Der ultimative 7-Tage-Reiseführer für Xi'an, China

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Xi'an: Where China's Story Begins

Xi'an (西安, Xī'ān) ist nicht nur eine Stadt – es ist eine lebendige Chronik der chinesischen Zivilisation. Im Herzen des Weifluß-Tals in der Provinz Shaanxi, am Fuße des Qinling-Gebirges gelegen, diente Xi'an 13 Dynastien über einen Zeitraum von mehr als 1.100 Jahren als Hauptstadt, von der Westlichen Zhou-Dynastie (1046–771 v. Chr.) bis zur Tang-Dynastie (618–907 n. Chr.). Historisch als Chang'an (长安, was „Ewiger Frieden“ bedeutet) bekannt, war diese Stadt der östliche Endpunkt der legendären Seidenstraße, der Punkt, an dem Osten und Westen in einem spektakulären Austausch von Waren, Ideen, Religionen und Kulturen zusammentrafen, der die moderne Welt prägte.

Die kulturelle Bedeutung der Stadt ist kaum zu überschätzen. Hier bewachen die Terrakotta-Krieger – eine der größten archäologischen Entdeckungen des 20. Jahrhunderts – die ewige Ruhestätte des Kaisers Qin Shi Huang. Hier hat der Buddhismus in China Fuß gefasst, hier steht die Große Wildganspagode seit über 1.300 Jahren. Hier gedeiht seit Jahrhunderten das muslimische Viertel, ein lebendiges Zeugnis des kulturellen Austauschs entlang der Seidenstraße. Und hier umschließt die bemerkenswert intakte Stadtmauer – eine der größten und am besten erhaltenen antiken Befestigungsanlagen der Welt – das alte Stadtzentrum.

Warum Xi'an besuchen? Weil keine Reise nach China ohne es wirklich vollständig ist. Während Peking kaiserliche Macht zeigt und Shanghai vor Modernität pulsiert, bietet Xi'an etwas Tiefergehendes: die Wurzeln. Hier können Sie auf denselben Steinpfaden wandeln, die Dichter der Tang-Dynastie einst beschritten, Küche probieren, die sich über Jahrtausende entwickelt hat, und 8.000 Tonsoldaten gegenüberstehen, die vor über 2.200 Jahren geschaffen wurden. Die Stadt verbindet ihr antikes Erbe nahtlos mit einer lebendigen modernen Energie – erstklassige Museen liegen neben geschäftigen Nachtmärkten, und glänzende Wolkenkratzer rahmen den Blick auf Pagoden ein, die seit Jahrhunderten stehen.

Xi'an ist auch bemerkenswert gut erreichbar. Mit einer Bevölkerung von etwa 13 Millionen ist es Chinas 7.-größte Stadt und verfügt über ein effizientes U-Bahn-Netz, Hochgeschwindigkeitszugverbindungen nach Peking (4,5 Stunden) und Shanghai (6 Stunden) sowie einen internationalen Flughafen mit Direktflügen zu wichtigen Städten in Asien und Europa. Englische Beschilderung hat sich in den letzten Jahren stark verbessert, und die touristische Infrastruktur der Stadt ist gut ausgebaut, was sie auch für Erstbesucher in China problemlos machbar.

Ob Sie ein Geschichtsliebhaber, ein Feinschmecker, ein Architekturbewunderer oder einfach nur ein neugieriger Reisender sind, der authentische kulturelle Erlebnisse sucht – Xi'an wird Sie mit Erinnerungen belohnen, die ein Leben lang halten.

2. Day-by-Day 7-Day Itinerary

Tag 1: Ankunft & das Herz des alten Xi'an

Morgens: Ankunft und Einrichten

Arrivieren Sie am internationalen Flughafen Xi'an Xianyang (XIY), der etwa 40 km nordwestlich des Stadtzentrums liegt. Nehmen Sie die Airport Express U-Bahn Linie 14 (Xi'an Metro Linie 14) zur Station Beidajie und wechseln Sie dann zur U-Bahn Linie 2, um den Bereich des Glockenturms zu erreichen. Gesamtkosten: ca. 9–15 CNY (1,30–2,10 USD). Die Fahrt dauert etwa 60–80 Minuten. Alternativ kostet ein Taxi vom Flughafen etwa 150–200 CNY (21–28 USD) und dauert je nach Verkehr 50–70 Minuten.

Checken Sie in Ihr Hotel ein, frischen Sie sich auf und verschaffen Sie sich einen Überblick. Wenn Sie in der Nähe des Glockenturms oder des Trommelturms übernachten, sind Sie ideal für Erkundungen gelegen.

Nachmittag: Glockenturm- und Trommelturmplatz

Begin at the Glockenturm (钟楼), the symbolic center of Xi'an, located at the intersection of the four main streets of the old city. Originally built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty, it houses a massive bronze bell that once marked the time for the city.

- Eintrittspreis: Bell Tower: 30 CNY ($4.20 USD); Trommelturm: 30 CNY ($4.20 USD); Combo ticket: 50 CNY ($7.00 USD)
- Öffnungszeiten: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM (April–October); 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (November–March)
- Fotospot: The best photos of the Bell Tower come from the elevated walkways at the intersections — especially at dusk when the tower is illuminated.

Walk east to the Drum Tower (鼓楼), built in 1380, which offers panoramic views and hosts regular drum performances (included in ticket price, typically at 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM).

Abend: Nachtmarkt des Muslimischen Viertels (Huimin Jie)

From the Drum Tower, step directly into the Muslimisches Viertel (回民街). This labyrinthine neighborhood has been home to Xi'an's Hui Muslim community for centuries and is now one of China's most famous street food destinations.

Empfohlene Gerichte zum Probieren:
- Rou Jia Mo (肉夹馍) — Chinese hamburger: slow-braised pork in a crispy flatbread. 10–15 CNY ($1.40–$2.10 USD)
- Yang Rou Pao Mo (羊肉泡馍) — crumbled flatbread soaked in rich lamb broth. 25–38 CNY ($3.50–$5.30 USD)
- Biang Biang Nudeln (biáng biáng 面) — wide, belt-like noodles with chili oil. 15–20 CNY ($2.10–$2.80 USD)
- Kuchenkuchen (柿子饼) — deep-fried sweet persimmon pastries. 5–10 CNY ($0.70–$1.40 USD)

Der Eintritt ins Viertel ist frei und am besten erleben Sie es ab 17:00 Uhr, wenn die Stände in voller Blüte stehen. Gehen Sie vom Trommelturm aus nach Norden entlang der Beiyuanmen für die Hauptachse, erkunden Sie aber auch die kleineren Seitengassen für authentischere und weniger überfüllte Erlebnisse.

Verborgener Schatz: Duck into Dapiyuan Jie (大皮院街), a parallel street with fewer tourists and excellent local eateries. Try the sesame seed flatbread at any of the small family-run shops.

Tag 2: Die Terrakotta-Krieger

Vormittag: Museum der Terrakotta-Krieger und -Pferde

This is the day you've been waiting for. The Terrakotta-Krieger (兵马俑) are located in Lintong District, about 40 km northeast of central Xi'an.

Anreise: Take the tourist bus Bus 5 (306) from Xi'an Train Station (East Square). Departures every 10 minutes starting at 7:00 AM. Fare: 7 CNY ($1.00 USD). Travel time: approximately 60–70 minutes. Alternatively, take Metro Line 1 to Fangzhicheng Station, then bus 307 (5 CNY).

- Ticket Price: 120 CNY ($16.80 USD) — includes access to all three pits, the exhibition hall, and the Mausoleum von Qin Shi Huang nearby (free shuttle bus included)
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (March 16–November 15); 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (November 16–March 15)
- Profi-Tipps: Arrive by 8:00 AM to beat the tour groups. Book tickets online in advance through the official WeChat mini-program or website, especially during peak season (April–October). Allow at least 3–4 hours.

Start with Grube 1 — the largest and most spectacular, housing over 6,000 warriors in battle formation. The sheer scale is breathtaking. Move to Grube 2, which showcases different military units including cavalry, and then Grube 3, believed to be the command headquarters. The Ausstellungshalle houses the famous bronze chariots and individual warrior highlights, including the famous "Kneeling Archer."

Photo Spot: Stand at the eastern end of Pit 1 for the classic panoramic view. Morning light (9:00–10:30 AM) provides the best illumination through the roof windows.

Nachmittag: Mausoleum von Qin Shi Huang & Huaqing-Thermalquellen

Take the free shuttle to the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (秦始皇陵), the emperor's burial mound. While the tomb itself remains unexcavated, the surrounding park is beautiful and provides context for the Terracotta Warriors' purpose.

Afterward, take a local bus (or walk 20 minutes) to Huaqing-Thermalquellen (华清宫, Huáqīng Gōng), the famous royal bathing complex used by Tang Dynasty emperor Xuanzong and his beloved consort Yang Guifei.

- Ticket Price: 120 CNY ($16.80 USD) during the day; evening show "Song of Everlasting Sorrow" performance: 268–988 CNY ($37.50–$138 USD) depending on seating
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (March–November)

Erkunden Sie die rekonstruierten Badebecken im Tang-Stil und die Gartenanlage vor dem Hintergrund des Berges.

Abend: Rückkehr nach Xi'an & Tang-Dynastie-Abendessen-Show

Return to Xi'an by tourist bus. For dinner, experience the famous Tang-Dynastie-Abendessen-Show (长安乐歌 or similar venues), where you dine on traditional Shaanxi cuisine while watching a spectacular performance of Tang-era music, dance, and costumes.

- Kosten: 200–500 CNY ($28–$70 USD) depending on seating and package
- Dauer: approximately 90 minutes starting at 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM
- Standort: Various venues near the Südtor area

Tag 3: Stadtmauer & Kulturelle Erkundung

Vormittag: Xi'an Stadtmauer

The Xi'an Stadtmauer (西安城墙) is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and one of the most complete ancient city walls in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty (1370–1378) on the foundations of the Tang Dynasty imperial city, it stretches 13.7 km in a rectangle around the old city center.

- Ticket Price: 54 CNY ($7.55 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (April 1–October 31, South Gate); 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (November 1–March 31, South Gate). Other gates close earlier.

Beste Strategie: Enter at the Südtor (Yongning Tor, 永宁门), the most beautifully restored gate with the most amenities. Rent a bicycle (45 CNY/$6.30 USD for a single bike, 90 CNY/$12.60 USD for a tandem, for 2 hours) and cycle the wall's full circuit — approximately 14 km and takes 1.5–2 hours at a leisurely pace. Electric carts are also available (80 CNY/$11.20 USD per person).

Fotospots:
- South Gate towers: best in morning light (8:30–10:00 AM)
- Northeast corner: offers views of the Drum Tower and modern city skyline
Jeder Abschnitt bei Sonnenuntergang (besonders die westgerichtete Mauer zwischen dem West- und Nordtor): magische Stunde

Später Vormittag: Stele-Wald (Beilin-Museum)

Just inside the South Gate, visit the Xi'an Beilin-Museum (西安碑林博物馆), also known as the Forest of Stone Steles. This remarkable museum houses over 11,000 stone tablets and inscriptions dating from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, including the earliest complete set of Confucian classics carved in stone.

- Ticket Price: 65 CNY ($9.10 USD) (October–March); 10 CNY ($1.40 USD) (April–September, combined with City Wall ticket available at some times)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM (May–October); 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (November–April)

Nachmittag: Shaanxi-Geschichtsmuseum

Take Metro Line 2 from Yongningmen Station to Xiaozhai Station (about 20 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to the Shaanxi-Geschichtsmuseum (陕西历史博物馆), one of the finest museums in all of China.

- Ticket Price: Free (basic exhibition, requires reservation with passport); 30 CNY ($4.20 USD) for Special Exhibition; 300 CNY ($42 USD) for the Treasure Hall
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday–Sunday, last entry 4:30 PM); Closed Mondays
- Profi-Tipp: Reserve free tickets online via the official WeChat account at least 2–3 days in advance, especially during peak season. If free tickets are sold out, the paid Special Exhibition or Treasure Hall tickets guarantee entry.

Die Sammlung des Museums umfasst 3.000 Jahre und umfasst Gold- und Silberschätze der Tang-Dynastie, antike Bronzefäße, Tang-Sancai (dreifarbglasierte Keramik) und kunstvolle Wandmalereien aus Tang-zeitlichen Gräbern. Planen Sie 2–3 Stunden ein.

Hidden Gem: The Ausstellung der Wandmalereien der Tang-Dynastie (requires the separate 300 CNY ticket) is considered one of the most important collections of Tang murals in the world. If your budget allows, it's extraordinary.

Abend: Süd-Tor-Zeremonie & Bar-Straße

Return to the South Gate for the nightly Toröffnungszeremonie (around 8:00 PM in summer), a dramatic recreation of ancient military ceremonies with costumed performers, drums, and torches. It's free to watch from outside; entrance to the ceremony area may require a City Wall ticket.

Afterward, explore Defuxiang (德福巷), a charming cobblestone street just west of the South Gate lined with bars, tea houses, and cafés. This is Xi'an's most atmospheric evening hangout. Cocktails and beers range from 30–80 CNY ($4.20–$11.20 USD).

Tag 4: Große Wildganspagode & Erbe der Tang-Dynastie

Vormittag: Große Wildganspagode

The Große Wildganspagode (大雁塔, Dàyàn Tǎ) is Xi'an's most recognizable architectural landmark. Built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, the pagoda was originally constructed to house Buddhist scriptures and statues brought from India by the famous monk Xuanzang (the historical figure behind the Die Reise nach Westen legend).

- Ticket Price: Pagoda area (Da Ci'en Tempel): 40 CNY ($5.60 USD); Climbing the pagoda: additional 30 CNY ($4.20 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM (March–October); 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (November–February)

Die Pagode hat sieben Stockwerke (ursprünglich fünf, zwischen 701 und 704 n. Chr. in ihre heutige Form wiederaufgebaut). Die Besteigung belohnt Sie mit Panoramablicken über Xi'an, insbesondere nach Norden zum Stadtzentrum.

Photo Spot: The pagoda is best photographed from the Nordplatz fountain area. Morning light (8:00–10:00 AM) illuminates the pagoda's eastern face beautifully. The symmetrical layout of the North Square, with its massive musical fountain (active at 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM — free), makes for stunning wide-angle compositions.

Später Vormittag: Da Ci'en Tempel & Xuanzang-Gedenkstätte

Spend time exploring Da Ci'en Temple (大慈恩寺), the expansive Buddhist temple complex surrounding the pagoda. This is where Xuanzang lived and worked for over a decade translating the sutras he brought from India. The temple includes beautiful halls, gardens, and a museum of Buddhist art.

Nachmittag: Tang-Paradies

Walk south from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda to Tang-Paradies (大唐芙蓉园), a massive Tang Dynasty-themed cultural park on the site of the original royal garden. While it's a modern reconstruction (opened 2005), it's beautifully done and offers a window into Tang court life.

- Ticket Price: Free (as of recent policy; check current status, previously 120 CNY)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (summer); 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (winter)

Zu den Höhepunkten zählen der Ziyun-Turm, die größte Wasserfilmanlage Chinas (Vorführungen um 20:30 Uhr, inklusive) und traditionelle Musik- und Tanzdarbietungen den ganzen Tag.

Hidden Gem: The Traumreiche Rückkehr in die Große Tang-Zeit (梦回大唐) live performance inside the park is an extraordinary 70-minute Tang Dynasty song and dance spectacular.

- Cost: 198–580 CNY ($27.70–$81.20 USD)
- Vorführungszeiten: Typically 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM

Abend: Datang Everbright City (Datang-Immer-Leuchtende-Stadt)

Step outside Tang Paradise onto Datang Everbright City (大唐不夜城), Xi'an's spectacular pedestrian boulevard. This 2-km-long promenade is lined with Tang Dynasty-style architecture, sculptures of famous Tang figures, illuminated installations, and nightly street performances.

Hier entfaltet sich die moderne Tourismusenergie von Xi'an in voller Pracht. Straßendarsteller in aufwendigen Tang-Kostümen, interaktive Kunsteinrichtungen, Essensstände und Menschenmengen aus Einheimischen und Besuchern schaffen jeden Abend ein festliches Ambiente. Die Straße erstreckt sich vom Großen Wildgänse-Pagoden südwärts.

Photo Spot: The illuminated Ziyun Tower at the park's entrance, reflected in the water, is spectacular after 7:30 PM. The entire boulevard is Instagram gold after dark.

Tag 5: Tagesausflug zum Huashan-Gebirge

Ganztagesausflug: Huashan-Gebirge (華山)

Huashan-Gebirge is one of China's Five Great Mountains and one of the most thrilling natural destinations accessible from Xi'an. Known for its dramatic peaks, steep trails, and dizzying cliff-side plank walks, it's an unforgettable day trip.

Getting There: Take a high-speed train from Xi'an North Railway Station to Huashan North Station (华山北站). Travel time: approximately 30 minutes. Cost: 54.5 CNY ($7.60 USD) for a second-class seat. From Huashan North Station, take a free tourist shuttle or taxi (about 20 CNY) to the mountain's visitor center.

Ticketpreise:
- Mountain entry: 160 CNY ($22.40 USD) (March–November); 100 CNY ($14 USD) (December–February)
- Cable car (North Peak): 80 CNY ($11.20 USD) one-way
- Cable car (West Peak): 140 CNY ($19.60 USD) one-way
Kombinierte Pakete mit Seilbahn + Shuttlebus sind verfügbar

Empfohlene Route: Take the Seilbahn Westspitze up — it's the most spectacular cable car ride, soaring over deep gorges. From West Peak (2,082m), hike to South Peak (2,154.9m, the highest point), then to East Peak and Central Peak, and descend via the Seilbahn Nordspitze. This loop takes 5–7 hours of hiking and provides the full Huashan experience.

Wichtigste Höhepunkte:
- Süd-Gipfel: The summit, with the famous "Plank Walk in the Sky" (长空栈道) — a narrow boardwalk bolted to a sheer cliff face (additional 30 CNY + safety equipment). This is not for the faint of heart but is an extraordinary experience.
- Ost-Gipfel: Famous sunrise viewing point (if you choose to stay overnight) and chess pavilion
- Himmeltreppe (天梯): Near-vertical stone steps carved into the cliff

Abend: Return to Xi'an by high-speed train. Rest your legs and treat yourself to a foot massage — available at numerous shops throughout Xi'an for 60–120 CNY ($8.40–$16.80 USD) per hour.

Tag 6: Abseits der ausgetretenen Pfade — Verstecktes Xi'an

Vormittag: Xi'an-Moschee (Große Moschee)

While the Muslim Quarter gets most of the attention, the Große Moschee von Xi'an (西安大清真寺) hidden within it is one of the most remarkable mosques in China. Founded in 742 AD during the Tang Dynasty, it's a stunning blend of Chinese architectural style and Islamic function — Chinese-style pavilions, gardens, and arched gates lead to a prayer hall facing Mecca.

- Ticket Price: 25 CNY ($3.50 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM (April–October); 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (November–March)
- Location: Enter from Huajue Lane (化觉巷), off Beiyuanmen Street in the Muslim Quarter

Photo Spot: The Moon Tower (a classic Chinese-style pavilion) with its calligraphic inscriptions in both Chinese and Arabic, best photographed mid-morning when sunlight filters through the trees.

Später Vormittag: Xiyangshi (Westlicher Markt) & Shuyuan-Tor

Walk to Shuyuanmen Kulturstraße (书院门), a pedestrian street lined with art galleries, calligraphy shops, and antique stores. This atmospheric street runs from the South Gate to the Stele Forest and offers a more refined cultural experience than the tourist-heavy Muslim Quarter.

Then explore the reconstructed Westlicher Markt der Tang-Dynastie (大唐西市), located at the original site of the western market of Tang Chang'an — the largest and most famous marketplace in the ancient world.

Nachmittag: Qianling-Mausoleum oder Hanyangling-Museum (Wähle eins)

Option A — Qianling-Mausoleum (乾陵): The joint tomb of Tang Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, China's only female emperor. Located about 80 km northwest of Xi'an (2-hour bus ride or private car), it features the famous "Wordless Stele" and the extraordinary Spirit Way lined with stone statues. This is where the Princess Yongtai tomb features stunning Tang murals.

- Ticket Price: Qianling: 100 CNY ($14 USD); Princess Yongtai Tomb: 30 CNY ($4.20 USD)
- Am besten geeignet für: History enthusiasts willing to spend more travel time

Option B — Hanyangling-Museum (汉阳陵): The underground museum built around the tomb of Emperor Jing of the Western Han Dynasty. The transparent glass floor allows you to walk directly above the excavated burial pits — an eerie and incredible experience.

- Ticket Price: 70 CNY ($9.80 USD)
- Getting There: Metro Line 2 to Xi'an North Railway Station, then bus or taxi. About 45 minutes from city center.
- Best for: Those who want a less crowded, deeply immersive archaeological experience

Hidden Gem: Hanyangling is far less visited than the Terracotta Warriors but arguably offers a more intimate and thought-provoking museum experience.

Abends: Yongxingfang-Speisestraße

For your evening meal, head to Yongxingfang (永兴坊), a reconstructed traditional Shaanxi neighborhood near the East Gate of the City Wall. While it gained viral fame for its "smash bowl wine" (摔碗酒) — where you drink rice wine and smash the bowl — the food itself is excellent, focusing on authentic Shaanxi regional specialties from across the province.

- Pflichtprobieren: Zichang fried cakes, Hanzhong rice noodle soup, Weinan steamed buns
- Durchschnittliche Essenskosten: 30–60 CNY ($4.20–$8.40 USD)

Tag 7: Abschied von Xi'an — Märkte, Tempel & Abreise

Vormittags: Kleine Wildgans-Pagode & Xi'an Museum

Visit the Kleine Wildgans-Pagode (小雁塔, Xiǎoyàn Tǎ), the quieter, more atmospheric sibling of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in 707 AD, this elegant 13-story pagoda has survived multiple earthquakes (it once cracked and then re-sealed itself during a later quake — you can see the repair lines).

- Ticket Price: Free (reservation required)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (March–October); 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November–February); Closed Tuesdays
- Location: Youyi Xi Lu (Friendship West Road), near the South Gate

The adjacent Xi'an Museum (西安博物馆) is also free and provides an excellent overview of Xi'an's history through well-curated exhibits. The pagoda's courtyard garden is one of the most peaceful spots in the city — perfect for a contemplative morning.

Photo Spot: The pagoda framed through the traditional gate archway, especially with morning mist or autumn leaves. Arrive right at opening (9:00 AM) for the fewest crowds.

Später Vormittag: Antiquitäten- & Souvenir-Einkauf

Visit the Hanguang-Tor-Relikte (含光门遗址博物馆, if time permits) — a fascinating museum built into the City Wall itself, showing Tang Dynasty wall ruins beneath the Ming structure. Then do final souvenir shopping:

- Kalligraphiepinsel und Tuschesteine: Shuyuanmen Street
- Repliken im Tang-Dynastie-Stil: Small shops near the Terracotta Warriors museum (or order replicas at the Shaanxi History Museum gift shop)
- Lokale Snacks zum Mitnehmen: Vacuum-packed Rou Jia Mo meat, Liang Pi noodles, or dried persimmons — available at any large supermarket (Huarun Wanjia/Vanguard or Yonghui Superstores)

Nachmittag: Letzte Erkundung & Abreise

If your flight or train departs in the evening, spend your final afternoon with one last walk through the Muslim Quarter for farewell snacks, or rent a bike and ride along the moat outside the City Wall — the 15-km tree-lined path is beautiful and offers unique views of the wall from below.

Alternatively, visit the Banpo-Museum (半坡博物馆), located east of the city, to see a 6,000-year-old Neolithic village site — one of the earliest examples of agricultural civilization in China.

- Ticket Price: 55 CNY ($7.70 USD)
- Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Banpo Station, then a short walk

Abreise: Allow at least 2.5 hours before your flight to travel to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport and navigate check-in. If taking high-speed rail, Xi'an North Railway Station (北站) is accessible via Metro Line 2 and Line 4.

3. Getting Around Xi'an

U-Bahn-Netz

Das U-Bahn-Netz von Xi'an ist modern, sauber und effizient und verfügt über 8 Linien (Stand 2024). Für Touristen sind die folgenden Linien am nützlichsten:

- Linie 1 (Rot): East-west through the city. Key stops: Fangzhicheng (for bus connections), Wulukou, Beidajie, Laodong Lu
- Linie 2 (Blau): North-south. Key stops: Xi'an North Railway Station, Anyuanmen, Bell Tower (钟楼), Yongningmen (South Gate), Xiaozhai (Shaanxi History Museum), Wei Yi Lu
- Linie 3 (Magenta): Key stops: Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔), Xiaozhai
- Linie 4 (Blaugrün): Key stops: Hanguangmen, Dayan Ta (Big Wild Goose Pagoda), Xi'an North Railway Station
- Linie 14 (Flughafenexpress): Connects Xi'an Xianyang International Airport to the city

Cost: 2–8 CNY ($0.28–$1.12 USD) per trip depending on distance. A single-use token is purchased at vending machines in each station (accepts cash and WeChat/Alipay). Operating hours: approximately 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM (varies by line and station).

Busnetz

Xi'an has an extensive bus network. Most useful for tourists:
- Touristenbus 5 (306): Xi'an Train Station → Terracotta Warriors (7 CNY / $1.00 USD)
- Touristenbus 307: Xi'an → Huaqing Hot Springs → Terracotta Warriors (5 CNY / $0.70 USD per segment)
- Reguläre Busse: 1–2 CNY ($0.14–$0.28 USD), pay with exact change, transit card, or WeChat/Alipay

Taxi & Fahrdienste

- Anfangstarif: 9 CNY ($1.26 USD) for the first 3 km
- Pro Kilometer: 2.0 CNY ($0.28 USD) thereafter
- Typische Fahrt ins Stadtzentrum: 15–40 CNY ($2.10–$5.60 USD)
- Mitfahrdienst (DiDi-App): Comparable or slightly cheaper than taxis; the app works in English to some degree but a Chinese address is essential

Leihrad-System

Shared bikes (Hellobike, Meituan Bike) are everywhere. Download the app and scan to unlock.
- Cost: 1.5 CNY ($0.21 USD) per 30 minutes
- Best for: Riding along the City Wall moat, exploring the university district, getting between metro stations

Verkehrskarte

Consider purchasing a Chang'an Tong (长安通) transit card at any metro station service window (deposit 18 CNY / $2.50 USD). It provides slight discounts on metro and bus rides and eliminates the need for exact change.

4. Where to Stay

Budget (unter 300 CNY / 42 USD pro Nacht)

1. Xi'an Lazy Bones Hostel (西安懒骨头青年旅舍)
- Location: Near South Gate (Yongningmen), Defuxiang area
- Price: Dorm beds 60–100 CNY ($8.40–$14 USD); Private rooms 180–280 CNY ($25–$39 USD)
– Warum: Hervorragende Lage, geselliges Atmosphäre, englischsprachiges Personal, Dachterrasse mit Blick auf die Stadtmauer

2. Shuyuan International Youth Hostel (书院国际青年旅舍)
- Location: Shuyuanmen Cultural Street, near South Gate
- Price: Dorm beds 50–80 CNY ($7–$11.20 USD); Private rooms 200–300 CNY ($28–$42 USD)
– Warum: Wunderschönes traditionelles Innenhofhaus (Siheyuan), in einem der charmantesten Viertel von Xi'an

3. Han Tang Inn (汉唐驿)
- Location: Near Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Price: Doubles from 200–280 CNY ($28–$39 USD)
– Warum: Traditionelles chinesisches Design, hervorragendes Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis, ruhige Lage

Mittelklasse (300–800 CNY / 42–112 USD pro Nacht)

1. Xi'an Eastern House Boutique Hotel (西安东方文华酒店)
- Location: Near Bell Tower, central Xi'an
- Price: Doubles from 400–600 CNY ($56–$84 USD)
– Warum: Stilvolles modernes Design, unschlagbare zentrale Lage, ausgezeichnetes Frühstück

2. Holiday Inn Xi'an Greenland Century City (Holiday Inn 西安绿地假日酒店)
- Location: Near Qujiang (Big Wild Goose Pagoda area)
- Price: Doubles from 450–700 CNY ($63–$98 USD)
– Warum: Internationaler Kettenverlässlichkeit, moderne Zimmer, in der Nähe des Datang Everbright City

3. Xi'an Wyndham Hotel (西安温德姆酒店)
- Location: Near South Gate
- Price: Doubles from 350–650 CNY ($49–$91 USD)
– Warum: Hervorragender Service, gute Lage zur Erkundung der Altstadt

Luxus (ab 800 CNY / ab 112 USD pro Nacht)

1. The Westin Xi'an (西安威斯汀酒店)
- Location: Qujiang New District, near Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Price: Doubles from 800–1,500 CNY ($112–$210 USD)
– Warum: erstklassige Ausstattung, schöner Pool, Nähe zu kulturellen Stätten

2. Sofitel Xi'an (西安索菲特人民大厦)
- Location: Central Xi'an, near the East Gate
- Price: Doubles from 900–1,800 CNY ($126–$252 USD)
– Warum: beeindruckende Art-déco-verschmelzt-mit-chinesischem Design, ikonisches Haus mit Jahrzehntelanger Geschichte

3. W Xi'an (西安W酒店)
- Location: Qujiang New District
- Price: Doubles from 1,200–2,500 CNY ($168–$350 USD)
– Warum: ultramodern, trendig, spektakuläres Design, Dachbar mit Blick auf Pagoden

Tipp: For the best experience, consider splitting your stay: 4 nights near the Bell Tower/South Gate for old city exploration, and 3 nights near Qujiang/Big Wild Goose Pagoda for the Tang cultural district.

5. Where to Eat

Xi'an ist Chinas größte kulinarische Hauptstadt für Streetfood und traditionelle Küche. Die Küche besticht durch kräftige Aromen – Kreuzkümmel, Chili, Essig, Knoblauch – und eine meisterhafte Beherrschung von Weizen-Gerichten (Nudeln, Brote, Teigtaschen).

Restaurants, die man besuchen sollte

1. De Fa Chang (德发长饺子宴) — Famous Dumpling Banquet
- Address: 3 Xi Dajie, near Bell Tower (钟楼西大街3号)
- Specialty: The legendary "Dumpling Banquet" (饺子宴) featuring over 100 varieties of artistically shaped dumplings in multiple courses
- Cost: 120–280 CNY ($16.80–$39 USD) per person for the full banquet
– Tipp: Vorab reservieren; dies ist ein einzigartiges kulinarisches Erlebnis, nicht nur eine Mahlzeit

2. Chun Fa Sheng (春发生)
- Address: 217 Nanyuanmen (南院门217号)
- Specialty: Hulu Ji (葫芦鸡, Gourd Chicken) — Xi'an's most famous dish. A whole chicken braised, steamed, then deep-fried until impossibly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Also excellent Yang Rou Pao Mo.
Kosten: 80–150 CNY ($11.20–$21 USD) pro Person

3. Lao Mi Jia (老米家大雨泡馍)
- Address: Multiple locations; best one on Beiyuanmen Street in the Muslim Quarter
- Specialty: Yang Rou Pao Mo (羊肉泡馍) — hands down the most iconic Xi'an dish. You tear your own flatbread into tiny pieces, the kitchen soaks it in rich lamb broth, and you eat it with pickled garlic and chili sauce.
Kosten: 25–45 CNY ($3.50–$6.30 USD)

4. Fan Ji Rou Jia Mo (樊记肉夹馍)
- Address: Zhuyu Shi (竹笆市), near South Gate
- Specialty: The original Rou Jia Mo — braised pork stuffed into freshly baked flatbread. Simple, perfect, legendary.
Kosten: 12–20 CNY ($1.68–$2.80 USD)

5. Xi'an De Mao Chang (西安的老毛餐厅/当地小馆)
- For authentic local dining away from tourist areas, look for any crowded small restaurant (小馆子) near the university district (around Xiaozhai/Southwestern Gate). Order: Youpo-Nudeln (油泼面, Oil-Splashed Noodles, 15–18 CNY), Rou Zhi Hua Mo (肉汁花馍), and any daily special.

Vegetarisch/Veganfreundlich

Ci'en Vegetarisches Restaurant (慈恩素斋) near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers Buddhist vegetarian cuisine in an elegant temple setting. 50–100 CNY ($7–$14 USD) per person.

Spätes Nachtessen

- Muslimisches Viertel: Open until 11:00 PM or later
- Yongxingfang: Open until 10:00 PM
- Grill-Straße (烧烤街) on Jianshe Lu (建设路): Grilled meats, cold beer, local atmosphere. Open until 2:00 AM. 40–80 CNY ($5.60–$11.20 USD).

6. Practical Tips

Beste Reisezeiten

- Hochsaison (April–Juni, September–Oktober): Ideal weather (15–28°C / 59–82°F), clear skies, but larger crowds at major attractions. Book hotels and tickets well in advance.
- Nebensaison (März, November): Cooler but pleasant; fewer tourists; lower prices.
- Vermeiden Sie nach Möglichkeit (Juli–August): Hot and humid (30–38°C / 86–100°F) with occasional heavy rain. Terracotta Warriors site can feel like a sauna.
- Winter (Dezember–Februar): Cold and dry (−5–8°C / 23–46°F), but dramatically fewer tourists. The City Wall in snow is magical. Budget-friendly.

Wetter & Packen

- Frühling (März–Mai): Light layers, windbreaker, scarf for dusty days
- Sommer (Juni–August): Lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen, hat, umbrella, portable fan
- Herbst (September–November): Layers; mornings and evenings can be cool. Best season for photography.
- Winter (December–February): Heavy coat, thermal layers, gloves, warm hat. Indoor heating is strong.
- Ganzjährig: Comfortable walking shoes (you'll average 15,000–25,000 steps/day)

Finanzen

- Währung: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB). 1 USD ≈ 7.15 CNY (rates fluctuate).
- Bargeld: Still accepted everywhere, but China is overwhelmingly cashless. WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate.
- Für Ausländer: As of 2024, international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) can now be linked to Alipay and WeChat Pay. Download Alipay before your trip and set up the international version. Alternatively, carry some cash for smaller vendors.
- Geldautomaten: Available at all Bank of China, ICBC, and China Construction Bank branches. International cards accepted. Daily withdrawal limits typically 2,500 CNY.
- Trinkgeld: Not customary and not expected anywhere in Xi'an or China generally.

Sprachtipps

- Learn basic Mandarin phrases: 你好 (nǐ hǎo / hello), 谢谢 (xièxiè / thank you), 多少钱 (duōshao qián / how much?), 太贵了 (tài guì le / too expensive!), 左转/右转/直走 (zuǒ zhuǎn/yòu zhuǎn/zhí zǒu / turn left/right/go straight)
- Download Google Translate with the offline Chinese language pack, or better yet, use Baidu Translate which works better within China.
- Most tourist-site staff speak basic English. Muslim Quarter vendors may speak some English or Arabic.
– Lassen Sie sich die Adresse Ihres Hotels in chinesischen Schriftzeichen aufschreiben, um sie Taxifahrern zu zeigen.

Apps zum Herunterladen vor der Reise

- Alipay (支付宝) — Essential for payments
- WeChat (微信) — Communication + payments + ticket reservations
- Baidu Maps or Amap/Gaode (高德地图) — Navigation (Google Maps has limited functionality in China)
- DiDi (滴滴出行) — Ride-hailing
- Meituan (美团) — Restaurant reviews, food delivery, ticket booking
- VPN — If you need access to Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, etc. (install before entering China)

7. Safety and Health

Allgemeine Sicherheit

Xi'an ist nach globalen Maßstäben eine außergewöhnlich sichere Stadt. Gewalttätige Kriminalität gegen Touristen gibt es praktisch nicht. Kleinkriminalität (Taschendiebstahl) kann in überfüllten Gebieten wie dem Muslim Quarter, an Bahnhöfen und in Touristenbussen zu den Terrakotta-Kriegern vorkommen. Es gelten die üblichen Vorsichtsmaßnahmen:

- Keep valuables in a front crossbody bag or money belt
- Be cautious of unsolicited "art students" or "tea ceremony" invitations near major tourist sites — these are well-known scams designed to lead you to overpriced shops
- The tourist bus to the Terracotta Warriors (306) is legitimate — ignore people at the train station trying to redirect you to unofficial "tour buses" or taxis offering "discounted" tours
- Negotiate taxi fares or ensure the meter is running. If using DiDi, the price is fixed in the app.
Im Muslim Quarter heben einige Händler die Preise für offensichtliche Touristen an. Sie können ruhig weitergehen und vergleichen. Die meisten sind ehrlich und freundlich.

Betrügereien, die man vermeiden sollte

- "Kunststudenten"-Betrug: Young people near the Bell Tower or Big Wild Goose Pagoda will approach asking to practice English, then invite you to an "art exhibition" where you'll be pressured to buy overpriced paintings or calligraphy.
- Fälscher von Ticketverkäufern: Buy all attraction tickets from official counters, official websites, or verified WeChat mini-programs.
- Überteuerte Taxifahrten: Use DiDi or insist on the meter. Some unlicensed taxis (黑车) at train stations may overcharge.

Health

- Wasser: Do NOT drink tap water in Xi'an. Bottled water is cheap (2–3 CNY per 500ml) and available everywhere. Use bottled water for brushing teeth as well, especially in budget accommodations.
- Essen: Street food is generally safe in Xi'an — high turnover means fresh preparation. Use common sense: eat at busy stalls (popular = fresh) and avoid raw vegetables or salads at questionable establishments.
- Apotheken: Widely available. Look for 药店 (yàodiàn) on signage. Common medications like ibuprofen, cold medicine, and anti-diarrheal tablets are available without prescription.
- Krankenhäuser: For emergencies, Xi'an International Hospital (西安国际医学中心) has English-speaking staff. Most major hospitals have basic English capability.
- Luftqualität: Xi'an's air quality can be poor, particularly in winter (November–February). Check the AQI (Air Quality Index) daily via apps like AirVisual. On high-pollution days (AQI > 150), consider wearing a KN95/N95 mask and limiting extended outdoor activities.
- Höhe: No altitude concerns — Xi'an sits at approximately 400 meters (1,312 feet). Mount Huashan's peaks reach 2,154 meters (7,067 feet), which may cause mild shortness of breath for some visitors.
- Reiseversicherung: Strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation. China's healthcare system is excellent but expensive without insurance.
- COVID/Gesundheitserklärungen: Check current entry requirements before travel. As of 2024, most COVID-era restrictions have been lifted, but policies may change.

Notrufnummern

- Polizei: 110
- Krankenwagen: 120
- Feuerwehr: 119
- Ausländerhilfe (Polizei Xi'an): 029-8675 5928 (Xi'an Public Security Bureau Foreign Affairs)

Bonus: Top Photo Spots with Optimal Timing

| Location | Best Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| City Wall at Sunset | 6:00–7:30 PM (summer) | West-facing section between West Gate and North Gate |
| Bell Tower at Blue Hour | 7:30–8:00 PM | From elevated crosswalks at the intersection |
| Big Wild Goose Pagoda | 8:00–9:30 AM | North Square with fountain foreground |
| Muslim Quarter | 5:00–7:00 PM | Steam, lights, and activity create perfect atmosphere |
| Datang Everbright City | 8:00–10:00 PM | Fully illuminated installations and performers |
| Small Wild Goose Pagoda | 9:00–10:00 AM | Morning light through garden trees |
| Terracotta Warriors, Pit 1 | 9:00–10:30 AM | East end for panoramic view with natural light from above |
| Berg Huashan | Sonnenaufgang (~5:30 Uhr morgens im Sommer) | Ostgipfel; Übernachtung auf dem Berg erforderlich |

Final Thoughts

Sieben Tage in Xi'an ermöglichen es Ihnen, über die reine Checkliste hinauszugehen und diese außergewöhnliche Stadt wirklich in sich aufzunehmen. Sie werden Geschmäcker verkosten, die sich seit Jahrhunderten nicht verändert haben. Sie werden dort stehen, wo Kaiser standen. Sie werden auf Mauern spazieren, die den Aufstieg und Fall von Dynastien beobachtet haben. Xi'an erzählt Ihnen nicht nur die chinesische Geschichte – es lässt Sie in ihr leben.

Die Stadt belohnt Geduld und Neugier. Gehen Sie abseits der Hauptstraßen. Essen Sie dort, wo die Einheimischen essen. Setzen Sie sich in ein Teehaus und beobachten Sie die Welt vorbeiziehen. Lassen Sie sich vom Rhythmus dieser antiken Hauptstadt verlangsamen, wie sie es seit über dreitausend Jahren mit Reisenden tut.

Willkommen in Xi'an — Welcome to Xi'an.

Alle aufgeführten Preise sind ungefähre Angaben und basieren auf den Tarifen von 2024. Preise können je nach Saison variieren und unterliegen Änderungen. USD-Umrechnungen sind zu einem Kurs von etwa 1 USD = 7,15 CNY berechnet. Überprüfen Sie vor Ihrer Reise immer die aktuellen Öffnungszeiten, die Ticketverfügbarkeit und die Reiseanforderungen.