Absolutely, finding affordable and convenient accommodation near Xi'an's iconic Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) is not only possible but offers one of the most culturally immersive stays in the city. Staying in this historic neighborhood means you're not just saving money; you're placing yourself at the vibrant heart of Xi'an's living history, with easy access to legendary street food, ancient mosques, and a bustling atmosphere that lasts well into the evening. The area surrounding the Drum Tower and Bell Tower, which serve as the primary landmarks for the Muslim Quarter, is densely packed with options for the budget-conscious traveler.
The most sought-after budget accommodations are traditional guesthouses (often called "kezhan") and hostels located within the maze-like hutongs (narrow alleys) just steps from the main food streets of Beiyuanmen and Xiyangshi. These establishments often occupy converted courtyard homes (siheyuan), offering an authentic Xi'an experience. You can expect prices to range from approximately 80 CNY to 200 CNY ($11 to $28 USD) per night for a private double room, with dormitory beds in hostels going for as low as 40 CNY ($6 USD). A well-known example is the Xi'an Trips Hostel, which is frequently recommended for its location near the Bell Tower and its helpful tour booking services. Another popular area is Xiyangshi, a street parallel to the main food boulevard, where several guesthouses are tucked away.
For those who prefer the reliability of a chain hotel, there are also numerous budget-friendly options within a 10-15 minute walk. The Hanting Hotel (Xi'an Bell Tower Drum Tower Muslim Street Branch), located on Dong Dajie, offers clean, standardized rooms and is part of a trusted national chain. Prices here typically start around 250 CNY ($35 USD) per night. Similarly, the Ibis Xi'an Bell Tower Hotel, situated near the Drum Tower, provides international standards at a reasonable rate, often between 300 CNY to 400 CNY ($42 to $56 USD). These options provide a solid compromise between budget pricing and modern amenities like 24-hour reception and consistent cleanliness.
When booking, prioritize location over minor price differences. A hotel described as being "near the Drum Tower" or "on Xiyangshi Street" will have the most convenient access. Be aware that the Muslim Quarter area is a popular tourist hub, and prices can fluctuate significantly based on the season (higher during May Day, National Day, and Chinese New Year holidays) and even the day of the week. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for the charming courtyard guesthouses which have limited rooms. Websites like Trip.com or Booking.com are excellent for reading recent reviews from international travelers and securing reservations in English.
Staying in this district is a strategic choice for sightseeing. You'll be within a 5-minute walk of the Drum Tower, Bell Tower, and the start of the Muslim Quarter. It's also an easy 15-20 minute walk to the iconic Xi'an City Wall at the South Gate. The neighborhood is exceptionally well-connected by public transport; the Bell Tower (地铁2号线) and Beidajie (地铁2号线) metro stations are just minutes away, providing fast access to the Terracotta Warriors Museum (Bus 306/游5 from the nearby train station) and other parts of the city. For more detailed logistics, consult our guide on Getting Around Xi'an.
A final tip is to arrive at your chosen hotel with realistic expectations. Many of the most characterful and cheapest options in the hutong are set in older buildings. Rooms may be compact, and soundproofing from the lively streets below might not be perfect, but that's part of the authentic experience. The incredible advantage is rolling out of bed and being immediately immersed in the sizzle of lamb skewers, the aroma of freshly baked bread, and the colorful tapestry of Chinese Muslim culture. By choosing to stay near the Muslim Quarter, you save money on transport and gain more time to explore, making it one of the wisest accommodations choices for any budget traveler visiting Xi'an. For a curated selection of reviewed properties and booking assistance, explore our Xi'an Accommodation Hub.
--- This FAQ is part of our comprehensive Xi'an Travel Guide. For more information about visiting Xi'an, explore our Xi'an Tours or contact us directly. Last updated: May 2026