Tips & Answers · Community post
Beijing to Xi'an train vs flight which is better
It's such a tough choice. I know that in all probability both options are pretty much the same, but considering our actual number of days in Beijing and the uncertainty of our final departure time, I'm having a hard time deciding between the high-speed train and a flight.
Comments (1)
For most travellers, the high-speed train is the better choice: more comfortable, more reliable and often faster door to door.
Total journey time
A flight is about 2.5 hours in the air, but airport transfers, domestic security, boarding and baggage can turn it into a 6-7 hour journey. The fastest G-series trains take roughly 4.1-4.5 hours, and Beijing West plus Xi'an North are connected to city metro systems. In practice, the train often takes around five hours end to end.
When flying can make sense
Consider a flight if you are connecting directly at PEK or PKX, or if you find a promotion that is much cheaper than the train. Otherwise, choose the departure time that genuinely fits your own schedule best.