Xi'an Weather in June

June: hot days, passing showers

Xi'an is properly warm in June, with highs around 33°C and nights near 20°C. The humidity is noticeable, and rain falls on 11 days, often interrupting a sightseeing day rather than washing out the whole trip. Expect plenty of cloud, too, with some sunny spells.

The long days suit a relaxed visit to the Bell Tower and the old city lanes, but the midday heat can make the Terracotta Army's outdoor grounds tiring. Save longer walks on the City Wall for a cooler part of the day, and keep an indoor stop in mind if showers roll in.

Festivals and crowds

The Dragon Boat Festival sometimes falls in June; its date changes each year. If it does, you may see holiday travel and eat zongzi, sticky rice wrapped in leaves. China's Children's Day is on June 1, though it's not usually a major citywide festival.

June is generally less crowded than July and August, when school holidays bring more domestic visitors. The Terracotta Army and Muslim Quarter still draw plenty of people, especially on weekends. Prices are often calmer than during peak summer and October, one of Xi'an's best months, but don't expect every hotel to be cheap.

If you hate crowds, visit the Muslim Quarter on a weekday and wander its smaller lanes away from the main food street.

Make the heat work for you

Travelling with kids? Keep the afternoon flexible, with a break near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda before heading out again.

At the Terracotta Army, start with the indoor excavation pits, where you can see the famous rows of figures out of direct sun. Then decide if you've got the energy for the outdoor grounds. For dinner, try biangbiang noodles near the Muslim Quarter; they're wide, chewy noodles with a chilli kick.