Visiting the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors is a non-negotiable highlight of any Xi'an trip. But one of the first practical questions every traveler asks is: how to get to the Terracotta Warriors from Xi'an?
The 40-kilometer journey east of the city can feel daunting with language barriers and unfamiliar transit systems. Having made this trip multiple times — both independently and on tours — I know the options inside and out.
This guide breaks down every single transport choice, from the public Terracotta Warriors bus to private taxis, with real costs, step-by-step directions, and honest pros and cons. Your smooth journey to see the 8th Wonder of the World starts here.
Whether you're a budget backpacker or traveling with family, there's a perfect option for you.
🚌 The Official Tourist Buses: The Most Common Choice
For most independent travelers, the official tourist buses are the go-to solution. They're affordable, relatively straightforward, and drop you right at the site entrance.
Tourist Bus Line 5 游5路 / Bus 306 306路
— The Primary Route
This is the main, officially sanctioned bus service most guidebooks recommend. It's also known as Bus 306. Confusingly, the "Tourist Bus Line 5" 游5 branding is used, but the bus number on the destination sign is 306.
Pro Tip
Have your destination written in Chinese: 兵马俑 . Show it to the driver or attendant to confirm you're on the right bus. The ride itself offers a glimpse into rural Shaanxi life outside the city walls.
Buses 914 & 915
— The Alternative Routes
These buses serve the same destination but have different starting points and routes. They can be a good backup if the Tourist Bus Line 5/306 queue is extremely long.
Important Note
When boarding 914 or 915, ensure the destination sign says 兵马俑 . Some buses on these routes may only go to the town of Lintong, not the museum itself. You can ask the driver: "到兵马俑吗?" (Dào Bīngmǎyǒng ma?)
🧭 From the Bell Tower Area: Step-by-Step Directions
Most travelers stay near the iconic Bell Tower. Here's exactly how to get from there to the Warriors' bus terminal.
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Get to Xi'an Railway Station by Metro
Take Line 2 from the Bell Tower Station 钟楼站 heading northbound to Beidajie Station 北大街站. Transfer to Line 1 (the blue line) heading east to Xi'an Railway Station 西安站. The total metro ride is about 15 minutes and costs 4–5 RMB ($0.60–$0.70 USD).
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Navigate the Railway Station
Exit the metro at Exit D. You'll emerge into the East Square. Look for the large, modern glass-walled building of the Tourist Service Center. The official tourist bus queues are directly in front of it, to the right of the main station building. Signs in English will say "Tourist Bus to Terracotta Warriors."
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Board the Bus
Join the queue for Bus 306 / Tourist Bus Line 5. Pay the conductor on board (have small bills or exact change ready). Store luggage in the compartment below.
Warning
You will be approached by "friendly" English speakers offering "faster," "cheaper," or "private" buses. Politely decline and stay in the official line. These unofficial operators often have inflated prices, make unnecessary shopping stops, or even drop passengers at fake museums.
🚕 Taking a Taxi or Private Car: Comfort and Convenience
If you value flexibility, door-to-door service, and traveling on your own schedule, a taxi or private car is an excellent choice, especially for families or small groups.
Taxi from Xi'an
— One-way fare
Taxis are metered, but the cost can be significant for this distance. A taxi from the Bell Tower area to the Terracotta Warriors will cost between 180–250 RMB one-way. This includes a "return empty" fee 返空费 that drivers are allowed to charge for the 40km trip back without a passenger.
✓ Pros
- Direct & comfortable
- No transfers needed
- Leave whenever you want
✗ Cons
- Most expensive public option
- Must agree on return price or find a new taxi
- Competitive/pricier taxis at museum
Pro Tip
For a hassle-free return, take a photo of your taxi's license plate. When you're ready to leave, you can often find a taxi in the museum's parking lot. Agree on the metered fare (around 200 RMB) before getting in.
Hiring a Private Driver for the Day
— 8–10 hours of dedicated service
This is the premium option, offering the most flexibility and local insight. It's particularly valuable if you want to combine the Terracotta Warriors with other nearby sites.
What You Get
A full-day private car and English-speaking driver typically costs 500–700 RMB ($70–$100 USD) for 8–10 hours. This is a fixed rate that includes fuel, tolls, and the driver's time. It does not include entrance fees or meals.
How to Book
Book through your hotel, a reputable local agency, or a vetted platform. Provide your hotel address and desired pickup time.
Key Advantages
- The driver can wait at the museum while you explore
- Combine with Huaqing Hot Springs 华清池, just 15 minutes away
- The driver handles all navigation and parking
Personal Recommendation
This is my preferred method when traveling with family. The comfort and ability to create a custom itinerary easily justify the cost when split between 3–4 people.
🚐 Joining a Tour Bus: The No-Hassle Package
For those who prefer a fully organized experience, numerous tour operators offer half-day or full-day tours from central Xi'an.
Types of Tours
These range from budget group tours (often with a shopping stop) to premium small-group or private tours with expert guides.
Budget Group Tour
Large groups, basic transport, may include shopping stops
Small-Group Tour
Intimate experience, knowledgeable historian-guide
Private Tour
Custom itinerary, dedicated guide, maximum flexibility
What's Typically Included
- Round-trip hotel pickup/drop-off
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance ticket (sometimes)
- Air-conditioned coach
Cost Range
Prices vary wildly. A basic group tour can be as low as 250–350 RMB ($35–$50 USD) per person, often excluding the entrance ticket. A high-quality, small-group tour with a knowledgeable historian-guide might cost 500–800 RMB ($70–$110 USD) including tickets.
✓ Pros
- Zero logistics stress
- Educational guide narration
- Hotel pickup included
- Can combine with other sites
✗ Cons
- Fixed schedule, less flexibility
- Budget tours may include shopping stops
- Group pace may not suit everyone
📊 Quick Reference Table
| Option | Cost (one-way) | Travel Time | Best For | Ease Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚌 Bus 306 / Tourist Bus 5 | 7 RMB (~$1) | 60–80 min | Budget travelers, solo | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🚌 Bus 914 | 5 RMB (~$0.70) | ~90 min | Ultra-budget, backup option | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🚌 Bus 915 | 7 RMB (~$1) | 50–70 min | Backup, highway route | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🚕 Taxi | 180–250 RMB (~$25–35) | 50–70 min | Couples, convenience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🚗 Private Driver | 500–700 RMB (~$70–100) | Flexible | Families, multi-stop trips | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🚐 Tour Bus | 250–800 RMB (~$35–110) | Half/Full day | First-timers, hassle-free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |