Just returned from a 3-day trip to Xi'an, here are some harsh truths nobody told me -

Why didn't anyone warn me about these weekday crowds?! 😂😂😂😂 3-Day Xi'an Itinerary Day 1: Exploring Ancient Capital Culture Attractions: 1. Bell Tower & Drum Tower • Why visit: These iconic landmarks offer the perfect introduction to Xi'an's historical culture. • History: The Bell Tower was built in 1384 during Ming Dynasty, originally facing the Drum Tower (built 1380) which is one of China's largest surviving drum towers. • Cost: Combo ticket ~¥50/person (recommended for better value). • Transport: Metro Line 2 to Zhonglou Station. 2. Xi'an City Wall • Why visit: China's most complete ancient city wall, offering magnificent views of the old capital. • History: First built in 582 AD, expanded in 634 AD, and perfected during 1374-1378. • Cost: ¥54 entrance, ~¥45 for 2-hour bike rental. • Transport: Walk or bike from Bell Tower. 3. Muslim Quarter • Why visit: Xi'an's famous food street for authentic local snacks. • History: A historic street in Xi'an's Muslim district with deep cultural heritage. • Cost: ~¥50-100 for various street foods. • Transport: Walk or taxi from City Wall. Dining: • Try local specialties like roujiamo (Chinese burger), yangrou paomo (lamb soup), and liangpi (cold noodles) in Muslim Quarter. Accommodation: • Recommended: Stay near Bell Tower for convenience. Example: "Yixi Designer Homestay" ~¥120/night. Tips: • Buy combo tickets for Bell & Drum Towers in advance. • Follow safety rules when cycling the City Wall. • Watch belongings in crowded Muslim Quarter. Day 2: Delving into History Attractions: 1. Shaanxi History Museum • Why visit: China's first modern national museum with priceless artifacts showcasing ancient civilization. • History: Built in 1983, opened 1991. • Cost: Free (book 3 days ahead), Treasure Gallery ~¥30. • Transport: Metro Line 2 to Xiaozhai Station, then bus/taxi. 2. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda • Why visit: Iconic Tang Dynasty pagoda where monk Xuanzang stored Buddhist scriptures. • History: Built in 652 AD, originally called Scripture Pagoda. • Cost: ~¥50 entrance, ~¥25 to climb. • Transport: Taxi/bus from museum. 3. Great Tang All Day Mall • Why visit: New landmark blending shopping, entertainment and Tang culture. • History: Recreates Tang Dynasty prosperity. • Cost: Free (some shows extra). • Transport: Walk from pagoda. Dining: • Try local dishes like BiangBiang noodles near the mall. Accommodation: • Continue near Bell Tower or stay by pagoda. Example: "Xi'an Zhongwei Shangde Hotel" ~¥200/night. Tips: • Book museum tickets early. • Watch belongings near pagoda. • Be cautious in crowded night markets. Day 3: Historical Relics Attractions: 1. Terracotta Army Museum • Why visit: The "Eighth Wonder of the World" showcasing Qin Dynasty history. • History: Burial pits for Emperor Qin Shi Huang with thousands of life-sized figures. • Cost: ~¥120, audio guide ~¥30. • Transport: Metro/bus from downtown. 2. Huaqing Palace • Why visit: Tang Dynasty imperial hot springs and love story site. • History: Expanded during Emperor Xuanzong's reign. • Cost: ~¥120, cable car ~¥35 one-way. • Transport: Taxi/bus from Terracotta Army. Dining: • Try local hotpot near Huaqing Palace. Accommodation: • Near train station/airport for departure. Example: "Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square" ~¥500/night (luxury) or budget options. Tips: • Visit Terracotta Army early to avoid crowds. • Wear comfortable shoes at Huaqing Palace. • Double-check belongings before departure. Estimated Total Costs: • Tickets: ~¥300 • Transport: ~¥100 • Accommodation: ~¥400-800 (2 nights) • Food: ~¥200-300 • Total: ~¥1000-1400 (excluding travel to Xi'an) Adjust plans according to your needs. Enjoy your Xi'an trip!