Packages to Xi'an: Explore Ancient China on a Xian 2-Day Private Family Tour

Day 1 Xi'an

In the morning, our local Xi'an tour guide will pick you up at your hotel in Xi'an or Xi'an train station, you will find a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". And your Xian tour start.

First, your guide will take you on a scenic drive to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, which takes around 40 minutes each way. Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the Terracotta Army is a remarkable archaeological discovery, hailed as one of the most significant of the 20th century. The museum showcases an astounding level of craftsmanship in sculpture, with over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots discovered. These artifacts were buried to protect the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. To date, 179 burial pits have been discovered, each revealing the fascinating burial practices of the Qin Dynasty. The historical and cultural significance of the site is immense, offering valuable insights into the architectural and structural designs of ancient Chinese tombs. What’s most remarkable is that none of the burial pits have been damaged by fire, preserving the treasures inside.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, your guide will take you back to Xi'an downtown. Here, you’ll explore the famous Muslim Quarter, a vibrant cultural hub renowned for its delicious street food and rich Islamic heritage. This area has been a melting pot of cultures for over 1,000 years, with its roots dating back to the Han Dynasty when the first Muslims arrived through the Silk Road. Before you dive into the culinary delights of the Muslim Quarter, you’ll enjoy a local lunch at one of the area’s authentic restaurants, where your guide will recommend some of Xi’an’s best dishes. Don't miss the famous lamb soup served with crude pancakes, cold rice noodles, Chinese-style hamburgers, and Qishan noodles. The meal will give you a perfect introduction to the rich North and West Chinese flavors, with a focus on mutton and beef dishes.

After lunch, you’ll continue your exploration of the bustling streets, lined with traditional Ming-style buildings and paved with grey flagstones. As you stroll, you'll discover a variety of other local snacks and specialties, including Xi'an small cakes, Shaanxi pasta, and rice cakes, offering a full local experience.

Next, you’ll be treated to a traditional Shadow Puppet Show at the Gao's Courtyard, an iconic location in the Muslim Quarter. The show is a fascinating glimpse into an ancient Chinese art form, and the courtyard itself is a hidden gem, preserving the old-world charm of traditional architecture and local life. The local building style, combined with antique household items, makes it a great place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Xi'an.

After an enriching day of exploration, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring you’re comfortable and well taken care of. You’ll have the evening to relax and reflect on the fascinating history and culture you’ve experienced throughout the day.

Day 2 Xi'an

After breakfast, your Xi'an tour guide will meet you at your hotel at the scheduled time, ready to begin your day of exploration.

Your first stop will be a local family’s home, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn how to make traditional Chinese dumplings. Dumplings, a staple in Chinese cuisine, date back over two thousand years. The hostess will guide you through the process of preparing freshly sourced, local ingredients and teach you the ancient recipes that have been passed down through generations. Step by step, you’ll learn how to knead the dough, shape the dumplings, and cook them to perfection. Once completed, you’ll enjoy the delicious dumplings for lunch, served in the comfort of the family home, offering you an authentic cultural experience.

In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Xi'an and one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China. Located in the southern part of the city, this historic pagoda was originally built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty, and it was later rebuilt and renovated over the centuries. The pagoda’s simple yet appealing architectural style attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a National Key Cultural Relic Preserve and was originally designed to house sutras and Buddha figurines brought to China by the famous Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who traveled to India. Your guide will provide detailed insights into the pagoda’s history and significance within the Buddhist religion, making your visit both informative and memorable.

Next, you will visit the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the wall was designed as a military defense system to protect the city. The wall's well-preserved structure offers a glimpse into the ancient Chinese fortifications. Your guide will explain the history behind the wall and its strategic importance. If you're interested in a more interactive experience, you can rent a bike and cycle along the wall, and your guide will be happy to assist with arrangements on-site.

After your exciting day of exploration, your guide will escort you back to your hotel in Xi'an or the Xi'an train station, where your tour will conclude. We hope you’ve had an enjoyable and enriching experience in Xi'an, and wish you a pleasant onward journey!

Price Per Person in US Dollars