Xian Holidays

An intoxicating fusion of culture, history and cuisine, your tailor made holiday in Xian provides the perfect chance to uncover and experience China’s ancient and intriguing past.

Located in the south central region of Shaanxi Province, historic Xian once marked the end of the Silk Road and has been called the birthplace of Chinese civilisation. The oldest of China’s four great capitals (the others are Luoyan, Nanjing and Beijing), Xian has served as the capital of no less than 13 Chinese dynasties over an illustrious 1,100 year period dating back to 221 BC.

Awe-inspiring holidays in Xian bring ancient Chinese culture to life

Xian’s rich history can be seen throughout its labyrinthine streets. The city is framed by its imposing walls, which remain intact after thousands of years and make a great vantage point for spectacular views by day or at sunset.

In the Muslim Quarter, tree-lined lanes are home to a myriad of market stalls, often run by members of the Hui community. Take an afternoon to browse the many shops, pausing for breath at the nearby Grand Mosque.

Practice your chopstick skills: Xian is known as much for its food as for its history, and if you are hoping to sample some traditional Chinese dishes then you won’t be disappointed. The smell of fragrant spices fills the air around the Muslim Quarter, as street food vendors sizzle and stew a variety of meats, noodles and dumplings, which are then served steaming hot.

Your bespoke holiday to Xian is incomplete without a visit to the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, better known as the Terracotta Warriors. This UNESCO World Heritage site was unearthed in 1974 and arise located 22 miles north-east of Xian. Around 8,000 soldiers, each one unique and intricately carved, stand guard at the tomb of Emperor Qinshihuan.

While there is plenty to do in the city, Xian serves as an ideal base for exploring Mount Huashan; one of five sacred Taoist mountains in China and situated a two hours drive away. Why not take a day trip here on a shorter 30 minute high-speed train journey? Mount Huashan is an amazing place to immerse yourself in the ancient culture and take in spectacular natural views.