Xi'an in 1 Day: Visiting the Terracotta Army

Xi'an is one of China's most historically important cities and is home to the famous Terracotta Army, considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Located around 40 km from the city centre, the complex holds thousands of life-size soldiers buried over 2,000 years ago.

Even with limited time, it is worth dedicating a full day to visiting the Terracotta Army at a relaxed pace, exploring the different halls and understanding the historical significance of this World Heritage site.

Xi'an 1-day itinerary: what to do day by day

Daily itinerary

Morning — Arrival at the complex and visit to Pit 1, the largest on the site
Afternoon — Pits 2 and 3, museum and sculpture details

Day 1 — Terracotta Army

Morning

Terracotta Army
One of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, with thousands of life-size warriors, horses and chariots. Discovered in 1974, the site was built to protect China's first emperor in the afterlife.

Panoramic view of Pit 1 of the Terracotta Army in Xi'an with thousands of warriors lined up in rows — Pit 1 — the largest in the complex, with over 6,000 warriors lined up in formation

Terracotta horses in close-up detail at the Terracotta Army site in Xi'an, China — Terracotta horses — each sculpture was crafted with unique individual details

Afternoon

Terracotta Army Museum Halls
The complex is divided into different areas, each revealing unique details about the excavation, restoration and organisation of the army. It is possible to observe up close the differences between the individual soldiers and the remarkable level of detail in the sculptures.