Roberta Aguirre
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport offers layover and overnight rest areas on the second floor of the terminal, as well as 24-hour restaurants and stores. If you have a long layover, you may be able to leave the airport and explore Shenzhen, depending on your nationality and the length of your layover. For example, citizens of Spain do not need to apply for a 144-hour transit visa, and are allowed to stay in Shenzhen for up to 15 days. However, it is recommended that you check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before planning to leave the airport during a layover.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the airport | Possible under the 10-day or 24-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy or with a visa |
| Visa-free policies | 10-day Visa-Free Transit Policy, 24-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy, 144-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy |
| Requirements for visa-free policies | Passport with at least 3 months' validity, proof of onward travel, hotel reservation |
| Transport options | Metro line 11, taxi, airport bus 330 |
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What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for short layovers
If you're travelling through Shenzhen Airport and have a short layover, the visa requirements for leaving the airport will depend on your nationality and the length of your layover. Here are the visa requirements for different scenarios:
Less than 8 Hours:
If your layover in Shenzhen is less than 8 hours, you will not be allowed to leave the transit area and will need to remain in the international corridor. In this case, you won't need a visa, but you must have a passport with at least 3 months' validity.
8 to 24 Hours:
For layovers between 8 and 24 hours, you may be able to leave the airport and explore Shenzhen, but the visa requirements can vary. Some sources suggest that a visa is not required if you have a connecting ticket to another country and your total time in Shenzhen is less than 24 hours. However, other sources indicate that a visa may be needed, especially if your baggage is checked through. In some cases, travellers with young children have been granted a 24-hour temporary visa upon arrival.
24 to 144 Hours:
If you have a longer layover of up to 144 hours (6 days), you may be eligible for the 144-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy. This policy allows travellers from certain countries to stay in Shenzhen or other designated areas in China for up to 6 days without a visa. To qualify, you must have a passport from an eligible country and a connecting ticket to a third country within the 144-hour period. The permitted areas and entry ports are specified by the Chinese authorities and may change over time.
Over 144 Hours:
For layovers exceeding 144 hours, you will likely need to obtain a regular Chinese visa in advance, unless you are from a country that has a visa waiver agreement with China. The Shenzhen 5-Day Visa on Arrival is an option for citizens of certain countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, but it is not guaranteed and may have a high risk of rejection.
It is always recommended to check the latest visa requirements with official sources, such as the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country, before your travel. The requirements can change, and there may be additional factors or conditions that apply to your specific situation.
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Leaving the airport for a hotel
If you have a long layover at Shenzhen Airport, you may want to leave the airport and stay in a hotel for the night. There are several hotels conveniently located near Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, including the Hyatt Regency Shenzhen Airport, the Hyatt Place Shenzhen Airport Hotel, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Shenzhen Airport. These hotels offer a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and convenient.
It is important to note that the visa requirements for leaving the airport and checking into a hotel may vary depending on your nationality and the length of your layover. In some cases, you may be eligible for a visa-free transit policy, which allows you to stay in Shenzhen for a short period without a full China visa. For example, citizens of certain countries, including Spain, can take advantage of a 144-hour visa-free policy. However, it is always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements and restrictions before making any plans.
When leaving the airport, you can use the Metro Line 11 to get to popular spots in the city, such as Shun Hing Square, Huaqiangbei, and Dongmen Pedestrian Street. However, keep in mind that the airport is located on the western edge of the city, so travelling to other parts of Shenzhen may take some time. Additionally, if you are not familiar with the language, navigating the city may be challenging.
If you decide to leave the airport, make sure you allow enough time to return and go through the necessary departure processes, including border control and luggage check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs to avoid any delays or issues.
Overall, leaving Shenzhen Airport during a long layover can be a great opportunity to explore the city and get some rest in a nearby hotel. Just be sure to plan ahead, check the latest visa requirements, and allow enough time to return to the airport for your departing flight.
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Transport options from the airport
Shenzhen Airport, also known as Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, is located 20 miles (32 kilometres) outside of downtown Shenzhen. The airport is a hub serving the Pearl River Delta, alongside Hong Kong International Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
Metro
The Shenzhen Metro is an efficient way to get from the airport to the city, with eight lines and over 200 stations. Metro Line 11 (Airport Line) is the cheapest option, costing just €1.50 (CNY 10) and taking 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, it is the slowest transfer option and has very limited storage space. To access the metro, go to B1 level of the Ground Transport Centre at Terminal 3.
Bus
The Airport Express Bus is a fairly inexpensive option, costing around €3 (CNY 20). However, it is not the most convenient as it makes many stops along the way and can take up to 60 minutes. There are 11 shuttle buses that stop at various downtown destinations. The trip typically takes about 45 minutes and costs between $2 and $4.
Taxi
Taking a taxi from the airport to the city centre is the quickest and most comfortable way to travel, taking just 30 minutes. The average cost for this journey is €14 (CNY 100), including a €0.45 (CNY 3) airport surcharge. Taxis can be found on the east side of the second-floor Ground Transportation Centre at Terminal 3.
Private Transfer
For a more personalised experience, you can book a private transfer with a company such as Transfeero. This option offers a stress-free start to your visit, with a chauffeur waiting to take you to your desired location.
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Things to do in Shenzhen
Shenzhen, China, is a city known for its modern architecture and innovative technology. It is a great place for a quick weekend getaway or a day trip from Hong Kong. Here are some of the top things to do in Shenzhen:
Explore the Tech and Innovation
Shenzhen is a living lab of innovation and technology. Visitors can explore the Huaqiangbei district, the world's largest electronics market, where they can find anything from tech gadgets to drone deliveries. The Red Cube is another futuristic complex worth visiting, housing the Science and Technology Museum, the Public Art and Urban Planning Museum, the Children's Palace, and Book City.
Experience the Culture and Traditions
Shenzhen offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and futuristic vibes. The Splendid China Folk Village and the Chinese Folk Culture Village showcase the ethnic diversity and minority cultures of the country. Visitors can also explore the Gankeng Hakka Town, a modernised older village with shops and restaurants, and the Dapeng Fortress, a Qing Dynasty fortress with quaint cobbled streets and stone walls.
Enjoy the Outdoor Attractions
Shenzhen has beautiful beaches and outdoor spaces. Lian Hua Shan Mountain offers stunning views of the Futian skyline, especially at dusk or night. Shenzhen Bay Park and Lotus Mountain Park are perfect for bike rides and picnics, with the added convenience of drone-delivered snacks and drinks. For a panoramic view of the city, visitors can take a low-altitude flight, offering a unique perspective of the "Eye of the Bay" Ferris wheel and Shenzhen Bay's coastline.
Visit the Theme Parks and Entertainment
OCT Bay, overlooking Shenzhen Bay, is a popular destination for families with its shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options. It features the Cave Discovery indoor amusement park, a Nickelodeon-themed indoor amusement park, an aquarium, an insect museum, VR activities, and an outdoor pirate ship obstacle course. Shenzhen also has a Safari Park and Window of the World, a theme park with miniature-scale replicas of famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the pyramids, and the Taj Mahal.
Indulge in Shopping and Dining
Shenzhen is known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping experiences. OCT Bay and Luohu Commercial City, an enclosed shopping mall near the Shenzhen River, offer a variety of shops and restaurants. For a unique shopping experience, visitors can explore Huaqiangbei, known for its bargain deals and fake luxury items. The Glass Mall in the Heng Gang area is famous for its selection of glasses and eyewear.
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Where to eat and drink
If you're looking for a place to eat or drink at Shenzhen Airport, there are a few options to choose from. The airport itself offers a variety of dining options, including Chinese, Cantonese, and fast-food restaurants. There are also coffee shops, tea bars, and cafes available.
For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, the Hyatt Regency Shenzhen Airport hotel, located within the airport, offers four exciting restaurants and bars. On the third floor, you can find Xiangyue, which serves authentic local Cantonese cuisine and regional specialties. The residential-style Lobby Lounge on the second floor is perfect for laid-back dining or business meetings. They also offer a stylish lobby lounge where you can enjoy light meals and refreshments. If you're looking for a more lively atmosphere, the Market Café on the second floor invites you to explore three unique dining concepts: The Asian Da Pai Dang (street food), The Italian Grill, and The Deli & Bakery.
Additionally, if you have a long layover and want to explore the city, Shenzhen offers a variety of dining options beyond the airport. The city has a diverse food scene, including Cantonese, Chinese, and international cuisine. However, keep in mind that leaving the airport during a layover may require a visa, and the availability of visa-free transit depends on your specific situation.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the length of your layover and your nationality. If you are a citizen of a country that is eligible for the 24-hour visa-free transit program, you can leave the airport without a visa as long as you leave China within 24 hours. If your layover is longer than 24 hours, you may be able to get a 72-hour or 144-hour visa.
Upon landing, follow the signs to the 24/240-hour visa-free transit counter to apply for the entry permit. You will need to fill out an Arrival/Departure Card and get a temporary entry permit stamp or sticker. Then, go through customs and claim your luggage if needed.
You can take Metro Line 11, a taxi, or Airport Bus 330 to leave Shenzhen Baoan Airport and get to the city.
There are many things to do in Shenzhen during your layover, including visiting Window of the World, which has miniature replicas of famous places, and the China Folk Culture Village, which features dancers, musicians, and artists representing China's various ethnic groups. You can also take in a bird's-eye view of the city from the Ping An International Finance Centre, the tallest building in Shenzhen.
