There are 2 way(s) to get from Xian to Beijing
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Popular routes, especially between major cities like Xi'an and Beijing, can sell out days or even weeks in advance. Book your tickets online via 12go.asia or Baolau.vn as soon as your travel dates are firm, using your passport for reservation.
Mega-cities often have multiple train stations. For Xi'an to Beijing, high-speed trains typically depart from Xi'an North Railway Station. Always double-check your ticket for the exact station name to avoid confusion and missed connections.
Aim to arrive at the train station or airport at least 60-90 minutes before departure for trains, and 2-3 hours for flights. This allows ample time for security checks, passport verification, and finding your gate or platform, especially if you're unfamiliar with the station.
High-speed trains offer Second Class (comfortable and standard), First Class (more legroom, quieter), and sometimes Business Class (luxurious recliners). Second Class is perfectly adequate and offers excellent value for most travellers on a 5-hour journey.
Your passport is essential for collecting tickets, boarding trains, and checking in for flights in China. Have it readily accessible, along with a digital copy of your booking confirmation, at all times during your journey.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating China's vast distances can seem daunting, but for a classic route like Xi'an to Beijing, you have excellent, efficient options. Knowing which one to pick depends on your priorities: speed, comfort, or cost. We've travelled these routes extensively, so we'll give you the straightforward facts to help you decide. Prepare for a journey that's surprisingly smooth once you know the ropes.
For the Xi'an to Beijing leg, your primary choices are the high-speed train or a domestic flight. The bullet train takes approximately 5 hours and costs around €63, offering a comfortable, scenic journey from city centre to city centre. Flying takes about 2 hours in the air, with prices around €55, though you'll need to factor in airport transfers and security checks, which can add 3-4 hours to the total travel time.
The biggest challenge for independent travellers is often the booking process and knowing which station to use. High-speed trains, especially popular routes like this one, do sell out days in advance. It's crucial to book online, in English, using your passport well before your travel date. Platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn are your best bet for advance bookings, ensuring you secure your seat and avoid confusion at the station.
Frequently asked questions — Xian → Beijing
For most travellers, the high-speed train is the better option. It offers a more relaxed, scenic journey with less overall travel time when you factor in airport transfers and security. It's also often more reliable in terms of delays compared to domestic flights.
The high-speed train typically takes around 5 hours. This is the actual journey time between stations, not including the time to get to and from the stations, which is usually minimal given their central locations compared to airports.
A second-class high-speed train ticket costs approximately €63. Prices can vary slightly based on booking platform and time of year, but this gives you a good estimate for budgeting your travel.
You should aim to book your high-speed train ticket as soon as your travel plans are firm, ideally at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially for popular routes. Yes, you can book from abroad using international booking platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn with your passport.
✨ Why visit Beijing?
- ✓ Explore the majestic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- ✓ Walk along the Great Wall of China at sections like Mutianyu or Badaling for breathtaking views.
- ✓ Wander through the historic hutongs (narrow alleyways) of Beijing and discover local life.
- ✓ Visit the serene Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed rituals for good harvests.
- ✓ Discover the contemporary art scene in the 798 Art Zone, featuring galleries and studios.
☀️ When to visit Beijing?
CLIMAT CONTINENTAL HUMIDE
April to May or September to October — pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and fewer tourists than summer.
What to do in Beijing?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Beijing?
For an independent traveler, plan at least 4-5 days to cover the main attractions like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven without rushing. With 7 days, you can explore more local neighborhoods and hidden gems. Allocate a full day for the Great Wall.
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