The Top 15 Tours & Experiences In Xian

Xi’an isn’t just a city of ancient warriors and historic sites; it’s a vibrant hub packed with unique ways to explore its past and present. We especially love how food tours like the Xi’an Evening Food Tour by TukTuk (https://theabroadguide.com/xian-evening-food-tour-by-tuktuk/) bring you into the local fabric — zipping through alleyways, tasting family-made specialties, and ending at a local brewery. For those wanting a deeper dive into history, the Customized Private Day Tour of Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an (https://theabroadguide.com/customized-private-day-tour-of-terracotta-warriors-and-xian/) offers full flexibility to craft your perfect day with a private guide. And if you’re short on time but want a quality experience, the Private Half-Day Tour of Xi’an Terracotta Warriors (https://theabroadguide.com/private-half-day-tour-of-xian-terracotta-warriors/) delivers a personalized visit without sacrificing depth. Scroll down to see all our top picks, each offering a different slice of Xi’an’s charm.

1. Xi’an Evening Food Tour by TukTuk

This intimate small-group food tour takes you by tuk-tuk through Xi’an’s narrow alleyways to sample local flavors you won’t find in touristy spots. For around $73, you get about 3 to 4 hours of exploring hidden streets within the city walls, visiting 4-5 local eateries, and learning about family recipes passed down generations. The tour culminates at a local brewery where you can sample craft beers and enjoy your favorite pint. The guide, known as Diehl, is often praised for her local knowledge and engaging style, making this tour a standout for families and food lovers. Covering more ground than you could on foot, it’s a lively, authentic snapshot of Xi’an’s culinary scene.

Bottom Line: If you want a fun, family-friendly way to taste Xi’an’s authentic street food, this tuk-tuk tour offers great value and insider access to the Muslim Quarter and hidden alleys.

2. Customized Private Day Tour of Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an

For around $109, this private tour allows you to customize your itinerary, perfect if you have specific interests in mind. Your private driver and guide pick you up at your hotel, then take you directly to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, avoiding the crowds and long lines. Afterward, you can include visits to the Xi’an City Wall (which is the only intact city wall in China) and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, with the schedule shaped around your preferences. Guests consistently praise guide Wendy for her knowledge and flexibility, getting them through the highlights at a comfortable pace. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience that covers the major sights while leaving room for personal interests.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, private experience that combines history, culture, and convenience, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the essentials.

3. Private Customizable Terracotta Warriors Day Tour with Options

Priced at about $108, this full-day private tour puts you in charge of your schedule. You can visit the Terracotta Warriors, then choose two additional attractions such as the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an City Wall, or the Muslim Quarter. This tour lets you skip the rigid group schedules, making it suitable for travelers who wish to explore at their own pace. The guide is available to explain the significance of each site, and you can upgrade for airport or train station transfers. The flexibility to pick your stops makes it popular among seasoned travelers who prefer a personalized approach.

Bottom Line: A flexible option for those who want to prioritize certain sites and avoid rush, with the convenience of transportation and a private guide.

4. 2-Day Customized Warriors Tours & Xi’an Top Attractions

At $369, this comprehensive two-day tour is aimed at travelers wanting a deep dive into Xi’an’s top sights — from the Terracotta Warriors to the Shaanxi History Museum and Small Wild Goose Pagoda. Your private guide and driver handle all logistics, including hotel pickup and drop-off. You can tailor each day, choosing additional stops like the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. Guests love the seamless organization and in-depth insight, with reviews highlighting how well the itinerary balances major attractions with personal touches. Ideal for first-time visitors or those with ample time.

Bottom Line: For travelers who want a full, personalized experience over two days with expert guide service, this tour offers excellent value and convenience.

5. Terracotta Army Ticket

At just $28, this ticket-only option is perfect if you’re comfortable exploring independently. Bring your passport, as it’s required for entry, and head straight to the museum to spend as much time as you like. It’s a no-frills approach but highly flexible, letting you choose your visit time — morning or evening. The self-guided experience allows you to linger over the pits, chariots, and relics with no tour group instructions. Reviews highlight how this ticket service simplifies access, especially for independent travelers.

Bottom Line: Best suited for confident travelers who prefer pacing themselves and want to avoid group tours, gaining flexibility and cost savings.

6. Private Half-Day Tour of Xi’an Terracotta Warriors

For around $145, this private half-day tour offers door-to-door service with a personal guide. You can choose morning or afternoon, making it adaptable to your schedule. It covers the main pits and includes optional upgrades like a dumpling dinner and Tang Dynasty show. Guests praise guide Wendy’s expertise and the comfort of private transfers, making it ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience without committing a full day. With 201 reviews praising the personalized attention and smooth logistics, this is a popular choice.

Bottom Line: A good choice if you want a focused, private visit to the Warriors with optional cultural extras.

7. Half-Day Mini Group Xian Tour to Terracotta Warriors Museum

At $49.56, this small-group tour is perfect for budget travelers who want a guided experience in about six hours. The tour includes tickets, a buffet lunch, and an English-speaking guide, all in a cozy group of fewer than 10. Guests love how efficiently the guide navigates crowds and shares insightful stories, making the visit enjoyable even in peak season. You’ll visit the main pits and explore the highlights comfortably.

Bottom Line: An affordable, well-organized option for travelers who prefer small-group tours and want to maximize their time at the Terracotta Warriors.

8. 8-Day Small-Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai

This all-encompassing 8-day tour offers a high-quality, guided experience across three iconic Chinese cities. For $1,619, you’ll explore the Forbidden City, Great Wall at Mutianyu, Terracotta Warriors, and the Shanghai Bund. The tour includes visits to key religious sites like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Temple of Heaven, with a focus on culture and regional cuisine. Guests appreciate the seamless logistics and expert guides like Emily and Kelly. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, stress-free trip.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an all-in-one experience with reliable logistics and expert guides across China’s top sights.

9. Private Xi’an Day Tour: Terracotta Army & Optional City Attractions

At $88, this private day tour offers flexibility to visit the Terracotta Army plus two additional sites such as the Muslim Quarter or Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Guests rave about guide Wendy’s ability to explain complex history simply, and reviews mention how well the tour is scheduled to avoid crowds. It’s suited for travelers who want personal attention and the option to tailor the day — perfect for a flexible yet comprehensive experience.

Bottom Line: A flexible, guided private tour for those wanting to customize their Xi’an highlights.

10. Xi’an: Top 3 Highlights All Inclusive Private Day Tour

Priced at $168, this private day tour hits Xi’an’s top three sights: the Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda in one well-organized day. Guide Rosa and driver ensure smooth logistics, and guests love her lively explanations and thoughtful pacing. The tour includes all entrance fees and a delicious lunch, making it excellent value. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a rundown with a personalized touch.

Bottom Line: For a balanced, all-in-one private experience that covers Xi’an’s essentials with a friendly guide, this tour fits the bill.

11. All Inclusive Private Half-day Tour to the Terracotta Warriors

At $125, this half-day private tour offers a flexible, personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off. The guide handles logistics, and you control how long you spend at the site. It’s perfect if time is tight but you want a thorough visit, including understanding the significance of the pits and relics. Customers praise guides like Wendy and Becky for their knowledge and attention to detail.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a private, hassle-free visit with control over timing and personalized insights.

12. Private Xi’an Tour: Terracotta Warriors, Hanyangling Museum, Cave Homes

For $175, this full-day private tour combines the Terracotta Warriors with visits to the Hanyangling Museum and traditional cave dwellings. Guests love the mix of history and local culture, with reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise and the interesting contrast between ancient relics and traditional cave homes. Excellent for travelers interested in a broader cultural experience beyond the main sights.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a comprehensive cultural tour covering major sites and local lifestyle.

13. Xi’an: Top 3 Highlights All Inclusive Private Day Tour

Priced at $168, this private tour covers Xi’an’s three must-see sights. The guide Rosa is praised for her engaging style, and the itinerary includes a tasty lunch. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a detailed overview without feeling rushed. The focus on these highlights makes it an efficient way to understand Xi’an’s significance.

Bottom Line: A practical, well-rounded private day tour for newcomers wanting to cover Xi’an’s highlights comfortably.

14. Xi’an: Exclusive Terracotta Army Tour & Local Family Lunch

At only $22, this small-group tour is a budget-friendly way to visit the Terracotta Warriors and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family. Reviews emphasize the personal touch, with visitors appreciating the authentic experience and guides like Andy who provide detailed background. It’s perfect for travelers who want intimacy and cultural depth without spending a fortune.

Bottom Line: A cost-effective, authentic experience ideal for travelers eager to connect with local life.

15. 2-Day Xi’an Sightseeing All-Inclusive Private Combo Tour

For $302, this two-day private tour allows you to customize your itinerary with up to six attractions from 15 options. Guests love how flexible it is — you can select sites like the Muslim Quarter, City Wall, and Hanyangling Museum. It includes two local lunches and hotel pickup, ensuring a relaxed experience. The reviews highlight how guides like Christine and Agnes tailor the trip to individual interests, making it the ideal choice for travelers wanting control and variety.

Bottom Line: A perfect solution for travelers wanting an all-in-one, customizable Xi’an experience over two days with personal attention.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting a tour in Xi’an, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re after an authentic food experience, the Xi’an Evening Food Tour by TukTuk (link) offers great value, especially if you enjoy local cuisine and lively atmospheres. For a comprehensive historical overview, the 8-Day Small-Group China Tour (link) is unbeatable, covering multiple cities and key sites in style. If privacy and flexibility are your priorities, the Private Xi’an Day Tours (link) let you craft your perfect day.

For travelers with limited time, the Half-Day Private Tour (link) provides a personal, streamlined experience, while the Cost-Effective Ticket (link) suits independent explorers wanting freedom.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and avoid missing out on these highly-rated experiences.

To sum it up, Xi’an offers a range of tours and experiences to match different interests and schedules. Whether you’re a food lover, a history enthusiast, or someone looking for a private, tailor-made adventure, these options are ready to deliver memorable moments. Consider what suits your travel style best, and don’t hesitate to book early — Xi’an’s magic waits for no one.