
Xi'an Metro: Map, Lines, Fares, Usage & Ride Guide

By Kyra
September 18, 2026

Xi'an is an ancient city that served as the capital for 13 dynasties. This place is steeped in history and culture. If you're looking to get around Xi'an, the metro is a great way to do it. The Xi'an metro will get you where you need to go, and it's affordable too.
Xi'an Metro Map

Xi'an Metro is one of the main ways to get around the city, with a network of 12 metro lines covering around 422 kilometres (262 miles) and more than 200 stations. The network connects central Xi'an with major residential and commercial areas, railway stations and the airport, making it a convenient option for both locals and visitors. The first metro line, Line 2, opened in 2011, and the network has continued to expand in recent years.
Several lines are particularly useful for travellers. Line 2 runs through central Xi'an and stops near the Bell Tower, Yongning Gate and Xiaozhai, while Lines 3 and 4 provide convenient access to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and surrounding Tang Dynasty attractions. Line 9 connects Fangzhicheng with the Lintong area, making it useful for trips towards Huaqing Palace and the Terracotta Warriors area. Line 14 connects Xi'an North Railway Station with Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, providing a convenient link between the city's main high-speed rail hub and the airport.
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Xi'an Metro Lines, Operating Hours & Major Stations
Xi'an Metro is a convenient way to get around the city, with several lines connecting major attractions, railway stations and transport hubs. For visitors, Lines 2, 3, 4, 9 and 14 are particularly useful.
Most Xi'an Metro lines generally operate from around 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM, although the exact first and last train times vary by line and direction. Check the station signs or official metro information for the latest times before travelling.
| Line | Route | Key Stations & Attractions |
Line 1 | Xianyang West Railway Station ⇄ Fangzhicheng | Fangzhicheng, Wulukou, Beidajie |
Line 2 | Caotan ⇄ Changninggong (Xi'an North Railway Station) | Bell Tower, Yongning Gate, Xiaozhai, Xi'an North Railway Station |
Line 3 | Yuhuazhai ⇄ Baoshuiqu | Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xiaozhai, Qinglongsi |
Line 4 | Xi'an North Railway Station (Xi'anbeizhan) ⇄ Hangtian Xincheng (Aerospace New City) | Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Datang Furong Garden, Xi'an North Railway Station |
Line 6 | Xi'an South Station ⇄ Fangzhicheng | Qinglongsi, Dachaishi, Fangzhicheng |
Line 8 | Loop line | Xiaozhai, Qujiangchi, Datang Everbright City area |
Line 9 | Fangzhicheng ⇄ Qinling West | Huaqing Palace, Lintong area, Qinling West |
Line 10 | Jingshangcun ⇄ Zhaohui Square | Xinzhu, Yanliang |
Line 14 | Airport West (T1/T2/T3) ⇄ Heshao | Xi'an North Railway Station, Airport West, Xi'an Xianyang International Airport |
*Operating times can vary by station, direction and day. Check the latest information at the station before travelling.
Xi'an Metro Ticket Prices and Day Passes

The Xi'an Metro is brilliant because it's very affordable. Navigating the city via this network is exceptionally budget-friendly. It's incredibly cheap compared to what you'd pay in London.
Single Journey Tickets
Xi'an uses a distance-based fare system. The further you travel, the more you pay, but even the longest journeys are cheap:
Distance | Fare (RMB) | Approx. (GBP) |
0–6 km | ¥2 | £0.22 |
6–10 km | ¥3 | £0.34 |
10–14 km | ¥4 | £0.45 |
14–20 km | ¥5 | £0.56 |
20–26 km | ¥6 | £0.67 |
26 km+ | +¥1 per 8 km | +£0.11 per 8 km |
The maximum fare across the entire network is just ¥13 (around £1.45)—less than the price of a coffee for a cross-city journey!
Children under 1.3 metres tall ride for free when accompanied by an adult (maximum of two children per adult).
[5% Off] China Train Ticket Discount for New Users
24/7 Ticketing · 3-Minute Booking · E-Tickets
Day Passes
If you're doing a lot of sightseeing, day passes are an absolute steal:
Pass Type | Price (RMB) | Approx. (GBP) | Details |
1-Day Pass | ¥15 | £1.68 | Unlimited travel for 24 hours |
3-Day Pass | ¥40 | £4.50 | Unlimited travel for 72 hours |
💡 My recommendation: If you're in Xi'an for 3 days or more, definitely get the 3-day pass. It works out to just over £1.40 a day for unlimited travel.
How to Buy Xi'an Metro Tickets?
Xi'an offers multiple payment options to suit every traveller:
Alipay Metro Code

If you have Alipay set up (highly recommended for any trip to China), this is by far the most convenient option. No cash, no tokens—just scan and go.
To set it up: open Alipay → go to "Transport" → switch to "Metro" → get the "Xi'an Electronic Metro Card". That's it!
Scan the QR code at the entry and exit gates. The fare is automatically deducted after your journey. It works on buses too!
Single Journey Tokens
Buy from automatic ticket vending machines at every station (they have English options). You'll get a small plastic token. Tap in, insert to exit. Simple!
Xi'an Metro App

The official app offers route planning, QR code payments, electronic day passes, and real-time schedules. Download it from the App Store or Google Play.
Changan Tong Travel Card
Works on the metro and buses, with a 10% discount on rides. Requires a ¥20 (£2.20) deposit. Best for longer stays.
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How to Ride Xi'an Metro

Riding the Xi'an Metro is simple. Follow these steps to get around the city:
- Plan your route: Check the metro map and find the line and station you need.
- Go through security: Put your bags through the security scanner before entering the metro station.
- Buy a ticket or use a payment method: Get a ticket or use an accepted mobile payment method or transport card at the station.
- Tap in: Scan your ticket, phone or card at the ticket gate and follow the signs to your platform.
- Wait for your train: Stand behind the safety line and let passengers get off before boarding.
- Follow the signs: Station signs and train announcements are available in Chinese and English, making it easy to follow your route.
- Transfer if needed: If you need to change lines, follow the signs marked “Transfer” to the connecting platform.
- Tap out: Scan your ticket, phone or card at the exit gates when you reach your destination.
💡 Tip: Keep your ticket until you have left the station, and check the last train time if you are travelling late.
Reaching Xi'an's Top Attractions by Metro

Almost every major attraction in Xi'an is easily accessible by metro.
- Terracotta Warriors: Line 9 to Huaqing Pool or Qinling West Station. About 1 to 1.5 hours from the city centre.
- Bell Tower & Drum Tower: Line 2 to Bell Tower Station. Right in the heart of the city.
- Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Take Line 3 or 4 to Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station. It's just a 10-minute walk to the pagoda.
- Xi'an City Wall: Line 2 to Yongning Gate Station (South Gate). Hire a bicycle and cycle around!
- Muslim Quarter: Line 2 to Bell Tower Station, or Line 1 to Sajinqiao Station (the locals' favourite).
- Shaanxi History Museum: Take Line 2 or 3 to Xiaozhai Station. It's about a 10-minute walk.
- Grand Tang Mall: Take Line 3 or 4 to Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station, or Line 8 to Datang Buxingjie Station.
- Airport: Line 14 to Airport West Station. 45–50 minutes from the city centre.
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Useful Tips for Using the Xi'an Metro
- Try to avoid travelling during peak hours. Weekday mornings between 7:30 and 9:00, and evenings from 5:30 to 7:30, can get incredibly busy.
- Make sure you choose the right exit when you're at a large station. These stations have plenty of exits, so check the map to see which one is closest to where you want to go.
- If you're using Alipay or the metro app to pay for your journey, make sure your phone is charged.
- Just a heads-up: eating and drinking aren't allowed on the trains, so be sure to finish your snacks before you hop on board!
- It's a good idea to carry some small change with you, just in case you need it. Cash is always a handy backup.
Best Hotels Near Xi'an Metro Stations (By Area)
Xi'an has a good choice of hotels near major metro stations, making it easy for international travellers to reach historic sights, shopping areas, railway stations and popular attractions.
The following areas are particularly convenient for visitors, depending on your itinerary. Staying near a metro station can make it easier to explore Xi'an without spending too much time travelling between attractions.
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)
Bell Tower & City Centre (Historic Centre)
📍 Near Zhonglou (Bell Tower) Station on Line 2
🏛 Close to the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Muslim Quarter and City Wall
⭐ Best for: first-time visitors & sightseeing
📍 Near Beidajie and Zhonglou metro stations
🏙 Modern hotel in the heart of the city centre
⭐ Best for: couples & convenient city stays
Yongningmen & South Gate (City Wall & Old Town)
📍 Yongningmen Station on Line 2
🏯 Easy access to the South Gate and Xi'an City Wall
⭐ Best for: history lovers & evening walks
Lintong (Terracotta Warriors & Huaqing Palace)
📍 In Lintong District, near Huaqing Palace
♨️ Hot springs and resort-style facilities near major attractions
⭐ Best for: relaxing stays & Terracotta Warriors trips
📍 Near Huaqing Palace and Line 9
🏯 Convenient for Lintong's historic attractions and a slower-paced stay
⭐ Best for: extended sightseeing & resort stays
Lintong is outside central Xi'an and is mainly useful for travellers who want to spend more time around Huaqing Palace and the Terracotta Warriors. Line 9 provides metro access between central Xi'an and Lintong. For most first-time visitors, staying in central Xi'an is more practical if the main itinerary also includes the city's historic centre.
After choosing the area that fits your itinerary, you can narrow down your hotel options by price, hotel type and facilities.
Popular choices include luxury hotels, family-friendly stays, hotels with breakfast, business hotels and properties with swimming pools or fitness centres.
Our Top Picks
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FAQ – Xi'an Metro
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Is the Xi'an Metro easy to use for foreigners?
Absolutely! All major signs, station names, and announcements are bilingual. Ticket machines have English options, and route maps are colour-coded and easy to follow. -
Can I use my contactless credit card on Xi'an Metro?
Unfortunately, contactless cards aren’t widely accepted yet. Stick with Alipay, the metro app, Changan Card, or single tickets. -
Are there toilets in the Xi'an Metro stations?
Yes, most stations have public toilets near the entrances or on the concourse level. They're generally clean and well-maintained. -
Can I take luggage on Xi'an metro?
Yes, you can take luggage on the metro, which is great for travelling to or from the airport. Just try to avoid rush hour with large suitcases. -
Do children need tickets?
Children under 1.3 metres ride for free when accompanied by an adult (maximum two children per adult).
More Travel Guides
Xi'an Metro
- 1. Xi'an Metro Map
- 2. Xi'an Metro Lines, Operating Hours & Major Stations
- 3. Xi'an Metro Ticket Prices and Day Passes
- 4. How to Buy Xi'an Metro Tickets?
- 5. How to Ride Xi'an Metro
- 6. Reaching Xi'an's Top Attractions by Metro
- 7. Useful Tips for Using the Xi'an Metro
- 8. Best Hotels Near Xi'an Metro Stations (By Area)
- 9. FAQ – Xi'an Metro
- 10. More Travel Guides
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