Top 50 Best Things to Do in Xi'an
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Top 50 Best Things to Do in Xi'an

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  • Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museumtop_1
    󰺂10
    92.02
    Xi'an.Terracotta Army/Hua Qing Palace33.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoMausoleum of Qin Shi Huang Implements Off-Season Visiting Hours | Nov 16, 2025-Mar 15, 2026
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰀆The highest point of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor overlooking the Weihe
    󰀆Qin's tomb viewpoint over Wei River
    󱨠Saved by 8775 users󱨠83849 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    沉默的小鲨鱼沉默的小鲨鱼

    This is a highly recommended place! This is my second time visiting, and I'm thrilled to see such amazing ancient artifacts! It's a wonderful display of history and culture, an important site for historical research, and a secret base for historical exploration. I'm incredibly excited and highly recommend it!

  • Xi'an City Walltop_2
    󰺂8.9
    41.41
    Xi'an.The bell tower The drum tower/The Xi’an Circumvallation1.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoYou can also see the Xi'an City Wall lantern show on New Year's Eve
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Interactive Lantern Festival of Light and Shadow during the Lunar New Year
    Interactive light show festival
    󱨠Saved by 3962 users󱨠42349 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    zhang_jazhang_ja

    Did you know that the city wall originally had four main gates: Changle Gate (East), Anding Gate (West), Yongning Gate (South), and Anyuan Gate (North), meaning "Eternal Peace and Prosperity"? Each gate consisted of an arrow tower, a gatehouse, and a main tower, forming a tight defensive system. My City Wall Stroll Experience: I recommend entering from the South Gate (Yongning Gate). This is the busiest entrance to the city wall and the best spot for taking photos! The moment you step onto the city wall, it feels like you've traveled back to ancient Chang'an.

  • Song of Everlasting Sorrowtop_3
    󰺂8.7
    183.26
    Xi'an.Terracotta Army/Hua Qing Palace27 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰀆Dream Back to the Tang Dynasty
    󰋄Tang Dynasty love story reenactment
    󱨠Saved by 3345 users󱨠13238 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    EshyEshy

    Worth it🤩🤩. Amazing performance, traditional choreography, wonderful melody . A mix of Modern and classic . A must see show . #memories, #Broadway Chinese version

  • Xi'an Bell Tower
    4
    󰺂8.4
    23.01
    Xi'an.The bell tower The drum tower/The Xi’an Circumvallation8m from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Panoramic view of Xi'an from the top of the Bell Tower
    󱓊Panoramic view of streets & Drum Tower
    󱨠Saved by 2416 users󱨠15595 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    管弦事管弦事

    Climbing the Bell Tower of Xi'an Amidst the music and music, guests arrive and the scenery unfolds before my eyes. The four directions still draw the imperial carriages, high pavilions vie for the sky. Beyond Jieshi and Huashan, the setting sun shines on the Wei River. The winter chill makes the return journey long, I stand for a long time as dusk rises.

  • Tang Paradise
    5
    󰺂8.3
    52.14
    Xi'an.Dayan Pagoda/The Grand Tang Mall5.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoChang'an Lantern Festival to Open Early on New Year's Day | Jan 2026-Jan 2026
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰋄Boat tour of the royal garden on Furong Lake
    󱓊Boat show: Tang Dynasty Dream
    󱨠Saved by 2403 users󱨠13409 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    AerogsAerogs

    It was a very average experience. Without seeing the performances, the ticket price didn't seem worth it, but the performances cost extra, resulting in low attendance and a lack of vibrancy. The overall experience wasn't great, and they need to adjust their operational strategy. The only redeeming quality was that it was suitable for taking photos in traditional Chinese costumes because there were fewer people.

  • Shaanxi History Museum
    6
    󰺂8.1
    Xi'an.Xiaozhai/Shaanxi History Museum4 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoFollow "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty 3" to See National Treasures
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 Asia 100 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󱨜A million years of treasures
    Interactive ancient life experience
    󱨠Saved by 2296 users󱨠13811 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    陇西尉缭陇西尉缭

    Professor Chen Xuan was incredibly dedicated and professional. His three-hour lecture left me wanting more. Each artifact he introduced, from its shape to its historical value and significance, from its era to the stories behind it, captivated me, making me feel as if I were there myself. Those static objects suddenly breathed life into his narration—I could almost see the craftsmen's fingers bent over, meticulously crafting each piece, and hear the sigh before the dust of history settled. In those three hours, time ceased to be a linear flow, becoming a river that flowed back and forth. Following him, we touched the warmth of ritual and music civilization through a jade disc, and glimpsed the strictness of the Qin and Han official system through a bronze seal. Professor Chen Xuan wasn't just explaining artifacts; he was gently lifting a corner of the veil of time for us. The meaning and stories behind those artifacts, through his calm and confident narration, were no longer distant facts from textbooks, but became a tangible connection between us and ancient civilization. As it ended, there was a moment of disorientation, as if I were not leaving a classroom, but rather departing from a long and profound dialogue. My heart was filled with the abundance of wisdom and a deeper reverence for that vast expanse of history.

  • The Longest Day in Chang'an Theme Block
    7
    󰺂8.0
    52.14
    Xi'an.Dayan Pagoda/The Grand Tang Mall5.5 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoThe Longest Day in Chang'an Theme Block Launches "Tang Dynasty Garden Party"
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Xi'an
    Highlights:
    󱓊Immersive Tang Dynasty street experience
    󱓊Tang Dynasty immersive city life
    󱨠Saved by 1241 users󱨠3575 positive reviews
    4.1/5
    M35***47M35***47

    The Longest Day in Chang'an is such a wonderful place to visit! The immersive Tang Dynasty setting is absolutely amazing. Taking photos and enjoying the activities is fantastic, and I didn't miss a single thing! I must commend the ticket staff; they were incredibly helpful and patiently answered all my questions. They also issued tickets quickly, saving me no time at all, making for a fantastic experience. Visiting during the off-season meant no queues, which was super convenient. The "Rainbow Feather Dance" was absolutely stunning, and I've already recommended it to my friends. I'll definitely be back!

  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda
    8
    󰺂7.9
    7.67
    Xi'an.Dayan Pagoda/The Grand Tang Mall4.8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 6 of Night Attractions in Xi'an
    Highlights:
    󱨜Asia's largest musical fountain square
    󰋄Spectacular Xi'an views (Top of tower)
    󱨠Saved by 1610 users󱨠4742 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    张家老飞侠张家老飞侠

    Approaching the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, its ancient and solemn structure stands tall and majestic, having withstood a thousand years of history. Climbing the pagoda offers a panoramic view of Xi'an, a truly expansive vista. Nearby, the solemn statue of Xuanzang stands nearby, while the vibrant Tang Dynasty City Never Sleeps exudes a lively atmosphere. Strolling through the park, the air is filled with the scent of incense, and the interplay of ancient architecture and light creates a scene that is both historically weighty and bustling with life. Quietly appreciating the fusion of the old and the new, one feels a sense of peace and creates an unforgettable experience.

  • Grand Tang Mall
    9
    󰺂7.9
    Xi'an.Dayan Pagoda/The Grand Tang Mall5.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰀆9 themed sculptures on avenue
    󱓊Iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda
    󱨠Saved by 2755 users󱨠1461 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    ❤️洋洋❤️洋洋

    The Tang Dynasty Never Sleeping City is not only a tourist attraction but also a carrier of cultural heritage. It regularly hosts cultural activities such as Tang poetry recitals and traditional musical instrument performances, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the literary and artistic achievements of the Tang Dynasty while enjoying their visit.

  • Daming Palace National Heritage Park
    10
    󰺂7.8
    46.01
    Xi'an.Daming Palace/Xi'an Railway Station4 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in Xi'an
    Highlights:
    󰋄Cherry blossoms around Taiye Lake
    󱨜Political center & national symbol (Tang Dynasty)
    󱨠Saved by 686 users󱨠4946 positive reviews
    4.1/5
    สมสกุลสมสกุล

    it's a good place to walk around and imagine how utterly grand this place was which used to be the center of the civilization. The place was huge and educational with remains of the foundations of various halls. Visit the museum, then have a nice leisurely stroll

Best things to do in Xi'an (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Xi'an? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Xi'an offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Xi'an

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Xi'an experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

• Xi'an.Terracotta Army/Hua Qing Palace | 33.8 km from downtown

• : The highest point of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor overlooking the Weihe,Qin's tomb viewpoint over Wei River

Xi'an City Wall

• Xi'an.The bell tower The drum tower/The Xi’an Circumvallation | 1.8 km from downtown

• : Interactive Lantern Festival of Light and Shadow during the Lunar New Year,Interactive light show festival

Song of Everlasting Sorrow

• Xi'an.Terracotta Army/Hua Qing Palace | 27 km from downtown

• : Dream Back to the Tang Dynasty,Tang Dynasty love story reenactment

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Xi'an

If you want to explore attractions just outside Xi'an, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Xi'an, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Xi'an special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Xi'an

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Xi'an

Ready to explore the best of Xi'an? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Xi'an?
These are all Best Things to Do in Xi'an:Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum, Xi'an City Wall, Song of Everlasting Sorrow, Xi'an Bell Tower, Tang Paradise
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Xi'an?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Xi'an include:Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum:4.7, Xi'an City Wall:4.6, Song of Everlasting Sorrow:4.5, Xi'an Bell Tower:4.5, Tang Paradise:4.3
At what locations in Xi'an can Best Things to Do in Xi'an be found?
The Best Things to Do in Xi'an are mainly located in:Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum:Xi'an, Xi'an City Wall:Xi'an, Song of Everlasting Sorrow:Xi'an, Xi'an Bell Tower:Xi'an, Tang Paradise:Xi'an
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