The ancient city of Xi’an showcases its treasures best on foot, where you can truly appreciate its 3,000-year history. The essential Muslim Quarter Night Market tour buzzes with energy, offering the city’s best street food and local life after dark. Moving beyond food, the Terracotta Army tour remains a must-do, with expert guides explaining this remarkable archaeological wonder. If you’re short on time, combine the City Wall and Old Town walk – it’s the perfect introduction to Xi’an’s top sites and authentic local flavors. For food lovers, the Bell Tower Food tour hits all the right spots, from dumplings to hand-pulled noodles. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda tour rounds out the Buddhist side of Xi’an’s story. I’ve researched and tested dozens of walking tours, and these stand out as the most worthwhile.
Let’s explore my top-rated Xi’an walking tours.
Key Points
- The Muslim Quarter Night Market Tour offers an immersive cultural experience, including visits to iconic sites and tastings of local specialties.
- The Terracotta Army Experience provides flexible tour options, with transportation and meal choices, making it a convenient way to explore this renowned ancient site.
- The City Wall & Old Town Walking Tour combines sightseeing, biking, and food tastings, providing a well-rounded introduction to Xi’an’s historic landmarks and local cuisine.
- The Bell Tower Food Walking Tour offers a small-group experience, focusing on the culinary heritage of Xi’an and the cultural significance of its signature dishes.
- The Private Big Wild Goose Pagoda Tour provides a personalized exploration of Xi’an’s Buddhist heritage, including the option to climb the iconic pagoda for panoramic city views.
Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour
The Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour offers an immersive experience for travelers eager to explore the historical Muslim Quarter and savor authentic local delicacies.
The 2.5-3 hour tour, priced at SEK 472 per person, takes participants on a culinary adventure through the vibrant night market, visiting iconic sites like the Great Mosque and Gaojia Courtyard.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour promises a taste of specialties such as Roujiamo, Liangpi, and Biang Biang Mian.
With a flexible itinerary and accommodation for dietary preferences, the tour caters to diverse traveler types.
Boasting an overall rating of 4.3/5, the tour provides excellent value for money and a memorable cultural encounter in Xian.
Read our full review: Xian Muslim Quarter Night Market Foodie Walking Tour Review
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Xian: Terracotta Army Walking Tour or Ticket Only Option
For travelers to Xi’an seeking an immersive experience at the world-renowned Terracotta Army, the Terracotta Army Walking Tour or Ticket Only Option presents a versatile choice.
Priced at $29 per person, the tour duration ranges from 2.5 to 8 hours, offering flexibility in scheduling. Participants can choose from group tours with a guide, ticket and guide without transfer, or ticket and transfer without guide.
Inclusions like entrance tickets, transportation, and lunch/dinner options are available. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour provides convenience.
Positive reviews highlight the service’s ease of booking and knowledgeable guides, making it suitable for foreigners navigating the site.
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Xian: City Wall&Old Town Walking Tour W/ 10+ Food Tasting
Travelers venturing to Xi’an can enjoy the city’s rich history and vibrant culture through the Xian: City Wall & Old Town Walking Tour with Food Tasting. Priced at $14 per person, this 4-4.5 hour tour allows visitors to explore the iconic Xi’an City Wall and the charming old town streets, culminating in a delightful food tasting experience.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, travelers can choose to cycle or walk along the wall, taking in stunning sunset views. The tour includes entry tickets, a bike ride, and tastings of over 10 local street food varieties, along with unlimited beer or soda.
With free cancellation and the option to pay later, this walking tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Xi’an experience.
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
Explore Xi’an’s vibrant culinary landscape on the Bell Tower Food Walking Tour, an immersive 3-hour experience that whisks visitors through the city’s historic Muslim Quarter.
Priced from $61.54 per person, this small-group tour (max 7 participants) promises an up-close look at local delicacies like soup dumplings, roujiamo, and a dumpling banquet.
Along the way, an English-speaking guide shares the history and cultural significance behind each dish.
Highlights include witnessing the artistry of Xi’an’s unique dumpling shapes and sampling a variety of flavors, both savory and sweet.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended, and vegetarian options are available with advance notice.
Read our full review: Xian: Bell Tower Food Walking Tour With Local Guide Review
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Old Xian Back Street Food&Beer Walking Tour
Embarking on the Old Xian Back Street Food & Beer Walking Tour, visitors can expect an immersive 3-hour experience that unveils the vibrant culinary landscape of Xi’an’s historic neighborhoods.
Priced at $69 per person, the tour offers the opportunity to sample over 15 authentic local dishes, accompanied by unlimited beer and sodas.
Highlights include observing the preparation of tofu pudding and hand-cut round noodles, as well as a final stop for ice cream or yogurt.
With an English-speaking guide, the tour provides a flexible itinerary that can accommodate vegetarian and Muslim-friendly dietary preferences.
Rated 5/5 by travelers, this walking tour is a must for those seeking an authentic taste of Xi’an’s local cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Old Xian Back Street Food&Beer Walking Tour Review
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Private Big Wild Goose Pagoda Buddhism Walking Tour
The Private Big Wild Goose Pagoda Buddhism Walking Tour invites visitors to explore the rich historical and spiritual tapestry of Xi’an.
Priced at $51.31 per person, this 3.5 to 4.5-hour tour provides a guided exploration of the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist landmark.
Highlights include a visit to the nearby Da Cien Temple, a stroll through the North Square, and an optional climb to the top of the pagoda for panoramic city views.
Complimentary subway tickets and direct transfer options are available, and travelers are required to bring their passports.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5, the tour offers an immersive experience for those seeking to understand Xi’an’s Buddhist heritage.
Read our full review: Private Big Wild Goose Pagoda Buddhism Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Xian offers an array of engaging walking tours for visitors to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene. From the vibrant Muslim Quarter Night Market to the iconic Terracotta Army, these tours provide immersive experiences that showcase the best of Xian. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply seeking to learn about the local atmosphere, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests.