Xi’an Day Tour: Terracotta Army, Big Pagoda & City Wall

Traveling to Xi’an, one of China’s most ancient and culturally rich cities, promises a memorable escape into history. This tour, offered by Ping’s Tours, packs the city’s top three attractions into an efficient 8-hour experience perfect for those who want a well-rounded glimpse of Xi’an’s grandeur without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a history buff or simply eager to see the highlights, this small-group or private tour offers a practical and engaging way to explore.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances comfort and authenticity. First, the small group size — limited to just six people — means you’ll avoid the long lines and crowded buses that often come with large tours. Second, the hotel pickup and drop-off service makes it drop-dead convenient, saving you time and hassle right from your hotel lobby.

One possible drawback? The cost excludes entry fees and lunch, so budget a bit extra if you want to fully enjoy each stop. Still, this setup helps keep the price at a reasonable $77 per person, especially considering the personalized attention you’ll receive.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a well-organized, stress-free day with a focus on top sights and authentic insights. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting to make the most of their time or seasoned travelers looking for a comfortable, guided experience with a local touch.

Key Points

• Small-group or private options make for a more personalized and less crowded experience
• All-inclusive hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience and saves time
• Visits the three must-see attractions of Xi’an: Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the City Wall
• No hidden fees or detours to souvenir factories, focusing purely on your sightseeing
• Tour includes support for tickets and a professional guide, enhancing your understanding and experience
• Optional activities like walking or biking on the City Wall are available, but at your own expense

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the essentials — the attractions every visitor should see. You get to visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, explore the monumental Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and walk along the ancient City Wall, all in one day. It’s an efficient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of navigating public transport or dealing with large crowds.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation:
Your day starts with a hotel pickup in downtown Xi’an, within the third ring road. This is especially convenient, sparing you the confusion of finding meeting points. Once aboard a comfortable van, you’ll enjoy a one-hour drive to the first stop.

Stop 1: Terracotta Army Museum
The highlight for many—this site features thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses arranged in battle formations. The guided tour here lasts about three hours, giving you ample time to marvel at the craftsmanship and learn about the First Emperor’s quest for immortality. As one review mentions, “Annalisa said it was a beautiful experience that fascinated her children,” which shows it appeals across ages. And with a professional guide, you’ll gain insights into the artifacts’ significance beyond just their visual impact.

Stop 2: Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Next, you’ll visit this iconic Tang Dynasty structure, a symbol of Buddhist culture in China. It’s a place where history and spirituality intertwine, and the guided visit helps you appreciate its role in preserving Buddhist scriptures. This pagoda, inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2014, is a visual and spiritual highlight you won’t want to miss.

Stop 3: Xi’an City Wall
The last major stop is the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it has a history stretching back over 600 years. You can choose to walk along the top or rent a bike (at your own expense) for a scenic loop. As one reviewer notes, the views from the wall are “stunning,” offering excellent photo opportunities and a tangible connection to the city’s military past.

Practical Details and What You’ll Love

The small group size means you won’t be just another face in a crowd. It allows for a more relaxed pace, plenty of interaction with your guide, and the flexibility to ask questions or linger at favorite spots. The support for ticket bookings helped many travelers bypass lines, especially at the popular Terracotta Warriors.

The lunch is flexible and optional, so you can choose to dine at your convenience—whether a quick snack or a sit-down meal — fitting your preferences and schedule. The full-day transfer service ensures you’re not wasting time on logistics, allowing you to focus on the sights.

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Value for Money

At $77 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and support with tickets. Remember, entry fees are not included, but the overall experience feels worthwhile especially with the personalized touch.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the quality of the guide, with one saying, “Our guide Lisa was super prepared and professional,” which elevates the experience. Another appreciated the “beautiful views” from the City Wall and the fact that the tour was “stress-free”. These comments suggest that the tour is not only educational but also enjoyable, thanks to well-organized logistics and engaging guides.

Why This Tour is Great for You

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free day with a small-group feel, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize limited time without sacrificing quality or authenticity. The combination of major highlights and expert guidance helps deepen your understanding of Xi’an’s long history and cultural significance.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or has specific dietary or accessibility needs, keep in mind that entry fees and lunch are extra, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old.

In The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Xi’an day tour is genuinely well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see the city’s most significant sights without the fuss of independent planning. Its small-group format ensures a more personal experience, while hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.

Travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic views will find this tour especially rewarding. The ability to skip long lines and enjoy expert commentary means you’ll come away with a richer understanding of Xi’an’s past.

If you’re on a budget but still want a quality, guided experience that hits all the major highlights, this tour offers a compelling value. It delivers a satisfying glimpse into ancient China, leaving you with lasting memories and perhaps a new appreciation for the city’s historical importance.

FAQ Section

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour appeals to a wide age range. One review mentions children being fascinated, which suggests it can be engaging for younger travelers as well.

Are lunch and entry fees included?
No, they are not included. You’ll need to pay for entry tickets and lunch separately, but the tour support helps with booking tickets in advance.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to six clients in a small group. For a more private experience, private tours are also available.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour offers guides in Chinese and English.

Can I rent a bike on the City Wall?
Yes, biking is an option, but the rental fee is at your own expense.

Is hotel pickup available outside downtown Xi’an?
No, pickup is within the third ring road; outside this area may incur extra charges.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to see Xi’an’s core attractions, blending expert guidance, comfort, and authentic sights. Whether you’re keen on history or culture, it’s a solid choice for a one-day adventure in this historic city.

You can check availability for your dates here: