XIAN Transportation
Xi'an is connected by a comprehensive network of airports, high-speed railways, ordinary railways, and highways, forming convenient transportation for travelers. Xi'an Xianyang International Airport operates domestic flights to over 150 large and medium-sized cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu, as well as international flights to more than 40 destinations including Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, and Paris. It has an annual passenger throughput of over 40 million. The high-speed rail network links Xi'an to 60+ major cities nationwide, while highways provide seamless access to surrounding scenic spots like Huashan and the Mausoleum of Huangdi. Xi'an offers 72-hour transit visa-free policy for international travelers and has duty-free shops in key areas to enhance the travel experience.
By plane
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, officially opened in 1991, is the main aviation hub serving Xi'an, located about 25 kilometers northwest of the city center. It has three terminals (T1, T2, T3) and is one of the busiest airports in northwest China.
Abundant flights connect Xi'an to major domestic cities with frequent daily services, and international flights to key Asian and European destinations. During low season (November-March), some flight schedules may be adjusted, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
The airport is approximately 25 kilometers from Xi'an city center and about 40 kilometers from the Terracotta Warriors Scenic Area.
Airport to city transportation
- Airport Shuttle Bus: Multiple routes operate from the airport to downtown areas like Bell Tower and North Square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Tickets cost 25 yuan, with buses running from 7:00 to the last flight arrival.
- Metro: Airport Intercity Railway connects to Xi'an Metro Line 14, taking about 40 minutes to the city center. Tickets range from 10-16 yuan, operating from 6:00 to 23:00.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to the city center costs around 80-120 yuan. It’s recommended to use the official taxi queue or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
By bus
Xi'an’s central bus station is adjacent to Xi'an Railway Station, making it easy to reach scenic spots or transfer to surrounding cities.
From the central bus station to the Terracotta Warriors Scenic Area, buses depart every 15-20 minutes from 7:00 to 18:00, taking about 1 hour with a 12 yuan ticket. To Huashan Mountain, buses run every 30 minutes from 7:00 to 17:00, taking 2 hours and costing 36 yuan.
Buses to nearby cities like Luoyang and Chengdu depart regularly from Xi'an South Bus Station, with schedules varying by destination.
By Train
Xi'an North Railway Station, put into operation in 2011, is a key high-speed rail hub in northwest China. It’s part of the national high-speed rail network, with total investment exceeding 30 billion yuan.
High-speed trains (G-series) connect Xi'an to Beijing (4.5 hours), Shanghai (6 hours), Guangzhou (8 hours), and Chengdu (3 hours), while ordinary trains (Z/T/K-series) operate from Xi'an Railway Station to major cities like Lanzhou and Chongqing.
From Xi'an to Luoyang, high-speed trains take 1.5 hours; to Zhengzhou, it’s 2 hours. For the Terracotta Warriors, take Metro Line 9 from Xi'an North Station to Huaqing Pool Station, then transfer to a bus for the final 3 kilometers.
Keep reading on high-speed train schedule.
Tips:
- At railway stations, be wary of unauthorized tour guides or drivers offering "cheap rides" to scenic spots, as they may push overpriced tours. Always use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Do not take unlicensed vehicles near stations—they may divert you to shopping spots. Book正规 cars in advance or use public transport.
Xi'an Internal Transport
1, Public Bus & Metro
Xi'an has an extensive public bus network with over 300 routes, operating from 6:00 to 23:00. Fares start at 2 yuan. Key routes include Bus No. 610 (Bell Tower, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter) and Bus No. 306 (direct to Terracotta Warriors).
The metro system has 8 lines, covering major stations and attractions. Fares range from 2-10 yuan, with trains running 6:00-23:30. Metro announcements are available in Chinese and English.
Tips:
- Beware of taxis near stations offering "10 yuan rides" to the Terracotta Warriors—they may pressure you into joining low-quality tours. A reasonable taxi fare to the warriors is about 150 yuan from the city center.
- Buses between downtown and Lintong District (Terracotta Warriors) run from 6:00 to 19:00, with 15-minute intervals and 10 yuan tickets.
2, Taxi
Xi'an taxis have a starting fare of 9 yuan for the first 3 kilometers during the day (6:00-23:00) and 10 yuan at night (23:00-6:00), with 2 yuan for each additional kilometer. Most city trips cost under 20 yuan. Remind drivers to use the meter; for long trips to scenic spots, negotiate the price in advance and ask for a receipt. Complaint Number: 029-86753333.
Read More About Xi'an Transportation
1,How to Get to Terracotta Warriors from Xi'an City 2,Airport to Downtown Xi'an: Best Transportation Options
