Weather: March marks the transition from winter to spring in Xi'an. The weather is not cold, instead; it is generally cool and dry, with a mix of clear and lightly cloudy days. Temperatures rise gradually throughout the month, with cooler mornings and evenings, averaging between 7°C and 17°C (45°F and 63°F).
Occasionally, Xi'an may experience one or two dusty days, usually short-lived and unlikely to affect your overall trip.
What to wear: Layering works best in March. A jacket or coat with a light sweater underneath is usually enough for daytime, while mornings and evenings can feel cooler, especially early in the month.
On windy days, a scarf can help with the dry air, and sunglasses are useful on clear days. If you visit in early March, bringing a light down jacket adds flexibility in case of sudden temperature drops.
Is Xi'an Worth Visiting in March?
Yes, March is one of the best times to visit Xi'an.
March weather makes a real difference to the experience. Days are cool to mild, which is ideal for exploring outdoor sights such as the Ancient City Wall, the Muslim Quarter, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. You could stay outdoors longer and move at a relaxed pace, without planning around extreme cold or heat.
This is also when spring scenery starts to appear across the city. Early blossoms add color to many major landmarks, making classic sights feel fresher and more pleasant.
March is also quieter than the peak travel months, so you could enjoy the main sights with fewer crowds and a calmer pace. Flight and hotel prices also tend to be more reasonable, making March a good-value time to visit Xi'an.
Things to Do in Xi'an in March
In addition to the classic attractions, Xi'an offers seasonal landscapes in March that can enrich your journey.
1. Early March: Experience the Lantern Festival
In 2026, China's Lantern Festival falls on March 3. If you arrive in Xi'an around this time, it's a great chance to experience a traditional evening celebration that marks the end of the Chinese New Year season.
After dark, you could visit the City Wall or Tang Paradise to see lantern displays. Both offer a festive atmosphere with illuminated paths, themed lanterns, and a strong sense of local culture.
It's an easy evening plan that adds a seasonal highlight to your March trip, especially if you enjoy night walks and cultural experiences.
City Wall Lantern Festival2. Early March: Catch the Last Snow on Mount Hua
In March, Xi'an city is already snow-free, but you may still find snow at higher elevations on Mount Hua, especially in early March.
Snow doesn't fall every day, yet after colder weather, the peaks can still be dusted white, creating beautiful contrasts of white ridgelines, dark cliffs, and frosted pines.
March feels noticeably milder than January and February. So you could enjoy the scenery and walk between viewpoints more comfortably, without enduring harsh winter cold.
Snow on Mount HuaOn colder days, we recommend taking the cable car to and from the North Peak to save energy. This is the most time-efficient option and offers scenic views during the ride.
If conditions are stable, adding the South Peak brings you to the highest point on Mount Hua, where snow often lasts longer and the contrast between snowy ridgelines and dramatic drops is especially impressive.
3. Mid to Late March: Enjoy Xi'an's Spring Blooms
Spring is one of the best seasons in Xi'an for enjoying flowers and taking photos, with blooms typically reaching their peak from mid-March to mid-April.
If you're interested in historical architecture and Buddhist culture, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda area is our top recommendation.
Here you could see a mix of plum blossoms, magnolias, purple-leaf plums, cherry blossoms, and more. With the Pagoda as a backdrop, you could easily capture beautiful photos of the spring blossoms.
As one of Xi'an's most iconic landmarks, it also gives you the chance to learn about Buddhist culture, the story of Xuanzang, and the Silk Road.
Cherry Blossoms at Big Wild Goose PagodaIf you prefer city views and a relaxed local atmosphere, you could go to the City Wall Park, where spring flowers line the walking paths. Cherry blossoms, lilacs, crabapple trees, and more add soft color to your walk.
You'll often encounter locals exercising, singing, and taking leisurely strolls, which gives you a glimpse of everyday life in Xi'an. It's a pleasant place to slow down, and with a private guide, you could gain deeper insights into local life. See our 3-Day Essence of Xi'an Tour.
Springtime at the City Wall ParkIf cherry blossoms are your main focus, Qinglong Temple is worth considering. It has the city's most famous cherry blossoms, with many varieties, originally gifted from Japan centuries ago.
Cherry blossoms at Qinglong TempleVisit Xi'an with China Highlights
If you'd like to see more than the standard highlights, our privately designed Xi'an tours offer the flexibility to shape the trip around you. We tailor each itinerary based on your pace, interests, and travel dates, covering everything from hotels and tickets to transportation and daily planning.
There are no forced shopping stops. You decide where to go and how long to stay. With a private guide and thoughtful arrangements, you could enjoy Xi'an in a relaxed and personal way. Simply share your ideas, and we'll take care of the rest.
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