Joanna James
While Xi'an may be better known as one of China's heritage cities and the home of the Terracotta Warriors, this historic town is also the ideal getaway destination for couples. From iconic towers to charming restaurants, here are 5 romantic locations every couple must explore during a trip to Xi'an.
Culture buffs spending a romantic weekend away in Xi'an will be hard-pressed to find a more breathtaking venue in the city. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, the Bell Tower of Xi'an was built back in 1384 and has been captivating the imagination of locals and visitors alike for centuries. Located at a junction where 4 local roads meet, the Bell Tower is also the proud city symbol of Xi'an. Although most tourists head to the tower in the morning or during daylight, couples will find the heritage site is far more magical at night when it is set against the illuminated city below.
While there are a great many Chinese eateries in the city, none are quite as romantic as the Xi'an Restaurant. As one of the oldest restaurants in the city, the locale has been serving delicacies from traditional Shaanxi cuisine since it first opened its doors to diners in 1929. As a beloved fixture that locals and seasoned tourists frequent for the nostalgic atmosphere, couples will delight in the authentic meals options available at the venue. Having been graced by local celebrities and leaders including Kim Il-Sung and Zhou Enlai over the years, the restaurant is a historic dining hub like no other.
Whether one is based at Grand Park Xian or any of the best hotels in Xian, it will prove difficult to find restaurants serving modern French fare in this region of China. That is unless, one happens to pay a visit to the La Seine French Restaurant in Xi'an. Famed for its exquisite starters which include pumpkin soup with escargot and Gruyere cheese, this exclusive dining hotspot is the perfect place to enjoy a candle lit meal with one's partner.
Ranked among the most romantic things to do in Xi'an, there's more than one way to explore the ancient city wall hand-in-hand with a significant other. Although avid strollers can walk the length of the wall, couples with a passion for biking can rent a bike to explore this 14th century edifice at their own leisurely pace. Built by none other than Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the Ming Dynasty ruler associated with many heritage sites across the city, the city wall has truly stood the test of time. The wall can also be explored on a guided tour although it's not nearly as romantic as cycling along the ancient structure.
Couples who are looking to create the perfect Instagram photo shoot of their getaway to Xi'an should look no further than the local tailor shops specializing in Hanfu costumes. Wearing the traditional ethnic garbs of the Han Chinese can be a magical experience in and of itself although dressing in conventional costumes as a couple and snapping couples photographs takes the experience to new heights.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
