Introduction

Landing in Beijing can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. Between the hustle of immigration, the maze of signs, and the size of the airport, the last thing you want is confusion about how to get into the city. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is about 30 km from downtown, while the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) sits 46 km away. Luckily, there are multiple transportation options with clear pros and cons. This guide breaks them down with real numbers, local insights, and practical tips so you can hit the ground running.

Airport Express Train: Fastest Way from Beijing Airport to City

The Beijing Airport Express is often the most straightforward choice.

• Beijing Capital International (PEK): The Airport Express connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 to Dongzhimen station in 20 minutes.

• Fare: Around 25 RMB ($3.5 USD) per person.

• Frequency: Every 10 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11 PM.

Why choose it:

• Avoids traffic jams (which can be brutal in Beijing).

• Clean, air-conditioned, and foreigner-friendly signage.

Limitations:

• Ends at Dongzhimen, where you’ll need to transfer to subway Line 2 or Line 13.

• Not ideal with heavy luggage since Beijing’s subway often involves stairs.

Daxing Airport Express Line: Smooth Ride into Downtown

Beijing’s Daxing Airport (PKX), the new star hub, is connected by its own dedicated train.

• Travel Time: About 20 minutes to Caoqiao station.

• Fare: 35 RMB ($5 USD).

• Transfer: Direct link to Subway Line 10 and Line 19 at Caoqiao.

Pro tip: If you’re heading to southern Beijing or staying near the Temple of Heaven area, this is the best option.

Airport Shuttle Bus: Budget-Friendly but Slow

For travelers prioritizing cost or carrying oversized luggage, shuttle buses remain a solid option.

• PEK Shuttle Bus: 16 lines, covering areas like Beijing Railway Station, Zhongguancun, and Fangzhuang.

• PKX Shuttle Bus: 6 lines, including routes to Beijing West Railway Station and downtown hotels.

• Fare: 20–30 RMB ($3–4.5 USD).

Advantages:

• Drops you closer to major hotels or neighborhoods.

• Cheaper than taxis.

Drawbacks:

• Journey can take 60–120 minutes depending on traffic.

• Limited late-night service.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Door-to-Door Convenience

Sometimes the best way is the simplest—grab a taxi or use Didi (China’s Uber).

• PEK to downtown (Tiananmen Square area): 100–140 RMB ($15–20 USD).

• PKX to downtown: 180–220 RMB ($25–30 USD).

• Travel Time: 45–90 minutes depending on traffic.

Tips:

1. Always queue at official taxi stands—avoid touts inside the terminal.

2. Carry your hotel address in Chinese characters. Drivers often don’t read English.

3. For Didi, download the English version app beforehand and set up payment.

High-Speed Train from Daxing Airport

Daxing Airport is also linked to the China Railway High-Speed (CRH) network.

• Route: Daxing Airport Railway Station to Beijing West Railway Station.

• Duration: About 20 minutes.

• Fare: 30 RMB ($4.2 USD).

This option is perfect if you’re heading straight to another city like Tianjin or Shijiazhuang.

Comparison Table: Beijing Airport to City Options

Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Cash vs. Cards: Some shuttle buses still require cash. Keep at least 100 RMB handy.

2. Language Barrier: Download Pleco or Google Translate with offline Chinese.

3. Rush Hours: Avoid 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–7 PM for taxis or buses—traffic can double travel time.

4. Navigation Apps: Baidu Maps or Apple Maps work better in China than Google Maps.

FAQ: Beijing Airport to City Transportation

Q1: What’s the cheapest way from Beijing airport to city center?
The shuttle bus, costing about 20–30 RMB ($3–4.5 USD), though it’s slower than trains.

Q2: Can I take a taxi at midnight from PEK or PKX?
Yes, both airports operate 24/7 taxi services. Expect higher fares due to night surcharges.

Q3: Is Didi safe for foreigners?
Yes, Didi is widely used and reliable. Just ensure your payment method is set up before arrival.

Q4: How long does it take from Daxing Airport to downtown by taxi?
Typically 60–80 minutes, but can be longer in rush hour.

Q5: Can I use the same subway card for the Airport Express?
Yes, the Beijing Yikatong transit card works for Airport Express and city subway.

Conclusion

Getting from Beijing’s airports to the city is less intimidating once you know the options. Fast trains like the Airport Express are perfect for speed, while taxis or Didi offer comfort and door-to-door convenience. Shuttle buses work if you’re budget-minded or heading to specific districts.

Each choice depends on your time, budget, and luggage situation. Personally, I’d go train if traveling light, but taxi if arriving at midnight with two big suitcases.

How about you—when you land in Beijing, what matters more: saving time or saving money?