Cost Assumptions and Planning Factors

You can find the latest updates on Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum.

For the most up-to-date details, check Xi'an Xianyang International Airport before you go.

Several factors will change your total spending when you visit the historic city of Xi'an this year. Peak travel seasons such as the October Golden Week often see a large increase in local hotel prices. Booking your high-speed train tickets several weeks in advance can also help you save a lot of money.

Exchange rates fluctuate often, so you should check the current values before you arrive in the country. Using mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay is the most convenient way to handle your expenses. Always keep a small amount of cash for buying snacks from older street vendors who lack digital tools.

How to Book Free Walking Tours in Xi'an

Most budget travelers use popular online platforms to find local guides who speak good English in Xi'an. Websites like GuruWalk or Freetour list many options for people who want to explore the city for free. Search for the city name and then filter the results by choosing the free price category online.

Check the guide's reviews before you finalize your booking to ensure they have a good reputation for history. A walking tour of Xi'an Muslim Quarter is a top choice for many travelers visiting the city. This specific route offers a great mix of historical sites and amazing local food stalls to enjoy.

After choosing a tour, fill out the online reservation form with your contact details and group size. You will receive a confirmation email with the exact meeting point and the time of the tour. Most tours meet near the Bell Tower or the South Gate of the ancient city wall in Xi'an.

Remember that these tours operate on a tip-only basis so you should plan your budget accordingly here. Check a tipping guide for free tours in Xi'an to see the standard rates for local guides. Usually, fifty to one hundred RMB per person is a very fair amount for a great tour experience.

Daily Budget Breakdown for Your Xi'an Trip

Choosing the right budget tier will help you manage your money while exploring the historic sights of Xi'an. Our budget estimates cover various styles of travel from basic hostels to much more comfortable hotel stays. We have calculated these costs based on current prices for food and local transportation in the city today.

Sample Daily Plan for a Xi'an Walk

Start your morning at the ancient City Wall where you can walk or rent a bike for cheap. Head to the Muslim Quarter for a delicious and very affordable lunch of local street food dishes. Join your tour in the evening because it is the best time for Xi'an night walks for tourists.

• A perfect sample daily plan for budget travelers
  • Walk the ancient city wall
  • Eat lunch in Muslim Quarter
  • Join a free walking tour
  • Watch the North Square fountain

Money-Saving Tips for Xi'an Visitors

Once you know how to reach Xi'an City Wall gates, you can save money on local transport. The subway system is much cheaper than taking private taxis or using ride-sharing apps in the city. Always buy your tickets at the official station machines to ensure you get the correct local price.

Looking for free sights near Xi'an Bell Tower will help you fill your day without spending extra money. Many small temples and public parks in the area do not charge any entry fees to visitors. These quiet spots offer a wonderful break from the busy streets while saving you money for dinner.

Carrying a reusable water bottle will save you several RMB every day while you are exploring the city. Boiled water is available for free in most hotels and many public areas throughout the city of Xi'an. Avoid buying small bottles of water near major tourist attractions where prices are often much higher.

Navigating Local Transportation on a Budget

The Xi'an metro system is clean, fast, and very cheap for tourists to use every single day. Most rides cost between two and five RMB per trip depending on the distance you are traveling. This is the best way to avoid heavy city traffic while moving between the major historical sites.

You should download a local map app like Amap to see real-time bus and train schedules easily. These apps show exactly which exit to use when you arrive at the busy metro stations in Xi'an. Even without Chinese language skills, the icons and maps are very easy for most travelers to follow.

Consider buying a local transit card if you plan on staying for more than three days in Xi'an. These cards work on all local buses and the entire metro network for a very low cost. You can return the card at the end of your trip to get your initial deposit back.