Fastest way from Xiamen to Xian: Flight, about 2h 50min (from €100). Cheapest: Train (China Railway), from €31 (about 21h 14min – 25h 29min). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): Xiamen Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Shandong Airlines; main departure point: Xiamen Airport.
There are 2 ways to get from Xiamen to Xian
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Eastern Airlines | Flight | Xiamen Airport | €109 | 3 |
| Xiamen Airlines | Flight | Xiamen Airport | €125 | 6 |
| Shandong Airlines | Flight | Xiamen Airport | €158 | 1 |
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Practical tips
Popular high-speed routes, especially Xiamen to Xi'an, sell out days in advance. To avoid disappointment and secure your preferred class, book online at least 3-5 days ahead. For peak travel seasons, aim for even earlier.
Xiamen, like many major Chinese cities, has multiple train stations. Double-check your ticket for the exact station name (e.g., Xiamen North, Xiamen Station) to avoid arriving at the wrong one, especially on travel day.
Your passport is your ID for train travel in China. You'll need it to book tickets (even online) and to board the train. Keep it accessible and ensure its details match your ticket.
While major transport hubs have some English signage, a reliable translation app (like Pleco or Google Translate with offline packs) will be invaluable for navigating stations, asking for directions, or understanding announcements.
For a 21h–25h train journey, a small upgrade to First Class can significantly enhance your comfort with more spacious seats and often a quieter environment. It's a worthwhile splurge for longer routes.
The journey experience
Traveling from Xiamen to Xi'an presents a classic China travel dilemma: train vs. plane. As an independent traveler, you're looking for the sweet spot between speed, comfort, and cost, and understanding which option truly saves you time and hassle is key. For this substantial journey across China, both high-speed rail and flying offer distinct advantages, each designed to get you to your destination efficiently.
For this route, you have two primary options: a train or a domestic flight. The train, operated by China Railway, takes around 21h–25h and costs from €31. This journey offers a comfortable experience with scenic views, directly connecting city centers. Alternatively, a flight will get you there in about 2h50 for from €100, excluding airport transfer times, which can add significant duration to your overall trip.
The challenge in China is always navigating the sheer size and the rail network's intricacies, from station choices to booking ahead. For Xiamen to Xi'an, we recommend booking your train tickets several days in advance, especially during peak season, as popular routes sell out quickly. Always confirm the exact departure station – major cities often have multiple – and remember your passport is essential for booking and boarding. For convenience and to avoid language barriers, booking online through platforms like 12go.asia before you arrive is the most reliable method.
Frequently asked questions — Xiamen → Xian
For most travelers, the high-speed train is often the preferred choice for Xiamen to Xi'an. While the flight is faster in airtime (2h50), you must factor in airport transfers (often 1-2 hours each way) and security checks, which can make the total journey time comparable. Flights start from €100. The train offers a more comfortable, direct city-center to city-center experience without the airport hassle.
The high-speed train from Xiamen to Xi'an typically takes around 21-25 hours. This is the travel time from one main station to the other. Unlike flying, there's no need to arrive hours in advance for security, and you're dropped off directly in the city center, making the effective door-to-door time very competitive with flying.
A high-speed train ticket from Xiamen to Xi'an generally costs from €31 for a standard Second Class seat. Prices can vary slightly based on the specific train, time of day, and how far in advance you book. First Class tickets will be more expensive but offer added comfort.
It's highly recommended to book your China high-speed train tickets 1-2 weeks in advance, especially for popular routes like Xiamen to Xi'an, and even earlier during holidays. Yes, you can absolutely book from abroad using platforms like 12go.asia. You'll need your passport details for the booking, and you'll receive an e-ticket that you can often use directly or exchange for a paper ticket at the station.
Trains to Xi'an typically depart from Xiamen North Railway Station (厦门北站). It's crucial to confirm this on your ticket as Xiamen has multiple stations. Xiamen North is a modern hub for high-speed trains, located a bit outside the city center but well-connected by metro and bus.
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 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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