Your First 24 Hours in Xi’an: A Practical Guide for New Travelers

Landing in Xi’an for the first time, my stomach did a flip—not just from the turbulence of the plane, but from a cocktail of excitement and nerves. As someone who’d never traveled in China before, I’d spent weeks scrolling through photos of the Terracotta Army, drooling over videos of roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), and stressing over whether I’d be able to communicate, navigate, or even find a decent cup of coffee. Fast-forward 48 hours, and I was already planning my return trip, armed with a list of “aha!” moments and a few hard-won tips. If you’re a first-timer in China, especially in Xi’an, this is the guide I wish I’d had. Let’s break it down step by step, from the moment you land to your first night in this ancient city.

Your First 24 Hours in Xi’an: A Practical Guide for New Travelers

Step 1: Getting from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) to Your Hotel

The airport is about 45 km from downtown Xi’an, but don’t panic—there are plenty of easy (and affordable) options. Here’s what you need to know:

Option 1: Metro (My Top Pick for Budget Travelers)

The Airport Metro Line (Airport Line) is a lifesaver. It’s clean, efficient, and drops you right in the city center. Look for the purple “Airport Line” signs in the airport’s Arrivals Hall—you’ll see ticket machines with English options. A one-way ticket to the city center (e.g., to Bell Tower Station or North Railway Station) costs ¥9 and takes about 40–50 minutes. Pro tip: Download the “Metro Xi’an” app (or use Google Translate) to check schedules, as the last train departs around 10:30 PM. If you arrive late, grab a taxi instead.

Option 2: Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Convenient but Watch for Scams)

Taxis are readily available at the airport, but always insist on using the meter. Unmetered rides might cost you ¥150–200 instead of the usual ¥80–100. If you prefer ride-hailing, download Didi (China’s Uber equivalent) before you leave home—you’ll need a Chinese phone number to sign up, but if you don’t have one, ask your hotel to help you book a car through their trusted driver service.

Option 3: Airport Shuttle Bus

If your hotel is near major hubs like the Bell Tower, Railway Station, or High-Speed Rail Station, the shuttle bus is a solid choice. Buses depart every 15–30 minutes, cost ¥25, and take 60–90 minutes depending on traffic. Check the airport’s website for routes and stops—most have English signs.

Step 2: Checking In: Where to Stay and What to Ask

Xi’an’s best neighborhoods for first-timers are Bell Tower (Zhonglou), Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie), or South Gate (Nanmen). These areas are walkable, packed with restaurants, and close to top attractions.

When you check in, ask your hotel staff three key questions (use Google Translate if needed):

1. “Can you help me call a taxi?” (Neng bang wo da che ma?)
2. “Where’s the nearest convenience store?” (Fujin de shangdian zai nar?)
3. “Do you have a luggage storage service?” (Nimen you xingli cunfang fuwu ma?)

Most hotels in these areas offer free luggage storage if you arrive early or want to explore before check-in. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart are everywhere—you can buy water, snacks, and even phone chargers there.

Step 3: Money Matters: Cash vs. Mobile Payments

China is a cashless society, but as a tourist, you’ll still need some cash—especially at small markets or street food stalls. Here’s the lowdown:

Exchange Money

Skip the airport exchange rates (they’re terrible). Instead, go to a Bank of China or ICBC branch in the city—you’ll get a better rate. Bring USD or EUR; they’re widely accepted. Pro tip: Ask the bank to give you mostly ¥10, ¥20, and ¥50 bills—smaller denominations are easier for street vendors.

Mobile Payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay)

If you have a Chinese friend, ask them to help you set up Alipay or WeChat Pay (you’ll need their phone number to link your account). But if not, don’t worry—most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Just always carry cash as a backup—some tiny eateries only take cash.

ATMs

ATMs are everywhere in downtown Xi’an (look for “Bank of China” or “ICBC” signs). International cards work fine, but check with your bank about foreign transaction fees—mine charged 3% per withdrawal, so I took out larger amounts (¥500–1000) at a time.

Step 4: Navigating Language: Don’t Panic—You’ll Get By

English isn’t widely spoken outside of hotels, tourist sites, and trendy cafes, but don’t let that stop you. Here’s how to communicate:

Download These Apps

• Google Translate: Download the Chinese language pack offline (so it works without Wi-Fi). Use the camera feature to translate signs, menus, or receipts—just point your phone at the text.
• Pleco: A lifesaver for food lovers. Take a photo of a menu, and it’ll translate dishes (with pinyin, so you can try to pronounce them!).
• Didi: For ride-hailing (if you have a Chinese number) or to ask drivers to text your hotel address to you (they can usually do this).

Learn 5 Basic Phrases

Even a little Mandarin goes a long way. Locals will appreciate the effort:

• “Hello” – Nǐ hǎo (nee how)
• “Thank you” – Xiè xie (shieh shieh)
• “How much?” – Duōshao qián? (dwah-chow chyen?)
• “Delicious!” – Hǎo chī! (how chur!)
• “Where is the toilet?” – Cèsuǒ zài nǎr? (tsuh-swur zai nar?)

Pro Tip for Restaurants

If you’re nervous about ordering, point to dishes at neighboring tables—Chinese diners are used to this and won’t mind. Or ask your hotel to write down a few “safe” dishes (like roujiamo or yangroupaomo) in Chinese to show waiters.

Step 5: First Meal: What to Eat and Where

Xi’an is a foodie paradise, but don’t dive straight into Muslim Quarter’s tourist traps. Here’s where to go for your first (and best) meal:

Option 1: Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) – For the Vibe

Yes, it’s crowded, but it’s worth visiting for the atmosphere. Arrive around 5 PM when the street lights up and vendors start grilling chuanr (skewers). Must-tries:

• Roujiamo: “Chinese hamburger” – crispy bread stuffed with spiced pork or beef (¥10–15).
• Biangbiangmian: Wide, hand-pulled noodles with chili oil and vegetables (¥15–20).
• Tanghulu: Candied hawthorns on a stick (sweet and tangy, ¥5–10).

Skip the “authentic” restaurants in the main alley—they’re overpriced. Instead, turn onto side streets like Beiyuan Men—you’ll find locals lining up at tiny stalls.

Option 2: South Gate Food Street (Nanmen Jie) – For a Sit-Down Meal

If you prefer a proper table, head to South Gate. There are dozens of restaurants with English menus. Try Defachang Paomo (the most famous paomo spot)—you break bread into a bowl, and they pour lamb soup over it. It’s messy, delicious, and a Xi’an classic (¥30–50 per person).

Option 3:洒金桥 (Sǎjīnqiáo) – For Local Secrets

This is my favorite spot—no tourists, just locals eating like kings. Wander the alleyways and look for stalls with long lines. My top pick: Lao Sun Family Paomo (tiny, no English, but the food is worth the pointing).

Step 6: Exploring Day 1: Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, and City Walls

On your first day, stick to the city center—you’ll see the highlights without exhausting yourself.

Morning: Bell Tower (Zhonglou)

Start at the Bell Tower, the symbol of Xi’an. It’s right in the middle of a roundabout, so enter via the underground tunnel (there are signs in English). Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city—¥35 admission. Pro tip: Go early (around 9 AM) to avoid crowds.

Afternoon: Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie)

From the Bell Tower, it’s a 10-minute walk to Muslim Quarter. Spend 2–3 hours wandering—visit the Great Mosque (¥25, a peaceful oasis amid the chaos) and browse the stalls for souvenirs (like jianbing or silk paintings).

Evening: City Wall (Chengqiang)

End your day with a bike ride on the Ming Dynasty City Wall. It’s 14 km long, but you don’t have to ride the whole thing—rent a bike for ¥45/2 hours and ride a section (the South Gate is the most popular spot). Watch the sunset over the city—it’s magical.

Step 7: Getting Around: Metro, Bus, or Walking?

Xi’an’s metro is clean, cheap, and easy to navigate. A single ride costs ¥2–6 (depending on distance), and you can buy a rechargeable card at any station. Buses are cheaper (¥1–2) but harder to navigate if you don’t speak Chinese.

For short distances, walking is best—many attractions (Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, South Gate) are within a 15-minute walk of each other. If you need a taxi, use Didi or ask your hotel to call one—never hail a random cab on the street (insist on the meter!).

Step 8: Cultural Do’s and Don’ts

China has a rich culture, and a few small gestures will go a long way:

• Do bow slightly when greeting elders (a simple nod works too).
• Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl—this is how food is offered to the dead.
• Do tap your fingers on the table as a “thank you” when someone pours you tea (it’s a sign of respect).
• Don’t touch people’s heads (even kids’ heads)—it’s considered rude.
• Do take your shoes off when entering temples or someone’s home.

Step 9: Safety and Beyond

Xi’an is one of China’s safest cities—you can walk around at night without worry. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places (like Muslim Quarter) and avoid carrying too much cash.

If you have more time, add these to your itinerary:

• Terracotta Army: A day trip from the city (take the metro Line 9 to “Terracotta Army Station,” then bus 5 or 306). Book tickets online in advance—they sell out!
• Tang Paradise: A theme park at night with stunning light shows and performances (¥120).
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda: A 7th-century Buddhist pagoda with great views (¥50).

Final Thoughts

Xi’an is a city where the past and present collide—you’ll stand in awe of the Terracotta Army one day, then eat street food next to a neon-lit temple the next. It’s chaotic, delicious, and unforgettable. Don’t stress about the language or logistics—just dive in, try the food, and talk to locals. They’re friendlier than you think.

So pack your comfortable shoes, download Translate, and get ready to fall in love with Xi’an. Welcome to China—you’re going to love it.