Chengdu and Xi’an are two of China’s most historically and culturally rich cities. Xi'an, the ancient capital of China and the starting point of the silk road, is a must-visit city for history lovers, food enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is famous for its giant pandas, spicy Sichuan cuisine, and relaxed teahouse culture. Visiting Xi’an and Chengdu, you will experience perfect combination of history and culture. Xi’an is the ancient heart of China, while Chengdu offers a glimpse into the relaxed and vibrant modern Sichuan lifestyle.
By High-speed train: the most convenient way to get to Chengdu from Xi'an, taking about 3-4 hours with frequent departures, steady, clean and comfortable
By plane: the fastest way to get to Chengdu from Xi'an, taking about 2 hours
Considering the speed, comfort, and convenience, high-speed train is the most recommended way to get to Chengdu from Xi'an. High-speed trains are fast and comfortable with frequent departures, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenic views along the way. Though airplane is the fastest way to get to Chengdu from Xi'an, you should spend extra time for check-in/security, makes it less convenient than the train.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport: Jichang Road, Shuangliu District, Chengdu, China
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport(IATA: CTU, ICAO: ZUUU) is one of China’s busiest airports and a major hub for both domestic and international flights. Located 16 km (10 miles) southwest of downtown Chengdu, it serves as a key gateway to Sichuan Province and western China.
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport: Konggang Avenue, Lujia Town, Jianyang, Chengdu, China
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport(IATA: TFU, ICAO: ZUTF) is one of the newest and most advanced international airports in China. It serves as Chengdu’s main international gateway. Located 50 kilometers(31 miles) southeast of downtown Chengdu and 50 kilometers from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, it aims to ease congestion from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport (CTU) and accommodate growing air travel demand.
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport: Dizhang Town, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, China
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport(IATA: XIY, ICAO: ZLXY) is the main airport serving Xi’an and Shaanxi Province. It is one of China’s busiest airports and a key hub for flights to domestic and international destinations.
Chengdu Railway Station(成都站), also known as Chengdu North Railway Station, it is one of the oldest and most important railway stations in the city. It primarily serves conventional trains.
Chengdu East Railway Station(成都东站) is one of the largest and busiest railway stations in Chengdu, handling both high-speed and conventional trains. It is a major hub for high-speed rail services.
Chengdu South Railway Station(成都南站) mainly serves high-speed trains and some conventional trains, providing convenient access to the southern parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Chengdu West Railway Station(成都西站) has been renovated and expanded to handle both high-speed and conventional trains, improving connectivity to the western regions.
Shuangliu Airport Railway Station(双流机场站)is located near Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which provides convenient rail access to the airport, primarily serving high-speed trains.
Chengdu Tianfu Railway Station(成都天府站) is a newly constructed station to support the growing demand for rail travel, particularly with the development of the Tianfu New Area.
Xi'an Railway Station(西安站) is located near the city center, just outside the ancient city walls. It is one of the oldest and busiest railway stations in Xi'an. It has undergone recent renovations to modernize its facilities.
Xi'an North Railway Station(西安北站) is in the north of the city center, in Weiyang District. It is one of the largest high-speed rail stations in China, with 18 platforms and 34 tracks. It is a key station on the Zhengzhou-Xi'an High-Speed Railway and the Xi'an-Chengdu High-Speed Railway.
Xi'an South Railway Station(西安南站) is in the southern part of Xi'an, in Chang'an District.It is a smaller station compared to Xi'an Railway Station and Xi'an North Railway Station, but important for regional travel.Please note that it is located farther from the city center, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Xi'an West Railway Station(西安西站)is located in the western part of Xi'an. It is an important logistics hub for the region.
Xi'an East Railway Station(西安东站) is located in the eastern part of Xi'an.It is part of the future expansion of Xi'an's rail network, designed to alleviate congestion at other stations and improve connectivity.
Xi'an Airport Railway Station(西安机场站) is near Xi'an Xianyang International Airport.It provides convenient transfers for air and rail passengers.
Xi'an is an ancient capital with Terracotta Army, Shaanxi History Museum, Xi'an City Wall and Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Biangbiang noodles, roujiamo and yangroupaomo, cold noodles and various dumplings are recommended to taste in Xi'an. Traveling to Xi'an, 2-3 days are recommended.
The best time to visit Xi’an is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) due to comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather.
How to get around Xi’an: Metro and taxis
Highlights of Chengdu:
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding(成都大熊猫繁育研究基地) – The best place to see giant pandas up close.
Wuhou Shrine(武侯祠) – A temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, an iconic figure from the Three Kingdoms period.
Jinli Ancient Street(锦里古街) – A lively street with traditional Sichuan architecture, street food, and souvenirs.
Kuanzhai Alley(宽窄巷子) – A mix of ancient and modern Chengdu with tea houses, restaurants, and bars.
Chengdu Wenshu Monastery(文殊院) – A peaceful Buddhist temple with a beautiful tea house.
Dufu Thatched Cottage(杜甫草堂) – A museum and garden dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu.
How long to stay in Chengdu: 3-4 days
What to eat in Chengdu: Hot Pot (火锅), Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐), Dan Dan Noodles (担担面), Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁), Chuan Chuan (串串), Rabbit Head (兔头)
Nearby Attractions
Mount Qingcheng(青城山) – A UNESCO-listed Taoist mountain with lush forests and temples(About 1 hour from Chengdu).
Leshan Giant Buddha(乐山大佛) – The world’s largest stone Buddha statue, carved into a cliff(About 2 hours from Chengdu).
Jiuzhaigou Valley(九寨沟) – A breathtaking national park with turquoise lakes, waterfalls and Tibetan villages(About 1-hour flight or 8-hour bus).