Xi’an Downtown Discovery Tour

Paul met me in my hotel lobby near the Bell and Drum Tower area and immediately set the tone for a genuinely great day. We cycled the Ancient City Wall, explored the Bell and Drum Towers, and wandered through the Muslim Quarter — a maze of alleyways, street food, and energy that you simply won't navigate as well without a guide who knows it. He reads his guests well, never rushes, and talks to you rather than at you. As a solo traveler navigating China with a real language barrier, Paul was the difference between surviving Xi'an and actually experiencing it. He ended the day at both Wild Goose Pagodas with just the right amount of history and context — enough to make it meaningful, never overwhelming. If you're coming to Xi'an and want to actually understand what you're looking at, book Paul. Highest possible recommendation.

This food tour of Xi’an was amazing and I tried many (almost too many!) delicious foods, such as steamed buns, Hulatong, and Paomo, among others. It was great to see the bustling local markets and eat in way that did not seem touristic. Paul did a great job showing off the culinary excellence and variety of the city, and was always friendly, patient, and helpful. This tour rivaled some of the more famous and established food tours I have taken. A highly recommended way to experience a more authentic look at Xi’an!

Paul is a very friendly and knowledgeable guide and this tour is a great way to see the main sites of downtown Xi’an. He also shows off the less touristy side of the city and gives you a good idea of what the city is like. He truly went above and beyond to make sure the tour was a great experience, and showed interest in and helped with the rest of my time in the city.