How can I run older Xcode version on new macOS version?

Question

I am facing a problem running older versions of Xcode on newer MacOS versions.
For example, Xcode 13 on MacOS Ventura.

Answer 1

EDIT 2025, easier way:

Open Applications folder > right click on the Xcode you want to open > Show Package Contents > Contents > MacOS > Double tap on Xcode.

Previous solution:

The solution is very simple. If you have the older version downloaded in your Applications folder for example, lets say 12.5.1 version, you just need to:

• Open Terminal
• Open Applications folder in Finder
• Drag the Xcode app into Terminal so it gets its path
• Then add this next to it: /Contents/MacOS/Xcode, so the full command will be something like /Applications/Xcode-12.5.1.app/Contents/MacOS/Xcode
• Press enter to run the command

Now you should be able to run it. You will note that when you open this version of Xcode, the Terminal will open too, but don't close Terminal because it will close the Xcode too.

Here you can find older Xcode versions.