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Top Attractions & What to See in Beijing and Xi'an
Beijing Attractions & Things to Do
| Attraction | Description | Recommended Visit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Forbidden City | The former imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. | 2-3 hours |
| Great Wall of China | Iconic symbol of China, with several sections accessible from Beijing. | 2-4 hours |
| Summer Palace | A vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing. | 2-3 hours |
| Temple of Heaven | A complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties visited annually. | 1-2 hours |
| Beijing Hutongs | Explore traditional Beijing neighborhoods with a rickshaw tour. | 1-2 hours |
| Tiananmen Square | A culturally significant site in Chinese history and the largest city square in the world. | 1 hour |
| 798 Art Zone | A contemporary art district with galleries, studios, and cultural spaces. | 1-2 hours |
| Beihai Park | One of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens. | 1-2 hours |
- Visit the Forbidden City: Step into the world of ancient emperors at the Forbidden City, a massive palace complex full of stunning architecture and fascinating history.
- Climb the Great Wall: No trip to Beijing would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Choose the Mutianyu or Badaling section for a memorable hike with breathtaking views.
- Stroll Through the Summer Palace: Explore the lavish gardens and beautiful pavilions of the Summer Palace, where emperors once escaped the city's hustle.
- Wander Around the Temple of Heaven: Be amazed by the architectural splendor and serene park setting of the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests.
- Sample Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's signature dish, Peking Duck, at famed restaurants like Quanjude or Da Dong, where crispy skin and succulent meat await.
- Explore the Hutongs: Take a rickshaw ride or walk through Beijing's traditional hutongs. These narrow lanes offer a glimpse into the city's old way of life, peppered with quaint shops and tea houses.
- Catch a Performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts: Enjoy a concert, opera, or ballet in this iconic, egg-shaped building, a beacon of modern Chinese architecture.
- Shop at Wangfujing Street: Dive into the bustling Wangfujing Street for some retail therapy and don't miss out on the local snacks at the famous food market.
- Visit the 798 Art Zone: Get a dose of contemporary culture in the 798 Art Zone, a complex of artist studios and galleries set in decommissioned military factories.
- Relax at Beihai Park: Lastly, unwind by the lake at Beihai Park, one of China's oldest and most beautifully preserved imperial gardens.
10 Best Things to Do in Beijing
Top 10 Beijing Tourist Attractions
Xi'an Attractions & Things to Do
| Attraction | Description | Recommended Visit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Terracotta Warriors and Horses | An incredible collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. | 2-3 hours |
| Xi'an City Wall | One of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved Chinese city walls, offering a unique perspective of the city from above. | 1-2 hours |
| Muslim Quarter | A vibrant neighborhood known for its bustling bazaars and mouthwatering street food, reflecting the city's rich cultural diversity. | 1-2 hours |
| Big Wild Goose Pagoda | A historic Buddhist pagoda built during the Tang dynasty, famous for its architecture and the surrounding scenic gardens. | 1-2 hours |
| Shaanxi History Museum | One of the first huge state museums with modern facilities in China, housing a vast collection of artifacts that narrate the history of the Shaanxi region. | 2-3 hours |
| Mount Huashan | One of China's five great mountains, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views. | Full day |
| Tang Paradise | A large cultural theme park near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, reflecting the glory and cultural achievements of the Tang dynasty. | 1-2 hours |
- Visit the Terracotta Warriors: Discover the world-famous Terracotta Army, built over 2,000 years ago to protect the tomb of China's First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
- Walk the Xi'an City Wall: Cycle or stroll along this well-preserved ancient city wall that offers stunning views and a glimpse into the city's past.
- Explore the Muslim Quarter: Immerse yourself in the bustling lanes of the Muslim Quarter, famous for its vibrant market and delicious street food, including the must-try Yangrou Paomo (mutton stew with bread).
- Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this iconic Buddhist pagoda, known for its towering structure and historical significance, which dates back to the Tang dynasty.
- Tour the Shaanxi History Museum: Dive into the rich history of Shaanxi Province at one of China's best museums, with artifacts that span from ancient times to the Qing dynasty.
- Experience the Bell Tower and Drum Tower: Enjoy the striking architecture and the panoramic views from these historical buildings, which have stood at the city's center since the Ming dynasty.
Things to do in Xian | 17 Best Things to do in Xian, China
How Long to Stay in Beijing and Xi'an
Beijing (3-5 Days)
Beijing isn't just any city; it's a sprawling metropolis brimming with rich history, culture, and modern attractions. Figuring out the perfect amount of time to explore this vast city can be a bit of a puzzle.
Typically, many visitors opt to stay for about 3-5 days, which is enough to cover the must-see sights of Beijing. You'll need at least half a day to explore the Forbidden City, the largest palace complex in the world, and Tiananmen Square. Jingshan Park is great for catching a panoramic view of modern Beijing and the stunning red roofs of the Forbidden City. The Summer Palace makes an ideal addition to this day.
A full day trip to the Great Wall is essential too; it's a bit of a drive from the city but totally worth it. Exploring the Beijing Hutongs and the Temple of Heaven will give you a deeper insight into the city's rich culture and traditional local life.
Make sure to carve out some time for experiencing the art and lifestyle in the 798 Art District, tasting Beijing's culinary offerings from high-end restaurants to street snacks, watching a performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, and enjoying Beijing's vibrant nightlife. All these activities will allow you to immerse yourself deeper into the pulse of this historically rich yet constantly evolving city.
Xi'an (2-4 Days)
Xi'an, a city that was the capital of 13 dynasties, is a must-visit for history buffs. The Terracotta Army alone is enough to draw travelers from all over the world. Here, you can witness the grandeur of ancient China. 2-3 days is a realistic timeframe to soak up the essence of this historic city.
The Terracotta Army will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip. This massive army of life-size terracotta soldiers guards the tomb of China's first emperor – it's an archaeological marvel! You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the ancient city wall, one of the best-preserved in the world.
Head to the bustling Muslim Quarter for a food adventure through narrow alleys, savoring local delicacies like roujiamo (meat burger) and biangbiang noodles. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Shaanxi History Museum should also be on your list.
If you have an extra day, consider a trip to Huashan, one of the most famous mountains in China. It's a paradise for adventure seekers.
Planning Your Beijing Xi'an Itinerary
Once you have a good idea of how long you want to stay in Beijing and Xi'an, you can start planning your itinerary for these two iconic Chinese cities. Typically, around 6-7 days is enough to explore the highlights of Beijing and Xi'an, making it perfect for first-timers.
If you're thinking about adding Shanghai to your Beijing and Xi'an trip, to cover the essence of China's "Golden Triangle" cities, you'll need about 8-10 days. This duration is classic for experiencing what China has to offer.
For a 10-14 day trip, you can really get into the nitty-gritty of Beijing and Xi'an with options like group tours, family trips, or cultural tours tailored to your interests. Plus, you can extend your Beijing-Xi'an itinerary to include some of China's other hotspots like Zhangjiajie, Guilin, and Chengdu. This gives you a chance to see even more of what China has to offer, from breathtaking landscapes to rich culture.
Suggested Beijing Xi'an Itinerary
| Day | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beijing | Arrival at Beijing Airport, pick-up and hotel check-in |
| 2 | Beijing | City Tour: Visit Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City, and explore Old Hutongs |
| 3 | Beijing | Great Wall Tour: Visit Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird's Nest, and Water Cube |
| 4 | Beijing to Xi'an | Travel to Xi'an by high-speed train; visit the Summer Palace before departure |
| 5 | Xi'an | Xi'an City Tour: Explore the Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Wall, and Muslim Quarter |
| 6 | Xi'an | Departure: Visit the Shaanxi History Museum before leaving |
Day 1: Beijing Arrival
Day 2: Beijing City Tour. Dive into the heart of Beijing with a tour of Tian'anmen Square and the majestic Forbidden City. After soaking in the grandeur of imperial China, wander through the charming old hutongs to experience Beijing's traditional local life.
Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour. Experience one of China's iconic landmarks with a trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Enjoy breathtaking views and explore historical sites. Later, visit the modern marvels, the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, which were highlights of the 2008 Olympics.
Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an. Enjoy a High-Speed Train Journey from Beijing to Xi'an.
Day 5: Xi'an City Tour. Explore Xi'an's rich history with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring sight of ancient armies. Stroll along the ancient city wall for panoramic views, then end your day in the bustling Muslim Quarter, tasting local delicacies.
Day 6: Xi'an Departure
How to Travel between Beijing and Xi'an?
The transportation between Beijing and Xi'an, two of China's most historic cities is easier than you might think, thanks to several convenient travel options.
By High-Speed Train: This is the most popular and convenient way to travel between Beijing and Xi'an. The high-speed train journey takes around 4-6 hours and offers scenic views of the Chinese countryside at speeds of up to 300 km/h.
By Air: Flying is a faster option. With multiple daily flights operated by various airlines, you can be in Xi'an in just about 2 hours. While this is the fastest mode, it's worth considering the time spent getting to and from airports.
By Overnight Sleeper Train: A more budget-friendly option, the overnight train offers a unique travel experience. You can choose from sleeper compartments with different levels of comfort, including soft sleepers with private cabins and hard sleepers with bunk beds.
By Road: For the more adventurous, renting a car or booking a long-distance bus can offer a more hands-on approach to exploring the route between Beijing and Xi'an. This option gives you the flexibility to stop at smaller towns and attractions along the way.
Best Time to Visit Beijing and Xi'an
Beijing and Xi'an, two cities renowned for their rich cultural experiences and stunning attractions, are great destinations to visit year-round.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are widely considered the best times to visit both Beijing and Xi'an. Spring brings blooming flowers and comfortably warm weather, perfect for strolling through Beijing's Forbidden City or walking along the Great Wall. In Xi'an, the cherry blossoms around the ancient City Wall and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda make it an ideal time to visit.
Fall features breathtaking colorful foliage, making it a fantastic season for urban exploration and enjoying the many parks and outdoor adventures in both cities.
The hot summer weather in Beijing and Xi'an can make outdoor activities challenging during the day. However, this season is great for exploring the many cultural museums in both cities. Plan any outdoor activities for early morning or evening to beat the heat.
Winter might offer fewer crowds and some discounts on hotels and attractions. The snowy scenery at the Forbidden City in Beijing can be especially beautiful, offering a unique charm.
When to Aviod: Additionally, visiting during these shoulder seasons means you'll also avoid the major national holidays like Chinese New Year and Golden Week, when both cities can get overwhelmingly crowded.
Best Time to Visit Beijing: Beijing Weather, Seasons & Festivals
How Much Does It Cost for a Beijing and Xi'an Tour?
Before you pack your bags, you'll probably want to know: how much will it all cost? Here's a quick breakdown to help you budget for this amazing trip.
Sample Budget:
- Budget traveler: $50-70 per day
- Mid-range traveler: $100-150 per day
- Luxury traveler: $150 or more per day
Flight Costs: International flights to Beijing begin the journey. Depending on where you're flying from and the time of year, round-trip fares can range widely. A good deal from the US or Europe might start around $500 in the off-season, but prices can soar beyond $1,000 during peak times.
Accommodations: In both cities, you'll find a range of options, from budget hostels that can cost as little as $20 a night, to luxury hotels where prices can exceed $200 per night. Mid-range hotels typically run about $50 to $100 per night.
Transportation: Traveling between Beijing and Xi'an is most convenient by high-speed train, with tickets costing around $80 for a second-class seat. Within cities, public transport is cheap; you're unlikely to spend more than a few dollars per day.
Attractions: Entrance fees to major attractions like the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Great Wall range from $15 to $30 each. Budget around $100 for all the key sights.
Food: Dining out in Beijing and Xi'an can be surprisingly affordable. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant might cost around $3 to $7, while a dinner at a mid-range restaurant can range from $10 to $20 per person.
Where to Stay During Your Beijing and Xi'an Trip?
Both Beijing and Xi'an boast excellent public transportation, so even if you choose to stay a bit further from the hustle and bustle, you'll have no trouble exploring all the historic and cultural sites on your itinerary. Whether you opt for the luxury of a well-appointed hotel or the charm of a local guesthouse, you'll find suitable options to enhance your visit to these fascinating cities.
Beijing
In Beijing, the central districts of Wangfujing and Dongcheng are hotspots for visitors seeking proximity to major landmarks like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Here, you'll find a mix of luxury hotels and mid-range options.
For those interested in a more authentic experience, the hutong neighborhoods provide traditional courtyard guesthouses, offering a slice of Beijing life. Alternatively, the Chaoyang district offers modern hotels close to shopping and nightlife.
Xian
In Xi'an, staying near the Bell Tower gives you a central location with easy access to both the ancient city wall and the Muslim Quarter, rich in history and bustling with activity. For a quieter stay, consider the area around Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where traditional charm abounds. Accommodations here range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Where to Stay in Beijing: Top 7 Places & Areas to Stay in Beijing
What to Eat During Your Beijign and Xi'an Jounery
Embark on a culinary exploration in Beijing and Xi'an, where the food is as rich in history as the cities themselves. Here are some must-try dishes:
Peking Duck: A trip to Beijing wouldn't be complete without savoring its world-famous Peking Duck, known for its crispy skin and succulent meat, traditionally served with pancakes and sweet bean sauce.
Jianbing: Sample this popular street food for breakfast. Jianbing is a savory crepe filled with egg, green onions, and sauces, perfect for eating on the go.
Zhajiangmian: Dive into this staple noodle dish topped with a thick sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork.
Yangrou Paomo: Enjoy this unique Xi'an specialty, a hearty soup with bread soaked in mutton broth, often served with noodles and a variety of add-ons.
Roujiamo: Dubbed the 'Chinese hamburger,' this snack is made of juicy braised meat stuffed into a crispy bun.
Biangbiang Noodles: Known for their thickness and chewy texture, these noodles are a delight, especially when mixed with spicy chili oil and fresh vegetables.
Where to Eat
Beijing: Explore diverse neighborhoods like Wangfujing for luxurious dining options or the hutongs for authentic local snacks.
Xi'an: The Muslim Quarter is a must-visit for street food lovers, offering an array of treats from savory to sweet.
10 Best Beijing Food: Must-Try Dishes, Snacks & Cuisines in Beijing
What to Eat in Xi’an: 11 Best Xi’an Food You Must Try in Xi’an
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