1. Train – Beijing to Xi’an
2. Flight – Beijing to Xi’an
3. Bus – Beijing to Xi’an
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High-speed train
Fastest and most convenient option, runs frequently between cities
High-speed train (G-class)
Modern trains with high comfort and smooth ride
Overnight train
Cheaper option with sleeper beds, saves a hotel night
Flight
Longer overall due to airports and transfers
Quick answer: If you’re traveling from Beijing to Xi’an, you have two great choices: the high-speed train or a direct flight. The train offers excellent value and city-centre to city-centre convenience (~4.5-6 hours), while the flight is the fastest (~2-2.5 hours) but involves airport transfers.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: approximately ~900 km by air | ~1,100 km by rail/land
- ⏱️ Travel time: ~2-2.5 hours (flight) | ~4.5-6 hours (high-speed train)
- 💰 Price range: Flight from ~US$60-350 per person | Train from ~US$25-145 per person
- 🚆 Best for value & city-centre convenience: High-speed train from Beijing West → Xi’an North
- ✈️ Best for speed: Direct flight from Beijing (Capital or Daxing) → Xi’an Xianyang Airport
Last updated in March 2026
From Beijing to Xi’an you can travel by high-speed train, plane, or bus.
Traveling from Beijing to Xi’an is easy thanks to frequent high-speed trains, direct flights, and long-distance buses. Most travelers choose the high-speed train, which takes about 4.5–6 hours and offers a comfortable city-center to city-center journey.
Direct flights are the fastest option, taking around 2–2.5 hours, while regular trains and buses are slower but can be cheaper. You can book train tickets or flights online before your trip using the search tool below.
Xi’an is one of China’s oldest and most fascinating cities.
Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, is famous for the Terracotta Army, the Ancient City Wall, and its role as the starting point of the Silk Road. It is one of China’s most visited historical destinations.
The city is well connected to Beijing by high-speed trains and daily direct flights, making travel quick and convenient. If you have enough time, the high-speed train is usually the best choice for comfort and value. From Beijing you can also travel to Shanghai.
| Transfer Mode – Beijing to Xi’an: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane – Direct Flight | 2-2.5 hours | $60-350/pp |
| Train | 4.5-13.5 hours | $25-145/pp |
| Bus | 13 hours | N/A |
How do I get from Beijing to Xi’an?
👉 High-speed train is a fast and efficient way from Beijing to Xi’an.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want a quick and reliable city-to-city transfer
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4.5–6 hours (high-speed) or ~13–15 hours (regular trains)
- ✔️ Cost: $22–250 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (modern high-speed trains with multiple seating classes)
- ✅ Best Option: High-speed G or D trains with 2nd or 1st class seating
- 💡 Tip: Avoid long journeys on hard seats and book tickets in advance.
1. TRAINS from Beijing to Xi’an
Traveling by train is the most popular way to get from Beijing to Xi’an. Modern high-speed G and D trains operated by China Railway connect both cities in about 4.5–6 hours, offering comfortable seats, air-conditioning, onboard toilets, food service, and plenty of daily departures.
You can also travel by slower T or Z trains with hard seats and sleeper berths. These trains take about 13.5 hours but are a cheaper alternative for budget travelers.
Train tickets from Beijing to Xi’an cost about $22–250 per person, depending on the train type and seat class. Second Class is the best value for most travelers, while Business Class offers the highest level of comfort.
All trains depart from Beijing West Railway Station and arrive at Xi’an Railway Station, Xi’an North, or Xi’an South.
Book train tickets from Beijing to Xi’an online ➜
A valid passport or other accepted travel document is required for both ticket booking and boarding in China.
2. FLIGHTS from Beijing to Xi’an
👉 Flights are a quick and convenient option from Beijing to Xi’an.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who prefer shorter travel time and air connections
- ✔️ Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours (nonstop)
- ✔️ Cost: $60–300 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (frequent flights with various airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: Direct flights with major carriers like Air China or China Eastern
- 💡 Tip: Check airport transfers in Xi’an and compare departure airports in Beijing.
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Beijing to Xi’an. Direct flights operate every day and take about 2–2.5 hours, making this the best option if you are short on time.
Several airlines serve this route, including China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Hainan Airlines, and Shenzhen Airlines. One-way flights usually cost between $60–300 per person, depending on the season and booking date.
Flights depart from Beijing Capital Airport or Beijing Daxing Airport and arrive at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. From the airport, you can reach the city center by shuttle bus or taxi.
Book your direct flight from Beijing to Xi’an online via 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
3. BUS from Beijing to Xi’an
Traveling by bus from Beijing to Xi’an is possible, but it is the least comfortable option for this long journey. Buses depart from Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station and travel about 1,100 km.
The journey takes approximately 12–13 hours. Bus tickets are usually the cheapest option, making them suitable for budget travelers with flexible schedules.
For most visitors, the high-speed G or D train is a much better choice. It is significantly faster, more comfortable, and offers frequent departures throughout the day.
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Beijing to Xi’an
How to book tickets or flights from Beijing to Xi’an?
How long does it take to travel from Beijing to Xi’an?
Direct flights take about 2–2.5 hours. High-speed trains take 4.5–6.5 hours, while slower trains and buses can take up to 13 hours.
What is the distance from Beijing to Xi’an?
The route is about 1,100 km by train or bus. A direct flight covers roughly 900 km.
How much does it cost to travel from Beijing to Xi’an?
Train tickets cost about $25–145 per person. Direct flights usually range from $60–350, depending on the season.
What is the fastest way to get from Beijing to Xi’an?
A direct flight is the fastest option, taking around 2–2.5 hours. Flights operate daily between both cities.
How to get from Xi’an Airport to the city center?
Airport shuttle buses reach downtown Xi’an in about 1 hour. Taxis are also available 24/7.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Beijing to Xi’an?
Regular China Railways trains offer the lowest fares. Hard-seat tickets start at about $25 per person.
Which train should you choose from Beijing to Xi’an?
High-speed G trains are the best choice for tourists. Second Class provides the best balance of comfort and price.
What is the most expensive train option?
Business Class on G trains is the most expensive option, with tickets costing around $240–260 per person.
Which airlines offer the cheapest flights?
China Southern Airlines and China Eastern Airlines often have the lowest fares, starting from about $55–70.
Is traveling by bus a good option?
Not really. High-speed trains are faster, more comfortable, and usually a better choice for this route.
What are the best attractions in Xi’an?
Don’t miss the Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Shaanxi History Museum.
Can you visit Mount Hua as a day trip?
Yes. Mount Hua is about 120 km away and can easily be visited on a full-day trip by train or bus.
What local food should you try in Xi’an?
Try Biang Biang noodles, Roujiamo, Liangpi, and other local specialties in the famous Muslim Quarter.
Is public transportation in Xi’an easy to use?
Yes. Xi’an has a modern metro system, extensive bus routes, and affordable taxis for easy travel.
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💡 Practical Travel Tips for Beijing to Xi’an
Traveling from Beijing to Xi’an covers about 1,100 km. You can travel by high-speed train, direct flight, regular train, or long-distance bus.
- Book Early: Reserve tickets in advance, especially during weekends and Chinese public holidays.
- Choose High-Speed Trains: They offer the best mix of speed, comfort, and city-center convenience.
- Fly to Save Time: Direct flights take about 2–2.5 hours and operate daily.
- Arrive Early: Get to the station at least 45 minutes before departure for security checks.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring water, snacks, a power bank, and your passport.
- Use Xi’an Metro: The metro is the easiest way to reach the city from Xi’an North Station.
Tip: Search and book train tickets and flights from Beijing to Xi’an online before departure, especially during busy travel seasons.