The significance of Xi'an is summed up in this saying: "If you want to see China of 100 years ago, visit Shanghai; China of 500 years ago, go to Beijing; China of 2000 years ago, come to Xi'an". Today, this ancient city is known as one of the cradles of Chinese culture, and the capital city of the first dynasty of China.

Undoubtedly Xi'an's pre-eminent historical attraction is the Terracotta Army, one of the most sensational archeological discoveries of the 20th century, and as much a symbol of China as the Great Wall or the Forbidden City. The Emperor Qin Shihuang (260-210 BC), a ruthless tyrant who was also a powerful ruler who united China for the first time, ordered the army of 8000 life-size soldiers to be built and then buried in an underground vault to protect his nearby mausoleum. The discovery of the army in 1974 shed a blinding light on the culture and military organization of Qin dynasty China, and the modern exhibition, which stands in its original location, is a remarkable monument to one of the country's most important early rulers.

Like the terracotta army, which is 40km outside the city, many of Xi'an's other attractions involve some travel. The Huaqing Hot Spring is 30 km away, but is a pleasant place to ease your cares, especially if you've been energetic enough to make the 120km trip to Huashan and then climb the 2160m (7087 ft) to its peak for the greatest view in northwest China. One of the country's five sacred mountains, Huashan is rich in religious significance, which enhances the experience of making the climb. Take a jacket, especially if you're aiming to watch the sunrise! Another 120km trip is to Famen Temple, a profoundly important Buddhist site which was the scene of important archeological discoveries in 1981, when a treasure trove of votive items was unearthed during renovation.

Closer to the center of the city lies the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant structure first built in the Tang dynasty and later renovated: it is one of the visual symbols of Xi'an, and with the relics and exhibits on display it provides fascinating insights into the early history of Xi'an. In the same complex you can also visit the Da Ci'en Temple and the North Square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda: the latter has a spectacular water fountain which draws thousands of spectators.

During the Tang Dynasty, the Xi'an City Walls protected Xi'an; today, the walls are known as one of the best-kept city walls in China with many ramps that allow anyone to admire the view of many of its surroundings including the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower. Both towers are within proximity of each other; it is recommended that travelers first visit the Bell Tower and head straight to Drum Tower. From the Drum Tower it's an easy walk to the Muslim Quarter where travelers can experience many of its traditional snacks and shop at many of the shops that dot the city. One of the greatest mosques in China is located in Xi'an, the Great Mosque of Xi'an. The mosque welcomes visitors from all religions except during prayer hours. The Mosque is known for its fusion of Islamic and Buddhist architecture and hailed as one of the best architectural sights that the city has to offer.

The Forest of Steles Museum, with its huge collection of 2300 large engraved stone tablets (steles), is a wonderful experience not just for its historical interest (there are steles dating back to the Han dynasty), but for the ancient examples of calligraphy that are on display. It is also a chance to get a personal name seal carved by an expert. The Banpo Museum also takes you on a journey into Xi'an's past, even further back to the time of the Neolithic Yangshao culture around 5000 BC.

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