For the best food experience in Xi’an, head straight to the bustling Muslim Quarter. The evening tuk-tuk tours here are simply outstanding – you’ll taste authentic fried beef pancakes while zipping through ancient alleyways. I especially love the small-group Shaanxi cuisine walks, where the hand-pulled Biang Biang noodles and steaming soup dumplings are absolute must-tries. Private tours combining the Terracotta Warriors with local food stops offer great value, letting you experience both history and cuisine efficiently. The guides speak excellent English and share fascinating cultural insights about every dish. These well-organized tours consistently earn top marks from fellow travelers. Check out our favorite food tours below.
Key Points
- Xi’an offers a variety of immersive food tours, including morning, evening, private, and walking tours, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary heritage.
- Morning food tours provide an intimate tuk-tuk experience exploring the Muslim Quarter and sampling regional specialties like fried beef pancakes and hot and sour soup.
- Evening food tours offer an unlimited feast of Shaanxi cuisine, including Biang Biang Noodles, Beef BBQ, and Soup Dumplings, along with a visit to a local brewery.
- Unique tour options include a full-day tour combining Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, and local cuisine, as well as a Night Market Foodie Walking Tour.
- Customer reviews highlight the high satisfaction rates, with tours rated 4.3/5 or higher, praising the knowledgeable guides and authentic culinary experiences.
Xian: Morning Food Tour of the Muslim Quarter
Immersion into the vibrant energy of Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter awaits adventurous foodies on this morning food tour.
Led by a live English-speaking guide, the 3-hour experience takes participants on a tuk-tuk ride through the backstreets, where they’ll visit local vendors and eateries serving the community.
The tour includes sampling regional specialties like fried beef pancakes, hot and sour soup, persimmon cakes, and handmade sour dumplings.
Exploring one of China’s oldest and largest markets, guests will enjoy surprises while discovering the area’s rich culinary heritage.
Limited to 10 people, the tour is priced at €63.45 per person with gratuities included.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Xian: Morning Food Tour of the Muslim Quarter Review
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Xian: City Wall&Old Town Walking Tour W/ 10+ Food Tasting
Adventurous travelers can explore the historic grandeur of Xi’an’s famed City Wall and discover the vibrant culinary delights of the city’s old town on this comprehensive walking tour.
The 4-4.5 hour experience offers a guided tour along the iconic City Wall, followed by 2.5 hours of exploring the old town’s bustling food streets. Guests can look forward to tasting over 10 types of local street food and unlimited beer or soda.
With hotel pickup, English-speaking guides, and entry tickets included, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience for just $14 per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for travelers.
Read our full review: Xian: City Wall&Old Town Walking Tour W/ 10+ Food Tasting Review
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Xian: Bell Tower Food Walking Tour With Local Guide
Stepping away from the sprawling City Wall and bustling old town, this 3-hour Bell Tower Food Walking Tour offers travelers an intimate glimpse into Xi’an’s culinary heritage.
Led by a local guide, guests embark on a delectable journey through the city’s iconic Muslim Quarter, sampling specialties like soup dumplings, Chinese hamburgers, and traditional lamb soup.
Along the way, they’ll visit beloved eateries, indulge in a dumpling banquet, and savor regional desserts like sticky rice cake.
With a maximum group size of 7, this immersive experience provides personalized insights into the history and preparation of each mouthwatering dish.
Comfortable shoes and an adventurous palate are all that’s needed to uncover Xi’an’s vibrant flavors.
Read our full review: Xian: Bell Tower Food Walking Tour With Local Guide Review
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Xian Evening Food Tour
This 3.5-hour Xian Evening Food Tour allows travelers to indulge in the diverse flavors of Shaanxi cuisine.
For $79 per person, participants can enjoy unlimited food, beer, and soft drinks as they explore the city’s vibrant Muslim Quarter and ancient city gates.
The tour highlights local specialties like Biang Biang Noodles, Beef BBQ, Soup Dumplings, and Porridge, showcasing the region’s historical significance on the Silk Road.
With a maximum group size of 10, travelers can discover Xian’s rich culinary heritage and the strong, complex flavors of Shaanxi cuisine, featuring spices like salt, garlic, cumin, and chili.
The tour concludes at a local brewery inside the South Gate, providing a memorable evening experience.
Read our full review: Xian Evening Food Tour Review
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Xi’An Evening Food Tour With Locals
Travelers frequently embark on the Xi’an Evening Food Tour with Locals, a 3.5-hour culinary adventure that immerses them in the vibrant flavors of the city’s old quarter.
Priced from $64.37 per person, the tour offers a free cancellation policy and flexible payment options. Participants enjoy 4-5 types of local dishes, unlimited drinks, and the opportunity to grill their own meat at a local BBQ joint.
An English-speaking guide provides insider knowledge and facilitates engaging conversations, while accommodating specific food requests.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, this guided experience delivers an amazing culinary journey through the streets and alleys of historic Xi’an.
Read our full review: Xi’An Evening Food Tour With Locals Review
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Private Tour:Terracotta Warriors,City Wall and Foodie Tour
A private full-day tour in Xi’an allows travelers to explore the city’s top attractions, including the Terracotta Warriors Museum, the historic Muslim Quarter, and the iconic Xi’an City Wall.
The tour lasts 7 hours and costs between $190.00 and $180.50 per person, with a 5% discount available.
Travelers can enjoy a guided visit to the Terracotta Army, a foodie tour in the Muslim Quarter, and a stroll along the impressive City Wall.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.
With a perfect 5/5 rating from previous customers, this tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience in Xi’an.
Read our full review: Private Tour:Terracotta Warriors,City Wall and Foodie Tour Review
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Discovery More Xi’An Evening Food Tour With Locals
An evening food tour in Xi’an offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the city’s vibrant street food culture.
For $80 per person, the 3-hour “Xi’an Evening Food Tour with Locals” allows guests to explore local favorites and hidden gems, interacting with locals and sampling a variety of delectable street foods.
Highlights include savoring famous Biángbiáng noodles, enjoying cold Liangpi noodles, and concluding with local sweets like Osmanthus Cake.
With a live English-speaking guide, free cancellation, and the option to reserve now and pay later, this food tour provides a hassle-free and immersive culinary experience in the heart of Xi’an.
Read our full review: Discovery More Xi’An Evening Food Tour With Locals Review
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Xian: Gourmet & Street Food Tour
The Xian Gourmet & Street Food Tour offers an immersive culinary experience that showcases the city’s vibrant food culture.
Over 3 hours, participants explore iconic sites like the Bell Tower and Muslim Street, tasting at least 10 local delicacies from street vendors and restaurants.
The tour includes steamed dumplings, baked pancakes with minced pork, soup dumplings, barbecued lamb, and persimmon pancake.
Led by an experienced guide, the tour is limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention.
With a 4.7/5 rating, the tour earns praise for its guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to try unique dishes.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Read our full review: Xian: Gourmet & Street Food Tour Review
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Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour
Situated in the heart of Xi’an, the Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour offers an immersive culinary adventure through the vibrant and historic neighborhood.
Lasting 2.5-3 hours, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the area with an expert local guide, sampling authentic street food like Roujiamo, Liangpi, and Yangrou Paomo.
Guests can also visit iconic sites like the Great Mosque and Gaojia Courtyard.
With flexible pickup options and a range of food tasting packages, the tour caters to diverse preferences.
Boasting an impressive 4.3/5 rating based on 15 reviews, the tour promises a delightful discovery of Xi’an’s rich Muslim culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Avoid Common Tourist Traps During Food Tours?
To avoid tourist traps during food tours, one should research reputable tour companies, read reviews, and ask locals for recommendations. Steer clear of overly-touristy areas and instead seek out hidden gems recommended by knowledgeable guides or residents.
What Are the Best Local Dishes to Try in Xi’an?
Some local dishes to try in Xi’an include roujiamo (a Chinese burger), biangbiang noodles, and pita bread soaked in lamb soup. These local specialties offer a flavorful taste of the region’s distinct culinary traditions.
Can I Customize the Food Tour to My Dietary Restrictions?
Most food tour operators in Xi’an can accommodate dietary restrictions. They’ll customize the tour to your needs, ensuring you enjoy the local cuisine while adhering to your dietary requirements. Be sure to discuss any preferences or restrictions when booking the tour.
What Are the Safety Precautions During the Food Tours?
Tour providers offer safety precautions like hand sanitizer, safe food handling, and guidance on avoiding unsafe dishes. They also accommodate dietary restrictions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
How Can I Get the Most Authentic Experience on a Food Tour?
To get the most authentic experience on a food tour, travelers should look for tours that visit local markets, street stalls, and family-run restaurants. They should also try to interact with the vendors and ask questions about the dishes.
The Sum Up
Xi’an’s rich culinary heritage is reflected in the diverse food tours available. From morning explorations of the Muslim Quarter to evening strolls through the bustling night markets, visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant flavors. These tours provide an authentic taste of Xi’an’s local cuisine and cultural traditions, making them a must-do for any foodie traveler.