Images Map

Xi'an holidays

The capital of the Shaanxi Province and the cradle of Chinese civilisation, Xi’an is foremost recognised as home to one of the most famous wonders of Chinese civilisation, the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. Xi'an is widely regarded as the starting point for many a traveller on the ancient Silk Road.

Top hotels in Xi'an

Grand Mercure Xi'an on Renmin Square

Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel, Xi'an

Best time to visit Xi'an

• The spring and autumn months are the best time to visit Xian with cooler, more comfortable temperatures and less rain than the summer months of June, July and August.
• Spring sees some occasional dust storms, however prevalent conditions are warm sunshine and a gentle breeze
• Winter is cold, relatively dry and often foggy with occasional snowfalls that rarely settle.

Xi'an holiday highlights

Thankfully, modern day Xi’an still retains many legacies of its rich and colourful past, from the energetic pulse of the bustling Muslim Quarter with the imposing Great Mosque at its heart, to the intricate, colourful carvings that adorn the Drum and Bell Towers, two iconic cultural relics at the centre of Xi’an.

Xi'an holiday highlights
• Without doubt, Xi’an’s great appeal stems predominantly from its proximity to the breathtaking Terracotta Warriors. Xi’an itself is a living museum, home to innumerable sights and attractions that plot the history of this ancient city.

• Xi’an would not be the city it is today without the long-standing influence of its Muslim Quarter. We recommend that any trip to the city includes a visit to this bustling area, home for many centuries to the Islamic Hui community. The magnificent Great Mosque is its focal point, from which expand hectic markets and narrow lanes and alleyways, populated by ancient homes, traditional shops and tiny workplaces.

• Xi’an is a great city to shop for cultural items, particularly Chinese calligraphy rubbings, replica Terracotta Warriors, traditional Shaanxi paper cuttings and silk clothing. The real joy is to be found in the Muslim Quarter, home to a large number of outdoor markets, antique and curio shops. Be prepared to haggle!

• There is no one dish or taste that describes cuisine in Xi’an. Specialities range from simple dumplings to spicy Sichuan menus and elaborate Tang banquets.