Planning a trip that covers both Beijing and Xi’an is one of the best ways to experience China’s imperial past and modern energy. Beijing, the capital, offers grand palaces and the Great Wall, while Xi’an brings you face-to-face with the Terracotta Warriors and ancient Silk Road history. Combining these two cities into one route is not only efficient but also deeply rewarding. Most travelers can comfortably visit both in about a week, spending 4 days in Beijing and 3 in Xi’an. This guide will help you build a practical, time-smart itinerary without rushing.
How many days do you need for Beijing and Xi’an
For a relaxed but thorough visit, plan at least 5 full days: 3 days in Beijing and 2 in Xi’an. With 3 days in Beijing, you can see the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and a section of the Great Wall like Mutianyu. Adding a fourth day lets you explore hutongs or the 798 Art District. Xi’an needs 2 days minimum: one for the Terracotta Warriors and the Huaqing Hot Springs, another for the ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda. If you have 7 days total, you will have buffer time for jet lag and spontaneous discoveries.
Best way to travel between Beijing and Xi’an
High-speed trains are the top choice for most travelers. The G-series trains take about 4.5 to 5.5 hours,leaving from Beijing West Station and arriving at Xi’an North Station. They are comfortable, punctual, and offer stunning views of the countryside. Tickets cost around 550 CNY for second class. Flights are faster in the air (about 2 hours) but require travel to and from airports, plus security wait time – overall, trains win for city-center convenience. Overnight sleeper trains are also available for budget travelers, but they take 11–13 hours and can be less restful. Book train tickets two weeks in advance via the official 12306 app or a trusted agent.
Top attractions you cannot miss in Beijing and Xi’an
In Beijing, the Forbidden City is a must: give yourself at least 3 hours to wander its 980 buildings. The Great Wall at Mutianyu is less crowded than Badaling and has a cable car. The Summer Palace offers a peaceful lake and imperial gardens. In Xi’an, the Terracotta Warriors are the highlight – hire a guide at the site for deeper stories. The Xi’an City Wall is the best preserved in China; rent a bike to ride the full 14 km loop. The Muslim Quarter comes alive at night with sizzling street food like yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread). Do not miss the Big Wild Goose Pagoda light show, which starts at 8 PM daily.
Practical tips for your Beijing Xi’an route
Book hotels near subway lines – in Beijing, stay around Dongsi or Zhangzizhonglu for easy access; in Xi’an, near Bell Tower or South Gate. Download WeChat and Alipay for payments, as many small vendors do not accept cash or foreign cards. Get a local SIM card at the airport or use an eSIM for maps and translation apps. For the Terracotta Warriors, go early (8:30 AM) to avoid tour bus crowds. In both cities, learn a few Mandarin phrases: “ni hao” (hello), “xie xie” (thank you), and “duo shao qian” (how much). Finally, check public holidays like National Day (Oct 1–7) – attractions will be extremely packed.
Have you ever considered adding a side trip to Pingyao or Luoyang between Beijing and Xi’an, or would you rather focus more days on the two main cities?