The Ultimate Guide to Xi’an Layover: What to Do During 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit (2026 Updated Guide)

Xi'an Airport Layover Tour: Discover the Majestic Terracotta Warriors with Comfortable Round-Trip Transfer Xi'an Layover Tour: Timely Exploration of the Terracotta Warriors – A Must-See Highlight with a Local Guide

Overview
Planning a trip to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China and home to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors? Many international travelers now have more flexible options to visit Xi’an without applying for a traditional Chinese tourist visa. Thanks to China’s expanded visa-free transit policies, eligible travelers can enjoy a short stay in Xi’an during an international layover or as part of a multi-city China trip. This guide explains the latest China visa for Xi’an, including Xi’an transit visa, visa-free transit in Xi’an, 240-hour visa Xi’an, and how to make the most of a Xi’an layover.

240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy for Xi'an
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Xi’an?
The answer depends on your nationality, travel route, and length of stay.

Currently, international visitors traveling to Xi’an may enter under several different visa policies:

China has significantly expanded its visa-free transit system. As of the latest policy update, the 240-hour visa-free transit program applies to eligible citizens from 57 countries, allowing them to enter through designated ports and stay for up to 10 days (240 hours). 

240-Hour Visa-Free Transit in Xi’an: The Most Popular Option
For many travelers, the 240-hour visa-free transit policy is the best option to explore Xi’an without applying for a Chinese tourist visa.

What Is the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy?
The 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible foreign travelers to enter China without a visa when they are traveling from one country/region to another third country/region.

For example:
· USA to Xi’an to Japan
 ·Germany to Xi’an to Thailand
· Australia to Xi’an to South Korea

However:
· USA to Xi’an to USA

is not considered transit to a third country and normally does not qualify.

Eligible travelers can stay in permitted areas for up to 240 hours (10 days) after entry approval. The stay period is calculated from 00:00 on the day following entry. 

Is Xi’an Included in the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Program?
Yes.

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is one of the designated entry ports for China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

Shaanxi Province, where Xi’an is located, is included in the permitted areas. Travelers entering through Xi’an can explore destinations within the allowed area during their visa-free stay.

This makes Xi’an one of the most convenient destinations for international travelers interested in:

· Terracotta Warriors
· Ancient City Wall
· Big Wild Goose Pagoda
· Muslim Quarter
· Tang Dynasty culture
· Silk Road history

Who Can Apply for the Xi’an 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. Hold a Passport from an Eligible Country (Examples)

The current eligible countries include travelers from Europe, America, Oceania, and Asia.

The latest official list includes 57 eligible countries.

2. Have a Confirmed Ticket to a Third Country or Region
You need:
· A valid international passport
· A confirmed onward ticket
· A departure date and seat reservation
· Travel from China to a third country or region

The third destination can include:
· Another foreign country
· Hong Kong
· Macau
· Taiwan region

For example:

* Qualifying itinerary:

Paris ? Xi’an ? Tokyo

You may qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit.

* Non-qualifying itinerary:

Paris ? Xi’an ? Paris

This is considered a round trip and normally does not meet transit requirements.

Xi’an Transit Visa Options: 24 Hours vs 240 Hours
Many travelers confuse different transit policies. Here is the difference:

24-Hour Visa-Free Transit in Xi’an
The 24-hour transit policy applies at China’s international ports.

Requirements:
· International transit itinerary
· Confirmed onward ticket
· Stay in China no more than 24 hours

Passengers usually cannot leave the airport area unless they apply for temporary entry permission from immigration authorities.

This option is suitable for:

· Short airport connections
· Overnight transfers
· Connecting flights

It is not ideal for sightseeing.

72/144-Hour Transit Visa-Free Policy
Previously, China offered 72-hour and 144-hour transit visa exemptions in selected cities.

However, many previous programs have been upgraded and expanded into the 240-hour visa-free transit system.

The upgraded policy increased:
· Maximum stay from 72/144 hours to 240 hours
· Number of entry ports
· Allowed travel areas

The expansion increased the program to 65 designated ports across 24 provincial-level areas.

How to Apply for 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit at Xi’an Airport?
The process is simple:

Step 1: Prepare Documents
Bring:
· Passport
· Completed arrival card
· Confirmed onward flight ticket
· Proof of your next destination

Step 2: Apply at Immigration Counter
After arriving at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport:
· Follow signs for immigration inspection
· Submit your documents
· Request 240-hour visa-free transit

Step 3: Receive Temporary Entry Permission
If approved, immigration officers will issue temporary entry permission.

Important Tips for Xi’an Visa-Free Transit Travelers
1. Your Flight Route Matters
The key requirement is:
China must be a transit point between two different countries/regions.
Always check your complete flight itinerary before booking.

2. Book Tickets Early During Peak Season
Xi’an is especially popular during:
· Spring holidays
· Summer vacation
· National Day holiday
· Autumn travel season

Popular attractions such as the Terracotta Warriors have limited daily visitor capacity, and advance reservation is strongly recommended.

3. Plan Airport Transfer Time Carefully
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is approximately:

· 45–60 minutes from downtown Xi’an

· 60–75 minutes from the Terracotta Warriors area

For short layovers, a private airport transfer is highly recommended to maximize sightseeing time.

Transfer Process at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport
International to Domestic Transfer
After the arrival of the international flight, follow the "Domestic Transfer" signs to the border inspection area, present a valid passport, connecting air ticket and "Application Form for 240-Hour Visa Exemption for Foreigners in Transit", and complete the 240-hour visa-free entry verification (no visa is required, and you can stay in Xi'an and Xianyang for no more than 240 hours after verification);

· Baggage Claim: Pick up the checked luggage (if it is a connecting flight and supported by the airline, the luggage can be checked through directly to the domestic destination without collection);

· Transfer Check-in: Go to the domestic transfer check-in counter to complete the check-in procedures for the subsequent domestic flight and receive the boarding pass;

· Domestic Security Check: Go through the domestic transfer security check channel, and after the inspection of carry-on luggage, go to the domestic departure hall to wait for boarding.

International to International Transfer
After the arrival of the international flight, follow the "International Transfer" signs, no need to leave the airport or enter the country, and directly go to the international transfer check-in area;Complete the check-in procedures for the subsequent international flight and receive the electronic boarding pass;

· Checked Luggage: For connecting flights of the same airline/airline alliance, luggage can be checked through directly; for non-connecting flights, you need to pick up the luggage and recheck it;

· Transfer Security Check: Go through the international transfer security check channel, and inspect carry-on luggage in accordance with international standards;

· Waiting for Boarding: Enter the international departure hall and wait for boarding; if you need to stay for more than 2 hours, you can rest in the airport lounge or VIP lounge, or use the 240-hour visa exemption policy to take a short tour in the urban area (you need to reserve sufficient time to return to the airport);

· Note: The minimum connection time for international to international transfers of China Eastern Airlines and other airlines has been shortened to 90 minutes, allowing you to complete the transfer process calmly without rushing.

Essential Preparations Before Transfer
Evaluation of Transfer Duration and Itinerary Matching
· Short Transfer (1–6 hours): Stay at the airport. You can visit the Airport Museum in Terminal T5 (the world's first airport-based cultural relics exhibition museum, accessible with a boarding pass without appointment), visit the food market, and rest and charge; time is tight, so it is not recommended to leave the airport to avoid missing the flight.

· Long Transfer (6–12 hours): Take a in-depth tour of Xi'an's historical and cultural core area, connect scenic spots such as the Terracotta Army, Shaanxi History Museum and Huimin Street to feel the heritage of the ancient capital; travel is convenient by metro and airport bus, and reserve sufficient time to return to the airport.

· Overnight Transfer (More than 12 hours): Stay in the core area of the urban area (near Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Bell and Drum Tower), visit the night view of Datang Never Sleeps City at night, check in the ancient city wall and Huimin Street early the next morning, and reserve sufficient time to return to the airport to avoid missing the flight.

Must-Visit Attractions During Xi'an Layover
Historical and Cultural Core Area
Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Army)
One of the World’s Eight Wonders, it is Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum pit with numerous terracotta warriors restoring the Qin army’s layout. English guided tours are available by advance booking at about 100 yuan per group; a 2–3 hour visit is recommended.

- Address: No. 85 Qinling Road, Lintong District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Opening hours: 08:30-18:30 from March 16th to November 15th every year (closed at 17:00), From November 16th to March 15th of the following year, from 08:30-18:00 (no admission: 16:30)
- Ticket: 120 yuan/person 
- Contact Phone: +86-(29)-81399127   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 from the urban area to Huaqing Pool Station, transfer to Lintong No. 602 bus to reach directly, or take a tourist special line or online car-hailing.

Shaanxi History Museum
China’s first major modern national museum boasts over 370,000 relics spanning the Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang dynasties, showcasing Shaanxi’s historical evolution. English audio guides are provided; a 1.5–2 hour visit is recommended.

- Address: No. 91 Xiaozhai East Road, Yanta District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: 08:30-18:00 (Summer); 08:30-17:30 (Winter), closed every Monday (except legal holidays), stop admission 1 hour before closing   
- Ticket: Free (need to book 3 days in advance on Ctrip or the official WeChat account of the scenic area, foreign tourists can book with passports)
- Contact Phone: +(86)-29-85253806  /  +(86)-4000293806   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Xiaozhai Station, walk 5 minutes to reach. There is SEG International Shopping Center nearby, where you can dine and shop on the way.

Xi'an City Wall
China’s largest well-preserved ancient city wall spans 13.7km. Tour by bike or foot to overlook Xi’an downtown. English guides provided; 1–2hrs for cycling, 3–4hrs for walking.

- Address: South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: April 29th to December 31st, 08:00-22:00 (closed admission: 22:00; closed ticket sales: 22:00)   
- Ticket: 54 yuan/person (bookable on Ctrip, supporting multiple payment methods), Cycling Fee: 45 yuan/3 hours for single bike, 90 yuan/3 hours for double bike   
- Contact Phone: +86-4008313555 / +86-29-87272792   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Yongning Gate Station, and enter from Yongning Gate entrance is the most convenient.

Tang Dynasty Cultural Area
Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Giant Ci'en Temple
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a 64.5m Xi'an landmark, was built by Xuanzang in the Tang Dynasty. The thriving Ci'en Temple houses scenic spots with English guides; a 1.5-hour visit is suggested.

- Address: No. 1 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: April 29th to December 31st, 08:00-22:00 (closed admission: 22:00; closed ticket sales: 22:00)   
- Ticket: Giant Ci'en Temple ticket 40 yuan/person, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda tower climbing ticket 25 yuan/person (bookable on Ctrip), foreign tourists can buy tickets with passports   
- Contact Phone: +86-17792398839   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Station, walk to reach. There are Datang Never Sleeps City and Joy City business district nearby.

Datang Everbright City
A 1.5km Tang-themed pedestrian street with ancient-style buildings, sculptures and shops. It features nightly performances, local snacks and cultural souvenirs. English services available; best visited at night for 2–3 hours.

- Address: East Ci'en Road, Yanta District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: 10:00-23:00 (Summer); 10:00-22:00 (Winter). Night tour is the core experience. The lights are turned on after 19:00, with activities such as Tang costume parades and intangible cultural heritage performances   
- Ticket: Free, no appointment required, direct entry   
- Contact Phone: +86-29-85228412 / +86-29-81211080   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Station, walk 5 minutes to reach. It is connected with Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Joy City, and can be visited in series.

Tang Paradise
A Tang royal garden-themed park restoring imperial prosperity with Ziyun Tower and other spots. Boat tours are available; English guides and maps are provided. A 3–4 hour visit is recommended.

- Address: No. 99 Furong West Road, Yanta District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: 09:00-22:00 throughout the year (no admission: 22:00; no ticket sales: 22:00)   
- Ticket: 98 yuan/person (Ctrip booking discount price, original price 120 yuan), free for children under 1.2 meters   
- Contact Phone: +86-4008313555  /  +86-29-85540901   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Tang Paradise Station, walk to enter. There is Qujiang Pool Ruins Park nearby, which can be visited on the way.

Urban Core & Folk Customs Area
Bell Tower & Drum Tower
Xi'an's iconic Ming-dynasty Bell and Drum Towers once marked time with bell and drum. Climbing them offers panoramic city views and gorgeous night scenery. English guides are provided; a 1-hour visit is recommended.

- Address: Intersection of East Street and South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours:
08:30-21:30 from April 1st to July 18th every year (Admission: 21:30; Ticket sales: 21:00)
From July 19th to August 31st every year, from 08:30 to 22:30 (no admission: 22:30; no ticket sales: 22:00)
From September 1st to October 10th every year, from 08:30 to 21:30 (no admission: 21:00; no ticket sales: 21:00)
From October 11th to March 31st of the following year, from 08:30-18:00 (no admission: 17:30; no ticket sales: 17:30)
- Ticket: Bell Tower 30 yuan/person, Drum Tower 30 yuan/person, combined ticket 50 yuan/person (bookable on Ctrip)   
- Contact Phone: +86-29-87276420  /  +86-29-87278797 (Bell Tower), 029-87278797 (Drum Tower)   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station, exit from Exit C to reach. There are Huimin Street and South Street business district nearby.

Muslim Quarter
Xi'an's iconic 1km Hui cultural block is lined with snack and craft shops. It features local delicacies like Roujiamo, Yangrou Paomo and Liangpi. English signs and menus are available; a 1–2 hour post-meal visit is recommended.

- Address:  North Yuanmen, Lianhu District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
- Business Hours: Open all day throughout the year  
- Ticket: Free, no appointment required   
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station, walk 10 minutes to reach. It is adjacent to Bell Tower and Drum Tower, and can be visited in series.

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Xi'an Layover Food Recommendations
Characteristic Snacks
Ziwulu Zhang's Roujiamo (Ziwulu Store)
This time-honored Xi'an eatery serves crispy roujiamo and smooth liangpi. It has English menus and English-speaking staff, supporting multiple payments. Per capita ¥25-30, ideal for a quick meal.

- Address: 227 Cuihua Road, Yanta District, Xi'an City
- Business hours: Monday dining hours: 07:10-24:00 Tuesday to Sunday dining hours: 07:10-00:30
- Contact number:+86-18710998717
- Recommended dishes: Cured Meat Bun, Liangpi, Bingfeng Soda

Laosun's Yangrou Paomo
Century-old Xi'an eatery for Yangrou Paomo. Break bread by yourself in mutton soup for a unique flavor. Bilingual service and multiple payments are available. Per capita ¥60-80 for local specialty dining.

- Address:  No. 21 Beiyuanmen, Beiyuanmen Street, Lianhu District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province
- Business hours:  09:00-23:30
- Contact number: +86- (029) 87215117
- Recommended dishes:  Pita bread soaked in Lamb Soup, Sugar Garlic, Huanggui Thick Wine

Weijia Liangpi
Xi'an chain snack shop across the city serves tasty seasoned Liangpi. With English menus, multiple payments and quick service, it costs ¥30-40 per person, near scenic spots for quick meals.

- Address: No. 1-1, 1st Floor, Block C, Dongfang Xingyuan, Dongguan Street, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province
- Business hours: 07:30-24:00
- Contact number: (029) 82556181
- Recommended dishes: secret Liangpi, secret hamburger, hot and sour noodles

Main Course Restaurants
Zui Chang'an
This Xi'an restaurant serves creative Shaanxi cuisine in an antique ambiance. It offers English menus and bilingual service, bookable on Ctrip with international card payment. Per capita ¥100–150 for an authentic local dining experience.

- Address: No.7 Zhuba City, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province (next to Meihao Lizhi Hotel)
- Business hours: Monday to Friday Dining hours: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00 Saturday to Sunday Dining hours: 11:00-22:00
- Contact numbers: +86-(029) 87409055, +86-(029) 89629988
 - Recommended Dishes: Hulu Chicken , Hanging Tripe, Writing Brush Pastry 

Tongshengxiang
A time-honored eatery specializing in beef and mutton delicacies. Its beef paomo is rich and tender. It provides English menus, basic English service, multiple payments and Ctrip reservations. Per capita ¥80–120, perfect for beef and mutton lovers.

- Address: No. 518, Datang Night City Pedestrian Street, Dayan Pagoda South Square, Yanta South Road, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province
- Business hours: 11:00-23:00
- Contact number:+86- (029) 89558999
- Recommended Dishes: Beef Paomo (60 yuan/serving), Braised Beef (88 yuan/jin), Braised Sheep Offal (45 yuan/serving)

Dessert & Drink Shops
Shaanxi Shisan
This local dessert shop offers Shaanxi pastries and rice wine ice cream. With English menus and mobile payments, it costs ¥30–50, perfect for Muslim Street visits.

- Address: No. 66 Ci'en Road, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province (west of the main entrance of Westin Hotel)
- Business hours: 09:00-22:00
- Contact number:+86- (029) 68938056 
- Recommended Dishes: Qin Pastry, Glutinous Rice Wine Ice Cream , Fu Tea Latte 

Chahua Nong
This popular Xi'an tea shop blends Chinese tea with Shaanxi features. Its drinks are attractive and refreshing. With English menus, mobile ordering and international card payment, it serves quickly. Per capita ¥18–25, ideal for travel breaks.

- Address: East side of Youliduo Life Supermarket, No. 955 Xiaozhai East Road, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province
- Business hours: 10:00-21:30
- Contact number: +86-13572273615
- Recommended Dishes: Meizhan Yaohong , Osmanthus Yin , Chang'an Zhu 

Xi'an Layover Accommodation Recommendations
Evaluation of Transfer Duration and Itinerary Matching
Hort layover (1–6 hours): 
No hotel recommendation for this short layover. Stay within the airport to rest and recharge. Explore T5 Airport Museum (world’s first airport relic museum, entry via boarding pass, no booking needed) and food outlets. Do not leave the airport to prevent missing your flight.

Layover (6–12 hours): 
You can choose to rest briefly at a hotel near the airport without going into the city center, saving time on round trips
Meiju Hotel Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (T5 Terminal Branch)

· Address:  Building 3, Qianhai Life Silk Road New City, No. 15 Yingbin Avenue, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province
· Phone: +86- (29) -38195566
· Reference Price: Starting from 500 yuan 
· Features:  Jointly run by Accor and Huazhu, this upscale hotel features Sino-Western design with French elegance. Located in the airport business district, it is close to Xianyang Airport and Metro Line 14, offering free 24-hour airport shuttle service.

Xi'an Airport Hotel

· Address:  50 meters west of Gate 322, Departure Hall, Terminal 3, Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province
· Phone: +86- (29) -3801111
· Reference Price: Starting from 500 yuan
· Features:  This airport hotel offers comfortable stays and easy flight access. It connects T2 and T3 via indoor corridor, with fast links to T5 and 24-hour shuttle service, delivering efficient travel for passengers and airline crews.

Xi'an Airlines Hotel (Xi'an Xianyang International Airport Branch)

· Address: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Shaanxi, directly opposite Terminal 1
· Phone: +86- (29) -88797000
· Reference Price: Starting from 500 yuan
· Features: Stylishly designed with cozy rooms, the hotel features a café, meeting rooms, VIP lounge and full business, entertainment and fitness facilities, delivering premium, thoughtful all-round services.

Long layover (more than 12 hours): 
You can choose a hotel in the city center, which is convenient for visiting attractions, balancing rest and sightseeing
Legend Sofia Hotel Xi'an
Near Qujiang Pool Ruins Park and Tang Paradise, this luxury hotel features classic Chinese and modern decor with professional bilingual service. It accepts international payments, perfect for high-end travelers.

· Address: 319 Dongxin Street, Xincheng District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone:+86-(29)-87928888
· Reference Price: Starting from 2000 yuan  
· Supporting Facilities: 24-hour bilingual front desk, advance-bookable free airport shuttle, fitness center, indoor pool, Michelin-recommended restaurant with full English menu, free WiFi, premium toiletries and butler service.

The Ritz-Carlton, Xi'an
Boasting top service, the hotel lies near Xi'an Hi-Tech Zone, a 10-minute walk to Metro Line 6. With convenient transport, it suits business and leisure travelers, accepting international card payments.

· Address: No. 50, Keji 2nd Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone: +86-(29)-88818888   
· Reference Price: 1100-1600 yuan/night (bookable on Ctrip, including double breakfast, late check-out service available)   
· Supporting Facilities: 24h bilingual butler, free airport shuttle, heated pool, premium fitness center, Western & Japanese restaurants (English menus), free WiFi, laundry & business center.

The Westin Xi'an
Centrally located steps from Bell Tower and Muslim Street, near Metro Lines 1 and 4. Luxurious with professional service, it accepts international cards for high-end downtown travelers.

· Address: No. 66 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone: +86-(29)-65686568   
· Reference Price: About 1000 yuan   
· Supporting Facilities: 24h bilingual front desk, free airport shuttle, indoor pool, fitness center, Chinese & Western restaurants with full English menus, free WiFi, premium bedding, paid executive lounge

Atour Hotel Xi'an Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
A well-rated comfortable hotel near Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Datang Never Sleeps City. It offers clean rooms and thoughtful service, accepts international cards and Alipay. Great value for mid-budget comfort-seeking travelers.

· Address: No.1, Middle Section of Yanta Road, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone: +86-(29)-85551555   
· Reference Price: 400-600 yuan/night (bookable on Ctrip, breakfast included in some room types)   
· Supporting Facilities: 24-hour front desk (bilingual service), free WiFi, breakfast buffet, gym, laundry room, close to Metro Line 3 Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Station, luggage storage service

Ji Hotel Xi'an Bell Tower
Popular chain hotel in Bell Tower-Drum Tower area, walkable to major sights. Clean and cozy rooms accept international cards, ideal for mid-budget travelers seeking easy access.

· Address: No. 5 South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone: 029-87276666   
· Reference Price: 380-550 yuan/night (bookable on Ctrip, including breakfast buffet)   
· Supporting Facilities: 24-hour front desk (simple English communication), free WiFi, breakfast buffet, gym, free luggage storage, close to Metro Line 2 Bell Tower Station, convenient catering nearby

Bell Tower Hotel Xi'an
Prime location beside Bell Tower and Drum Tower, walkable to Muslim Street and major sights. Boasting historic charm and professional service, it takes international cards for downtown travelers.

· Address: No. 110 South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province   
· Contact Phone: +86-(29)-87600000   
· Reference Price: 600-900 yuan/night (bookable on Ctrip, including double breakfast)   
· Supporting Facilities: 24-hour bilingual front desk, free WiFi, fitness center, restaurant (Chinese and Western food, English menu), airport bus stop

Highly Recommended Private Half-Day Xi'an Terracotta Warriors Tour with Optional Morning or Afternoon Departure Beijing to Xi'an 1 Day Tour: Day Trip to Terracotta Warriors From Beijing by Bullet Train

Practical Tips
Payment Tips
· Main Payment Methods: Most shops, scenic spots and hotels in Xi'an support Alipay and WeChat payment. Foreign tourists can bind international bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, etc.) in the Alipay APP, or use foreign wallets (such as KakaoPay, TrueMoney, PayPal, etc.) to scan codes for payment;
· Cash Payment: Some small shops and food stalls may only accept cash. It is recommended to exchange a small amount of RMB cash in advance (can be exchanged at airport foreign currency exchange points and bank branches, with the exchange rate subject to the same day);
· Credit Card Payment: Large hotels, restaurants and shopping malls all accept international credit card payment, and some shops may require presenting a passport for identity verification.

Emergency Handling
· Emergency Calls: Police call 110, first aid call 120, fire call 119. You can speak English directly when calling, and the operator will provide English services;
· Document Loss: If important documents such as passport and air ticket are lost, immediately contact the hotel front desk or scenic spot staff, go to the local police station to report the case, and contact the embassy or consulate of your country in China to apply for a temporary document, and contact the airline to reissue the air ticket;
· Flight Changes: If the flight is cancelled or delayed, contact the airline customer service in a timely manner (you can consult at the airline counter at the airport), explain the situation and go through the ticket change and refund procedures, and contact the border inspection department to explain the itinerary change if necessary.

Item Preparation
· Documents: Be sure to carry a passport with a validity period of at least 3 months, a connecting ticket within 240 hours (paper or electronic version, it is recommended to print a backup), and a visa-free transit seal (keep it properly after entry);
· Clothing: Prepare clothes according to the travel season. Xi'an is hot and rainy in summer (June-August), so you need to carry sunscreen and umbrellas; it is cold and dry in winter (December-February), so you need to carry warm clothes; the temperature difference is large in spring and autumn, so it is recommended to carry a thin coat;
· Other Items: Carry commonly used medicines (such as cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine), plug adapters (Chinese plugs are Type A and Type I, you can prepare a universal plug adapter in advance), mobile phone chargers, and power banks (capacity not exceeding 100Wh, which can be carried at the airport).

FAQs
Q: Can I visit Xi’an without a China visa?
A: Yes, eligible travelers may visit Xi’an without a traditional visa through China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

Q: Does Xi’an airport offer 240-hour visa-free transit?
A: Yes. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is a designated port for the 240-hour visa-free transit program.

Q: Can I visit the Terracotta Warriors during a Xi’an layover?
A: Yes, if your layover is long enough and you meet entry requirements.

Q: How long can I stay in Xi’an without a visa?
A: Eligible travelers can stay up to 240 hours (10 days) under the visa-free transit policy.

Q: What if Alipay fails to bind an international bank card?
A: You can try the following methods: 1. Check if the bank card supports international payment (Visa, Mastercard, etc. are all supported); 2. Confirm that the bank card information is filled in correctly (card number, validity period, security code); 3. Contact the bank card issuing bank to activate the overseas online payment function; 4. If it still fails, you can use cash or international credit card payment, or exchange RMB cash at the airport foreign currency exchange point.

Q: Do I need a visa if I fly directly to Xi’an and leave China from Xi’an?
A: Usually yes. The 240-hour transit exemption requires travel to a third country or region. A normal round-trip itinerary may require a regular China visa.