Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 144 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 22 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses worth booking?
Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses is a 14-hour experience in Shanghai, China, from $810 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 22 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 144 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 55 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (22)
- Duration
- 14 hours
- From
- $810 per person
While you’re in Shanghai, take a day trip to Xi’an, famous as one of the birthplaces of ancient Chinese civilization. You’ll learn about the history of the Chinese dynasties that rose and fell in Shaanxi Province, and vi
What you get
- English-speaking tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Round-trip airfare and airport taxes
- Round way airport transfer services in Shanghai and Xi'An
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
About this experience
While you’re in Shanghai, take a day trip to Xi’an, famous as one of the birthplaces of ancient Chinese civilization. You’ll learn about the history of the Chinese dynasties that rose and fell in Shaanxi Province, and visit the famous 2,000-year old Army of Terracotta Warriors, one of the most spectacular archaeological excavations of the 20th century. Then take a walk on the city walls of Xi’an, built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644).
What's included
Included
- English-speaking tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Round-trip airfare and airport taxes
- Round way airport transfer services in Shanghai and Xi'An
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission tickets
Not included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Pudong International Airport
You will be picked up from your Shanghai hotels, and transferred to Pudong Airport or Hongqiao Airport, ten take the airplane for Xi'An.
60 minutes here
You will be picked up from your Shanghai hotels, and transferred to Pudong Airport or Hongqiao Airport, then take the airplane for Xi'An.
60 minutes here
The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses
Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses are the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. Work is ongoing at this site, which is around 1.5 kilometers east of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum. It is a sight not to be missed by any visitor to China. Upon ascending the throne at the age of 13 (in 246 BC), Qin Shi Huang, later the first Emperor of all China, had begun to work for his mausoleum. It took 11 years to finish. It is speculated that many buried treasures and sacrificial objects had accompanied the emperor in his after life. The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses is a sensational archeological find of all times. It was listed by UNESCO as one of the world cultural heritages.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Xi'an City Wall
The City Wall adorned with a moat and the circular park, the wall surrounds the square inner city of Xi’An. It is the most complete city wall to survive in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world, built first in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and renovated in recent years.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- cmn, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Hantang International Travel Service
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please provide the full names shown on the passport and passport number upon reconfirmation in order to issue the air tickets
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 22 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Pace and timing
6 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
22 verified traveler reviews for Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Thanks, Carrie Zhang for experiencing Beautiful Xian- Subrata and Shamita Dey
We arrived at Xian from Beijing by high speed train. We had two enjoyable days in the Terracotta Warrior City. Carrie Zhang, our tour advisor assigned an outstanding tour guide, Jenny Zhang. From pick up at the platform where she organized a porter to meet us, That removed our stress about arriving and departing on our own. One busy. One relaxing. It was an excellent balance. The first day we were busy with our itinerary ( taking a stroll at the market, City wall and doing some fun activities with the seniors at the park) and try our hand at sculpting miniature warrior with host's guidance. Fun filled and Wonderful experience. She also recommended, and then secured us tickets to, Xi’an The Silk Road Camel Bell Show. This was a terrific performance and addition to our day. No dialogue required to follow the story. Her recommendation was spot on. Our second day was just what we needed at this point in our trip - relaxing and peaceful. Great job to put together an itinerary where we could able to see the important things and relax. Carrie Zhang as a tour advisor showed a strong organization skill so that we , tourists not only enjoy our time but at the same time stress free. Assigned tour guide was excellent and kept us happy all the time. Great job Carrie Zhang. Hope to go back there in near future. Date of experience: March 2026
via Tripadvisor
A worth place to visit
XIAN is very beautiful place. It should truly be visited. The places here are far off from each other it almost takes 1 hour from every place to reach other place. You have here so many places to visit. There is famous temple here and along with it you have so many other beautiful places to visit.
via Tripadvisor
Worth every penny!
OK - like everyone points out, this is a long day! I was picked up at my hotel at 4:30 am by an English fluent man with my name on a sign. He delivered me right to the security checkpoint at the Shanghai airport. Upon arrival in Xi'an, a different young man met me at the baggage area of the airport and we eventually drove to the Terra Cotta Warriors. Before stopping at the actual site, we first stopped at a tourist ship selling replica warriors ranging from 4" tall to life size. Every other kind of handicraft was also available, including jade, lacquer furniture, wood carvings etc. This was actually nice to see such an assortment and get the shopping out of the way early - you will not see a better selection anywhere else, so shop first! The guide was very helpful, instructive and enthusiastic throughout the day, offering helpful information and periodic 'free time' throughout the site. After the site visit, we went for a good lunch at the nearby commercial area catering to tourists leaving the site. At the conclusion I enjoyed a tea ceremony, which again was followed up with a sales pitch for loose leaf tea, tea pets, mugs, etc. Next stop was either the Wild Goose Pagoda or city wall....I elected to see the pagoda which was not disappointing (reviewed separately). I was then shuttled to the airport where I waited to catch the return flight to Shanghai and made it back without incident. My same driver from the morning (no English) greeted me at the airport and got me back to the hotel without issue. All in, it was about 20 hours of travelling but completely worth it. I would recommend this tour group to friends and colleagues visiting Shanghai in the future.
via Tripadvisor
It was a privelege to have been...
<p>It was a privelege to have been given the opportunity to do this tour. The driver arrived just before 5.30 am at my hotel to whisk me to Pudong airport. The tour guide, Maggie, met me two and a half hours later in Xi'an. I immediately felt comfortable in her presence. Her command of English was very good. The driver was less approachable though. We made an initial stop at a factory that made Warriors. I was shown the process by a different guide and was given the opportunity to buy a photo. There were other items on sale too. After an interesting tea ceremony of which three could be tasted free of charge, we left for the Terracota Warrior 'Museums'. On arrival, we had lunch which was actually very good and there was plenty of it. Our next stop was the highlight of the day - the three pits of warriors and the bronze museum. All were very interesting in their own ways. The area is extensive and requires significant walking. It was 31 degrees the day I was there. Don't expect to see all the pits full of warriors. Only one has around a third visible to the public. The rest have not even been excavated yet. The bronze museum is excellent with several key pieces in cabinets. I bought souvenirs in the museum shop which were of a high quality. Unfortunately the time allocated here was all too little. We proceeded to a pergola and calligraphy lesson which were amazing. These were not included in the price of the tour. I believe I paid for both myself and the guide too. After scaling the city walls in Xi'an in very high temperatures for a short time at my request, we ate dinner in a local restaurant which was a superb taste. Bizarrely, this again was not included in the price of the tour. <br/> At around 7.30 it was time to head back to the airport. Maggie left us after giving a day of great commentary and good fun. Despite being booked by the agent on the last flight back to Shanghai and with an hour and a quarter delay, the driver in Pudong airport turned out at 1.30 am to see me safely back to my hotel. He went above and beyond the call.<br/> This was an expensive one on one tour and is a one off. The long day was not an issue due to how much was experienced. I wouldn't have missed seeing the Terracota warriors though for anything. It was the highlight of my two weeks in Shanghai. I thoroughly recommend this if you want to see what has been described as the next 'wonder of the world'.</p>
via Viator
As others have stated, it is a long...
<p>As others have stated, it is a long day. They picked you up very early, in my case 4:50 am and dropped you off at my hotel after midnight. <br/> When they picked you up from your hotel, they give you your airline tickets and info on who will meet you in Xi'an. The departure time is a bit stressful as it does not give you much time at the airport in Shanghai. I literally got to the gate as they were calling to board the plane. So maybe a pick up of 4:30 would be better. My guide in Xi'an, Lucy, was great. Our first stop was store selling clay warriors. Interesting place. Some of you may be turn off by the idea but I would suggest you go. No need to buy anything but a great place to take picture with the replica warrior as you will have to pay extra at the site. I had lunch and they we visited the famous Army of Terracotta Warriors. As it was off season, it was easy to walk around the pits. There are 3 pits and the most impressive pit is the first one and it has a lot of different warriors. <br/> the Xian city walls was also interesting. I wanted to ride the bike around the wall but the smog in the city was really bad so I only walked a bit.<br/> The muslin market was interesting as well. Tried a few sweets and they were great. I was drop off at the airport in Xi with plenty of time to get something to eat. I got back to my hotel around 12:30 AM. All in all a good day trip. It was well organize and my guide in Xi'an was great</p>
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 14 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 144h before
- Minimum age to book
- 12+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $810 to $1100
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 8
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 55
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Shanghai.
How much does Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses cost?
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Prices start at $810 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Shanghai usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses take?
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Plan for about 14 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Shanghai is not rushed.
Is Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 22 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Shanghai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 144 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 12. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 14-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses?
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Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Shanghai can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Shanghai and add a light layer if any part of the 14-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Xi'an in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air - Terra-Cotta Warriorrs & Horses start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Shanghai within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Shanghai?
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On Outty we rank every Shanghai experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights, Suzhou Private Day Trip from Shanghai with Bullet Train Option, 4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Shanghai?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Shanghai?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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