Arriving in Shenzhen might seem a bit hectic at first, but getting to the city is actually very simple. Whether you land at Bao’an International Airport (SZX), you’ll find plenty of transport options waiting for you. If you want a quick ride, take the Airport Metro Line 11 straight to downtown areas like Futian or Nanshan. For a cheaper option, hop on the airport shuttle bus that connects major districts. If you’re carrying heavy luggage or arriving late, taking a taxi or booking a DiDi car is the easiest way to reach your hotel comfortably. No matter where you’re headed in Shenzhen, getting from the airport to the city is easy and convenient.
🛬 How to Get from Shenzhen Airport to the City
Arriving in Shenzhen might feel a bit confusing at first, but getting to the city is actually easy once you know your options. Whether you’re staying in Futian, Nanshan, or Luohu, there’s a convenient way to reach your hotel from Bao’an International Airport (SZX). Here’s a simple guide for Filipino travelers to help you choose the best option for your time, budget, and comfort.
✈️ From Bao’an International Airport (SZX) to City
Transport Option | Where to Find It | Travel Time | Cost (CNY / PHP) | Convenience | Best For | Extra Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Metro Line 11 | Airport Metro Station (basement level) | 35–45 mins | ¥7–9 / ₱55–70 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Budget travelers, first-timers | Connects to major stops like Futian, Chegongmiao, and Nanshan |
Airport Shuttle Bus | Outside arrivals terminal | 45–60 mins | ¥20–30 / ₱160–240 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Travelers with luggage | Runs to main areas like Luohu, Futian, and Huaqiangbei |
Taxi | Official taxi stand at arrivals | 35–50 mins | ¥120–160 / ₱950–1,250 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families, late-night arrivals | Always queue at official taxi line to avoid overcharging |
DiDi (Ride-hailing app) | Book via app | 35–50 mins | ~¥120–180 / ₱950–1,400 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | App users, small groups | Set your drop-off point in Chinese for better accuracy |
Private Transfer | Pre-book online (Trip.com) | 35–50 mins | ₱2,000+ (2–3 pax) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Comfort, stress-free travel | Driver meets you at the arrival hall with a name sign |
Car Rental | Car rental counters at arrivals | Flexible | From ¥300 / ₱2,400+ per day | ⭐⭐⭐ | Experienced drivers | Good for long stays or day trips to nearby cities |
🚇 Shenzhen Airport Metro: Your Easy Ride to the City
Sources: Wikipedia
Taking the metro from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) is one of the fastest and cheapest ways to reach the city. If you’ve used the MRT in Manila, this will feel familiar but much more comfortable: spacious, clean, safe, and air-conditioned.
🛤️ Train Line & Route
Metro Line 11 (Airport Line)
- Station: Airport Station (directly connected to Terminal 3; just follow signs for “Metro / 地铁”).
- Route: Airport → Qianhaiwan → Houhai → Chegongmiao → Futian → Bitou.
- Key Transfers:
- Qianhaiwan – connect to Line 1 and Line 5.
- Houhai – near shopping and food areas in Nanshan.
- Chegongmiao – transfer to Line 7 and Line 9 for other parts of Shenzhen.
- Futian – Shenzhen’s main business district, near the Civic Center and high-speed rail station.
- Travel time: About 35–45 minutes to downtown (Futian/Nanshan area).
🕒 Operating Hours
- First train: Around 6:30 AM (Airport → City)
- Last train: Around 11:00 PM (Airport → City)
- Frequency: Every 5–8 minutes during the day.
💸 Ticket Price
- Standard fare: ¥6–9 (₱45–70), depending on your stop.
- How to pay:
- Ticket machines (accept coins and small bills).
- Contactless cards (Shenzhen Tong or Lingnan Pass).
- QR code via Alipay or WeChat Pay for quick entry.
🚌 Shenzhen Airport Shuttle Bus: Budget-Friendly and Easy Ride to the City
If you want a cheap and simple way to reach the city from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX), the airport shuttle bus is a great choice. It’s comfortable, convenient for travelers with big luggage, and takes you directly to popular city areas without needing to transfer trains.
🚍 Where to Find the Bus
- After clearing immigration, go to the Arrival Hall at Terminal 3.
- Look for signs that say “Airport Shuttle Bus (机场大巴)”.
- You can buy tickets at the counters or from vending machines inside the terminal.
- Buses are parked at the official shuttle platforms outside the terminal.
📍 Main Routes & Destinations
Route | Approx. Fare | Drop-off Points | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
SZX → Futian Bus Station | ¥20 (~₱160) | Futian CBD, near malls and metro | Best for those staying in the city center |
SZX → Nanshan District | ¥25 (~₱200) | Coastal City, Shenzhen Bay Port | Perfect for travelers staying near the tech or seaside area |
SZX → Luohu Railway Station | ¥25 (~₱200) | Luohu border, shopping area | Great if you plan to visit Hong Kong or take a train |
SZX → Longgang District | ¥30 (~₱240) | East Shenzhen | Good for business travelers or long stays |
SZX → Shenzhen North Station | ¥25 (~₱200) | High-speed train connections | Ideal if you’re continuing to Guangzhou or other cities |
⏱️ Travel Time
The ride takes about 50–80 minutes, depending on your route and traffic.
Buses usually leave every 20–30 minutes from early morning (around 6:30 AM) until late evening (around 11:00 PM).
💳 How to Ride the Airport Bus
- Go to the ticket counter or vending machine in the Arrival Hall.
- Tell the staff your destination (for example, “Futian” or “Luohu”).
- Pay by cash (RMB) or bank card.
- Take your ticket and go to the bus gate number shown on it.
- Wait at the platform until your bus arrives.
🚖 Taxi & 📱 Didi (Ride-Hailing): Easy and Comfortable Ride to the City
If you prefer a direct and comfortable trip from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) to your hotel, taking a taxi or booking a DiDi is the easiest choice. Both options are safe and reliable, especially if you arrive late at night, carry big luggage, or travel with your family.
🚖 Taxi
📍 Where to Find Taxis
- The official taxi stand is located outside the Arrivals Hall at Terminal 3.
- Follow the signs for “Taxi / 出租车” after exiting the baggage area.
- Airport staff are available to help direct passengers to the correct queue.
💸 Fares & Travel Time
- Downtown (Futian, Nanshan, Luohu): ¥120–160 (~₱950–1,250)
- Travel time: Around 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
✅ Why Choose a Taxi
- Door-to-door drop-off without any transfers.
- Best choice for late-night arrivals when buses and metro trains are closed.
- Safer and more convenient if you have children or large bags.
- Always use the official taxi line to avoid unlicensed drivers.
⚠️ Tip: Traffic in Shenzhen can get busy during rush hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM), so plan your ride time if possible.
📱 DiDi (Ride-Hailing App)
🚍 How to Book
- Download the DiDi app on iOS or Android.
- You can switch to the English version in the settings.
- Payment options include WeChat Pay, Alipay, or an international credit card.
💸 Fares & Travel Time
- About the same as a taxi: ¥120–180 (~₱950–1,400) to central Shenzhen.
- Travel time: Around 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
✅ Why Choose DiDi
- No need to wait in line at the taxi stand.
- See the estimated fare before confirming your ride.
- Choose the ride type that fits your budget:
- Express: Cheaper and practical for solo travelers.
- Premier: More comfortable cars for longer rides.
- Luxe: High-end vehicles for extra comfort.
✨ Traveler Choice
- Take a taxi if you want the simplest and most direct ride right after landing.
- Choose Didi if you prefer a cashless, app-based option with clear pricing and no waiting in line.
🚘 Private Transfer: Smooth and Comfortable Ride to the City
If you want a smooth and stress-free start to your Shenzhen trip, booking a private transfer is the most comfortable choice. You can arrange it in advance, and your driver will meet you right at the arrival hall to take you directly to your hotel. It’s perfect if you’re tired from a long flight, traveling with family, or carrying several bags.
🚍 Where to Book
- Book online through trusted sites like Trip.com.
- Your driver will wait at the arrival hall holding a sign with your name.
- You can also request a larger car or van if you’re traveling with a group.
💸 Fares & Travel Time
- Downtown areas (Futian, Nanshan): from ₱2,000+ (2–3 passengers)
- Travel time: Around 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Premium cars and vans are available for families or business travelers.
✅ Why Choose a Private Transfer
- Fixed price with no hidden costs.
- Door-to-door service, so you don’t need to find transport on arrival.
- Driver assistance with luggage and meet-and-greet inside the airport.
- Ideal for families, groups, or anyone who values comfort and convenience.
🚘 Car Rental: Smooth and Comfortable Ride to the City
If you prefer to explore Shenzhen at your own pace, renting a car from the airport is a great option. It gives you the freedom to travel anytime without waiting for buses or trains. This is perfect for travelers who plan to visit nearby cities or attractions outside the downtown area.
🚗 Where to Rent a Car
- Car rental counters are located at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (Terminal 3 Arrival Hall).
- Major companies like Hertz, Avis, and eHi Car Services operate there.
- You can also book online in advance through Trip.com for better prices.
💸 Rates & Travel Time
- Daily rental: starts from around ¥300–500 (~₱2,400–4,000) depending on the car type.
- Travel time to downtown (Futian/Nanshan): about 40–60 minutes.
✅ Why Choose Car Rental
- Full flexibility to travel at your own schedule.
- Comfortable and private, ideal for family or group trips.
- Great for side trips to nearby places like Dapeng, OCT Harbour, or Dongguan.
✈️ What’s the Best Way from Shenzhen Airport to the City?
Just landed in Shenzhen and not sure how to get downtown? Don’t worry, kabayan! Whether you’re saving money, traveling with family, or arriving late at night, there’s always a good way to reach the city from Bao’an International Airport (SZX). Here’s a simple guide to help you choose what works best for you:
| Travel Style | Best Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
Budget Traveler | 🚇 Metro Line 11 or 🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus | Metro is fast and cheap, while the bus is great if you have big luggage. |
First-Time Visitor | 🚇 Metro Line 11 | Clear English signs, direct route to key areas like Futian and Nanshan. |
Group or Family | 🚖 Taxi or 📱 Didi Ride | Easy, direct, and enough space for bags and kids. |
Late-Night Arrival | 🚖 Taxi or 🚘 Private Transfer | Safe and available 24 hours when metro and buses stop running. |
Comfort Seeker | 🚘 Private Transfer (Trip.com) | Driver waits at arrivals, fixed price, and smooth ride straight to your hotel. |
No matter if you’re staying in Futian, Nanshan, or Luohu, getting into the city from Shenzhen Airport is quick and easy. Just pick the option that fits your budget, comfort, and time.
🇨🇳 Enjoy your trip, kabayan! Welcome to Shenzhen 🌇✨
🙋♀️ FAQ: Shenzhen Airport to City
How far is Shenzhen Bao’an Airport from downtown?
It’s about 30–35 km from the airport to Futian or Nanshan, which takes around 40–60 minutes depending on traffic.What’s the fastest way to reach the city?
The Metro Line 11 is the fastest and most affordable way to reach downtown areas like Futian or Nanshan.Is there an airport bus for travelers with big luggage?
Yes. The Airport Shuttle Bus runs to major areas like Futian, Nanshan, and Luohu. It’s a good option if you have large bags.Can I use Didi without a Chinese bank account?
Yes. You can link an international credit card or use Alipay or WeChat Pay for payment.Are there 24-hour transport options?
Yes. Taxis and Didi are available all day and night. The metro and shuttle buses stop running around 11 PM.