Planning a trip to China’s two most historic cities—Beijing and Xi’an—can feel overwhelming, but a well-structured 7-day itinerary lets you see the absolute highlights without rushing. Beijing showcases imperial grandeur with the Forbidden City and Great Wall, while Xi’an brings you face-to-face with the Terracotta Warriors and ancient Muslim culture. This guide balances iconic sights, local food, and practical travel tips for first-time visitors.
How many days for Beijing and Xi’an
Most travelers find that seven days is the sweet spot for both cities. Spend four full days in Beijing and three in Xi’an, including travel time. This allows you to explore Beijing’s major attractions like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven without feeling rushed. For Xi’an, three days give you enough time to see the Terracotta Warriors, cycle on the ancient City Wall, and wander the lively Muslim Quarter. If you only have five or six days, cut one day from Beijing and one from Xi’an, but seven is ideal for a comfortable pace.
The high-speed train between Beijing and Xi’an takes just under five hours, so you won’t lose a full day to travel. Book an early morning train (around 7–8 AM) to arrive in Xi’an by early afternoon. This leaves you time to check into your hotel and start exploring the city wall or the Bell Tower on your first afternoon. Many travelers worry about losing a day to transit, but the train is efficient, comfortable, and offers great views of the countryside. Keep your luggage light so you can move easily between hotels.
Best time to visit Beijing and Xi’an
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the best seasons for both cities. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F–77°F), and the skies are often clear. Autumn is especially beautiful in Beijing,with golden ginkgo trees lining the streets, while spring brings blooming flowers in Xi’an’s parks. Avoid summer (July–August) if you dislike heat and crowds—Beijing can reach 35°C (95°F) with high humidity, and the Forbidden City becomes a sea of tour groups. Winter (November–March) is cold and dry, but you’ll have fewer tourists and lower hotel prices.
If you must travel in summer, plan outdoor activities like the Great Wall for early morning or late afternoon. Bring a portable fan, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Winter visitors should pack thermal layers, a windproof jacket, and gloves, especially for the Great Wall where winds can be biting. Keep in mind that some attractions, like the Terracotta Warriors, are mostly indoors, so winter is still doable. Always check for public holidays—China’s Golden Week (first week of October) and May Day (May 1–5) cause massive crowds and higher prices.
What to see in Beijing first
Start your Beijing leg with the Forbidden City and Tiananmen