How to Navigate Beijing Airport to City Transortation Hassle-Free
You just got off the plane at Beijing airport and want to get to the city fast and easy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zK4ZElfstc&t=1sThere are five good ways to travel: subway, bullet train, airport shuttle bus, taxi, and online car-hailing. Beijing capital international airport had over 100 million travelers each year before Daxing opened. These ways can handle lots of people well. I will show you each choice with simple steps, prices, and tips. Stay here for advice that matches how you like to travel.
Key Takeaways
Pick the Airport Express if you want a fast and cheap trip to the city center. The ride takes about 36 minutes. It costs CNY25.
The subway is good for people who want to save money. It goes to many places in Beijing. It only costs CNY5-10.
If you have a lot of bags or come late, try a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like DiDi. This is easier for you.
Airport shuttle buses go straight to popular places. They are great for groups. They cost between CNY20-50.
Think about your arrival time, how much luggage you have, and your budget. This helps you pick the best way to get to the city.
Beijing Airport Transportation Options
Quick Comparison
You have several ways to get from beijing airport to the city. Each option fits different needs and budgets. Here’s a quick look at the main choices:
Option | Travel Time | Fare | Operating Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Daxing Airport Express | 19-28 minutes | ¥35-45 | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Fastest, city center |
Airport Buses | 60-90 minutes | ¥40-50 | 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Budget, direct routes |
Taxi/Ride-Hailing | 60-90 minutes | ¥150-250 | 24/7 | Door-to-door, convenience |
Subway (Line 19) | 20-90 minutes | ¥5-10 | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Affordable, subway network |
Private Transfers | 60-90 minutes | ¥300-500 | 24/7 | Comfort, lots of luggage, late night |
You can also use the airport express or subway from beijing capital international airport. These cost about ¥25-30 and take 30-60 minutes.
Which Option to Choose
Picking the right transportation depends on your needs. Here are some tips to help you decide:
If you want to save money and avoid traffic, the subway is a great choice. It runs on time and connects to many parts of beijing.
If you have a lot of luggage or arrive late at night, a taxi or private transfer works best. Taxis run all night, but prices may go up after midnight. Private transfers give you more space for bags and a safer ride.
If you travel with a group or want a simple ride, airport shuttle buses offer direct routes to popular spots in beijing.
Online car-hailing apps like DiDi help you get a ride fast, especially during busy hours.
If you want the fastest trip to the city center from Daxing, try the Daxing Airport Express.
Tip: Think about your arrival time, how much luggage you have, and your budget before you choose. Each option has its own pros and cons, so pick what fits your trip best.
From Beijing Capital Airport to City
Getting from Beijing Capital Airport to the city can feel easy when you know your options. Let’s break down each transportation method so you can pick what works best for you.
Airport Express Subway
The airport express line is the top choice for many travelers. It is fast, cheap, and connects you to the main subway network in Beijing. You can use this line to avoid traffic and reach the city center quickly.
How to Take the Airport Express:
Follow the signs inside Beijing Capital Airport to the Airport Express Train Station.
Buy your ticket at the counter or machine. The ticket costs CNY25 per person.
Enter the waiting platform and board the train.
Ride the airport express to Sanyuanqiao, Dongzhimen, or Beixinqiao stations.
Get off the train, return your ticket, and exit the station or transfer to another subway line.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Ticket Price | CNY25 per person |
Average Travel Time | 36 minutes |
Tip: The airport express line is the cheapest and fastest way for most travelers. You can transfer to other subway lines at Dongzhimen or Sanyuanqiao. If you have a lot of luggage, you might find the subway a bit crowded during rush hour.
Airport Shuttle Bus
The airport shuttle bus gives you a direct ride to many parts of Beijing. You can find the shuttle at the ground transportation center outside each terminal. This is a good choice if you want a simple ride to a popular spot or train station.
Here are some main shuttle routes and their operating hours:
Line Number | Destination | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
Line 1 | Fangzhuang | 07:00 - 01:00 |
Line 2 | Xidan | 07:00 - 24:00 |
Line 3 | Beijing Railway Station | 07:00 - 24:00 |
Line 4 | Gongzhufen | 06:50 - 24:00 |
Line 5 | Zhongguancun | 06:50 - 24:00 |
Line 6 | Olympic Village | 08:00 - 21:00 |
Line 7 | Beijing West Railway Station | 07:00 - 24:00 |
Line 8 | Shangdi | 08:00 - 21:00 |
Line 9 | Tongzhou | 07:00 - 24:00 |
Line 10 | Beijing South Railway Station | 09:30 - 21:30 |
Line 11 | Yizhuang | 08:00 - 20:00 |
Ticket prices for the airport shuttle bus range from CNY20 to CNY100, depending on your destination. Most rides to the city center cost between CNY20 and CNY30. Some longer routes can take up to 2.5 hours and cost more.
Ticket Price (CNY) | Duration |
|---|---|
20 | N/A |
25 | N/A |
30 | N/A |
50 | 2.5 hours |
100 | 2.5 hours |
Note: The shuttle bus is a good pick if you travel with a group or want a direct ride to a train station. You may need to wait for the next bus, and traffic can slow you down during busy times.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
You can always grab a taxi at Beijing Capital Airport. Taxis line up outside each terminal, and you can spot the official taxi stand by the signs. The average fare to the city center is between ¥100 and ¥120. The ride usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
Transport Option | Cost (¥) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Taxi | 100-120 | 30-60 min |
If you want a more modern experience, try an online car-hailing service like DiDi. You can book a ride using your phone. DiDi offers an English interface and 24/7 service. All drivers are trained and certified, so you get a safe and reliable ride. This is a great option if you arrive late or have lots of luggage.
Tip: Taxis are easy to find, but lines can get long during peak hours. DiDi lets you skip the wait and book a car right from your phone. Both options give you door-to-door service, but DiDi is often more convenient for international travelers.
Private Transfer
Private transfers give you the most comfort and peace of mind. You can book a car in advance, and a driver will meet you at the airport and take you straight to your hotel. Prices start at about US$32 for two passengers. You can choose from sedans, executive cars, vans, or minibuses. This service runs 24/7, so it works well for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
Benefits:
Door-to-door service makes your trip stress-free.
Professional drivers help you feel safe and welcome.
Good value for groups or families.
No need to worry about finding a ride after a long flight.
Drawbacks:
Some drivers may not speak fluent English.
Sometimes, there are small issues like missing bottled water or confusion about pickup times.
Note: Private transfers cost more than the airport express or shuttle, but you get comfort and convenience. This is a smart choice if you travel with family, have lots of bags, or want a smooth ride after a long flight.
You have many ways to get from Beijing Capital Airport to the city. The airport express line is the cheapest and fastest for most travelers. Taxis and ride-hailing work best if you have lots of luggage or arrive late at night. Shuttle buses and private transfers give you more options if you want a direct ride or extra comfort. Pick the transportation that fits your needs, and you’ll start your Beijing adventure with ease.
From Daxing Airport to Beijing
Arriving at beijing daxing international airport can feel overwhelming, but you have plenty of ways to reach the city center. Let’s walk through each transportation option so you can pick the best one for your trip.
Subway Line 19 & Daxing Express
You want a fast and affordable way to get into beijing. The airport express and subway Line 19 make this easy. The Daxing Airport Express whisks you from the airport to Caoqiao station in about 19 to 28 minutes. You can transfer to Line 10 or Line 19 at Caoqiao, which connects you to the rest of the city.
How to use the Daxing Airport Express:
Follow the signs for the airport express inside beijing daxing airport.
Buy your ticket at the vending machine or ticket counter. The fare ranges from CNY35 to CNY45, depending on your destination.
Board the train and enjoy a smooth ride to the city center.
Transfer to the subway network at Caoqiao station if you need to reach other parts of beijing.
Tip: The airport express runs from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. If you arrive late, you may need to choose another transportation option.
The subway is a good choice if you want to avoid traffic and save money. You can reach many popular spots in beijing by transferring to other subway lines.
Airport Shuttle Bus
The airport shuttle bus gives you a direct ride to several places in beijing. You can find the shuttle waiting area inside the No. 20 Gate on the east side of the first floor of the terminal building. Buses run every 30 minutes, and the average travel time to the city center is about 80 to 90 minutes.
Here’s what you need to know:
Eleven city bus lines connect beijing daxing international airport to central beijing.
The cost for a one-way ticket is around 40 RMB.
The bus stop is easy to find at Gate 20 on the first floor.
Check out the main routes and ticket prices below:
Route | Schedule | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|
Daxing Airport → Beijing Railway Station | 6:45 - 23:15 (30/60 min interval) | CNY35-40 |
Daxing Airport → Asia Pacific Garden Hotel | 7:30 - 23:15 (30/60 min interval) | CNY45 |
Daxing Airport → Zhongguancun | 9:00, 10:00, 17:00, 18:00, 21:00, 22:00 | CNY35-45 |
Daxing Airport → Fangshan Traffic Bureau | 9:00 - 16:00 (hourly) | CNY35-45 |
Daxing Airport → Capital International Airport | 13:30, 16:00, 18:30 | CNY25-55 |
Daxing Airport → JD Group Headquarters | 8:30 - 22:30 (hourly) | CNY30-40 |
Daxing Airport → Eaself Hotel | 10:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00, 20:00, 23:15 | CNY40-60 |
Daxing Airport → Liuxiang Bridge | 3:00 - 1:00 (20 min interval) | CNY35-50 |
Note: The airport shuttle bus is a good pick if you travel with a group or want a direct ride to a hotel or train station. You might need to wait for the next bus, and travel time can change if traffic is heavy.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
You can always grab a taxi at beijing daxing airport. Taxis wait outside the terminal, and you can spot the official taxi stand by the signs. The average fare to the city center is about 220 RMB. This price includes toll fees, but waiting time costs extra. The ride usually takes 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you want a more modern experience, try an online car-hailing service like DiDi. You can book a ride using your phone. DiDi offers an English interface and 24/7 service. All drivers are trained and certified, so you get a safe and reliable ride.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Aspect | Taxi Pros | Taxi Cons | Ride-Hailing Pros | Ride-Hailing Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Convenience | Quick, direct transportation | Communication barriers with drivers | User-friendly apps for easy booking | Requires smartphone and internet access |
Cost | Generally affordable for short trips | Can become expensive for long distances | Often economical with promotions | Prices can surge during peak times |
Availability | Readily available in urban areas | Difficult to find during rush hours | Extensive coverage in major cities | May require sharing rides with strangers |
Tip: Taxis are easy to find, but lines can get long during busy hours. DiDi lets you skip the wait and book a car right from your phone. Both options give you door-to-door service, but DiDi is often more convenient for international travelers.
Private Transfer
If you want the most comfort and peace of mind, book a private transfer from beijing daxing international airport. You can arrange a car in advance, and a driver will meet you at the airport and take you straight to your hotel. The typical cost is about 491 RMB. The booking process is simple:
Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
Typical Cost | Approximately 491 RMB (63.50€ / 69$) |
Booking Process Steps | 1. Select a private transfer company |
2. Fill out a booking form | |
3. Make a payment and receive confirmation |
Choosing a private transfer works well for families or groups. You get instant booking confirmation and 24/7 service. The driver waits for you, even if your flight is late. Vehicles are spacious and air-conditioned, and baby seats come at no extra charge. The fixed price covers all taxes and fees, so you won’t face surprises.
Note: Private transfers cost more than the airport express or shuttle, but you get comfort and convenience. This is a smart choice if you travel with family, have lots of bags, or want a smooth ride after a long flight.
You have many ways to get from beijing daxing airport to the city center. The airport express is the fastest and most reliable for most travelers. Taxis and ride-hailing work best if you have lots of luggage or arrive late at night. Shuttle buses and private transfers give you more options if you want a direct ride or extra comfort. Pick the transportation that fits your needs, and you’ll start your beijing adventure with ease.
Beijing Arrival Tips
Payment & Apps
Paying for rides in Beijing is simple with the right apps. Many travelers use mobile payment apps for subway, airport rides, and taxis. Here are some ways to pay:
Payment Method | Description |
|---|---|
Alipay and WeChat Pay | Scan QR codes to pay fast on public transport and in stores. |
International Cards | Use MasterCard or VISA at subway stations and ticket counters. |
DiDi | Book rides and pay in the app, which takes international credit cards. |
You can also use the Yikatong app for Android to pay subway fares with your phone. Most people in Beijing use Alipay or WeChat Pay for almost everything. Setting up one of these apps before you travel saves time.
Tip: Download Baidu Maps to help you get around the city center. DiDi is good for booking rides if you do not speak Chinese.
Language Help
Not everyone at Beijing airport or in taxis speaks English. There are ways to make talking easier.
Service Type | Description |
|---|---|
Meet and Greet Services | Get help with luggage, immigration, and customs in your language. |
VIP Meet and Greet | Get expert help in many languages for a smooth arrival. |
Carry your hotel’s business card to show drivers.
Learn a few simple Mandarin words for greetings and directions.
Note: Taxi drivers may not speak much English, so written addresses help a lot.
Peak Hours
Traveling at the right time makes your trip easier. The subway and airport rides get busy during morning (7:00–9:00 AM) and evening (5:00–7:00 PM) rush hours. If you want to skip long lines and crowded trains, travel outside these times. The city center is easier to move around when it is less busy.
Safety Tips
Stay safe by following these easy steps:
Always use official taxi stands at the airport.
Check that the driver’s name and license are easy to see.
Have your hotel address written in Chinese.
Make sure the taximeter starts at zero.
Ignore drivers who come up to you with offers.
Stick to your planned route and avoid extra stops.
Watch out for scams like the “tea house scam.” If a driver suggests a detour, say no and follow your plan.
You have many ways to reach the city center from beijing airport. If you want to save money, take the subway or shuttle bus. For comfort or if you travel with a group, try a private transfer or taxi. You save time by planning ahead and checking your arrival time. Trust these tips to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
FAQ
How do I get a SIM card at the airport?
You can buy a SIM card at kiosks in the arrivals area. Staff will help you set it up. Make sure your phone is unlocked before you arrive.
Can I use foreign credit cards for transportation?
Yes, you can use MasterCard or VISA at subway stations and ticket counters. Some taxis and buses may only take cash or Chinese apps, so keep some cash handy.
What is the best way to take a taxi to tiananmen?
Follow the signs to the official taxi stand at the airport. Show the driver “Tiananmen” written in Chinese. The ride takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Is it easy to get around beijing if I don’t speak Chinese?
You can get around with translation apps and by showing addresses in Chinese. Most signs in the city and on public transport have English. People are friendly and will try to help.
What should I do if I lose my luggage?
Go to the lost and found counter in the arrivals hall. Show your baggage claim ticket. Staff will help you track your luggage and explain what to do next.