotel transfers and is guided by a licensed professional, ensuring a smooth, informative day. With a 4.9-star rating from 123 reviews, it’s praised for well-organized logistics and rich sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a compact, comprehensive Xi’an experience without rushing.
5. Xi’an: Terracotta Army Entry Ticket
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Terracotta Army Entry Ticket allows you to skip the line and visit independently. Prebooking saves time and reduces stress, giving you the flexibility to linger or explore additional sites afterwards. This option is suitable for confident travelers comfortable navigating on their own or with audio guides. The tickets are highly rated (4.9/5 from 59 reviews) for reliability and convenience.
Bottom line: Best if you prefer a self-guided adventure and want to avoid long queues, especially during busy seasons.
6. Xian Terra Cotta Warriors Ticket Only
If you’re on a tight budget or just want to visit the site without extras, the ticket-only option offers a skip-the-line electronic ticket, valid for one day. You’ll need to show your passport at the entrance, making for quick access, but there’s no guide or transportation included. This is great for independent travelers who prefer planning their own schedule. Rated 4.8, reviews mention how easy it is to get in and enjoy the site at your own pace.
Bottom line: Best for solo explorers who want flexibility and are comfortable navigating independently.
7. Private Terracotta Army 5-Hour Tour with Options
For those wanting a personalized experience, the Private 5-Hour Tour offers skip-the-line tickets and your choice of guide or transfer. It’s tailored to your schedule and interests, with the guide sharing in-depth insights about the Eighth Wonder of the World. The private transport ensures comfort and flexibility, especially if you want to customize your visit or add other sites. It’s rated 4.9, reflecting high satisfaction from travelers who value exclusivity.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, flexible, and private experience.
8. Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors Tour w/Optional Guide or Transfer
This flexible tour allows you to explore the site your way, with options for private or group visits. It includes tickets, optional guides, and transfers, making it suitable for all comfort levels. The itinerary features guided sightseeing of the museum, with the ability to choose starting times. With a 4.8-star rating from 57 reviews, travelers appreciate the customizable approach and professional guides.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want the flexibility to explore independently or with guidance.
9. Mini Group: Terracotta Army, City Wall, Pagoda, Muslim Souk
If you enjoy a small-group experience with about 12 people, this Mini Group Tour hits the mark. It covers multiple key sites: the Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Muslim Bazaar. The air-conditioned vehicle and headsets mean you won’t miss a word. The tour avoids shopping stops, focusing solely on the sights. Rated 5 stars from 32 reviews, many travelers appreciate the personalized attention and comprehensive itinerary.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one day with a small, intimate group.
10. Terracotta Army E Ticket with Optional Transfer or Guide
For maximum flexibility, the E-ticket with optional extras allows you to customize your visit. You can add a guided tour, transfer, or just visit with a self-guided ticket. This is perfect if you want control and flexibility, with the added advantage of avoiding long queues. Rated 5 out of 5, travelers value its adaptability.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers who want to craft their own experience.
11. Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors Private Tour with Optional Lunch
This private 5-6 hour tour offers a guided visit to the World Heritage Site, with an optional Qin-style lunch. The private guide makes it easy to ask questions and go at your pace. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide Eva, and the luxury of a private vehicle for comfort and convenience. The tour is ideal for those who want an in-depth look, plus a local meal that’s part of the experience. The cost is higher, but many find the personalized service worth it.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a private, tailored experience with culture.
12. Xi’an: Private Half-Day Terracotta Warriors Tour with Pickup
If you’re pressed for time, this private half-day tour offers quick access with hotel pickup and drop-off. It focuses exclusively on the Terracotta Warriors, with a veteran guide ensuring you get the most out of your limited time. Rated 4.8, travelers mention how organized and easy the experience is, especially with pre-booked tickets and round-trip transportation.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a efficient, private visit with no fuss.
13. Xi’an: Great Tang Dynasty Night Show & Dumpling Meal Option
For an evening of spectacular entertainment, this Tang Dynasty Night Show showcases traditional dance, music, and costumes from China’s most powerful dynasty. You can choose to include a dumpling dinner, which many reviews praise as “exceptional.” The show is staged at a grand theater with English and Chinese screens, making it accessible for international visitors. It’s rated 4.5, often described as a highlight of their trip.
Bottom line: Perfect for a cultural evening combining history, performance, and local cuisine.
14. Xi’An: Tang Dynasty Show Ticket w/ Transfer or Dinner
If you want a full cultural night out, this Tang Dynasty Show combines dinner (with vegetarian and Muslim options) and a spectacular dance show with English captions. You can also opt for just the show with transfer if you prefer to dine on your own. Many reviews mention how well-organized and festive the evening is, making it a favorite for families and couples. The full package offers a memorable taste of China’s imperial past.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a complete cultural night experience, including dinner.
15. Xi’an: Terracotta Army Museum Group Tour/Tickets only option
Finally, the Group Tour and Tickets is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. It combines guided visits and skip-the-line tickets, with flexible timings. Rated 4.5, it’s appreciated for ease of booking and reliable service. The tour covers the main museum sites and avoids unnecessary shopping, making it straightforward and informative.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent travelers seeking a guided experience at a good value.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Xi’an
Picking the best tour depends on what you want from your visit. If personalized attention and deep historical insights matter most, consider the private options like the Private Terracotta Army Tour. Budget travelers or those wanting to explore independently will value the ticket-only options. For a full-day experience with multiple sites, the Xi’an in a Day Tour is a solid choice. And for a memorable cultural night, the Tang Dynasty Show with dinner offers a great mix of entertainment and local flavor.
When booking, consider seasonal crowds—the skip-the-line tickets and early reservations help avoid long waits, especially during peak seasons. If you want a culture with local food, look for tours including family lunches or authentic dinners. And always check reviews for recent feedback on guide professionalism and logistical smoothness.
Overall, Xi’an offers a broad range of tours to suit every traveler, from self-guided ticket purchases to full private experiences with meals and city explorations. For your best experience, book early, especially in high season, and choose a tour that aligns with your interests and pace. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, or simply after a stress-free visit, Xi’an’s tour options will make your trip memorable.
Happy travels, and enjoy your adventure in Xi’an!