How to Get from Xi’an Xianyang Airport to City Center

The moment I landed at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, my first impression was that it’s spacious, modern, and very well-organised. It didn’t feel too chaotic despite being one of the busiest airports in western China. After picking up my luggage, the main question crossed my mind: “What’s the best way to get into the city without spending too much?”

Luckily, Xi’an makes it quite convenient for travellers. The airport is about 40 kilometres from the city centre, and there are several transport options depending on your budget and preference. You can hop on the metro, take an airport shuttle bus, grab a taxi, or use ride-hailing apps. Some choices are cheap, some are faster, and others give you a good balance of comfort and price.

Here’s a simple guide to the best ways of getting from Xi’an Airport to the city centre — especially handy if you’re a Malaysian traveller like me who prefers something straightforward and hassle-free.

Best Ways to Get from Xi’an Airport to City

🚆 By Metro – Getting from Xi’an Airport to City

Source: Eastchinatrip

Taking the metro from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is one of the most affordable and reliable ways to reach the city centre. While the airport is located about 40 km outside Xi’an, Line 14 conveniently connects the airport to the North Railway Station, where you can transfer to Line 2 and head straight into downtown.

🛤️ Train Line

Line 14 + Line 2 (Recommended)
From the airport, hop on Metro Line 14 directly to Beikezhan (Xi’an North Railway Station). Here, transfer to Line 2, which takes you into the city centre. Major stops include Bell Tower, Yongningmen (South Gate), and Xiaozhai, making it easy to reach key attractions.

📍 Route & Key Stops

Airport T3 → Airport T2 → Beikezhan (North Railway Station, transfer to Line 2) → Bell Tower → Yongningmen → Xiaozhai.

🕒 Operating Hours

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

🚩 Tip: If you’re planning a full day of sightseeing around Xi’an, a Metro Day Pass (¥15 / about RM10) is worth it — unlimited rides within 24 hours.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

✅ Great for: solo travellers, backpackers, and budget-conscious Malaysians.
✅ Benefits:

• Very cheap and reliable.
• Easy transfers to reach major landmarks like the Bell Tower and Muslim Quarter.
• Good for light travellers with small luggage.

⚠️ Watch Out For

• The journey takes about 60–70 minutes with the transfer, so it’s not the fastest option.
• Peak hours (8–9 AM, 5–7 PM) can get very crowded.
• If you arrive late at night after the metro closes, it’s better to take a taxi, Didi, or pre-booked transfer.

🚌 By Airport Bus – Getting from Xi’an Airport to City

Source: Xian Private Tours

If you want something simple and budget-friendly, the Xi’an Airport Shuttle Bus is a good option. It runs directly from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) to different parts of the city, including the main railway stations and some big hotels. For me as a Malaysian traveller, it felt like a fuss-free choice — just hop on, pay, and you’re on your way.

📍 Route & Key Stops

The airport buses operate on several fixed routes into downtown Xi’an. Here are the most common ones:

🚩 Tip: If your hotel is near the Bell Tower or the Muslim Quarter, taking the shuttle to Bell Tower or South Gate will drop you within walking distance.

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

👍 Pros & Ideal Travellers

✅ Perfect for: budget travellers, solo travellers, and families with luggage.
✅ Benefits:

• Direct routes to key areas without transfers.
• More comfortable and straightforward compared to public buses.
• A good middle-ground between price and convenience.

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Travel time can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.
• If your flight lands very late at night, check the last bus schedule — in that case, a taxi, Didi, or private transfer might be better.

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing – Getting from Xi’an Airport to City

Source: China Xian Tour

If you prefer a direct and fuss-free way to get into Xi’an, taking a taxi or booking a ride through Didi is the most convenient option. Since the airport is about 40 km from the city centre, this choice saves you the hassle of transfers, especially if you’re carrying luggage.

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

• Official Taxi Stands: Located just outside the arrival halls at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY). Follow the signs for “Taxi 出租车” and queue at the designated stands.
• Ride-Hailing (Didi in China): Download the Didi app before your trip. It accepts foreign credit cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay, so you don’t need to worry about cash.

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

• Taxi: Around ¥120–150 (about RM80–100) to downtown Xi’an, including areas like the Bell Tower or South Gate.
• Didi: Prices are similar, and you’ll see the fare upfront in the app.

🕒 Duration & Traffic Considerations

The journey takes about 40–60 minutes under normal conditions. During peak hours (8–9 AM and 5–7 PM), it may take closer to 70 minutes.

🧳 Who It’s Best For

• Families travelling with children.
• Travellers with heavy or multiple pieces of luggage.
• Late-night arrivals when the metro and shuttle buses are no longer running.
• First-time visitors to Xi’an who prefer a straightforward ride into the city.

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Avoid touts or unlicensed drivers who may approach you inside the terminal. Always use the official taxi stand.
• If you book through Didi, double-check the driver’s car plate number before getting in.

🚗 By Private Airport Transfer – Getting from Xi’an Airport to City

Source: Travel's Universe

If you want a completely stress-free and comfortable way to get from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) straight to your hotel, a private transfer is the best choice. The driver will meet you at the arrivals hall with a name sign, help with your luggage, and take you directly to your accommodation in the city without any fuss.

🕒 Duration & Availability

• Travel Time: About 40–60 minutes to reach downtown Xi’an under normal traffic. During rush hours, it can take closer to 70 minutes.
• Availability: 24/7, making it ideal if your flight lands late at night or very early in the morning when public transport is limited.

💸 Cost

• Average Fare: ¥200–300 (about RM135–200), depending on the vehicle type and distance to your hotel.

👍 Perks

• Hassle-free door-to-door service.
• Fixed and transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
• Great for families, groups, or travellers with heavy luggage.
• Extra peace of mind if it’s your first trip to Xi’an.

⚠️ Considerations

• More expensive compared to taxis, metro, or shuttle buses.
• Usually requires advance booking (12–24 hours) through a travel platform or agent.

🚘 By Car Rental – Getting from Xi’an Airport to City

Source: China Xian Tour

Renting a car from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) gives you the freedom to explore not only Xi’an itself but also the wider Shaanxi region. With a car, you can easily plan day trips to famous sites like the Terracotta Army, Mount Hua (Huashan), or even smaller ancient towns around the province.

Available From

• Car rental counters can be found in the Arrival Hall or at the Car Rental Centre.
• Online pre-booking through platforms like Trip.com is highly recommended for smoother pickup and guaranteed availability.

🕒 Duration & Availability

• Travel Time to City Centre: Around 40–60 minutes under normal traffic, but it may take longer during peak hours.
• Availability: Most providers operate 24/7 for both pickup and return.

💸 Cost

• From ¥250–350/day (about RM170–240+).
• Extra costs include fuel, tolls, parking fees, and a refundable deposit.

👍 Perks

• Perfect for long stays, family holidays, or road trips.
• Full privacy and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Convenient if you plan to go beyond Xi’an city, such as to Huashan or other heritage sites.

⚠️ Things to Note

• A valid Chinese driving licence is required (foreign licences and IDPs are not accepted in China).
• Traffic in central Xi’an can be busy, especially near the Bell Tower and popular tourist spots.
• Best suited if you’re confident driving in China and plan to travel outside the city.

Which Option is Best for You?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

Best options: Taxi or private airport transfer
Both are the most convenient choices, offering door-to-door service with enough space for strollers and luggage. Some private transfers even allow you to request a child seat in advance for extra comfort and safety.

💸 Budget Travellers

Best options: Airport shuttle bus or metro (Line 14 + Line 2)
These are cheap, reliable, and easy to use. They’re perfect if you’re travelling light and don’t mind a slightly longer journey into the city.

🚄 Solo / Business Travellers

Best option: Metro (Line 14 + Line 2)
The metro is fast, air-conditioned, and takes you directly to central areas like the Bell Tower and South Gate. It’s a practical option if you want to avoid traffic and reach downtown efficiently.

🌙 Late-night Arrivals

Best options: Taxi, Didi ride-hailing, or private transfer
These are available 24/7, which is great if your flight lands after midnight when the metro and airport buses are no longer running.

🛣️ Road Trippers

Best option: Car rental
A solid choice if you plan to explore beyond Xi’an itself. With your own car, you can easily visit the Terracotta Army, Mount Hua (Huashan), or even smaller ancient towns in Shaanxi province.