How to get to Xian

Legendary Xian, located in the central part of China, is not just an ancient capital but also a bustling metropolis where centuries-old history exists side by side with modernity. If you are planning to travel to Xian to witness the famous Terracotta Army, it will be useful for you to know about the region's developed transport infrastructure. We will tell you how to get to Xian in the most convenient way, whether it be a direct flight, a journey on a high-speed train, or a trip by bus.

The primary hub for travellers arriving in Xian by air is Xi'an Xianyang International Airport. It serves as the main aerial gateway to the region and is one of the largest aviation hubs in China, receiving scheduled flights from the majority of the country's metropolises and many international destinations.

The airport is located approximately 40 km northwest of the city centre. Thanks to excellent transport accessibility, the final leg of the journey will be hassle-free. Tourists can utilise the metro line, special shuttle buses running to key districts, or official taxi services to reach their hotel with comfort.

Xian is an important railway hub with excellent transport connections. Getting here by train is easy and convenient: the city is linked by a network of high-speed lines to most of the country's major metropolises. For many travellers, a journey by rail becomes a comfortable alternative to flying, allowing them to save time and enjoy the scenery.

Routes from Beijing and Shanghai are particularly popular. Thanks to modern high-speed trains, the travel time from the capital is only about 4–5 hours. The majority of such trains arrive at Xi'an North Railway Station — one of the largest in the region. The station is integrated into the urban transport network, so getting from there to the centre or main attractions via the metro is effortless.

Bus services connect Xian with numerous settlements in Shaanxi province, offering tourists a scenic alternative to trains. A trip from the city of Shangluo will take about 2 hours, covering approximately 125 kilometres, whilst the route from Baoji, which is 175 kilometres long, will require an average of 2.5 hours of travel time.

Travellers departing from the city of Ankang will have to cover about 220 kilometres, enjoying the views for 3–4 hours. Intercity buses in China are generally noted for their comfort and regularity, arriving at key bus stations in the metropolis, from where it is convenient to reach the centre by taxi or metro.

Travelling by car through Shaanxi province offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes. A drive from the city of Shangluo will take about two hours, as the distance is approximately 125 kilometres, whilst the road from Baoji, spanning 175 kilometres, will require an average of 2.5 hours.

A longer route from Ankang covers 220 kilometres and takes about 3.5 hours, passing through picturesque sections. For those who do not plan to drive themselves, booking an intercity taxi or a private transfer to Xian is available, ensuring maximum comfort, although this will cost significantly more than a train or bus ticket.

Preparing for a trip to Xian requires attention to detail, as this ancient city lives by its own unique rules. To ensure your journey runs smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of the most important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is distinct: summers are hot, and winters are cool. For long excursions, especially to the Terracotta Army or for a walk along the City Wall, comfortable, broken-in shoes are critical. In the spring, a mask or scarf will be useful for protection against dust on windy days.
2. Transport: The most effective way to get around is the metro, which covers the main tourist spots and allows you to avoid traffic jams. If you take a taxi, be sure to have your hotel card or the destination name written in Chinese characters, as drivers rarely speak foreign languages.
3. Finances: Digital technologies rule in China: most payments are made via Alipay or WeChat apps. Link your card to one of these systems in advance. Cash is accepted, but change is not always available, and international plastic cards only work in large hotels and expensive restaurants.
4. Health and Safety: Do not drink tap water; use only bottled water. The city is safe for tourists, but in crowded places, keep an eye on your pockets. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but finding familiar Western medicines can be difficult, so prepare a personal first-aid kit in advance.
5. Communication: The language barrier in the region is noticeable: English is poorly understood. Download an offline translator with voice input and photo translation functions to your smartphone in advance, as well as maps that work without internet access, since familiar Western services may be blocked.
6. Local Etiquette: Greetings are usually reserved; handshakes are soft. Business cards or money should be offered with two hands as a sign of respect. Do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice — this resembles a funeral ritual and is considered a bad omen.
7. What to Avoid: Beware of overly friendly strangers inviting you to a "tea ceremony" or "English practice" — this is a common tourist trap with huge bills. Also, do not buy "ancient" artefacts from street vendors — they are replicas.
8. Additional Advice: Be sure to visit the Muslim Quarter in the evening. This is the gastronomic centre of the city where you can try unique local Halal dishes, but be prepared for the noise, the crowds, and the need to pay with cash or via QR code.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. Xian is a hospitable city, and with the right preparation, it will reveal its most amazing sides to you without unnecessary hassle.