3 Days in Xi’an: Panorama of Ancient Capitals, Tang Palaces & Sacred Peaks

Xi’an, with over 3,000 years of history, is more than a gateway to the past—it is the soul of Chinese culture and landscape. This 3 days in Xi’an itinerary offers a perfectly balanced journey: world-class history on Day 1, urban culture and Tang Dynasty vibes on Day 2, and a serene escape to Nanwutai, the crown jewel of the sacred Zhongnan Mountains, on Day 3.

Follow this high-efficiency, no-backtracking 3 days in Xi’an guide to experience the ultimate city highlights.

Part 1: Where to Stay – Hubs for Your 3 Days in Xi’an

Choosing the right location is essential to maximize your time. We recommend these two areas:

1. Bell Tower / South Gate (Strategic Center)

• Best For: First-time visitors and food lovers.
• Pros: Located in Xi’an’s geographic heart. Access Metro Lines 2 and 6, High-Speed Rail, Terracotta Army shuttle, Muslim Quarter, and Yongxing Fang within walking distance.
• View: High-floor hotels offer nighttime panoramas of illuminated Bell and Drum Towers.

2. Big Wild Goose Pagoda / Great Tang Everbright City (Cultural Immersion)

• Best For: Families and nightlife enthusiasts.
• Pros: Walk straight into the “Grand Tang” atmosphere with nightly lights and street performances. Return to your hotel easily.
• View: Wake up to views of Big Wild Goose Pagoda or neon-lit streets.

Day 1 in Xi’an: Qin Power & Tang Romance

Focus: East Line (Outer City) — military might and imperial love stories.

Morning: Terracotta Army (Museum of Qin Shihuang)

• Transport: Official Scenic Area Shuttle from Yisu Theater (near Bell Tower).
• Experience: Explore Pit 1 (grand view), Pit 3 (command center), Pit 2 (specialized troops), and Bronze Chariot Museum. Hire an English-speaking guide or headset for full context.

Afternoon: Huaqing Palace

• Transport: 15-minute taxi or Bus 613 from Terracotta Army.
• Experience: Imperial hot springs, Five-Room Hall, and historical bullet holes from the 1936 “Xi’an Incident.”

Evening: “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” Show

• Experience: World-class outdoor performance at the foot of Lishan Mountain. Breathtaking stage and mountain backdrop.
• Tip: Book tickets 3–5 days in advance; mid-section seats offer best views. Return via shuttle bus.

Day 2 in Xi’an: City Life, Pagodas & Neon Lights

Focus: Downtown Xi’an — ancient meets modern.

Morning: City Wall Cycling & Bell Tower Square

• Entry: South Gate (Yongning Gate) for ceremonial experience.
• Cycling: Ride from South Gate to East Gate (~3km) for best contrast of rooftops and skyscrapers.
• Bell Tower: Exit at East Gate; take iconic photos from the square.

Lunch: Yongxing Fang Traditional Snacks

• Experience: Clean, safe street for Shaanxi delicacies. Try Zichang pancakes and “Bowl-Smashing Wine.”

Afternoon: Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Da Ci’en Temple

• Transport: Metro Line 3 to Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station.
• Experience: Explore Da Ci’en Temple; optional pagoda climb for bird’s-eye city view.

Evening: Grand Tang Everbright City & Muslim Quarter

• Experience: Free immersive theme street with nightly performances.
• Local Food: Skip main tourist lanes; explore Dapiyuan or Sajingqiao alleys for lamb skewers and beef burgers.

Day 3 in Xi’an: Sacred Escape – Nanwutai Peak

Focus: Zhongnan Mountains — temples, fresh air, epic vistas.

Full Day: Nanwutai Scenic Area

• Transport: Didi/Taxi (~1–1.5 hours, 150 RMB) or Metro Line 2 + Bus 730.
• Route:
  1. Buy shuttle bus ticket at entrance to reach mid-mountain.
  2. Hike stone steps past Huolong Cave and Zizhu Temple.
  3. Summit at Guanyin Terrace; temples perched on peaks, clouds often roll in — like a “fairytale in the sky.”
• Preparation: Pack lunch, energy bars, water; wear sturdy hiking shoes; check weather for visibility.

Summary: Your Perfect 3 Days in Xi’an

In just 3 days in Xi’an, you’ll experience underground military marvels, ancient city walls, neon-lit Tang palaces, and cloud-shrouded sacred peaks. This itinerary balances history, culture, modern life, and nature for a complete first-time Xi’an adventure.

Checklist Before You Go:

1. Book Terracotta Army and “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” tickets online.
2. Choose hotel: Bell Tower for food & transport or Big Wild Goose Pagoda for culture & lights.
3. Pack hiking shoes & backpack for Day 3.
4. Install Alipay/WeChat Pay and translation apps.

Step into the history and beauty of Chang’an with this 3 days in Xi’an itinerary. For more flexible routes and extended stays, you can explore additional ideas in our Xi’an Travel Itineraries collection.