Unearth the mysteries of China's past with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors – one of the top Xi’an attractions. This incredible army of life-size clay soldiers, each with a unique expression and position, was buried with the first emperor of China over 2,000 years ago and discovered by chance in 1974. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Terracotta Warriors are a fascinating archaeological relic, and tops the list of things to do on a Xi’an holiday.

Home to over 20,000 Hui Muslims, this popular cultural district is considered one of the must-see Xi’an attractions. Stroll through the bustling pedestrian streets where mosques, market stalls, and historic Ming and Qing dynasty-era buildings abut one another. Be sure to sample some hearty Hui meals and snacks, like pita bread soaked in lamb stew, fiery red persimmon cakes, and roujiamo (often described as a Chinese hamburger).

Built in the 14th century to protect this Silk Road trade hub, the 12-metre-high fortification is the only complete ancient city wall that still exists in China today. Take a stroll or rent a bike to pedal around the 14-kilometre-long perimeter, where you can soak up the structure’s immense size and great city views. For more Xi’an sightseeing fun, visit the four main gates – each boasts its own unique design and cultural significance.

For a peaceful way to spend an afternoon on your Xi’an holiday, stroll around the Great Mosque. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it’s an exquisite example of traditional Chinese architecture with a distinctive Islamic twist. Wander through the serene gardens, prayer halls and courtyards while observing artfully placed minarets and Arabic calligraphy. Located just next to the Muslim Quarter, it’s also the perfect spot to recharge after a lively shopping trip or meal.

One of China's five sacred mountains, Mount Hua is famous for its precipitous cliffs, narrow pathways and awe-inspiring views. Test your stamina as you explore the five peaks by foot (or hop on a cable car if you’d prefer a more leisurely ascent), while taking in the ancient Taoist temples and shrines that dot the landscape. This easy day trip can be reached in 30 minutes by high-speed train, making it the perfect addition to a Xi’an holiday.

Located on the eastern outskirts of Xi’an, Banpo Village is the world’s best-preserved Neolithic settlement. Explore the ruins of this fascinating archaeological site, which was occupied from 4500-3750 BCE and still holds the remains of hundreds of Stone Age homes, burial sites and pottery workshops. A day trip from Xi’an to Banpo is a chance to contemplate the dawn of civilisation and gain a deeper understanding of our shared human history.

When it comes to what to do in Xi’an, sampling culinary traditions is a must. Tantalise your taste buds with this Shaanxi delicacy, which is named after the sound the noodles make as they are slapped against the kitchen counter. Thick, chewy and topped with your choice of savoury ingredients – like spicy chili oil, minced garlic and vinegar, stewed pork or fried veggies – hand-pulled biangbiang noodles are the ultimate Xi’an comfort food.

Towering overhead at nearly 65 metres tall, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda was built (and subsequently rebuilt) in the Tang Dynasty to house an array of relic and scriptures collected by travelling Buddhist scholar Xuanzang. Inside this massive, seven-storey structure, you can admire intricate carvings and breathtaking views of the city. Try to time your visit with the nightly fountain show – one of the top things to do in Xi’an – when the grounds transform into a spectacular visual display of lights, music, and water.

A fascinating Xi’an attraction, TangBo Art Museum showcases traditional folk art and crafts, such as paper cutting, shadow puppetry and embroidery. Housed in a beautifully restored courtyard house with traditional furnishings and decor, this elegant cultural centre also provides private guided tours in English. You can even try your hand at a 30-minute Chinese calligraphy class, creating a meaningful memento of your time in Shaanxi.