In this guide, we’ll take you through the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an. Each destination reveals a different side of this thousand-year-old city—from dynastic glory to local street charm. We’ve included must-know tips like how to get there, ticket prices, and how long to stay, so you can explore with ease.
Ready to explore the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an? Let’s dive in and make the most of your journey through this cultural treasure trove.
1. Terracotta Warriors and Horses (秦始皇兵马俑博物馆)
Among Xi’an’s Top 10 Landmarks , the Terracotta Warriors and Horses top every traveler’s list. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this massive underground army guards the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots stand in silent formation, each with unique facial features and expressions. They reflect the power and ambition of the Qin Dynasty, which unified China over 2,200 years ago.
Visitors can walk through several excavated pits and view preserved artifacts, ancient weapons, and reconstructed displays. Additionally, the on-site museum provides excellent context about the emperor’s grand vision and the historical significance of this site.
📍 Address: Qinling North Road, Lintong District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station, then take the local Bus
🚌 Alternative: Tourist shuttle bus from Xi’an Railway Station
🎫 Tickets: ¥120
👉 Buy Online: Book your entry tickets via Viator (easy and secure )
🕒 Hours: 8:30–18:00 (peak), 8:30–17:30 (off-peak)
⏱️ Suggested time: 3–4 hours
In short, the Terracotta Warriors offer a powerful glimpse into ancient China’s military and artistic mastery. No visit to the Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Xi’an is complete without seeing them. For more travel information about Terracotta Warriors and Horses, please check out How to Visit Terracotta Warriors.
2. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔)
Next on our list of the Best 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, this ancient structure once held Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang. He famously traveled along the Silk Road to seek knowledge and return it to China. Today, the pagoda stands as a symbol of cultural exchange and Buddhist heritage.
The seven-story brick tower offers stunning views of the city if you climb to the top. Additionally, the surrounding Da Ci’en Temple grounds are peaceful and full of traditional architecture. At night, the large square in front comes alive with a spectacular music and light fountain show—one of the largest in Asia. It’s the perfect place for photos and a relaxing walk.
📍 Address: No. 1 Ci’en Road, Yanta District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 3 or 4 to Dayanta Station
🎫 Tickets: ¥30 for Da Ci’en Temple, ¥25 to climb the pagoda
👉 Buy Online: Book your Wild Goose Pagoda Ticket and Tour via Viator with guides via Viator—an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: 8:00–18:30
⏱️ Suggested time: 1–2 hours
In conclusion, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is both spiritual and scenic. It’s truly one of the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an you shouldn’t miss.
3. Xi’an City Wall (西安城墙)
Another highlight among the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an is the Xi’an City Wall. Built during the Ming Dynasty over 600 years ago, this massive structure remains one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. It stretches 13.74 kilometers and forms a complete rectangle around the old city center.
You can walk or rent a bike to explore the wall at your own pace. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of both ancient rooftops and modern high-rises. Moreover, each of the four main gates—especially the South Gate (Yongningmen)—features traditional towers and photo-worthy architecture. In the evening, the wall lights up beautifully, creating a romantic and historical atmosphere.
📍 Address: South Street, Beilin District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 to Yongningmen Station
🎫 Tickets: ¥54
👉 Buy Online: Book your Xian City Wall Entry & Tour via Viator with guides via Viator —an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: 8:00–22:00 (South Gate); other gates close at 18:00
⏱️ Suggested time: 2–3 hours (bike ride takes about 1.5 hours)
To sum up, the Xi’an City Wall offers a perfect blend of history, scenery, and activity. It easily ranks among the 10 Unmissable Landmarks for Travelers in Xi’an for good reasons.
4. Bell Tower & Drum Tower (钟楼 & 鼓楼)
In the heart of the old city, you’ll find two of the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an— Bell Tower and Drum Tower. These Ming Dynasty structures once played a vital role in daily life. The Bell Tower marked the start of each day, while the Drum Tower signaled nightfall. Today, they serve as cultural landmarks and offer a glimpse into the rhythm of ancient Xi’an.
The Bell Tower stands at the very center of the city, surrounded by bustling streets and modern shops. Just a short walk away, the Drum Tower sits at the entrance to the lively Muslim Quarter. Additionally, both towers host traditional music performances during the day, which bring their history to life. At night, they glow with golden lights, creating a stunning contrast against the city skyline.
📍 Address: West Street, Lianhu District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 to Zhonglou Station
🎫 Tickets: ¥30 for each; ¥50 for a combo ticket
👉 Buy Online: Book your Bell & Drum Towers entry and City Tour with guides via Viator—an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: 8:30–21:30
⏱️ Suggested time: 1 hour
In short, the Bell and Drum Towers blend tradition with city life. They are truly must-see stops on any Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an tour.
5. Muslim Quarter (回民街)
Another must-visit on our list of the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an is the vibrant Muslim Quarter. This lively street is famous for its local snacks, energetic vibe, and deep cultural roots. Located near the Drum Tower, it reflects the strong Islamic heritage of the Hui ethnic community that has lived in Xi’an for centuries.
As you stroll through the narrow lanes, the smell of grilled lamb, spicy noodles, and fresh bread fills the air. Popular snacks include yangrou paomo (lamb stew with flatbread), roujiamo (Chinese-style burger), and liangpi (cold rice noodles). In addition, you’ll find colorful souvenir stalls, old mosques, and street performers adding to the festive mood. The best time to visit is in the evening, when the lights and crowds bring the street to life.
📍 Address: Beiyuanmen, Lianhu District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 to Zhonglou Station, then walk 5 minutes
🎫 Tickets: Free
👉 Buy Online: Book your Muslim Quarter and City Tour with guides via Viator—an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: Open all day (evening visit recommended)
⏱️ Suggested time: 1–2 hours
If you love food and culture, don’t miss the Muslim Quarter. It’s a flavorful stop on your tour of the Xi’an’s 10 Iconic Places to Explore in China’s Ancient Capital.
6. Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆)
For history lovers, the Shaanxi History Museum is a must-see among the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an. As one of China’s four top museums, it holds over 370,000 cultural relics. These items span from prehistoric times all the way to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Here, you can truly understand how ancient China evolved through thousands of years.
The museum’s layout is modern and easy to navigate. First, you’ll see stone tools from the Neolithic era. Then, you’ll move through galleries filled with Tang Dynasty treasures, ancient calligraphy, ceramics, and bronze ware. Additionally, special exhibits often highlight major archaeological finds from the region. Most displays include English labels, which helps international visitors follow along.
📍 Address: No. 91 Xiaozhai East Road, Yanta District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 or 3 to Xiaozhai Station
🎫 Tickets: Free (advance online reservation required)
👉 Reserve Online: Book your Shaanxi History Museum Free Entry and City Tour with guides via Viator—an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: 8:30–18:00 (Closed Mondays)
⏱️ Suggested time: 2–3 hours
In short, the Shaanxi History Museum is a window into Xi’an’s past. It’s easily one of the most educational stops on the Top 10 Historical Landmarks in Xi’an list.
7. Tang Paradise (大唐芙蓉园)
Located just southeast of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Paradise offers a vivid glimpse into the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. As the first large-scale theme park in China designed to fully recreate imperial Tang-style gardens, it earns its place among the Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Xi’an. Covering 1,000 acres—including 300 acres of water—this park blends grand architecture, tranquil lakes, and colorful cultural performances.
Built near the site of the original royal Furong Garden, Tang Paradise reimagines the luxury and charm of ancient imperial life. Moreover, you’ll find pavilions, bridges, and lakes styled just like those from over 1,300 years ago. In the evening, the park lights up with immersive shows, laser fountains, and live reenactments, creating a magical, almost cinematic experience.
📍 Address: No. 99 Furong West Road, Qujiang District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 4 to Datang Furongyuan Station, Exit A, 2-minute walk
🎫 Tickets: ¥120
👉 Buy Online: Book your Tang Paradise entry with Tour with guides via Viator—an unforgettable and immersive travel experience.
🕒 Hours: Open all day (evening visits are best)
⏱️ Suggested time: 2 hours
In summary, Tang Paradise brings ancient China to life with elegance and drama. It’s a dazzling stop on your journey through the Top 10 Essential Landmarks in Xi’an.
8. Huaqing Palace (华清宫 / Huaqing Pool)
Famous for both romance and revolution, Huaqing Palace is one of the most unique among the Top 10 Unmissable Landmarks in Xi’an. This elegant hot spring complex once served as the winter retreat of Tang emperors. Most notably, it was where Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved consort Yang Guifei shared their legendary love story. Their tale remains one of China’s most iconic romances.
But history doesn’t stop there. The palace grounds were also the site of the 1936 Xi’an Incident, a turning point in modern Chinese politics. Visitors can see original hot spring pools, historic bathhouses, and detailed murals that bring the Tang Dynasty to life. In the evening, an outdoor show reenacts Xuanzong and Yang’s story with lights, music, and dance—making the experience even more immersive.
📍 Address: No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station
🎫 Tickets: ¥120
👉 Buy Online: Book your Huaqing Palace Ticketvia Viator
🕒 Hours: 7:00–19:00
⏱️ Suggested time: 2 hours
Whether you’re into history or legends, Huaqing Palace is a must-visit stop on any Top 10 Signature Landmarks in Xi’an itinerary.
9. Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔)
For a quieter and more peaceful experience, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a perfect choice among the Top 10 Renowned Landmarks in Xi’an. Built during the Tang Dynasty, this elegant Buddhist structure once stored sacred scriptures brought from India. Unlike its larger counterpart, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, this site feels calm and uncrowded—ideal for travelers seeking a slower pace.
Next to the pagoda is the Xi’an Museum, where you can explore over 130,000 artifacts and learn about the city’s long history. Additionally, the garden-style setting around the pagoda makes it a lovely place for a stroll. You can even climb the pagoda for a small fee and enjoy a gentle view over the old city.
📍 Address: No. 72 Youyi West Road, Beilin District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 to Nanshaomen Station
🎫 Tickets: Free (reservation required); ¥30 to climb the pagoda
🕒 Hours: 9:00–18:00
⏱️ Suggested time: 1–2 hours
In short, Small Wild Goose Pagoda is perfect for those who love history and quiet beauty. It’s a serene highlight in the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an.
10. Yongxingfang Food Street (永兴坊)
Last but not least in our journey through the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an is the lively Yongxingfang Food Street. This cultural food zone offers a modern, well-organized alternative to the more chaotic Muslim Quarter. Here, you’ll taste the full range of Shaanxi cuisine in a cleaner, more relaxed environment.
From biangbiang noodles to Zichang-style pancakes, the street is a treasure trove of local bites. One popular experience is trying shuai wan jiu (bowl-smashing liquor)—drink a shot and smash the bowl for good luck! Additionally, the area features traditional folk performances and interactive food stalls, which give visitors a deeper feel for regional culture. Further, the layout is spacious, with beautiful Tang-style decorations and less crowding than older food streets.
📍 Address: Dongxin Street, Xincheng District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 4 to Dachaishi Station
🎫 Tickets: Free
🕒 Hours: 10:00–22:00
⏱️ Suggested time: 1–2 hours
Whether you’re a foodie or a cultural explorer, Yongxingfang adds flavor to your tour of the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an.
11. Travel Tips for Exploring the Top 10 Iconic Landmarks in Xi’an
To make the most of your visit to the Top 10 Historic Landmarks in Xi’an, here are some practical tips to help you travel smarter and smoother:
✅ Best Time to Visit
The most pleasant seasons are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). During these months, the weather is mild, skies are often clear, and crowds are more manageable than in peak summer or major holidays. Additionally, outdoor spots like the City Wall and Tang Paradise are much more enjoyable without extreme heat or cold.
✅ Getting Around the City
Xi’an has a convenient and affordable metro system that connects most major attractions. Metro lines are fast and easy to navigate, with English signs and station announcements. For shorter distances, you can also use taxis or shared bikes, which are widely available and easy to hail using apps.
✅ Language Support
While English is not widely spoken, many tourist attractions offer English signs and audio guides. Larger museums and major landmarks often provide English-speaking staff or printed brochures to help international visitors understand the history and culture.
✅ Payment Methods
In Xi’an, Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most common ways to pay for tickets, food, and transport. Some locations also accept international credit cards, especially hotels and major tourist sites. However, it’s best to carry some cash just in case.
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From ancient warriors and imperial palaces to lively food streets and tranquil temples, Xi’an offers a journey through time like no other city in China. Each of the Top 10 Cultural Landmarks in Xi’an tells a unique story, blending deep history with vibrant local culture. Whether you’re cycling along the ancient City Wall, exploring royal hot springs, or tasting spicy street snacks in Yongxingfang, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
Additionally, Xi’an is easy to explore with modern transport, helpful facilities, and plenty of English-friendly services. With just a bit of planning, your trip can be both smooth and rich in discoveries.
So, are you ready to walk through history, one landmark at a time? Let this guide be your starting point as you uncover the timeless charm of Xi’an.
