You can find out about the history of Xi'an with a stop at Great Mosque of Xi'an. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Xi'an City Walls— just one of the monuments in Xi’an City Center. You could also start your cultural experience by heading over to the museums in the area. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander.