My First Time in Xian: A Practical Arrival Guide

Stepping out of Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, I was hit with a wave of warm, dry air—so different from the humid summers back home. As a first-time visitor to China’s ancient capital, I felt equal parts excited and overwhelmed. Where should I go next? How do I get to the city center? What do I need to know to make this trip smooth? If you’re like me, fresh off the plane and wondering “what now?” this guide is for you. I’ve compiled all the practical tips I wish I’d known before arriving, broken down step by step, so you can skip the stress and start exploring Xi’an like a pro.

Getting from the Airport to the City: Your Options

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is about 45 kilometers northwest of the city center. Don’t worry—there are plenty of easy ways to get there, no matter your budget or time preference.

Metro: The Cheapest & Most Convenient

This was my first choice, and it’s a lifesaver! The airport is connected to Metro Line 14, which takes you straight to Xi’an North Railway Station (换乘站 for Line 2 and 4) and then to the city center. Here’s how it works:

My First Time in Xian: A Practical Arrival Guide

• Where to go: Follow the “Metro” signs in the airport terminal. Line 14’s station is in Terminal 3 (connected by a skybridge) and a short walk from Terminal 2.
• Tickets: Use the self-service machines (they have English options) or the ticket counter. A one-way ticket to Xi’an North Railway Station costs ¥5, and it takes about 40 minutes. If you’re heading to Bell Tower (the city center), transfer to Line 2 at Xi’an North and ride 2 stops (total ~1 hour, ¥6).
• Pro tip: Metro runs from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. If you arrive late, grab a taxi instead (more on that below).

Airport Shuttle Bus: Budget-Friendly & Direct

If you’re carrying heavy luggage or prefer not to navigate the metro, the shuttle bus is a great alternative. It has multiple routes covering key areas:

• Route 1: Airport → Bell Tower (most popular for tourists). Departs every 15-20 minutes from 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Takes ~1 hour, costs ¥25. Drop-off is at Bell Tower South Square, steps away from the Muslim Quarter and downtown hotels.
• Route 5: Airport → Xi’an Railway Station. For those heading to hotels near the station or taking overnight trains. Departs every 20-30 minutes, 7:00 AM-9:30 PM, ¥20.
• Where to buy tickets: Look for the shuttle bus counter in the arrival hall of your terminal (signs in English).

Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Door-to-Door Comfort

Taxis are plentiful outside both terminals. A ride to the city center (Bell Tower area) costs ¥100-¥150 (including highway tolls), and takes ~40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Important: Always use the official taxi queue—avoid touts offering rides inside the terminal. Insist on using the meter, or agree on the price upfront (most drivers know the standard rate to downtown).

For ride-hailing, download Didi Chuxing (China’s Uber equivalent) before you go. You can link your international credit card, and it’s often cheaper than taxis. Just note that some drivers may not speak English, so have your hotel address written in Chinese (e.g., “钟楼附近酒店” or the specific hotel name in Chinese characters).

Arriving by Train: Xi’an Railway Station vs. Xi’an North Railway Station

Many travelers reach Xi’an by train, and the station you arrive at determines your next steps:

Xi’an Railway Station (老火车站)

• Location: Right in the city center, near the Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, and downtown hotels. Super convenient if you’re staying in the tourist area.
• Getting to your hotel: If you’re near the station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to Bell Tower. For longer distances, take Metro Line 1 (red line) or a taxi (¥10-¥15).
• Note: This station is older but well-connected. It has a left-luggage room if you want to drop bags before exploring.

Xi’an North Railway Station (西安北站)

• Location: About 16 km north of the city center, a major hub for high-speed rail (G trains).
• Getting to your hotel: Metro Line 2 (blue line) runs directly here to Bell Tower (30 minutes, ¥5). Taxis cost ¥30-¥40 to downtown.
• Pro tip: If you’re arriving on a high-speed train from Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu, North Station is likely your stop. Give yourself extra time to navigate the station—it’s huge!

Where to Stay: Neighborhoods for First-Timers

Xi’an’s neighborhoods each have a vibe, so pick one based on your priorities:

Bell Tower/Muslim Quarter Area (市中心/回民街)

• Best for: First-time tourists who want to be in the heart of the action. You’ll be steps away from the Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, Drum Tower, and the Muslim Street food scene.
• Pros: Walkable to most downtown attractions, tons of restaurants and shops nearby.
• Cons: Can be noisy at night due to nightlife.
• Hotel tip: Look for places near “钟楼” (Bell Tower) or “回民街” (Muslim Quarter). Budget hostels like “Xi’an Muslim Quarter Youth Hostel” or mid-range hotels like “Shangri-La Hotel Xi’an” are great options.

Small Wild Goose Pagoda Area (小雁塔)

• Best for: Travelers who prefer quieter, more local vibes. It’s a 15-minute metro ride from Bell Tower but closer to the Shaanxi History Museum and the South Gate.
• Pros: Less crowded, more authentic neighborhood feel, cheaper hotels.
• Cons: Need to take metro/taxi to reach the main tourist strip.

High-Tech Zone (高新区)

• Best for: Business travelers or those who want modern amenities. It’s far from the old city (30+ minutes by metro) but has sleek malls, international restaurants, and high-end hotels.
• Only stay here if: You have a reason to be in the west of the city—otherwise, stick to downtown for sightseeing.

Money & Payments: Don’t Get Caught Short

China is still very cash-dependent in some places, but mobile payments are king in cities like Xi’an. Here’s what you need:

Cash is King for Small Vendors

Bring some Chinese Yuan (CNY) in small bills (¥10, ¥20, ¥50). You’ll need cash for:

• Street food stalls (e.g., roujiamo, biangbiang noodles).
• Small shops in the Muslim Quarter.
• Taxis (some drivers don’t take mobile payments).
• Entrance fees to some smaller temples (though most major attractions accept cards/Alipay/WeChat).

Where to exchange: Airport and train stations have exchange counters (rates are decent for convenience). You can also withdraw cash from ATMs—look for “银联” (UnionPay) machines, which accept most international cards.

Mobile Payments: Alipay & WeChat Pay

If you have a Chinese phone number, you can link your international card to Alipay or WeChat Pay (the two most popular apps). For tourists, Alipay’s “Tour Card” feature lets you temporarily use foreign cards without a Chinese bank account. Just scan the QR code at restaurants, shops, or even metro gates (super convenient!).

Note: If you don’t have a Chinese number, some vendors may still accept WeChat/Alipay if you show them the “International Travel” option in the app. But cash is always a safe backup!

Stay Connected: SIM Cards & WiFi

Having internet is non-negotiable for navigation, translation, and booking rides. Here’s how to stay connected:

Buy a Local SIM Card at the Airport

This is the easiest option. China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all have counters in the arrival hall. For tourists, a prepaid “Tourist SIM” with 10-20GB of data costs ¥100-¥150 and is valid for 30 days. You’ll need your passport to register.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

If you prefer using your own phone, rent a portable WiFi device. You can pick one up at the airport or train station (return it before departure). Prices start at ¥50/day for unlimited data.

Hotel WiFi

Most hotels offer free WiFi, but it can be slow in the evenings. Download offline maps (Google Maps works with a VPN, but Baidu Maps is better in China) just in case.

Must-Have Items for Your First Day

Pack these to avoid last-minute stress:

• Comfortable shoes: Xi’an is a walking city—you’ll cover miles exploring the Muslim Quarter, City Wall, and temples.
• Reusable water bottle: Tap water isn’t drinkable, but most hotels provide boiled water, and there are water refill stations in parks.
• Power bank: You’ll be taking tons of photos and using maps, which drain phone batteries quickly.
• Hand sanitizer: Useful for street food stalls and public transport.
• Small backpack: For carrying water, snacks, and souvenirs as you explore.
• Chinese phrasebook/translation app: While many young people speak English in tourist areas, basic phrases like “nǐ hǎo” (hello), “xiè xie” (thank you), and “duō shao qián” (how much?) go a long way. Google Translate with camera mode is a lifesaver for reading menus or signs.

First Food Stop: What to Eat Near Your Hotel

No trip to Xi’an is complete without its iconic food. If you’re staying near the Bell Tower or Muslim Quarter, start here:

• Roujiamo (肉夹馍): “Chinese hamburger”—crispy baked bun stuffed with tender, spiced pork. Try the famous “Laomao Jirou” (樊记腊汁肉夹馍) near Muslim Quarter.
• Biangbiang Noodles (biangbiang面): Wide, chewy noodles with chili oil, garlic, and veggies. The name has 57 strokes—look at the menu picture instead of trying to read the character!
• Yang Rou Paomo (羊肉泡馍): “Bread soaked in lamb soup”—tear bread into small pieces, add it to a rich lamb broth, and top with meat and garlic. It’s a local favorite, but allow 30 minutes for them to prepare it (you “break the bread” yourself at the table).
• Tanghulu (糖葫芦): Candied hawthorns on a stick—sweet, tangy, and perfect for a snack while wandering the Muslim Quarter at night.

Pro tip: Muslim Quarter is packed with tourists, so for the most authentic food, wander the side streets (like “皮市街” or “大皮院”) where locals eat.

Safety & Etiquette: Tips for a Smooth Trip

Xi’an is generally safe, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Beware of pickpockets: In crowded areas like the Muslim Quarter, Bell Tower, and metro, keep your wallet in a front pocket or crossbody bag.
• Taxi scams: Always use the meter or agree on the price upfront. Some drivers may take a “scenic route”—if you suspect this, show them your map and insist on the shortest path.
• Respect local customs: When visiting temples (like Big Wild Goose Pagoda), dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). In Muslim areas, be mindful of religious customs—don’t bring pork products, and ask before taking photos of people.
• Weather: Xi’an has four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are hot (35°C+) and dry, winters (December-February) are cold (-5°C to 5°C) and snowy. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit—mild and pleasant.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Arriving in a new city can be intimidating, but Xi’an is one of the most traveler-friendly destinations in China. With metro lines connecting key spots, affordable food at every corner, and locals used to tourists, you’ll feel at home in no time. Start by mastering the metro, stash some cash in your pocket, and dive into the Muslim Quarter—you’re in for an adventure.

Xi’an isn’t just a city; it’s a living museum, where every street corner tells a story of emperors, traders, and dynasties. So take a deep breath, grab a roujiamo, and let the exploration begin. Welcome to Xi’an—I hope you love it as much as I do!