Why choose a hostel in Xi An?
Few cities carry as much historical weight as Xi An. It served as the capital for multiple ancient dynasties and remains one of the great heritage destinations in Asia. The Terracotta Army and the ancient City Wall are both within reach, drawing history enthusiasts from around the world. With so much to explore across several days, where you stay shapes the whole trip. Hostels in Xi An put you close to the action without stretching your budget.
Hostels suit solo travellers, backpackers, and anyone who wants to spend more on experiences than on a room. Shared dorms keep costs well below hotels and private rentals, while private rooms give you your own space at a fraction of hotel rates. Common areas and organised activities mean you'll meet fellow travellers easily, something hotels and apartment-style stays rarely offer.
How to find the best hostel deals in Xi An
Want to use the same magic that powers our award-winning flight search to track down great deals on rooms online? Here are some hacks to find the perfect place to stay and save in seconds.
Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better off you are. You're more likely to find a cheaper price on a hostel in Xi An and have a greater range of choice.
…or bag a last-minute Xi An hostel deal.
Things are often more expensive the closer you get to your stay. But in low season, late deals can still pop up when hostels have vacant rooms to fill.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Cheap hostels can be easier to find if you're not tied to specific dates. Experiment with different seasons or months, or go during the week instead of weekends to keep costs down.
Where to base yourself in Xi An
The area around the Bell Tower sits at the centre of Xi'an's walled city. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the Drum Tower, the Muslim Quarter, and the city's most popular street food lanes. Hostels and budget guesthouses are easy to find in this area, and metro stops nearby connect you to sites farther out. The Muslim Quarter stretches north from the Drum Tower toward the Great Mosque. It's a good base if you want food stalls, covered markets, and a lively atmosphere close to your door. Lamb skewers, flatbreads, and cold rice noodles are staples sold along Beiyuanmen Street. The Ancient City Wall runs nearby, making early morning walks along its top a straightforward start to the day.
Top hostels in Xi An
Set in one of China's most historically significant cities, Sifang Space Hostel Xi'an is a comfortable base for discovering the area's ancient heritage. The surrounding streets bring you within reach of city walls, historic temples, and world-famous archaeological sites. It's the kind of place where history feels present at every turn, and your days will fill up fast.
Xi'an Sky Garden Rooftop Social Hostel - Steps From Bell Tower & Food St - 24H Front Desk - EnglishFriendly is a social-minded spot in the heart of Xi'an's historic centre, within easy reach of the Bell Tower and the famous Food Street. A 24-hour front desk keeps things running smoothly, and the rooftop space gives you a great perch above the city. The surrounding area is rich with ancient architecture, street food, and local energy.
