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Xi’an transport is simple once you know three things: pick the right train station, use the metro for most sightseeing, and avoid getting into a car with someone who shouts a price at you. This guide covers every step from landing to leaving.
Quick Answer
Before You Book a Train Ticket
| Station | Distance to Center | Metro Access | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xi’an North Station (Xi’an Beizhan) | 16 km, but fast metro | Lines 2, 4, 14 | ⭐ Best for most travelers |
| Xi’an Station (Xi’anzhan) | Very close (next to city wall) | Line 4 | ⭐ Great if your train stops here |
| Xi’an South Station (Xi’an Nanzhan) | Very far (1+ hour by taxi) | No metro | ❌ Avoid |
Xi’an North Station is the main high-speed rail hub. From here, Line 2 takes you directly to Bell Tower (30 minutes), and Line 4 goes to Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Xi’an Station is the old main station, right next to the city wall. It is convenient for visiting the wall, Bell Tower, and Muslim Quarter. Take Line 4 from here.
Xi’an South Station is a trap for first-time visitors. It is far from the city center, has no metro connection, and a taxi to Bell Tower costs over 100 yuan and takes more than an hour. Check your ticket before booking.
What is the best way to get around Xi'an as a tourist?
Direct answer: The metro is the best choice for most city travel. It covers over 90% of major attractions, has English signs at every station, costs only ¥2-8 per trip, and runs from 06:00 to 23:00. Use Didi (ride-hailing app with English interface) for door-to-door convenience, especially with luggage or in groups. Avoid taxis at the airport unless you have no other option, meter negotiation is common.
Which Xi'an train station should I choose?
For most travelers, choose Xi'an North Station or Xi'an Station. Avoid Xi'an South Station unless you have a specific reason. It is far from the city center and has limited transport connections.
How do I get from Xi'an airport to the city?
Direct answer: Take Metro Line 14 from the airport to Xi'an North Station (54 minutes, ¥9), then transfer to Line 2 or 4 for the city center. This is the fastest and cheapest option. If your flight arrives after 22:20 (last metro), take the airport bus (¥25, ~60 minutes, 24-hour routes available) or book a Didi (¥80-120, ~40 minutes). Avoid rides from touts at the airport.
How do I reach the Terracotta Warriors from the city?
Direct answer: The metro does not go directly to the Terracotta Warriors. Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Fangzhicheng Station, transfer to Line 9, get off at Huaqingchi Station (Exit C), and take Lintong Bus 613 (¥5, 12-15 minutes) or a taxi (¥20) for the final 9 kilometers. Total time: about 1.5-2 hours. For a direct option, take Tourist Bus 游5 (Route 306) from Xi'an Station East Square (¥7, ~1 hour).
Can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay for Xi'an transport?
Direct answer: Yes. Search for "Xi'an Metro Ride Code" (西安电子地铁卡) in Alipay or WeChat to scan your way through metro turnstiles. For buses, search for "Xi'an e-Bus Card" (西安电子公交卡). Both support international cards. No physical ticket is needed. You can also buy a Chang'an Tong transport card (¥20 deposit) at metro stations for a 10% discount.
Is Didi easy to use in Xi'an for non-Chinese speakers?
Direct answer: Yes. The Didi app has a full English interface, accepts international credit cards, and shows the price upfront before you book. It is much easier than hailing a taxi on the street. A typical 5-kilometer city ride costs ¥10-15. Surge pricing during peak hours is capped at 0.5x the base rate, with a maximum single surcharge of ¥29.
TripChina Verdict
For most Xi'an travelers, the metro is the best overall choice: it is fast, cheap, English-friendly, and covers nearly every major attraction. Didi is the best backup for door-to-door convenience, especially for groups, late-night travel, or when carrying luggage. Avoid taxis at the airport and train stations unless you confirm the meter is running. For the Terracotta Warriors, use Metro Line 9 plus a short bus or taxi transfer, do not fall for the "direct metro" myth.
Airport to City: Your First Decision
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is about 40 kilometers northwest of the city center. The new Terminal 5, opened in 2025, expanded immigration channels from 42 to 72, making entry smoother. You have three main options to reach the city.
Metro Line 14 (Best for Daytime Arrivals)
Metro Line 14 connects directly to the airport. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 use the "Airport West" station (机场西), while Terminal 5 has its own "Airport" station (机场). The ride to Xi'an North Station takes about 54 minutes and costs ¥9. From Xi'an North Station, transfer to Metro Line 2 (to Bell Tower, City Wall, Shaanxi History Museum) or Line 4 (to Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Paradise, Daming Palace).
The metro runs from 06:00 to 22:20 from the airport station. This is the fastest and cheapest option, with no traffic risk. The total journey from airport to Bell Tower is about 80-85 minutes.
Airport Bus (Best for Late Arrivals or Heavy Luggage)
Airport buses run multiple routes covering Bell Tower, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Station, and Xiaozhai. The fare is ¥25 per person, and the journey takes about 60 minutes depending on traffic. Some routes operate 24 hours, making this a good option after the metro stops.
Important: Bus schedules and stops can change. Check the "West Airport" (西部机场) WeChat mini-program or the airport's official website on your travel day. The airport's service hotline is 029-96788, and the bus hotline is 029-32291888.
Taxi or Didi (Best for Groups or Night Arrivals)
A taxi or Didi from the airport to the city center costs ¥80-130 and takes about 40 minutes in normal traffic. This is the most convenient option for groups of three or more, travelers with heavy luggage, or those arriving late at night.
Warning: Only use official taxis with meters or book through the Didi app. Avoid rides from touts inside the terminal. Some drivers may try to negotiate a flat rate that is higher than the meter.
| Mode | Cost | Time | Best For | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Line 14 | ¥9 | ~54 min to North Station | Daytime, budget travelers | Last train 22:20 |
| Airport Bus | ¥25 | ~60 min | Late arrivals, heavy luggage | Schedule may change |
| Didi | ¥80-120 | ~40 min | Groups, night arrivals | Surge pricing |
| Taxi | ¥100-130 | ~40 min | No app users | Meter negotiation |
City Transport: Which Mode Should You Choose?
Xi'an's city transport is modern, affordable, and relatively easy for first-time visitors. Here is how the four main options compare.
| Mode | Cost per Trip | Speed | Language Barrier | Best For | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | ¥2-8 | Fast (no traffic) | Low (English signs) | City attractions, solo travelers | Stops at ~23:00 |
| Didi | ¥10-50 | Medium (traffic) | Low (app in English) | Door-to-door, groups, airport | Surge pricing in peak |
| Taxi | ¥10-80 | Medium (traffic) | High (meter negotiation) | Short trips, no app users | Scam risk at airport/station |
| Bus | ¥1-2 | Slow | High (Chinese only) | Budget travelers, locals | No English route info |
Metro: The Backbone of Xi'an Travel
Xi'an's metro system has 12 lines and covers over 90% of tourist attractions. For visitors, four lines matter most:
- Line 2 (Red), The tourist backbone. Runs from Xi'an North Station through Bell Tower, Yongningmen (City Wall South Gate), and Xiaozhai (Shaanxi History Museum). This is the line you will use most.
- Line 3 (Pink), Connects Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Green Dragon Temple, and the high-tech zone.
- Line 4 (Blue), Connects Xi'an Station, Daming Palace, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Tang Paradise.
- Line 9 (Orange), The "Lintong line" to Huaqing Palace and the transfer point for the Terracotta Warriors.
Payment: The easiest way is to use Alipay or WeChat Pay. Search for "Xi'an Metro Ride Code" and scan the QR code at the turnstile. You can also buy single-trip tickets from machines with English interfaces, or purchase a Chang'an Tong transport card (¥20 deposit, 10% discount on fares). A 1-day metro pass costs ¥18, and a 3-day pass costs ¥45.
Operating hours: Most lines run from 06:00 to 23:00. Line 2 runs until 23:50, while Line 9 stops at 22:30.
English support: All stations have English names on signs and in announcements. Ticket machines at major stations have English interfaces.
Didi: The Easiest Option for Non-Chinese Speakers
Didi is China's equivalent of Uber, and it is the most foreigner-friendly way to get a car in Xi'an. The app has a full English interface, accepts international credit cards, and shows the price upfront.
A typical 5-kilometer ride costs ¥10-15. From the city center to the Terracotta Warriors, a direct Didi costs ¥100-150 and takes about 1 hour. Surge pricing during peak hours is capped at 0.5 times the base rate, with a maximum single surcharge of ¥29.
Tips for using Didi:
- Download the app and set up your account before you arrive. It works with international phone numbers and credit cards.
- Use the "Translate" feature to send messages to your driver in Chinese.
- At popular spots like Bell Tower, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Muslim Quarter, request your ride 10-15 minutes early during peak hours.
- The pickup point at the airport is clearly marked in the app, make sure you are at the correct terminal.
Taxi: Use with Caution
Official taxis in Xi'an are metered. The standard rate is ¥8.5 for the first 3 kilometers, then ¥2 per kilometer. Between 23:00 and 06:00, the base fare increases by ¥1 and the per-kilometer rate by ¥0.3.
Warning: At the airport, train stations, and major attractions, touts may approach you offering rides. Only use official taxis with visible meters and proper city paint. Have your destination written in Chinese to show the driver. If a driver refuses to use the meter, get out and find another taxi.
Bus: Budget Option with Limitations
City buses cost ¥1-2 per ride and cover areas the metro does not reach. However, bus stops have limited English, and routes can change. For most tourists, the bus is only useful for two specific routes: Tourist Bus 游5 (Route 306) to the Terracotta Warriors, and local buses from metro stations to attractions.
Payment: Use Alipay or WeChat Pay with the "Xi'an e-Bus Card". Foreign visitors can get a 50% discount on some routes.
Attraction-Specific Transport: A Quick Reference
| Attraction | Metro Station | Metro Line | Recommended Exit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bell Tower / Drum Tower | Bell Tower | Line 2, Line 6 | Exit C |
| Muslim Quarter | Bell Tower | Line 2, Line 6 | Exit C |
| City Wall (South Gate / Yongningmen) | Yongningmen | Line 2 | Exit D1 / A1 |
| Big Wild Goose Pagoda / Datang Everlasting City | Dayanta | Line 3, Line 4 | Exit C |
| Tang Paradise | Dayanta | Line 3, Line 4 | Exit B |
| Shaanxi History Museum | Xiaozhai | Line 2, Line 3 | Exit E |
| Yongxingfang (Food Street) | Chaoyangmen | Line 1, Line 4 | Exit B |
| Sajinqiao (Local Food Street) | Sajinqiao | Line 1 | Exit B |
| Qinglong Temple | Qinglongsi | Line 3 | Exit F |
| Terracotta Warriors | Huaqingchi | Line 9 | Exit C (transfer bus afterward) |
| Huaqing Palace | Huaqingchi | Line 9 | Exit C |
| Daming Palace National Heritage Park | Daming Palace | Line 4 | Exit D |
Terracotta Warriors: Route Options
The Terracotta Warriors are about 35 kilometers east of the city center. Here are your main options:
Metro Line 9 + Bus (Best balance of cost and reliability)
- Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Fangzhicheng Station
- Transfer to Metro Line 9 toward Qinling West
- Get off at Huaqingchi Station, Exit C
- Take Lintong Bus 613 (¥5, 12-15 minutes, runs every 10 minutes) or a taxi (about ¥20) to the Terracotta Warriors
- Total cost: ¥14-17 per person
- Total time: 1.5-2 hours
Alternative metro route: Stay on Line 9 to the last stop, Qinling West Station (秦陵西), Exit D, and take Lintong Bus 617 directly to the Terracotta Warriors.
Tourist Bus 游5 (Route 306) (Cheapest direct option)
- Go to Xi'an Station East Square
- Look for the official bus with uniformed staff, ignore anyone who approaches you offering a ride
- Cost: ¥7 per person
- Time: About 1 hour directly to the Terracotta Warriors
- Warning: Fake buses operate on this route. Only board the official bus with the "游5 (306)" sign.
Direct Didi (Best for groups or time-sensitive travelers)
- Book a Didi from your hotel directly to the Terracotta Warriors
- Cost: ¥100-150
- Time: About 1 hour
- Best for groups of 3+ where the cost per person is competitive with public transport
Important timing note: From the Bell Tower area, allow at least 2 hours one way. Weekends, summer, and holidays can add significant time. Book your Terracotta Warriors entry ticket with enough buffer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Believing the metro goes directly to the Terracotta Warriors
Metro Line 9 ends at Qinling West Station, which is still 9 kilometers from the Terracotta Warriors. You must transfer to a bus or taxi. Many tourists make this mistake and end up lost. Always plan for the transfer at Huaqingchi or Qinling West Station.
Mistake 2: Accepting rides from touts at the airport or train station
Touts offering "99 yuan Terracotta Warriors tours" or "10 yuan direct to Lintong" are running scams. These tours include 4-5 shopping stops, and you will spend only 1 hour at the actual site. Some may take you to fake attractions like the "Eight Great Wonders Museum." Only use official taxis, the Didi app, or public transport.
Mistake 3: Confusing Xi'an North Station with Xi'an Station
Xi'an North Station (西安北站) is the main high-speed rail hub, about 16 kilometers from the city center. Xi'an Station (西安站) is the older station, right next to the city wall. They are on different metro lines and have completely different access routes. Always check your ticket to see which station you are arriving at or departing from.
Mistake 4: Trying to get a taxi near Tang Paradise Street after dark
After the evening performances at Tang Paradise Street (大唐不夜城), the surrounding roads are closed to traffic and taxis are nearly impossible to find. Take the metro from Dayanta Station for your return trip. The station is busy but functional, and it is much faster than waiting for a car.
Mistake 5: Booking a train ticket to Xi'an South Station
Xi'an South Station (西安南站) is about 40 kilometers from the city center, with poor transport connections. A taxi from there to the city takes over an hour and costs significantly more. Choose Xi'an North Station or Xi'an Station when booking your train.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
Payment Setup Before You Arrive
- Download Alipay and WeChat Pay on your phone
- Link your international credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex)
- Search for "Xi'an Metro Ride Code" in Alipay and activate it
- Download the Didi app and set up your account
What to Have on Your Phone
- Screenshot of your hotel name and address in Chinese
- Screenshot of the nearest metro station to your hotel
- Amap (Gaode Maps) or Baidu Maps for navigation, Google Maps is unreliable in China
- The "West Airport" mini-program for airport bus schedules
Peak Hour Strategy
Weekday rush hours are 07:30-09:00 and 17:30-19:00. During these times, avoid taxis and Didi in the city center, traffic jams are severe. The metro is your best friend during peak hours.
Night Travel
The last metro trains depart between 22:30 and 23:50 depending on the line. After that, use Didi or the 24-hour airport bus routes. Avoid walking alone in quiet areas late at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my foreign credit card to buy metro tickets in Xi'an?
No, Xi’an metro ticket machines only accept Chinese payment apps or cash. Download Alipay before your trip, link your foreign Visa or Mastercard, and use the “Xi’an Metro Ride Code” to scan through gates.
How do I pay for the Lintong bus from Huaqingchi to the Terracotta Warriors?
The Lintong 613 and 602 buses accept Alipay or WeChat Pay scan codes. If your phone has no signal, carry about 10 yuan in small bills as backup—the driver can make change for larger notes.
Is there luggage storage near Xi'an Station or the Terracotta Warriors?
Yes, Xi’an Station has a left-luggage office near the main entrance (about 20-30 yuan per bag). At the Terracotta Warriors, there are lockers near the ticket office. Do not leave valuables in a taxi or unlicensed car.
Can I buy a physical metro ticket with cash as a foreigner?
Yes. Ticket machines at all Xi'an metro stations have English interfaces and accept ¥5, ¥10, and ¥20 banknotes, plus coins. You do not need a Chinese phone number or bank card to buy single-trip tickets.
Is there a direct bus from Xi'an airport to the Terracotta Warriors?
No direct bus exists. You must first take the airport bus (¥25) to the city center, then transfer to Metro Line 9 and Lintong Bus 613 or a taxi. The total journey takes about 2.5 hours.
How late does Didi operate in Xi'an?
Didi runs 24/7 in Xi'an. Late-night rides (23:00–06:00) have a small surcharge of ¥1–3 extra. Availability near Tang Paradise Street or Muslim Quarter after 22:00 is good, but wait times may increase to 5–10 minutes.
What time does the last metro leave from Dayanta station?
Dayanta station (Lines 3 and 4) closes around 23:00. After that, use Didi from the station entrance—expect surge pricing and a 10-15 minute wait if the Datang Everlasting City show just ended.
Do I need a Chinese phone number to use Didi in Xi'an?
Yes, Didi requires a Chinese phone number for registration. If you do not have one, use the in-app international version (Didi Chuxing) or ask your hotel to call a taxi for you. Alternatively, hail an official taxi from a marked stand.
Is there luggage storage near Xi'an Station or the Terracotta Warriors?
Yes, Xi’an Station has a left-luggage office near the main entrance (about 20-30 yuan per bag). At the Terracotta Warriors, there are lockers near the ticket office. Do not leave valuables in a taxi or unlicensed car.
What should I do if my Alipay or WeChat Pay is not working for metro?
Use the station's ticket machine with cash as a backup. Alternatively, buy a Chang'an Tong transport card (¥20 deposit, refundable) at any metro service window—it works on both metro and buses without needing a phone.
Can I take a shared bike from the metro to the Terracotta Warriors?
Not recommended. The 9-kilometer gap from Huaqingchi Station to the Terracotta Warriors is along a busy highway with no bike lanes. Shared bikes are also scarce in that area. Stick to Lintong Bus 613 or a taxi.
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