If you’re looking to get a well-rounded introduction to Xi’an’s historic treasures, this guided tour offers a compelling mix of ancient sites, local cuisine, and lively city vibes—all at a reasonable price. With a price tag of just $69 per person, it’s quite a comprehensive way to experience some of the city’s most iconic attractions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll love the opportunity to see the Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring underground army that has fascinated visitors for decades. Second, the visit to Huaqing Palace offers a glimpse into imperial romance and luxury during the Tang Dynasty. Lastly, the evening city tour or visits to popular shopping districts like Yongxingfang and Great Tang All Day Mall give you a taste of Xi’an’s vibrant contemporary culture.

One small consideration is that some optional expenses—like cable cars at Lishan Mountain or tickets for certain shows—are not included in the base price. For travelers on a tight schedule or budget, that might add up, but overall, the value provided is pretty strong.

This tour suits travelers who want a structured but authentic experience of Xi’an’s top highlights, especially those interested in history, culture, and local flavors, all within a day or less.

Contents show

Key Points

Inclusion of Major Highlights: The tour covers the famous Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace, and a city night experience.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, making history come alive.
Balanced Itinerary: Combines cultural sites, local cuisine, and optional modern city exploration.
Value for Money: At $69, it offers a full-day experience with transportation, entry tickets, and meals.
Optional Add-Ons: Extra costs apply for certain activities like cable car rides or shows, giving flexibility.
Authentic Experiences: You’ll enjoy Shaanxi-style snacks and learn stories behind ancient sites, making your visit meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Want to see more of Xi An? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Starting Point: Huaqing Palace and the Romantic Tang Dynasty Retreat

The tour kicks off with a visit to Huaqing Palace, a site that’s as much about romance as it is history. Known for its connection to Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, the palace’s lush grounds and pools evoke images of imperial splendor. Many reviewers mention that the guide’s storytelling helped bring the spot to life, especially when sharing tales of palace intrigue and love stories from the Tang era.

Some travelers appreciate the optional climb up Lishan Mountain to see the Bingjian Pavilion. While the ascent requires a cable car (cost not included), the panoramic views and historical ambiance make it worth considering for those keen on a bit of exercise and scenery.

Midday: Authentic Shaanxi Cuisine and Rest

A highlight for many is the local lunch provided, serving dishes typical of Shaanxi province. You’ll find comfort in hearty, flavorful fare—think hand-pulled noodles, baozi, and other regional specialties. Several reviews mention how this meal recharges you for the afternoon and that the restaurant setting offers a glimpse into local dining customs.

Afternoon: The Terracotta Army – A Must-See Marvel

Next, the focus shifts to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, arguably China’s most famous archaeological discovery. The guide’s commentary is often described as engaging and informative, explaining the significance of each pit—Pit 1 with its vast array of warriors, Pit 2, and Pit 3 with cavalry and command figures. One visitor noted that the guide was very knowledgeable, providing context beyond what you might read on signs.

The entry fee is modest—just 5 yuan (roughly $0.75)—but an additional 20 yuan (about $3) is needed for the Palace’s entrance, which is a small price for such a world-famous site. Many reviews mention the impressive scale of the underground army and how it’s a humbling reminder of China’s ancient power.

More Great Tours Nearby

Evening Options: City Vibes or Cultural Performances

After the Warriors, your evening is flexible. You can choose to return directly to your hotel or explore popular shopping and entertainment districts such as Yongxingfang, Xihuamen, or the Great Tang All Day Mall. The tour guide recommends using the subway from Shijia Street if traffic is congested, which many travelers find convenient and affordable.

For those interested in cultural shows, like The Song of Everlasting Sorrow, the tour ends after the performance at Xihuamen 30 Middle School, providing a taste of Xi’an’s artistic traditions.

There's plenty more to explore in Xi An

The Practical Side: What to Expect and Tips

Transportation and Group Size: The tour provides comfortable transportation, usually in a small group, ensuring smooth transitions between sites. Travelers consistently mention the convenience of having a guide handle logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

Duration: The full-day itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Expect to start early and return by evening, with optional activities available at your own expense.

Guide Quality: The reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable, personable, and eager to share stories and insights. This enriches the experience, making the history more memorable.

Cost Breakdown: While the tour fee covers most major expenses—entry tickets, meals, transportation—remember that optional extras like cable cars and admission to specific shows are additional. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience if desired.

What to Bring: Pack your passport or ID, comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking quite a bit), a camera, and some cash for optional expenses. Remember that pets and smoking are not allowed, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those visiting Xi’an who want a rundown of its most famous sites without the hassle of planning multiple days. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, and first-time visitors who appreciate guided commentary. The inclusion of local cuisine and optional city exploration makes it suitable for travelers craving an authentic feel of Xi’an, both ancient and modern.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a solid introduction to Xi’an’s top sights in a way that balances structure, storytelling, and value. The expert guides truly elevate the experience, offering insights that make history come alive. The mix of grand archaeological sites, romantic imperial palaces, and lively city districts creates a rounded view of the city’s past and present.

For travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized day out with knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for visitors who want to see the highlights without sacrificing depth or context. Just be prepared for some optional expenses, and you’ll likely find this experience both memorable and enriching.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, hotel pickup is offered within Xi’an’s 3rd ring road, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How much does the cable car to Lishan Mountain cost? The round-trip fare is 60 yuan per person, which is an optional extra if you choose to visit the mountain.

Do I need to pay for the Terracotta Warriors entrance? The entry fee is 5 yuan per person, which is quite affordable for such a world-renowned site.

What is included in the tour price? Transportation, entry tickets to the listed attractions, a guided commentary, Shaanxi-style snacks, and a Chinese buffet meal are included.

Can I explore other areas after the tour? Yes, you have the option to visit shopping districts like Yongxingfang or the Great Tang All Day Mall or attend cultural performances.

Are there any age restrictions? Seniors aged 70 and above need to present a doctor’s permission before participating.

What should I bring on the tour? Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially with the inclusion of engaging sites and a flexible schedule.

How long does the entire tour last? The tour is designed as a full day, starting early and ending in the evening, with optional activities and free time.

What language is the tour conducted in? The guide speaks Chinese, so some language skills or a translator app might be helpful if you don’t speak Chinese.

With this detailed look at the Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace & City Night Tour, you’ll be equipped to decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans. It’s a well-balanced way to soak in the essence of Xi’an, blending history, culture, and modern-day vibrancy into one memorable day.