How to Get from Shenzhen Airport to City Centre

Just touched down at Shenzhen Bao’an Airport and wah, the place is massive and modern! The moment I stepped out of the plane, I got hit by that cool, dry air, yup, definitely not Singapore’s humidity. The signage is super clear (thankfully in English too), and everything feels organised.

But of course, the first thing on my mind? How to get to the city without blowing half my budget on a taxi? After a long flight, I just want something smooth—no need to haggle, no language drama, and definitely not lugging my cabin bag up and down stairs. Fast, fuss-free, and cheap lah. I believe you're thinking about the same thing.

Luckily, I found many ways to get from Shenzhen airport to city. No matter your travel style, here’s how to get from Shenzhen airport to the heart of the action.

How to Get from Shenzhen Airport to City Centre?

Flying from Singapore, you will land at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX). Shenzhen makes it easy with a range of transport options. This comparison table will help you pick the best way to reach the heart of the city.

🚆By Metro – Getting from Shenzhen Airport to City

Taking the metro is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport to downtown areas.

🛤️ Train Line

Metro Line 11 (Airport Express Line).

The station is conveniently located within the airport terminal. Just follow signs for “Metro” or “地铁” after baggage claim.

📍 Route & Key Stops

• From: Airport Station (机场站)
• To: Huaqiang South, Fuxing, Gangxia North, Futian, Chegongmiao, Hongshuwan South, Houhai, Nanshan, Qianhaiwan, Bao'an, Bihaiwan, Fuyong, Qiaotou, Tangwei, Ma'anshan, Shajing, Houting, Songgang, and Bitou.

Line 11 connects directly to Futian CBD in about 35–40 minutes. For other areas like Luohu, just transfer at Futian to Line 3.

Source: Wikipedia (click here for full map)

🕒 Operating Hours & Frequency

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

Tip: Consider a Shenzhen Tong transport card or mobile QR code for convenience.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travelers

✅ Great for: solo travelers, business folks, or anyone with light luggage

✅ Benefits:

• Air-conditioned, no traffic, and fast.
• Transfers to many metro lines if you're heading elsewhere in the city.

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Can get very crowded during peak hours.
• Limited space for large suitcases.
• No service at late night or early morning.

🚌 By Airport Bus – Getting from Shenzhen Airport to City

Source: Wikimedia

If you prefer a more relaxed ride and don’t mind a slightly longer journey, Shenzhen’s Airport Shuttle Bus (机场巴士) is a comfy and affordable way to get into the city. If you're carrying bulky luggage or heading to a specific area that’s not well-connected by metro, this is a good choice.

📍 Route & Key Stops

There are multiple lines depending on where you're going. Popular routes include:

Tip: It’s a good option if your hotel is in Luohu, Futian, or Nanshan, and you don’t want to deal with metro transfers.

🕒 Operating Hours & Frequency

Tip: Some routes have night service, but it’s more limited—always check ahead!

Source: Wikipedia

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

👍 Pros & Ideal Travelers

✅ Perfect for: budget-conscious travelers, small groups, or those with big luggage.

✅ Benefits: 

• No transfers—just sit back and relax.
• Convenient if you're staying near a bus stop or hotel drop-off.

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Traffic jams during rush hours (especially mornings and evenings).
• Less frequent buses at night.

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing – Getting from Shenzhen Airport to City

If you’ve just touched down in Shenzhen and want a straightforward, door-to-door ride, especially with luggage or kids in tow, taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Didi is a solid choice.

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

Official taxi stand: Head to Gate 3 or 4 of the Arrivals Hall. The clear signs will point you there.

For ride-hailing apps like Didi, use the designated pick-up zones (you’ll see signs for “Online Car-Hailing Area”).

Tip: Use the airport Wi-Fi to book if you don’t have data yet, and it helps to download the Didi app in advance with English mode enabled.

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

Taxi fare to downtown Shenzhen (e.g., Futian): around ¥100–130 (approx. S$18–S$24). Didi fares are usually similar, with upfront pricing. No fixed fare counter, but pricing is metered or set via the app

🕒 Duration & Traffic Considerations

Normal travel time: 35–50 minutes.

During peak hours or rainy days, it can take up to 1 hour+, especially toward Futian or Luohu.

🧳 Who It’s Best For

• Families with kids or elderly.
• Late-night arrivals after metro and buses stop.
• Travelers with multiple bags.
• First-timers who want a stress-free, no-transfer ride.

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Avoid unofficial touts offering rides inside the terminal.
• Surge pricing on Didi can apply during public holidays or bad weather.
• Not all taxi drivers speak English—have your hotel address in Chinese characters ready.

🚗 By Private Airport Transfer – Getting from Shenzhen Airport to City

If you just want to land and go, especially after a long flight or when traveling with family, a private transfer is the most seamless option.

A pre-booked car with a driver will be waiting for you at the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name. No need to queue for a taxi or figure out apps—just hop in and go!

🕒 Duration & Availability

Travel time: 35–50 mins to downtown (Futian/Luohu).

Availability: Available 24/7, great for early flights or late-night landings.

💸 Cost

Average fare: ¥150–200 (approx. S$28–S$38).

👍 Perks

• No waiting, no haggling.
• Fixed fare, even during peak hours.
• Friendly driver and direct drop-off at your hotel.

⚠️ Considerations

• Slightly pricier than taxis or Didi.
• Be sure to confirm your flight number and hotel address when booking.

🚘 By Car Rental – Getting from Shenzhen Airport to City

If you're planning to road-trip through Guangdong or want to explore beyond Shenzhen, renting a car at the airport gives you maximum flexibility.

Pick up a car at SZX airport's car rental center, drive yourself into the city or out to nearby gems like Zhuhai, Dongguan, or Huizhou.

🕒 Duration & Availability

Drive to city center: 35–50 minutes (same as taxi)

Availability: Available 24 hours, but better to book ahead during peak travel seasons

💸 Cost

Average daily rental: from ¥200+ (approx. S$38+).

Extra costs: tolls, fuel, parking, insurance.

👍 Perks

• Full control over your itinerary.
• Great for side trips and off-the-beaten-path spots.
• Ideal for groups who want to move together comfortably.

⚠️ Things to Note

• International Driving Permit may be required.
• Shenzhen has toll roads and heavy traffic—plan routes carefully.
• Always check fuel and insurance policies before confirming.

Which Option is Best for You?

Here’s a travel-style based summary for getting from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) to the city center, so you can pick what works best for you:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

Best options: taxi or private airport transfer

It’s stress-free, door-to-door, and has space for strollers or suitcases. Some services even offer car seats on request!

💸 Budget Travelers

Best options: airport bus or metro

It’s cheap, reliable, and great if you’re traveling light and not in a rush to check in.

🚄 Solo / Business Travelers

Best option: metro Line 11

Perfect for getting to central Shenzhen business hubs like Futian quickly.

🌙 Late-night Arrivals

Best options: taxi, Didi, or private transfer

All available 24/7. No need to worry about catching the last train or bus.

🛣️ Road Trippers

Best option: car rental

Consider a car rental if you plan to explore Zhuhai, Dongguan, or Huizhou. Total freedom, especially for longer stays or hidden gems outside the city.