To get around in Xi'an, you can use a combination of taxis, buses, and a rapidly expanding metro system, as well as high-speed trains and domestic flights to travel to and from the city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is the main gateway to the city, with direct flights to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as international connections to cities in Asia, Europe, and North America. The airport is located about 25 miles northwest of Xi'an's city center and is connected to the city by a high-speed maglev train, taxis, and buses. If you prefer to travel overland, Xi'an is also accessible by bus or train from neighboring cities and provinces, including a high-speed rail link to Beijing and Shanghai.
For travelers entering China from other countries, Xi'an is a major entry point, with many international flights and trains connecting the city to the rest of Asia and beyond. The city is also a key stop on the ancient Silk Road, with many overland routes and border crossings connecting Xi'an to Central Asia and Europe. Whether you arrive by air, land, or sea, Xi'an's transportation infrastructure is well-developed and easy to navigate, with many English-language signs and announcements to help guide you on your way.
Domestic Flights
China has an extensive domestic air network, with many airlines operating flights to and from Xi'an. Some of the main domestic airlines include China Eastern, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines, which offer frequent flights to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as smaller regional airports. Booking domestic flights in China can be done online or through a travel agent, with prices varying depending on the route, time of year, and how far in advance you book. On average, a one-way domestic flight can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the route and airline.
Trains & Rail
China's rail network is one of the most extensive and modern in the world, with high-speed trains connecting Xi'an to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The G-series trains are the fastest, with top speeds of over 300 km/h, while the D-series trains are slower but more frequent and affordable. Booking train tickets in China can be done online or at the train station, with prices varying depending on the route, class of service, and time of year. A high-speed train ticket from Xi'an to Beijing, for example, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the class of service and how far in advance you book.
Buses & Coaches
Intercity bus companies like Fengchao Bus and Qiangsheng Bus operate frequent services to and from Xi'an, connecting the city to neighboring provinces and cities. The buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around $10 for a one-way ticket. However, the journey times can be long, especially for longer routes, and the buses may not always be as frequent or reliable as the trains.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Xi'an | $0.50-$1.50 | 6 lines, frequent services |
| City Bus | Xi'an | $0.25-$1.00 | extensive network, affordable |
| Taxi | everywhere | $1.50-$3.00/km | metered, relatively affordable |
| Ride-Hailing | Xi'an | $3.00-$6.00 | Didi Chuxing, Alibaba's AutoNavi |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Xi'an | $5.00-$10.00 | limited availability, negotiable prices |
Driving
- To drive in China, you will need to obtain a Chinese driver's license, as international licenses are not recognized.
- The road conditions in Xi'an are generally moderate, with some congestion and construction delays.
- Fuel costs in China are relatively affordable, with gasoline prices starting from around $0.50 per liter.
- Car rental companies like Hertz and Avis have offices in Xi'an, but the selection of vehicles may be limited.
- Driving in China can be challenging, especially for foreigners, due to the crowded and chaotic roads.
- It's recommended to hire a driver or use a taxi or ride-hailing service instead of driving yourself, especially if you're not familiar with the local roads and traffic rules.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams and touts at the airport and train station, and always use authorized taxis or ride-hailing services.
- Download the Didi Chuxing app to book ride-hailing services, as it's the most popular and convenient option.
- Learn some basic Chinese phrases, such as "hello" (nǐ hǎo) and "thank you" (xiè xiè), to help you navigate the transportation system.
- Always carry a map or guidebook with you, as the street signs and announcements may not always be in English.
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Consider purchasing a China SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected and navigate the city.
- Always check the weather forecast before traveling, as Xi'an can experience extreme weather conditions, including heatwaves and sandstorms.