Private Tour: Xi’an’s Must-See 3 UNESCO Sites in One Day

Your private guide and driver will greet you directly in your hotel lobby, and together you’ll embark on a comfortable one-hour journey to the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum—hailed as one of the 20th century’s most groundbreaking archaeological finds. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, all interred with China’s founding emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to stand guard over him in the afterlife.

Devote 2-3 hours to exploring the museum at a leisurely pace, with no shopping detours to interrupt your experience. You’ll visit Pits 1, 2, and 3, plus the stunning Bronze Chariots exhibition. Pit 1, the largest of the three, dazzles with thousands of the iconic terra cotta warriors and horses. Pit 2 offers a closer look at the excavation process, highlighting the delicate details of smaller warrior statues. Pit 3 showcases Qin dynasty bronze relics, including ancient weapons and ritual vessels, while the Bronze Chariots display features exquisitely crafted carriages that accompanied the army in burial.

Next, savor a authentic Xi’an-style lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll taste classic flavors of the region.

Your itinerary then takes you to the Xi’an Ancient City Wall, a 600-year-old historical treasure from the Ming Dynasty. As one of China’s largest preserved ancient military defense systems, this imposing structure stretches 8.5 miles around the city center, retaining its original grandeur.

Walk atop the wall with your guide to take in sweeping panoramic views of Xi’an’s blend of ancient and modern scenery, or choose to rent a bike (at your own expense) for a scenic ride along its length.

The final stop is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a revered Tang dynasty cultural relic and iconic Xi’an landmark. Constructed in 652 under Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, the pagoda was originally built to house sacred Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the renowned monk Xuanzang. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories of its history, religious significance, and the fascinating legends that surround this timeless structure.

Once the tour concludes, your driver will transfer you back to your downtown Xi’an hotel, wrapping up a day of immersive cultural exploration.