Xian, with more than 3 million visitors, is one of China's top tourist destinations. The range of accommodation in Xian is quite varied, but prices are high. In the train station area you will find some cheap hotels. There are some Youth hostels in Xian: one next to the South Gate, another in downtown Xian, and another half a mile from the Train Station.
The best area to stay is in the city center, from where you have easy access to Xian's main monuments. Second best is the train station area. Outside the city walls, in the south section you have many more hotel options.
Some of the hotels in Xian belong to international chains. These hotels offer first class services. Local Chinese hotels are cheaper, but rooms and facilities are simpler.