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Xian

The enthralling city of Xi’an houses some of China’s most significant historical artefacts and showcases the country’s fascinating past. The highlight to any trip to Xi’an is a chance to see the Terracotta Warriors, 2000 immaculately carved statues that have collectively been called the eighth wonder of the world. You can also follow in the footsteps of the Emperors of the Ming Dynasty as you explore the Wild Goose Pagoda and admire the ancient ramparts of the walled city which dates back over 3,000 years. With luxury hotels and shopping to boot, Xi’an offers a mixture of history and modernity to form an unmissable port of call on any China itinerary.

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What you’ll love most about Xi’an

  • Marvel at the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, an archaeological wonder featuring thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang
  • Walk or cycle along the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, one of the most well-preserved city walls in China, offering panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding area
  • Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a bustling neighbourhood known for its lively markets, narrow alleyways, and delicious street food, including specialties like lamb skewers and roujiamo (Chinese burgers)
  • Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda built during the Tang dynasty, housing ancient Buddhist scriptures and offering serene gardens and cultural performances
  • Discover the rich history of Shaanxi province at the Shaanxi History Museum, with its extensive collection of artifacts, including bronze vessels, pottery, and Tang dynasty murals
  • Relax in the picturesque surroundings of Huaqing Palace, a historic hot spring resort frequented by Chinese emperors, featuring beautiful gardens, pavilions, and the legendary “Imperial Pool of Nine Dragons”

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 5℃
  • 8℃
  • 13℃
  • 21℃
  • 26℃
  • 30℃
  • 31℃
  • 30℃
  • 25℃
  • 20℃
  • 12℃
  • 6℃
  • 3
  • 4
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 12
  • 13
  • 11
  • 6
  • 3

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Xi’an is cold and dry in winter, with occasional snowfall dusting the city’s ancient walls. Expect quiet museums and fewer crowds at the Terracotta Warriors. Wrap up warm - temperatures can dip below freezing — but clear skies make for crisp views across the city.

February

Chinese New Year often falls in February, bringing festive red lanterns, fireworks, and temple fairs. Though still chilly, with daytime highs around 5-8°C, the cultural vibrancy makes this a special time to experience local traditions, especially in the Muslim Quarter and Big Wild Goose Pagoda area.

March

Spring begins to emerge. Plum and cherry blossoms start blooming across city parks like Xingqing Palace Park. It’s a great month for walking or cycling atop the ancient city wall. Temperatures become more comfortable, often rising into the low teens °C by late March.

April

A sweet spot for visiting Xi’an. With highs hovering around 20°C and the city in full bloom, outdoor exploration is a joy. Expect lush gardens at the Tang Paradise park, and excursions to the Terracotta Army are especially pleasant in this mild weather.

May

Warm, lively, and ideal for sightseeing. Daytime temperatures often reach the mid-20s, and many cultural festivals begin popping up. It’s a popular time for domestic travel, so book ahead if visiting during the Labour Day holiday in early May.

June

Early summer brings warmer days, with highs nearing 30°C. Crowds pick up at major landmarks, but early mornings remain a good window for exploring. Xi’an’s night markets come alive in the heat - don’t miss trying local delicacies like roujiamo (Chinese burger) and biangbiang noodles.

July

Hot and often humid. Xi’an may exceed 35°C in July, so plan to sightsee early and retreat indoors during the heat of the day. Air-conditioned museums, including the Shaanxi History Museum, offer fascinating insights and respite from the sun.

August

Still scorching, though the mood is festive. Cultural performances at the Tang Dynasty Theatre or near the South Gate become popular evening events. The heat makes rooftop bars and shaded courtyards appealing as the city pulses with energy.

September

Relief arrives. With highs dropping to around 25°C or so, September is a great time to return to outdoor adventures. The Mid-Autumn Festival often brings lantern displays and mooncake tasting. This is one of the best months for a day trip to Mount Huashan - less crowded and more temperate.

October

Cooler, colourful, and crowd-friendly. October highs sit in the low 20s, making it perfect for wandering Xi’an’s alleys and open-air sites. After the early-month Golden Week rush, the city settles into autumn with golden trees and vibrant culture.

November

The city begins to quiet. Leaves fall in the parks, and the pace slows. Expect crisp days (around 10-15°C early in the month) and a peaceful ambiance at temples and tombs. Great for slow travel and soaking up the scholarly air of Xi’an’s historic districts.

December

Cold, but atmospheric. Fewer tourists and moody winter skies lend a sense of stillness to the Terracotta Warriors and the city wall. Warm up with lamb soup and cumin-scented street food in the Muslim Quarter. For those who don’t mind braving the chill, December offers great value and a deeper connection to Xi’an’s soul.

Our Ratings

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  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Encounters Travel is a UK based adventure tour operator with a wide selection of cultural and adventurous tours around the world, all designed to help you get the most out of the country you’re visiting. They range from small group tours to shoestring, overland, family, escorted and tailor-made holidays.

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Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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