- Must visit
Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum
Major archaeological museum displaying the famed Terracotta Army pits and Qin-era artifacts east of central Xi'an.
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Compare prices and tickets Shanghai to Xian by flight or train
Compare flight and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Shanghai to Xian
ChinaChina
Trains from Shanghai to Xian run on average 20 times per day, taking around 7h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $115 (€95) but you can travel from only $80 (€66) by flight.
There are 20 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:24, the last at 08:09. The fastest train covers the 756 miles (1218 km) distance in 5h 39m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $80 (€66)
Distance 756 miles (1218 km) |
Average train duration 7h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $115 (€95) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 20 |
Fastest train 5h 39m |
First train 12:24 AM |
Last train 8:09 AM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $80 (€66)
Train companies: China Railway from Shanghai to Xian trainsChina Railway trains will get you between Shanghai and Xian from $80 (€66). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
China Railway
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average China Railway Duration
5h 39m
Cheapest China Railway Price
$115 (€95)
China Railway frequency
23 a day
Complete guide to Xian
Things to do in Xian
Discover the best of Xian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Xian trip today.
- Must visit
Shaanxi History Museum
Leading history museum with strong collections from Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang periods, ideal for understanding Shaanxi heritage.
- Recommended
Daming Palace National Heritage Park Museum
Museum dedicated to the Tang capital site, with excavated relics and exhibits explaining imperial city planning and daily life.
- Must visit
Muslim Quarter
Traditional quarter of narrow lanes, markets, and courtyards near the mosque, best for atmosphere and historic streetscapes.
- Recommended
North Square of Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Broad pedestrian-friendly square north of the pagoda, popular for fountains, evening lights, and easy access to nearby sights.
- Recommended
Daming Palace National Heritage Park
Large urban heritage park on the former palace grounds, good for walking, cycling, and seeing reconstructed site features.
Yangrou Paomo
Hand-pulled wheat noodles served in a rich beef or mutton broth. A signature Muslim Quarter staple tied to Xi'an's Silk Road heritage.
Biangbiang Mian
Wide hand-torn noodles with cumin, chili, and usually beef or mutton. Famous for bold northwestern flavors rooted in Shaanxi cooking.
Liangpi
Cold wheat noodles dressed with sesame paste, vinegar, chili oil, and garlic. A classic Xi'an street snack loved for its chewy texture and refreshing taste.
Tong Sheng Xiang
Popular Muslim Quarter restaurant known for Yangrou Paomo and other Shaanxi Muslim classics in a busy traditional setting.
Zi Wu Lu Zhang Ji Roujiamo
Well-known local chain for Roujiamo, Liangpi, and noodle dishes. Casual, fast-paced, and convenient for sampling Xi'an staples.
Xi'an Restaurant
Established banquet-style Shaanxi restaurant serving regional specialties in a more polished dining room suited to groups and families.
Chinese yuan (¥)
Moderate for China. Hotels, local meals, and metro rides are good value, but major sights and better hotels raise typical tourist daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ¥20-40 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- ¥60-120 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ¥300+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- ¥18-35 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is generally not expected in restaurants, taxis, or cafes. Service charges are uncommon, so rounding up is optional but not necessary.
FAQs: Trains from Shanghai to Xian
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Shanghai to Xian by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Xian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Shanghai to Xian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $115 (€95), while the average price is around $150 (€124).
The train from Shanghai to Xian takes 5h 39m and runs 20 per day.
The first train from Shanghai to Xian leaves at 12:24 AM.
The distance by train from Shanghai to Xian is 756 miles (1218 km).
The last train from Shanghai to Xian leaves at 8:09 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Shanghai to Xian.
Yes, there is a direct train from Shanghai to Xian. This service operates 20 times per day, provided by China Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Shanghai to Xian.
Yes, you can take the train from Shanghai to Xian.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
China uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY) as its currency. For travelers, using cards like UnionPay is widely accepted in cities, but cash is still essential in smaller towns and markets where card acceptance may be limited.
In Xi'an, travelers should be cautious of common scams such as overpriced taxi rides, especially when drivers avoid meters or take longer routes. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like the Muslim Quarter and popular tourist sites, so keeping valuables secure is important. Additionally, some street vendors may pressure travelers into buying souvenirs or services at inflated prices. Staying aware of surroundings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safer experience.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Shanghai to Xian
Most Shanghai to Xian trains use the Shanghai Hongqiao to station pair. Use this guide to compare Shanghai and Xian train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Shanghai
Arrival train stations in Xian
Shanghai Hongqiao
Most popular train connections from Shanghai
More options for your journey from Shanghai to Xian
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