There are 2 way(s) to get from Nanjing to Xian
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Popular high-speed train routes, especially on weekends or holidays, sell out quickly. Aim to book 2-4 weeks in advance, particularly for first-class seats, to secure your preferred departure time and avoid disappointment.
Many Chinese mega-cities have multiple train stations (e.g., Nanjing South, Nanjing Station). Double-check your ticket for the exact station name to avoid turning up at the wrong one, which can cause significant delays.
Booking Chinese trains from abroad is straightforward with platforms like 12go.asia or Trip.com. They accept international payments and passports, providing an e-ticket you can use to pick up your physical ticket at the station.
While trains often have dining cars and trolleys, having your own snacks and drinks for the 5-hour journey will enhance your comfort and save you money. Hot water dispensers are usually available for instant noodles or tea.
Even a few basic phrases for asking directions or confirming your destination can be incredibly helpful when navigating stations or interacting with staff, enhancing your overall travel experience.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating China's vast distances and efficient transport network can feel daunting, but for a journey like Nanjing to Xi'an, you have excellent choices. Understanding whether a high-speed train or a flight is best for your specific needs comes down to balancing speed, cost, and comfort. Both options offer a significant upgrade from slower travel, ensuring you make the most of your time.
From Nanjing to Xi'an, your primary options are the high-speed train, typically costing around €67 for a 5-hour journey, or a domestic flight, which can be found for about €55 and takes around 2 hours in the air. While the flight appears quicker on paper, remember to factor in airport transfers, check-in, security, and boarding times, which can add 3-4 hours to your total travel.
My first-hand experience confirms that for this route, the high-speed train is often the sweet spot. It's fast, comfortable, and drops you directly in the city center, avoiding airport hassles. Popular trains do sell out, so booking a few weeks in advance using a reliable platform like 12go.asia or Trip.com is crucial to secure your spot with your passport details, easing your worries about last-minute availability.
Frequently asked questions — Nanjing → Xian
For most travelers, the high-speed train is recommended. While the flight is shorter in the air (2 hours), the train's 5-hour journey offers more direct city-center to city-center travel, avoiding airport transfers and security lines. It's often more relaxing and can be more punctual.
The high-speed bullet train journey from Nanjing to Xi'an typically takes around 5 hours. Prices for a second-class seat usually range from €65 to €75, offering a great balance of speed, comfort, and affordability for this distance.
It's highly recommended to book high-speed train tickets 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, as they can sell out. Yes, you can book from abroad using reputable online platforms like 12go.asia or Trip.com, which accept international payment methods and require your passport details.
Most high-speed trains to Xi'an depart from Nanjing South Railway Station (Nanjingnan). For comfort and value, a second-class seat is perfectly adequate. First class offers slightly more legroom and wider seats if you prefer extra space, but second class is excellent.
✨ Why visit Xian?
- ✓ Marvel at the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
- ✓ Cycle atop the ancient City Walls, offering panoramic views of modern Xi'an and historic sites.
- ✓ Explore the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant area with bustling markets, street food, and the Great Mosque.
- ✓ Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene Buddhist pagoda dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
- ✓ Discover the Shaanxi History Museum, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from China's imperial past.
☀️ When to visit Xian?
CONTINENTAL HUMID
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) — pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, avoiding summer heat and winter cold.
What to do in Xian?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Xian?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to explore Xian. This allows you to visit the Terracotta Army, the Muslim Quarter, the City Wall, and a few temples without rushing. If you only have 2 days, focus on the Terracotta Army and the City Wall.
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