I just got back from Xi'an, and I don't recommend going in January or February.

Hey guys, Xi'an in December is a whole different vibe! I just got back from there, so here's a super detailed guide for you. Xi'an impressions: As a famous historical and cultural city in China, Xi'an has witnessed thousands of years of vicissitudes and glory. Whether you are walking on the ancient city wall or standing in front of the Terracotta Warriors, you can feel the historical heritage of this city. Although December is winter in Xi'an, the weather is pleasant, and the city is quieter and more elegant than in summer. Whether you are exploring historical sites or tasting authentic local food, you will be reluctant to leave. Transportation guide: Getting to Xi'an Plane: After arriving at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, you can take the airport bus to the city center, which takes about 80 minutes. You can also take Metro Line 14 to Xi'an North Railway Station, and transfer to Line 4 or Line 2 to the city center. Train/High-speed rail: Xi'an has several train stations, among which Xi'an Railway Station and Xi'an North Railway Station are the main transportation hubs. You can take Line 2 from Xi'an Railway Station to Bell Tower; take Line 1 from Xi'an North Railway Station and transfer to Line 2 to Bell and Drum Towers; take Bus 725 from Xi'an South Railway Station and transfer to Line 2. Getting around the city Metro: The Xi'an Metro covers most attractions, and is affordable and not affected by traffic jams, making it the first choice for getting around. Bus: The bus fare is CNY 2, but there are many routes, so it is recommended to plan your route in advance if you are not familiar with the city. Taxi: The starting fare is CNY 10. There are often traffic jams during peak hours, so it is recommended to take a regular taxi or ride-hailing service. Recommended itinerary: Day 1: Xi'an Bell Tower → Xi'an Drum Tower → Gao's Grand Courtyard → Authentic Shaanxi Restaurant → Xi'an City Wall Bell Tower: As one of the landmarks of Xi'an, the Bell Tower has a long history and unique architectural style. Drum Tower: Another important landmark of Xi'an, echoing the Bell Tower. Gao's Grand Courtyard: Free admission. The shadow puppet show is not to be missed. Authentic Shaanxi Restaurant: Taste authentic Shaanxi cuisine, such as roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread). Xi'an City Wall: Ride or walk on the ancient city wall to feel the weight of history and the vitality of modernity. Day 2: Xi'an Museum → Shaanxi History Museum → Giant Wild Goose Pagoda → Tang Paradise → Grand Tang Mall Xi'an Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Xi'an and admire precious cultural relics. Shaanxi History Museum: Known as the "Pearl of the Ancient Capital, Treasure House of China", free admission but reservations are required in advance. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Xi'an. There is a fountain show in the North Square. Tang Paradise: Rebuilt in the style of a Tang Dynasty imperial garden. The water dance and light show at night is stunning. Grand Tang Mall: Free admission. The lights at night create a great atmosphere, as if you have traveled back to the Tang Dynasty. Day 3: Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum → Huaqing Palace → Lishan Mountain → The Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show → Return Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum: Explore the mysteries of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor and feel the majesty of ancient emperors. Huaqing Palace: The place where Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Yang Guifei's love story took place. The hot spring water is still warm. Lishan Mountain: Beautiful natural scenery, a great place for leisure and vacation. The Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show: A large-scale live-action historical dance drama that takes you back to the Tang Dynasty. Must-see attractions: Terracotta Warriors: Known as one of the eight wonders of the world, the grandeur is breathtaking. Xi'an City Wall: One of the iconic ancient buildings in Xi'an. Ride or walk on it to feel the weight of history. Shaanxi History Museum: Known as the "Pearl of the Ancient Capital, Treasure House of China", it is the best place to learn about the history of Xi'an and Shaanxi. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: An ancient and solemn pagoda. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Xi'an. Tang Paradise: Rebuilt in the style of a Tang Dynasty imperial garden. The water dance and light show at night is stunning. Huaqing Palace: The place where Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Yang Guifei's love story took place. The hot spring water is still warm. The Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show: A large-scale live-action historical dance drama that takes you back to the Tang Dynasty. Practical tips: Attraction reservations: Popular attractions such as the Terracotta Warriors and Shaanxi History Museum require reservations in advance to avoid queuing on site. Transportation: It is recommended to take the metro or bus to avoid traffic jams during peak hours. Clothing: The temperature in Xi'an is low in December, so it is recommended to wear warm and comfortable clothes. Safety: There are many illegal taxis near the airport or train station. Do not take them. Choose a regular taxi or ride-hailing service. Avoid shopping traps: Avoid any day trips or itineraries that take you to shopping stores to avoid wasting time. Food recommendations: Biangbiang noodles: Chewy noodles and rich broth. One bowl and you're hooked. Yangrou paomo: Tender meat and fragrant bread. A traditional delicacy. Roujiamo: Crispy and delicious, with tender meat and crispy bread. Liangpi: Smooth and chewy, sour and spicy. A summer must-have. Youcha mahua: Crispy mahua with youcha, warming your stomach and heart. Braised pork roujiamo: Unlike ordinary roujiamo, the braised pork is more tender and flavorful, and the bread is crispy and delicious. Accommodation recommendations: Novotel Xi'an Bell Tower: Near Bell Tower Metro Station, enjoy the view of the Bell Tower and taste local delicacies. Free laundry service and smart guest control facilities are available. Yunhe Yebo Hotel (Xi'an Bell and Drum Towers South Gate): Near Xi'an Bell Tower and Xi'an City Wall, enjoy butler service and free airport transfer. New Chinese-style rooms and free laundry service are available. Xitang Hotel (Xi'an Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Grand Tang Mall): Near Grand Tang Mall and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, enjoy the music fountain. Free Wi-Fi and family rooms are available. JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an: Near Hanshen Shopping Plaza, enjoy the infinity pool and 270-degree night view. Parent-child themed rooms and bars are available. Atour Hotel Xi'an South Gate: Near Yongningmen Metro Station, enjoy the night view of Yongningmen. Zen-style rooms and robot service are available. Rezen Donggu Hotel (Xi'an Railway Station Wulukou Metro Station Bell and Drum Towers): Near Xi'an Railway Station and Wulukou Metro Station, with a great location. Hanfu experience and butler service are available. Tips: Avoid the crowds: If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quiet travel experience, remember to visit major attractions in the off-season or early in the morning during peak season. Make reservations in advance: Free tickets for popular attractions such as Shaanxi History Museum are limited, so remember to make reservations in advance. Find authentic food: Don't just look for food on the main road. Walk to small alleys such as Xiyang Market, Dapiyuan, and Sajinqiao, and you will find more hidden delicacies. Safety: Avoid taking illegal taxis. Choose a regular taxi or ride-hailing service. Do not follow touts near train stations or attractions. Cultural experience: Cultural experience activities such as the shadow puppet show at Gao's Grand Courtyard and the water dance and light show at Tang Paradise are not to be missed. Shopping: Avoid any day trips or itineraries that take you to shopping stores to avoid wasting time. Xi'an in December is full of historical charm and delicious food. Hurry up and plan an unforgettable trip to the ancient capital!