Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors & the Silk Road

Xi’an is where the Silk Road began, and its sights carry that weight. We visit the Terracotta Army with a specialist guide, timing the visit to avoid the largest tour groups.

Back in the city, we cycle the Ming city wall, wander the Muslim Quarter’s food streets and visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Evenings are free for soup dumplings, biang biang noodles and the night market.

Four days is enough for a rich first look at Shaanxi history without rushing — ideal as part of a longer China journey.