Xian Shaanxi, China Travel Guide
A favorite choice for budget-conscious travelers and backpackers. Hostels have dorm beds at cheap prices, often with private rooms. Many are centrally located, have social common areas, and organize tours, making them good for meeting other travelers. Check Hostelworld for options.
These are smaller, independently run hotels or guesthouses. They include basic, clean rooms with private bathrooms, often for a cheaper price point than chain hotels. Good for visitors looking for privacy and comfort without extensive amenities.
This category includes international and domestic chain accommodations like Novotel and Holiday Inn Express. They boast comfortable stays with modern amenities including Wi-Fi, often a breakfast option, and dependable service. These hotels balance comfort and value. Explore IHG Hotels for choices.
Xi'an hosts numerous international 5-star hotel chains, including Hilton, Sofitel, Shangri-La, and Grand Hyatt. These properties have full services, extensive amenities (e.g., swimming pools, fitness centers, multiple dining options), high levels of comfort, and professional service.
Some renovated traditional courtyard homes, notably in older districts, feature an unique cultural experience. These properties often blend traditional architecture with modern comforts, a quiet retreat from the city's bustle.
Platforms like local equivalents offer vacation rentals and apartment options. These are good for travelers seeking more space, kitchen facilities, and a homely feel, suitable for families or longer stays. Consider Vrbo.
Organized homestay programs are less common within Xi'an city. Some local guesthouses a degree of personal interaction with hosts, an localized experience than large hotels. For house-sitting, TrustedHousesitters is an option.
Camping is not typically available in the downtown area. Some campsites exist in rural areas or mountains surrounding Xi'an (e.g., in the Qinling Mountains), but they are generally not set up for international tourists and need specialized planning.
Xi'an's neighborhoods each have a distinct character, offering different experiences for your stay. Choosing your area wisely influences your daily commute, dining options, and overall ambiance.
A cultural hub with the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi History Museum. It feels more spacious and relaxed. Good for families, featuring a lot of modern hotels. Further from Bell Tower, needing metro rides.
A modern, rapidly developing area around Xi'a North Railway Station. Extremely convenient for high-speed train travel. Features newer hotels and growing commercial centers. A long way from historical attractions, needing metro travel.
Smart booking strategies help you arrange accommodation at favorable rates in Xi'an.
Online booking for accommodation inside China is in most cases the most reliable and transparent method.
Some local platforms might require a Chinese person phone number and local payment method (e.g., WeChat Pay or Alipay).
Always check recent reviews from other travelers before finalizing your booking.
Here are some recommended accommodation options in Xi'an, categorized by budget and style, to provide you with help find the right place for your stay.
Location: Campanile/Muslim Quarter. Price: 60 - 150 CNY/night.
Location: City Center (near Bell Tower). Price: 400 - 800 CNY/night.
Location: City Center. Price: 900+ CNY/night.
Location: Near Drum Tower. Price: 100 - 300 CNY/night.
Many mid-range to luxury hotels cater to families, often with family or connecting rooms, indoor swimming pools, fitness centers, and child-friendly amenities. Vacation rentals (apartments) extra room and a kitchen, highly useful for families. Consider areas like Big Wild Goose Pagoda for spacious public areas.
Hostels are good for solo travelers due to their social atmosphere. Hostels like Xi'a Travelling With Hostel have opportunities to meet other travelers and join group activities. Centrally located hotels offer security, easy access to public transportation, and convenience for exploring independently.
Serviced units are available in newer districts (e.g., Gaoxin District). These offer apartment-style living with hotel services, including regular cleaning and often kitchenettes, suitable for stays over a week or longer. Apartment-style hotels more space and amenities than standard hotel rooms.
Some small guesthouses in older parts of the city (Muslim Quarter, near City Wall) preserve traditional architectural styles. These offer a more immersive cultural experience compared to modern branded hotels. Look for properties with "courtyard" in their description.
If you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly, Xi'an has a location for you.
Consider proximity to attractions, dining, and transport links.
Traditional guesthouses an unique cultural immersion.
Look for Wi-Fi, breakfast, and other conveniences fitting your stay.
Before booking, always read recent guest reviews on platforms like Booking.com or Agoda to set expectations.
Verify accepted payment methods, especially for local guesthouses. Some may prefer cash or local digital payments.
For first-time visitors, staying near the Campanile or South Gate area simplifies sightseeing and transportation.
If seeking a quieter trip, Big Wild Goose Pagoda area or traditional courtyard small hotels are good choices.
