Travel to Xi’an in Summer – Weather, Things to Do & More

When traveling to Xi’an in summer, two biggest concerns for most people are the intense heat and peak crowds. But with proper preparation and a well-arranged itinerary, you can still enjoy a successful and memorable trip in this season. The key is to follow the basic rule of “early-out, noon-in, late-out” and plan your visit in early June if time permits. In this way, summer is also a good time for a Xi’an tour.

In this article, we’ll help you get the most from your trip to Xi’an in summer. Weather features, things to do (how to beat the heat), and practical Xi’an travel tips are all included.

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• Xian Weather in Summer
• Top Places and Best Things to Do
• What and Where to Eat
• How to Plan a Summer Trip
• Travel Tips
• Travel with China Xian Tour
• FAQs

Xi’an Weather in Summer – June, July, and August

Xi’an summer runs from June to August, when temperatures average at around 26-27.5℃, with highs over 33℃ being quite common. Generally, Xi’an weather in summer is characterized by harsh, hot, and humid, especially in the middle of summer.

Months	June	July	August
High Temperature(°C)	31	35	31
Low Temperature(°C)	18	22	21
Average rainy days	9	10	9
Average AQI	66	55	76
Features	Temperatures begin to rise, but are basically moderate. The temperature difference between day and night is still significant. Rainy days gradually rise.	This hottest month marks the peak of summer with scorching heat at noon and a low temperature difference. The weather is hot and humid.	The high heat and humidity continue. The temperature difference between day and night may increase noticeably

What to Wear in Xian in Summer

Clothing: breathable and light clothes, such as short-sleeve shirts, tank tops, sleeveless tops, shorts, and skirts. Sun-protective clothing is also a must for outdoor activities. Pack a light long-sleeved shirt or light jacket for the cool early summer evenings and air-conditioned indoor attractions.

Shoes: Breathable sneakers or comfortable sandals will also elevate your travel experience in summer.

Sun protection items: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Top Places to Go and Best Things to Do in Xi’an in Summer

Keep in mind that summer in Xi’an is always hot. To get the most out of your summer visit to Xi’an, plan your outdoor activities for early morning and late evening, when the weather is relatively cooler. Fill your middays with some museums and indoor venues to escape the heat.

Follow a Professional Guide to Terracotta Warriors and Horses

• Location: in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province; about 40 kilometers (24.9 miles) northeast of Xi’an downtown
• Ticket: CNY 120 all year round

Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Terracotta Army offers a window for worldwide tourists to understand ancient Chinese history and civilization during the Qin Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses nearly 8,000 live-sized terracotta figures, horses, and bronze weapons. Here, you can vividly experience the military power and artistic achievements from over 2,000 years ago. Following a professional guide, you can listen to the story behind the creation of this underground army, and learn about the unique facial features, hairstyles, and clothing details of each figure.

Since the Terracotta Army is located underground in indoor spaces, you don’t need to worry about long exposure to sunlight during a summer visit. However, please note that Pit 1 does not have air conditioning and can still get stuffy in summer.

Good to Know:

• To arrive at the site before 8 am is the best way to escape large crowds during summer vacation. >>Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors
• Remember to book the Terracotta Army Ticket in advance to avoid limited availability, especially during peak tourist months.

Visit Museums in Xi’an

The intense sun and high temperatures in summer can quickly lead to discomfort and dehydration. Luckily, there are a lot of indoor museums in Xi’an where you can escape the summer heat and immerse yourself in Chinese history and culture. All the museums are equipped with air conditioning to ensure you a cool exploration.

• Shaanxi History Museum: The first large-scale modern national museum in China, boasting an 11,000-square-meter exhibition space and over 1.7 million artifacts spanning a time frame of over one million years.
• Xi’an Museum: The museum is next to Small Wilde Goose Pagoda, in an ancient Chinese-style garden. The museum collects 130 thousand historical relics from the Zhou, the Qin, the Han, and the Tang Dynasties.
• Hanyangling Museum: The Yangling Mausoleum of the Han Dynasty is the burial place of the fourth emperor of the Western Han Dynasty, and his wife. The mausoleum comprises the Emperor and Empress’ graveyards, southern and northern burial pits, ritual buildings, accompanying tombs, criminal graveyards, and Yangling Town.
• Banpo Museum: A pioneering museum dedicated to the prehistoric period in China.
• Forest of Stone Steles Museum: Housing more than 11,000 cultural relics of steles and stone carvings.

Enjoy the Night Markets and Bars in Xian

The many night markets are where you can gain an in-depth experience of Xi’an’s daily life. These night markets are food lover’s paradise, overflowing with a diverse selection of Shaanxi specialties. Scattered among the many food stalls are a wide variety of handicrafts, such as paper-cutting, handwoven items, Chinese paintings, and calligraphy. These unique crafts offer a look into China’s folk art and intangible cultural heritage. Some of the most popular night markets in Xian include:

• Muslim Quarter: The top recommended place to savor authentic Xi’an food and Halal food.
• Yongxingfang: Featuring traditional food from all over Shaanxi Province.

For those who want a more energetic evening, it’s highly recommended to relax yourself in many bars and clubs. Defu Alley in Beilin District is the top place to explore some of the best bars in Xi’an. With no more than 200 meters, this alleyway is densely packed with charming bars, tea houses, and cafes, featuring ancient-style architecture and a cozy ambiance.

Watch Tang Dynasty Shows

As the capital of 13 dynasties in ancient China, Xi’an was once one of the world’s cultural hubs during the Tang Dynasty. The splendid culture of the Tang Dynasty is preserved in many historical records, folk legends, and poetries. Based on these artworks, the many Tang Dynasty operas and dance performances will introduce you to the social customs, ancient etiquette, music, dance, and other cultures during that glorious period. Most shows combine historical records and poetry with skilled musical instrument performances, singing, dancing, and gorgeous costumes, offering the audience a visual and spiritual feast. Top places to enjoy the Tang Dynasty show at night include:

• Tang Dynasty Palace: The Empress of the Great Tang, lasts for 2.5 hours (18:00-19:30 for dinner ; 19:30-20:30 for Tang Dynasty Show)
• Shaanxi Grand Opera House: Tang-style song and dance performance (Dinner Time: 18:30-19:50; Show Time: 20:00-21:10)
• Huaqing Hot Spring: the Song of Everlasting Sorrow (First session: 20:10-21:20; Second session: 21:40-22:50)

Have a Night Tour around the Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a symbolic landmark of Xi’an, and when illuminated in the evening, it presents a more picturesque scene. Take a leisurely stroll around its North Square, and you can witness the largest musical fountain show in Asia. The water displays synchronized with the music and enhanced by the colorful lights create a vibrant combination of sound and light.

Move on to the South Square, and you will reach the bustling Great Tang All Day Mall. The many Tang Dynasty-style sculptures and architecture, along with captivating street art and performances, will transport you back to the golden era during the Tang Dynasty.

Cycle atop the Ancient City Wall in the Morning or Evening

• Location: In the Xi ‘an city center. There are many city gates, Yongning Gate is the main gate for tourists to visit (No. 2 Beilin South Street)
• Ticket: CNY54 per adult
• Cost for Bike Rental: CNY 45-90 (3 hours)

As one of the best things to do in Xi’an, no one wants to miss cycling atop the Ancient City Wall during their Xi’an travel. Cycling around the wall will take about 1.5-2 hours. To avoid the intense sunlight and hot temperatures at midday, it’s recommended to ascend the wall at around 8 AM or after 6 PM when the temperature gets cooler. If you cycle after 6 PM, you will be rewarded with a stunning city nightscape when the lights illuminate the surroundings.

Enjoy Nightscapes around the Bell and Drum Towers

Both Bell and Drum Towers once served as timekeeping structures in ancient times. Now, as the heart and iconic landmark of Xi’an, they attract numerous visitors with their elegant architecture and dramatic contrast with the surrounding modern cityscape. The night views here are especially captivating. When the towers’ lights illuminate, they show a perfect harmony with the surrounding vehicle headlights and streetlights.

What and Where to Eat in Xi’an in Summer

• What to eat:

Liangpi (Cold Noodles): One of the most popular and classic summer food in Xi’an. It captivates people with its tangy and spicy flavors and is served as a cold meal.

Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger): a popular snack that can be enjoyed year-round. However, when summer comes, vendors will often serve it in a lighter and less greasy version.

Cool zongzi with honey: Cold zongzi is drizzled with honey and tastes sweet, sticky and glutinous.

Syrup of plum: A cool drink with a sweet and sour flavor. Some stalls offer freshly boiled or chilled syrup of plum.

Chinese noodle jelly: The noodle jelly is paired with cold fermented sour soup. It instantly refreshes your taste and cuts through the summer heat.

Paomo and skewers: Both are ideal dinner options. Paomo features a rich, clear mutton soup that is tasty but not greasy and is always paired with pickled sweet garlic to balance the flavor. What makes it truly special is the hands-on ritual. Diners need to tear a dense wheat bun into tiny pieces, which the chef then soaks in the soup. Local skewers are typically seasoned with cumin, chili powder and salt.

• Where to eat:

Muslim Quarter and Yongxingfang are the most famous food streets in Xi’an. Muslim Quarter mainly offers local snacks and dishes, while Yongxingfang gathers food from all over Shaanxi Province. In Muslim Quarter, it is advised to dig into the side alleys and discover restaurants preferred by the locals.

How to Plan a Summer Trip in Xian

For a comfortable summer trip in Xi’an, it is advised to arrange more outdoor activities in the morning and evening and duck into indoor sites, like the museums, malls, and restaurants, to steer clear of the midday heat. Below is the detailed day-by-day itinerary for a 3-day summer trip.

Day 1:

07:30 – 11:00: Terracotta Army

11:00 – 15:00: return to the downtown area for a lunch in a shopping mall and have a short rest in the hotel

16:30 – 21:00: Bell Tower and Drum Tower, enjoy a dinner in Muslim Quarter

Day 2:

07:30 – 11:00: Xi’an Museum + Small Wild Goose Pagoda

11:00 – 15:00: Xi’an Beilin Museum and Shuyuanmen Street

16:30 – 21:00: Enjoy a Tang Dynasty Show

Day 3:

07:30 – 11:00: Cycle atop Xi’an Ancient City Wall

11:00 – 15:00: Enjoy lunch and have a short rest in the hotel

16:00 – 21:00: Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Datang Everbright City

Xian Summer Travel Tips

• As for the best time in summer, early June and late August with relatively cooler weather and fewer crowds are more suitable to enjoy the highlights of Xi’an at a moderate pace.
• Avoid longtime outdoor activities during the warmest hours in hot midday. Go sightseeing early in the morning or evening to escape the crowds and heat.
• Bring very light and breathable clothes to allow you stay as fresh as possible.
• Book attraction tickets in advance wherever possible to avoid long queues or tickets selling out.
• To avoid walking outside during the hottest hours, taking the subway is the most efficient and comfortable choice. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also widely-chosen.
• Choose accommodations along the subway lines for convenient transportation. Areas near Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Muslim Quarter, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda are all ideal choices.
• If you are uninterested in the interior artifacts, just simply enjoy the architecture of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Drum and Bell Towers from outside for free.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to stay protected.

Plan Your Xian Summer Tour with China Xian Tour

Based in Xian, we are real Xian experts who can offer the insiders’ travel tips and advice. No matter you want an in-depth cultural exploration, escape the crowds of some popular attractions, our professional travel consultants and local guide will arrange the itinerary accordingly. With China Xian Tour, you can expect a real hassle-free journey. From planing your itinerary, to tickets booking, land transportation, and other logistics, we will take care of every step of your journey.

FAQs about Visiting Xi’an in Summer

Should I be concerned about the rainy season when planning my summer trip?

Yes. June to August is Xi’an’s rainy season. And usually the rain will just come as short, heavy bursts, which won’t last for an entire day. But still, don’t forget to prepare your umbrella or raincoat.

Do I need a jacket or long sleeves for the summer evenings?

Mostly no, but pack one can be useful. For example, it is possible for you to feel cold when visiting places with strong air conditioning (like shopping malls).

What are the best indoor activities to escape the midday heat?

Visiting museums like Shaanxi History Museum is a good idea. And except for that, you can also choose to spend some time in Xi’an’s modern shopping malls. Shopping, enjoying food courts and cinemas are all recommended.

Are there many vendors selling cold water and drinks near the attractions?

Yes. Major attractions would all have stalls and small shops selling bottled drinks, however, prices inside attractions may be higher. It’s better to bring your own bottle or buy water outside the sites.