Located in Terminal 3, this lounge offers comfortable seating, meals, beverages, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Access is granted to business and first-class passengers of China Southern Airlines and select partners.
Xian Xianyang International Airport serves Xi’an, a city in central China known for its deep historical roots. The airport connects travelers to the ancient capital of several dynasties and nearby attractions like the Terracotta Army. Modern facilities provide comfortable layovers with shops, restaurants and transit options. Its location makes it easy to reach downtown Xi’an by bus or taxi within about an hour. The airport handles both domestic flights and some international routes, supporting tourism and business travel for visitors exploring China’s cultural heritage.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type I
Type A:
Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) £1 ≈ CN¥8.88 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in China, particularly in urban areas. Mobile payment services like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in China and is not expected, although it may be appreciated in high-end restaurants or by hotel staff for exceptional service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed in many places in China, but it is common in restaurants and bars. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public spaces, such as restaurants and public transport, but enforcement can vary. |
| Chinese New Year (January/February) |
Major holiday with family gatherings and public celebrations |
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| National Day (1 October) |
National holiday with parades and festivities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | DiDi, Uber |
| Other: | China is known for its vast cultural heritage, including historical landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army. It offers diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to beaches. |
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) is located about 40 kilometers northwest of downtown Xi’an and covers approximately 6.3 square kilometers. It is the largest airport in Northwest China and serves over 28 million passengers annually. The airport features two terminals, with Terminal 3 being the newest and providing enhanced facilities and services for international and domestic travelers.
The climate around the airport is classified as humid subtropical (Cwa), with hot summers and cold, dry winters. Travelers should be prepared for seasonal weather variations, especially if visiting nearby historical sites which are best explored in mild seasons.
The airport is equipped with numerous dining options reflecting local flavors, comfortable lounges and shopping venues that offer local crafts and international brands. While efficient, the airport can get busy during peak travel seasons and ground transportation might require careful scheduling due to its distance from the city.
While English signage is improving, it’s advised to be prepared for some language challenges outside airport staff and major service points. Overall, XIY offers a welcoming introduction to a city steeped in history and culture.
Helpful tips for Xi'an Xianyang International Airport
- Arrive at least 2 hours before departure for security and customs.
- Use the free airport Wi‑Fi to check flight status, but note that coverage may be spotty in terminal B.
- The airport offers a dedicated Chinese language help desk; ask staff for assistance with baggage or local transport directions.
- Xianyang International Airport is close to Xi’an’s ancient city walls; consider a short taxi ride to the Bell Tower for cultural context.
Available airport lounges
Operating in Terminal 2, it offers a comfortable waiting area, dining options, and internet access. Access is limited to premium passengers and loyalty members.
Situated in Terminal 3, providing snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi with comfortable resting areas. Available for eligible passengers flying with Sichuan Airlines and alliance partners.
A pay-to-enter lounge featuring a quiet environment, refreshments, and shower facilities. Open to all travellers for a fee or through membership programmes like Priority Pass.
Where to stay near Xi'an Xianyang International Airport
The best places to stay are in Xi’an city center, which offers a wide range of accommodations from boutique hotels with traditional Chinese décor to international chains. Visitors prefer central locations for easy access to historic landmarks and vibrant local markets.
Hotel recommendations
How to get from Xian Airport to popular destinations
To Xi’an City Center:
The airport is around 40 km from downtown Xi’an. The Airport Express train connects the airport to the city centre in approximately 35 minutes with frequent departures. Buses and taxis are also available, though travellers should consider traffic conditions. Taxi rides cost about CN¥90 (£10.14) (around $12-$15).
To Weinan:
Weinan lies east of Xi’an and is accessible by taxi or regional trains from the city. Direct transport from the airport involves a transfer in Xi’an city, making it a longer journey requiring planning.
To Baoji:
Baoji is west of Xi’an and reachable by train from city stations. Travellers coming from the airport need to use public or private transport to get to Xi’an city first. The total trip can take 2-3 hours depending on connections.