The Most Comfortable Way to Explore the Xi'an City Wall

🌈A trip to Xi'an isn't complete without a visit to the City Wall! I've circled the wall twice, once on foot and once by bike. This time, renting a bike was much easier. Here's my guide to the most comfortable way to explore the Xi'an City Wall. 👏The Xi'an City Wall is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China, and a must-see attraction in Xi'an. Located in the city center, it encloses what locals call the old city, with the famous Bell Tower and Drum Tower at its heart. 🎫Tickets to the Xi'an City Wall cost 54 yuan. You can book in advance through official channels, or buy tickets on-site during the off-season. The wall is generally open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. 🚴‍♀️You can explore the wall on foot, by bike, or by sightseeing bus. Walking takes about 4–5 hrs, while cycling takes about 2.5 hrs. I recommend renting a bike, as it's less tiring than walking and allows you to stop and take photos whenever you like. Bike rentals are available at each gate after you enter, making it very convenient. Prices: Single bike 45 yuan/3 hrs, tandem bike 90 yuan/3 hrs. 🌇Yongning Gate (South Gate): This is the most recommended and most popular gate, offering the best photo opportunities, especially at sunset! Changle Gate (East Gate), Anding Gate (West Gate), Anyuan Gate (North Gate): The North Gate is great if you have a drone, as it's a good spot to take off and capture the central axis. 👍Recommended Routes: 1. Classic Route: Start at the South Gate and take photos around the area for about 30 mins. Ideal for visitors with limited time. 2. In-depth Experience: Start at the South Gate and go clockwise: Yongning Gate (South Gate) → Anding Gate (West Gate) → Anyuan Gate (North Gate) → Changle Gate (East Gate) → Yongning Gate (South Gate). This is the route I chose. I started in the early afternoon, cycling and taking photos, and caught a beautiful sunset silhouette in the evening. 📷Photo Spots: Bell Tower and Drum Tower: These iconic buildings in the heart of the old city offer a unique perspective from the city wall. Other spots include the South Gate suspension bridge, arrow towers, corner towers, and panoramic viewpoints. You can also rent traditional costumes for photos on the wall.