Xi’an offers roughly 1,400 hotels from 60 CNY (8 USD) dorm beds to 2,000+ CNY (275+ USD) luxury suites. The city center inside the walls provides the most convenient base, putting you within walking distance of the Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, and City Wall.
Where to Stay in Xi’an: Bell Tower and City Center
Staying near the Bell Tower puts you at Xi’an’s geographic and transport center. Metro Lines 1 and 2 intersect here, most city buses stop at Zhonglou, and the Muslim Quarter is a 5-minute walk. The main downside is street noise on Dong Dajie and Xi Dajie; choose a hotel on a side street.
Suggested Hotels Near the Bell Tower
Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xi’an
Historic 1953 hotel in a Soviet-neoclassical building set in 40,000 square meters of gardens inside the city walls. The 71 Art Deco rooms feature high ceilings, silk wallpaper, and marble bathrooms. The on-site museum documents the hotel’s role hosting visiting heads of state including Nixon and de Gaulle. Best for history-minded luxury travelers and couples. Check rates and availability
Eastern House Boutique Hotel
Twelve-room boutique hotel in a converted courtyard house on a quiet alley 300 meters from the Bell Tower. Rooms combine Ming Dynasty-style furniture with modern bathrooms, and the rooftop terrace has direct Bell Tower views. Breakfast is cooked to order. Best for couples and solo travelers wanting central location with character. Check rates and availability
Hantang Inn Hostel
Well-run hostel inside the South Gate with dorm beds from 60 CNY and private rooms from 200 CNY. Clean facilities, English-speaking staff, and a rooftop bar with wall views. Organizes daily Terracotta Warriors group trips. Best for backpackers and solo budget travelers. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Xi’an: Muslim Quarter
Staying in or near the Muslim Quarter means food stalls at your doorstep and the Great Mosque around the corner. The trade-off is noise, crowds, and simpler accommodations. The area works best for food-focused travelers and return visitors who know the layout.
Suggested Hotels in the Muslim Quarter
Citadines Xingqing Palace Xi’an
Serviced apartment hotel a 10-minute walk from the Muslim Quarter with studios and one-bedroom units. Rooms include kitchenettes, washing machines, and workspace. The quiet location on the edge of the action provides a retreat from the market chaos. Best for longer stays and travelers who want apartment amenities. Check rates and availability
Bell Tower Youth Hostel
Basic hostel directly on Beidajie, 3 minutes from the Bell Tower and 5 minutes from the Muslim Quarter entrance. Dorm beds from 50 CNY and private rooms from 180 CNY. The location compensates for the dated facilities. Best for backpackers who prioritize location over comfort. Check rates and availability
Jinjiang Inn Xi’an Zhonglou
Reliable Chinese budget chain 5 minutes from the Bell Tower with clean, compact rooms and consistent standards. Rooms from 250 CNY with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and WiFi. Best for travelers wanting a dependable budget option with good transport links. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Xi’an: Qujiang and Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Qujiang New District south of the city walls offers Xi’an’s best concentration of international luxury hotels, wide streets, and proximity to the Shaanxi History Museum.
Suggested Hotels in Qujiang
The Westin Xi’an
Five-star hotel embedded within the Shaanxi History Museum complex with a museum of its own displaying Tang Dynasty artifacts in the lobby. The 329 rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with Big Wild Goose Pagoda views. The indoor pool and multiple restaurants make it Xi’an’s top luxury choice. Best for museum-focused travelers and families. Check rates and availability
Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square
Mid-range international hotel in a restored Soviet-era building near the city center. The 202 rooms combine heritage architecture with modern interiors, and the courtyard garden provides a quiet retreat. Good value for an international brand with local character. Best for business travelers and couples wanting reliability. Check rates and availability
Xi’an Qujiang Mercure Hotel
Budget-friendly Mercure near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda with comfortable rooms from 350 CNY. The Metro Line 3 station is a 5-minute walk for easy access to the city center. Best for leisure travelers wanting Qujiang convenience at mid-range prices. Check rates and availability
