How to Get from Beijing to Xi'an, Train or Flight?
The high-speed train ride from Beijing to Xi'an spans 1,216 kilometers, and the quickest train makes the trip in only 4 hours and 11 minutes. Flying from Beijing to Xi’an is 920 kilometers, typically taking about 2 hours.
We suggest taking the bullet train from Beijing to Xi’an instead of flying. Trains are usually on time, but planes often aren't. When you think about getting to the airport early, waiting for luggage, and all the time spent there, flying doesn't save much time compared to taking the train.
Additionally, on a train, you can move around and use your computer or phone, while flying means a lot of waiting at the airport and in the air.
China Train Ticket Booking
Beijing to Xi'an Map
Beijing to Xi'an by Train vs Flight
| By Bullet Train | By Flight | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | CNY 922.5 for the first-class seat; CNY 577.5 for second-class seat |
CNY 2,350 for full-fare economy class |
| Duration | 4-6 hours | 2 hours |
| Waiting Time | Get to the station 40 minutes early. | Get to the airport at least 2 hours early. |
| Total Travel Time | 6-8 hours | 6 hours |
| Frequency | About 24 pairs of trains | Over 30 direct flights |
| Punctuality | Usually on time | Occasional delays/cancels |
| Seat Comfort | More legroom | Minimal leg space |
| Main Terminals | Beijing West, Xi’an North | PEK, PKX, XIY |
| Traveling with Children | Recommended | Not recommended |
Best Way to Travel from Beijing to Xi'an - by Bullet Train
- Distance: 1,216 kilometers (755 miles)
- Shortest Duration: 4 hours and 11 minutes
- Terminals: Beijing West Station, Xi’an North Station, Xi’an Station
- Number of Trains: 21 pairs of daytime G-trains and 3 pairs of overnight D-trains
- Ticket Prices: CNY 577.5 for the second class, CNY 922.5 for the first class
Taking a bullet train is the most efficient way to travel between Beijing and Xi'an. It travels at an average speed of 300 kph and is always on time, making your trip fast and smooth.
Over 20 pairs of bullet trains depart from Beijing West Railway Station and arrive at Xi'an North Railway Station daily, taking around 4.5-6 hours. The fastest train takes 4 hours and 11 minutes.
The Fuxing Smart high-speed train G57 (14:05-18:30) is highly recommended. It only takes 4.5 hours to travel from Beijing to Xian. This train offers fast speed and excellent service, and its departure and arrival times perfectly match the travel itinerary.
Here are the published train ticket prices set by China Rail without any discounts.
| Second-class | First-class | Business-class |
|---|---|---|
| RMB 577.5 (US$ 83) | RMB 922.5 (US$ 132) | RMB 1947.5 (US$ 278) |
Go to China Train to book a bullet train from Beijing to Xi'an.
Beijing to Xi'an by Sleeper Trains - the Cheapest Way
- Shortest duration: 11 hours 37 minutes
- Terminals: Beijing West Station, Beijing Railway Station, Beijing Fengtai Station, Xi’an Railway Station
- Number of trains: 10 pairs of overnight trains
- Ticket Prices: from CNY 440.5 to CNY 796 for the soft sleeper
If you're on a tight budget, consider taking an overnight sleeper train from Beijing to Xi'an. Not only are the tickets affordable, but you'll also save on a night's accommodation as you can sleep on the train.
Overnight trains mainly run between Beijing West Railway Station and Xi'an Railway Station. Below are the schedules and published ticket prices for your reference.
| Beijing West Railway Station to Xi’an Railway Station | |||
| Train No. | Departure - Arrival | Duration | Softer Sleeper Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| K545 | 12:50 - 06:00+1d | 17h 10m | CNY 440.5 (US$ 63) |
| T55 | 15:46 - 04:59+1d | 13h 13m | CNY 415.5 (US$ 59) |
| D29 | 15:53 - 03:42+1d | 11h 49m | CNY 796 (US$ 114) |
| Z151 | 15:59 - 03:48+1d | 11h 49m | CNY 415.5 (US$ 59) |
| T7 | 16:43 - 05:42+1d | 12h 59m | CNY 440.5 (US$ 63) |
| T231 | 18:33 - 07:35+1d | 13h 2m | CNY 415.5 (US$ 59) |
| T41 | 18:48 - 08:01+1d | 13h 13m | CNY 440.5 (US$ 63) |
| D19 | 20:18 - 07:55+1d | 11h 37m | CNY 796 (US$ 114) |
| D43 | 20:30 - 08:23+1d | 11h 53m | CNY 796 (US$ 114) |
Read more detailed information on Beijing - Xi'an Trains.
Beijing to Xi'an by Flight - the Fastest Way
- Shortest duration: 2 hours
- Terminals: Beijing Capital Airport (PEK), Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX), Xi'an Xianyang Airport (XIY)
- Number of Flights: over 50 pairs of direct flights
- Ticket Prices: from CNY 700 to CNY 2230 for the economic class
The fastest way to travel from Beijing to Xi'an is by flight. The plane usually takes about 2 hours, and ticket prices vary from CNY 700 to CNY 2,230, depending on the day you fly.
However, we don’t recommend traveling from Beijing to Xian by air because you have to get to the airport two hours in advance. A two-hour waiting time plus a two-hour flight time means you will spend the same travel time as the bullet train! Not to mention that domestic flights are often delayed or canceled.
Travel Beijing and Xi'an with Us
Would it bother you to search and book the transportation and hotel on your own? Do you need tips on perfectly arranging your Beijing-Xi'an trip within your scheduled time and budget? Do you know how to escape from the crowds? Our travel experts are waiting to customize a fun-packed journey just for you!