Xi’an, a city where history practically oozes from every brick, is a fantastic place to explore on foot, bike, or even boat. Known for its ancient city walls, magnificent Terracotta Army, and lively Muslim Quarter, Xi’an offers a variety of city tours that suit all types of travelers. Whether you’re after a quick overview or an in-depth journey, you’ll find options that highlight local food, ancient architecture, or archaeological wonders. One standout experience is the Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch, which combines a visit to the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors with a taste of local cuisine.
What makes Xi’an especially appealing for city tours is the diversity of experiences—ranging from private guided walks to small group adventures, from cultural landmarks to lively markets. The city’s remarkably well-preserved city walls and fascinating underground army are just the start. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or casual sightseer, Xi’an’s tours offer a balanced mix of culture, history, and flavor.
1. Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch
This all-in-one day tour is ideal for travelers with limited time but a big curiosity about Xi’an’s most famous sights. It covers the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and top city highlights, including some local flavor with a family-style lunch in a village household. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it hassle-free, especially for first-timers. The guide is licensed and English-speaking, ensuring you understand each site’s story without fuss.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach for just $25 per person. You get to see the must-see archaeological marvel and enjoy a local meal that highlights regional flavors. It’s perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who want to hit the highlights without sacrificing authenticity. The reviews are outstanding, with a 4.9-star rating from 123 travelers praising both the value and the smooth organization.
Bottom line: For a quick, budget-friendly introduction to Xi’an’s highlights, this tour offers solid value and a taste of local life.
2. Mini Group: Terracotta Army, City Wall, Pagoda, Muslim Souk
At number 2, this small-group tour (about 12 people) combines key attractions like the Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Muslim Bazaar. It’s a carefully curated itinerary with no shopping detours and a focus on genuine sightseeing—plus the advantage of personalized attention from your guide. The tour lasts between 5 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in each site.
Highlights include the 2200-year-old Terracotta Warriors and the historic City Wall. With air-conditioned transportation and free headsets, you’ll experience comfort while learning about Xi’an’s history. The guide is an English speaker, and reviews highlight the expert knowledge and smooth logistics. One reviewer mentions how the guide’s management helped skip queues during busy times, making it an efficient day.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who love a more intimate group experience and want to see Xi’an’s top sights without the hassle of shopping or long waits.
3. Xi’an: Terracotta Army and Top City Sights Tour with Options
For around $32, this private custom tour offers flexibility to tailor your day. You’ll experience the marvel of the Terracotta Warriors, then choose two additional sites that interest you from a curated list. This approach is perfect if you want a personalized experience and prefer a more relaxed pace.
What sets this tour apart is its customization—you can pick your sightseeing spots and enjoy a guided visit. Past travelers praise their guide’s professionalism and engaging storytelling, making history come alive. It’s an excellent option for those who want to mix archaeology with other attractions like the City Wall or or other local highlights.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting control over their itinerary and personalized service, this private tour offers great value and flexibility.
4. Xi’an: Terracotta Army, Big Goose Pagoda, City Wall
This eight-hour private tour combines Xi’an’s—and perhaps China’s—most important attractions: the Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and City Wall. It’s perfect for visitors who want an immersive, all-in-one day experience with no hidden fees or detours. The guide takes you through the UNESCO site and then introduces you to Xi’an’s spiritual and defensive architecture.
Guests particularly enjoy the knowledgeable guide Linda, who makes history interesting and manages timings efficiently. The personalized pace ensures you get the most out of each location without feeling rushed. The tour costs $65 per person but offers a comprehensive experience that’s well worth the price for those wanting depth.
Bottom line: If you want a full day exploring Xi’an’s top sights with a private guide, this tour provides excellent value.
5. Xi’an: City Wall & Old Town Walking Tour w/ 10+ Food Tasting
For just $14, this 3.5 to 4-hour tour combines walking or cycling on the 600-year-old City Wall with a food tasting adventure through the old town. You’ll enjoy unlimited beer and over ten local street foods, making it a foodie’s delight. The tour is guided by a knowledgeable local, who customizes the food experience based on your preferences.
Travelers love how Rosa tailored the food stops to their tastes, and the chance to see Xi’an from the top of the city wall at sunset adds a memorable touch. The tour works well for those who want to combine light exercise with culinary discoveries and appreciate an authentic local vibe.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget travelers who want a combo of sightseeing and food without sacrificing authenticity.
6. Xi’an Terracotta Warriors and City Wall Private Day Tour
This full-day private tour offers a deep dive into Xi’an’s archaeological and urban attractions. It includes a guided visit to the Terracotta Army, a walk along the City Wall, and shopping at Yongxingfang. The tour is priced at $161 and is suited for those who want a comprehensive, personalized experience with detailed storytelling.
Guests praise the expert guide who makes the lifelike soldiers come alive and the well-paced itinerary. The inclusion of shopping adds a casual, local flavor, appealing to travelers interested in souvenirs or local products.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers looking for a full, flexible day with both sightseeing and shopping.
7. Xi’an: In-Depth City Tour with Choice of Duration
Offering a customized private experience, this tour allows you to select your preferred duration and explore Xi’an at your own pace. It emphasizes storytelling, cultural learning, and relaxed walking to truly absorb the city’s essence. For travelers who prefer a flexible schedule and a more personalized approach, this is a good option.
Reviewed as informative and enjoyable, it’s best for those who want to avoid rushes and prefer a more intimate exploration led by a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want a tailor-made experience with depth and a slower pace.
8. Xi’an: Xi’an City Wall South Gate (Yongningmen) Entry Ticket
If you prefer exploring independently, this advance ticket guarantees entry to the Xi’an City Wall South Gate. It’s a simple option for those wanting to bike along the ramparts or enjoy the scenery at their leisure. The $15 price makes it an affordable way to experience one of the best-preserved city defenses.
One reviewer mentions, “Doing a leisurely evening run along the wall was a delight,” highlighting how this ticket provides flexibility for different activities. Just bring your passport or ID to enter smoothly.
Bottom line: Great for independent explorers who want to avoid long lines and enjoy a self-guided experience.
9. Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall Day Tour
This full-day group tour combines some of Xi’an’s most iconic sights with a guided experience. It includes the Terracotta Warriors, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and a stroll along the City Wall. Priced at $169 per person, it’s ideal for those who prefer organized group experiences with comprehensive sightseeing.
Reviewers mention the professional guides and the well-paced schedule that maximizes the day. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a structured itinerary but don’t mind sharing space with others.
Bottom line: A good fit for those seeking a full-day guided experience with a mix of archaeology and cultural sites.
10. Xi’an Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, City Wall & Food Tour
For a well-rounded day, this private tour includes the Terracotta Warriors, a food tour in the Muslim Quarter, and a walk along the City Wall. Costing $171, it’s perfect for travelers who want to combine history, cuisine, and local life in one seamless experience.
Past participants highlight the diverse attractions and the delicious food tasting, making it suitable for anyone who wants a comprehensive, immersive day in Xi’an.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a full sensory experience—history, food, and culture—in one day.
11. Xi’an City Wall Private Guided Tour with Cycling Option
This 2.5 to 3-hour tour is perfect if you want to walk or bike along the ancient City Wall. It’s especially good for those who enjoy active sightseeing and want to learn about Xi’an’s military defenses from an experienced guide. The guide’s considerate and flexible approach makes this a popular choice.
Guests praise the helpful guide who negotiated the bike rental and managed timings efficiently. The experience offers spectacular views of the city from atop the wall.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a shorter, active tour with insights into Xi’an’s historic defenses.
12. Private Tour to Terra Cotta Museum & Optional City Highlights
This 8-hour private tour focuses on the Terracotta Army, with options to visit other city highlights. It includes a delicious lunch and allows you to DIY your itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate, flexible experience with tailored sightseeing.
Reviewers note the personalized attention and the professional guide who helps craft a memorable day. This tour suits those looking for depth and customization.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke experience centered on the archaeological marvel.
$238 per person
13. Xi’an: Along the City Wall and Xiang Zi Temple Walking Tour
This guided walk combines exploring Xi’an’s City Wall, Yongning Gate, and the Xiang Zi Temple. It offers insight into local spiritual life and urban history at an affordable price of $27. Perfect for history and culture lovers who enjoy strolling through traditional streets.
Reviews are limited but emphasize the enjoyable and informative nature of the walk. It’s best suited for slow-paced exploration and those interested in Taoist landmarks.
Bottom line: Great for a focused, cultural walk with local flavor.
$27 per person
14. Xi’an City Wall – E-Ticket
This instant e-ticket allows you to skip lines and enter Xi’an’s most iconic fortress with ease. For only $15, it’s a smart choice for spontaneous travelers or those who want to explore at their own pace.
The reviews highlight how easy it is to plan ahead and avoid sold-out tickets, making this a practical option for self-guided exploration.
Bottom line: Highly recommended for independent visitors who want flexibility and easy access.
$15 per person
15. Xi’an: City Wall Moat Smart Boat Tour
Lastly, this water-based experience offers a unique perspective of the City Wall, cruising along the moat with a smart boat. Priced at just $17, it combines history with modern technology and is perfect for evening or night sightseeing, especially with the light show.
Guests appreciate the distinct water-level view and the audio guide that enriches the experience. It’s a relaxing way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a different view of Xi’an’s fortress from the water.
$17 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a city tour in Xi’an, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For a quick overview, the Xi’an in A Day: Terracotta Army & City Highlights with Lunch is unbeatable value. If you prefer a personalized experience, the Terracotta Army and Top City Sights** lets you customize your day. For those who love active exploration, the City Wall cycling or walking tours offer both exercise and history.
Always book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Think about whether you want a guided group, a private tour, or an independent visit with pre-booked tickets—each has distinct advantages depending on your travel style.
Final Thoughts
From comprehensive private tours to budget-friendly group experiences, Xi’an offers a wide array of options to suit different travel styles. If you’re short on time, the Xi’an in A Day tour hits the highlights efficiently. For a more immersive, flexible day, the private Terracotta Army and city highlights is excellent.
Travelers with a love of food should consider the City Wall & Old Town Food Tasting, while those interested in historical architecture will appreciate exploring the city walls either by bike or boat. Whatever your interests and schedule, Xi’an’s diverse tours ensure you’ll return home with a rich collection of memories.
If you’re eager to explore this ancient city’s treasures, we recommend booking your preferred tour well in advance to secure your spot in these in-demand experiences.