Xi’an has a special place in our hearts. It was the first city we visited in China long time ago. We instantly fell in love with it. The city has it all: ancient culture, historic buildings, contemporary architecture, delicious food, and warm hosts!
The best place to stay in Xi’an is close to the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter. There are other amazing areas too. The following post will help you decide which area is right for you. Ultimately, it all depends on your tastes and fancies.
The Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower, has the best location in town. If you have the money to splurge and love historic properties stay at the Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel, world class luxury. To save a bit in an unbeatable location: the Xi’an Dajing Castle Hotel. Families will love the Joke Inn, directly in front of the ancient walls!
Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter
Most of Xi’an historic sites are around the ancient Bell Tower. That’s the area in the heart of the city that includes the Drum Tower and the Muslim Quarter (Beiyuanmen and Xiyanshi Streets). You can walk everywhere and there are several metro stations that connect you to entire city.
The 14th Century towers are a sight to behold. Besides, the area is the meeting point of locals and tourists from all over china. Get lost in the Muslim’s quarter many isles and see every mosque and temple. Our favorite is the incredible Great Mosque of Xi’an.
The Best Hotels by the Bell Tower
Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower
The Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower is literally 100 feet (300 m) from the Bell Tower. There’s a metro station in front too and lots of restaurants and shops around. It’s a contemporary tower with super comfy rooms and impeccable service.
Jinmao Hotel Xi’an Downtown
We’ve stayed at the Jinmao Hotel Xi’an Downtown a couple of times and loved it. You can walk everywhere in no time. The rooms are big and comfortable. It’s got a rooftop with awesome views over the city and free laundry. The complimentary breakfast is delicious.
South Gate Area
Our second favorite area to stay in Xi’an is around the South Gate, just 20 minutes by foot to the Muslim Quarter. The 14th Century gate is the main access to the ancient city walls. It takes 4 hours to walk along the 8.5 mile long fortress! You can also bike.
The most interesting neighborhood is next to Luomashi Pedestrian Street. You can eat and shop here like a king! Don’t forget to check Beilin Museum (Xi’an Stele Forest Museum), and Shuyuanmen Pedestrian Street. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is not that far away!
The Best Hotels around the South Gate
Joke Inn
The Joke Inn is opposite the South Gate. Thus the epic views. It resembles a traditional Chinese compound. The suites are huge and elegant. If you are traveling with friends or family, book a 3 bedroom apartment!
Xi’an Dajing Castle Hotel
Considering its class and location the Xi’an Dajing Castle Hotel offers great value for money. It’s next to the gate. Their deluxe rooms have city walls views. It’s got a gym, a sauna, and a very good bar. Families or friends can book their massive apartments.
Xincheng Square
The administrative center of the region is around Xincheng Square, less than half an hour north by foot to the Bell Tower. It’s an area full of governmental buildings, residences, and luxurious historic hotels. That’s why we love it here!
You have to check Shanxi People’s Government building and the Xi’an City Peoples Stadium. You’ll see mostly locals here. We love strolling around Revolution Park, a 20 minute walk north of Xincheng Square. To eat and people watch, walk to Yongxinfang square.
The Best Hotels around Xincheng Square
Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel
Since we love historic buildings, we also stayed at the Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel and didn’t want to leave. The 1953 building is an architect’s dream! The rooms are massive and uber luxurious. We enjoyed swimming in its fantastic indoor pool!
Grand Mercure Xian On Renmin Square
The Grand Mercure Xian on Renmin Square is another historic jewel. The 1957 Sino Russian Building will take your breath away. It also has a pool and comfy rooms. It’s all a matter of budget. If the Sofitel is a bit too much for you, stay in this beauty.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is 3.8 miles (6 km) south from the Bell Tower. However, the metro connects it to the center in no time. Stay here if you are not into crowds and like green areas.
The 7th Century Pagoda is stunning and a must see. Tang Paradise Park, next to the Pagoda, will take your breath away. The park is huge and includes lakes, ruins, and the Datan Everbright City Pedestrian Street (Xintangren). Don’t forget to check the Shaanxi History Museum.
The Best Hotels around Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
HUALUXE Xi’an Tanghua, an IHG Hotel
The Hualuxe Xi’an Tanghua Hotel is in the middle of a green oasis. The hotel resembles a traditional Chinese village and has splendid gardens, trees, and a lovely lake. We even saw peacocks. It’s full of art. If you need to rest, stay here.
The Westin Xi’an
If you are into art, stay at The Westin Xi’an. The luxurious property has its own private museum with more than 2000 Chinese artifacts! It’s got a spa and an indoor pool. Book an executive club level room for unforgettable views of the pagoda and extra perks.
How Many Days in Xi’an
There’s so much to see and do in Xi’an that you can stay for weeks. We stayed once for 10 days and never had a dull moment. That said, we all have time constrains and a huge world to discover, so we believe you should stay at least 3 days.
You need 2 days to see the city. Granted, you will have to rush a bit. Your third day should be spent checking out the unbelievable Terracotta Warriors. Spend one extra day back in the city to intake the vibe. Xi’an is magical!
