Xi'an: Terracotta Army Private Day Tour & City Highlights

Summary

Terracotta Warriors up close, Xi’an’s flavors and ancient streets in one day

You’ll stand face-to-face with Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, taste hand-pulled noodles after your guide picks a favorite spot for lunch, and lose yourself in the busy Muslim Quarter or peaceful mosque gardens before heading back to your hotel or airport — with new stories stuck in your head.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about finally seeing the Terracotta Army — you hear so much about it that I half-expected to feel nothing. But when our guide Li led us into that first pit, the air felt cooler, almost heavy. The warriors stood in rows, faces all different, silent but somehow alive. Li pointed out a cracked horse’s ear and told us how each piece was made by hand. I found myself staring at one soldier’s shoes for ages — they’re so detailed it’s almost funny. It’s hard to describe the smell in there: a bit earthy, like old clay after rain.

After wandering through the museum (Li kept us moving but never rushed), we drove back toward Xi’an for lunch. We let Li pick the place — somewhere tucked down an alley where everyone seemed to know him. The noodles were chewy and spicy; my lips tingled for ages after. Then came the city part of this private Xi’an day tour: we chose the Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque, mostly because I wanted to try those sticky rice cakes I’d read about (worth it). The market was loud and bright — vendors shouting over sizzling skewers, kids darting between stalls. At the mosque, everything slowed down; people moved quietly under painted eaves. I tried to say thank you in Mandarin (“xièxiè”), but Li just laughed at my accent.

We finished at sunset near South Gate, watching locals cycle along the old city wall. There was this moment where time felt sort of stretched out — ancient stones under our feet, neon lights flickering on below. It wasn’t what I expected from a “day trip Machu Picchu Cusco” kind of tour; it felt more tangled up with real life here. Honestly, my feet hurt by then but I didn’t really care.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Terracotta Warriors and City Attractions

• Meet guide and driver at hotel
• Drive one hour to Terracotta Warriors Museum
• Explore museum pits and exhibitions for 3 hours
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Drive one hour back to Xi’an downtown
• Visit two chosen city attractions with guide
• Return to hotel or airport

Top questions

How long does this private Xi'an day tour last?

The tour lasts about 8 hours including transfers and visits.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or airport is included based on your booking.

Can I choose which city attractions to visit?

Yes, after visiting the Terracotta Warriors Museum you can pick two city attractions from several options.

Are entrance tickets included?

No, entrance tickets are not included and should be purchased separately.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No set lunch is included but your guide can take you to a local restaurant if you want.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and infant seats are available if needed.

Can I request a guide who speaks Spanish or French?

Yes, guides are available in Spanish, French, German or Italian for an extra fee if booked three days ahead.

What are some attraction options besides the Terracotta Army?

You can visit places like Big Wild Goose Pagoda, South Gate/City Wall, Banpo Village, Muslim Quarter or Great Mosque.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport with flexible hotel or airport pickup and drop-off according to your booking details; bottled water throughout; a professional English-speaking guide (or another language if requested in advance); plus help finding authentic local food for lunch after exploring the Terracotta Warriors Museum at your own pace before heading into Xi’an for two more attractions of your choice.