Jazmin Li
Beijing has two major airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Travellers with a long layover in Beijing can leave the airport and explore the city, provided they have the right documentation. For instance, citizens of certain countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, are eligible for a 240-hour visa-free policy, which allows tourists to visit Beijing for up to 6 days. However, it is recommended to have at least 8 hours between flights if you want to leave the airport and explore, as travelling to Beijing city centre can take up to 3 hours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa requirements | Citizens from specific countries, including the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the UAE, are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free policy. |
| For other countries, a tourist visa or a "Visitors in Transit" permit is required to leave the airport. | |
| China also offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days for citizens from certain countries for business, tourism, family visits, or transit purposes. | |
| Time considerations | The first and last 2 hours of a layover are typically spent on customs and immigration, leaving about 4 hours free if the layover is 8 hours or more. |
| Traveling to and from the city center can take about 1.5–2 hours each way, depending on the airport and traffic conditions. | |
| Transportation | Taxis, airport shuttle buses, private cars, and intercity buses are available for transportation to and from the airport. |
| Beijing Capital Airport is closer to the downtown area and recommended if possible. | |
| The Airport Express light rail and subway system are also transportation options. | |
| Airport facilities | The airport offers various restaurants, shops, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. |
| Terminal 3 has gardens with fish ponds and a spa offering traditional Chinese foot massages. | |
| Airport lounges are accessible to all travelers, providing relaxation and shower facilities. | |
| Layover tours | Layover tours with private vehicles and English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance to maximize time and avoid hassle. |
| Attractions | Popular attractions to visit during a layover include the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Jingshan Park. |
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What You'll Learn
Beijing layover visa requirements
Beijing has implemented a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of certain countries. This means that citizens of eligible countries can enter Beijing without a visa, as long as they have a valid passport, a connecting flight, and a completed arrival/departure card. This policy is applicable to citizens of countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand, among others.
If you are a citizen of a country not included in the visa-free program, you will need to obtain a visa or a temporary entry permit to leave the airport during your layover in Beijing. The temporary entry permit allows you to leave the airport but requires you to depart from the same airport within 24 or 240 hours. To obtain a temporary entry permit, you must have a valid passport or other travel documents valid for more than three months from the arrival date, a connecting ticket with a confirmed departure date and seat number, and a landing card for foreigners filled out upon arrival.
It is important to note that the first and last two hours of your layover will likely be spent on customs and immigration, leaving you with about four hours of free time. Additionally, traveling to and from the city center can take up to two hours from Capital Airport and three hours from Daxing Airport. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully plan your time and consider arranging a layover tour in advance to make the most of your time in Beijing.
If you have a short layover and wish to remain in the airport, both Beijing Capital Airport and Daxing Airport offer various dining options, shopping, and lounges where you can rest or access free Wi-Fi.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa requirements, it is recommended to check with China's National Immigration Administration or your local Chinese embassy or consulate.
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How to get to Beijing from the airport
Beijing has two major airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). PEK is the busier of the two, with more direct flights and better arrival times, and is located closer to the city centre.
Temporary Entry Permits and Visas
If you are planning to leave the airport during your layover in Beijing, you will need to check the visa requirements for your nationality. Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, do not need a visa if they are staying for less than 30 days. However, they will need a valid passport, a confirmed connecting flight, and a completed arrival/departure card.
For longer layovers, you may need a tourist visa or a temporary entry permit valid for 24 or 240 hours. If you are unsure, it is recommended that you contact your local embassy or consulate for specific information regarding your nationality.
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available to get from Beijing's airports to the city centre.
- Airport Express Line: This is a fast and reliable option to get from the airport to Dongzhimen Station in 20-30 minutes. From there, you can transfer to other subway lines to reach your destination in the city.
- Bullet Train: This option is only available from Daxing Airport to Beijing West Station, taking approximately 30 minutes.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at both airports and can be a good option if you are travelling with family or have a lot of luggage. However, they can be expensive, and traffic jams are common during peak hours.
- Private Transfers: If you are looking to maximise your time and ensure a timely return to the airport, private transfers are a good option. These can be booked in advance as part of a Beijing tour.
- Bus: The airport bus is a wallet-friendly option, offering a comfortable and air-conditioned ride into the city. Fares range from ¥20 to ¥30, and payment can be made via cash or mobile methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay.
Top Attractions
If you have a long layover in Beijing, you may be able to visit some of the city's top attractions, including:
- The Great Wall at Mutianyu
- Forbidden City
- Tiananmen Square
- Summer Palace
Remember to factor in travel time to and from the airport, and always allow enough time to clear customs and immigration.
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Attractions to visit near Beijing Airport
If you're looking to leave Beijing Airport during a layover, it's important to note that you'll need at least 8 hours between flights to properly explore. The airport is 32 km from the city centre, and with traffic, this can easily take 1 hour each way.
The Great Wall
The Great Wall is a must-see destination for travellers with a layover in Beijing. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is just a 1.5-hour drive from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). However, it is nearly impossible to visit without insider help due to heavy traffic jams and a lack of efficient public transportation. If you have a longer layover, consider booking a tour in advance with a private vehicle and an English-speaking guide to save time and avoid any hassle.
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is one of the most popular attractions in Beijing and is located about 1.5 hours from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). It is a large palace that was once the home of China's emperors and is known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is a large public square in the centre of Beijing, surrounded by historic monuments such as the Tiananmen Tower, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Zedong Memorial Hall. It is a popular tourist destination and is just a short distance from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a large temple and park area that reflects ancient Chinese history and tradition. The Hall of Prayer, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar are all located within the park and are known for their impressive architecture and cultural interest.
Beijing Wildlife Park
Beijing Wildlife Park is a unique attraction that is home to over 200 animal species, including golden monkeys, tigers, and bears. The park offers a safari tour where visitors can feed the animals, providing a memorable experience for travellers.
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a former imperial garden and palace located in Beijing. It is known for its beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
To leave the airport during your layover, you will need either a tourist visa or a temporary entry permit valid for 24 or 240 hours, depending on your country of origin. China offers visa-free entry to citizens from several countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
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Facilities available at Beijing Airport
Beijing has two international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Both airports offer a range of facilities for passengers with layovers.
Beijing Capital International Airport is the busier of the two airports and is located closer to downtown Beijing. The airport has three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the largest man-made structure in the world when it opened. The airport offers facilities such as business centres, money changers, restaurants, coffee shops, and hotel-style services. There is a reading area, coffee bar, single and standard rooms, massages, and other hotel services. Each terminal has a medical service room, offering diagnosis, first aid, and ambulance services. Self-service water dispensers are also available, providing cold, hot, and iced water. Passengers can also purchase local handicrafts, special Chinese products, and locally made clothing at the airport.
Beijing Daxing International Airport is the newer of the two airports, having opened in 2019. This airport also has three terminals, which are connected by shuttle buses. Daxing Airport offers facilities such as self-service check-in, luggage systems, customs, parking, and Wi-Fi. The airport has a 5G base station, allowing passengers to access the internet at high speeds. There are also VIP lounges provided by certain airlines, which can be accessed by paying a fee in some cases. The airport also has extensive luggage storage areas, where passengers can store their personal items for up to 90 days. Luggage wrapping and delivery services are also available.
Both airports offer temporary entry permits and visa-free transit for passengers with layovers. Passengers can fill out the necessary paperwork at the airport or using self-service machines. It is important to note that the time spent on customs and immigration can be lengthy, so it is recommended to factor this into any plans to leave the airport during a layover.
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Where to stay during a Beijing layover
If you're looking for a place to stay during a Beijing layover, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it's important to note that the duration of your layover will play a significant factor in your decision. If you have a longer layover, such as 8 hours or more, you might want to explore the city and find a place to stay that allows you to maximize your time sightseeing. On the other hand, if your layover is shorter, you may prefer to stay within the airport or its nearby vicinity. Here are some detailed options for where to stay during your Beijing layover:
Staying Within the Airport
If you decide to remain within Beijing's airports, both Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) offer various amenities to keep you comfortable during your layover. Both airports have large dining areas with a variety of restaurants, including fast food, local snacks, Chinese cuisine, and international options. You can also find shops selling souvenirs, Chinese specialties, and brand products. Additionally, both airports provide free Wi-Fi, lounges, and resting areas. If you're looking for some relaxation, Le SPA in Terminal 3 of Beijing Capital Airport offers traditional Chinese foot massages. Terminal 3 also features two gardens with fish ponds, providing a peaceful environment to unwind.
Nearby Airport Hotels
If you prefer a more comfortable rest during your layover, there are hotels located near both Beijing airports. These hotels can be ideal if you arrive at midnight or early morning and want to get some proper sleep before venturing into the city. Some hotels, such as the Hilton Beijing Airport, offer paid access to their fitness center, indoor heated swimming pool, and spa. Additionally, the Hilton Beijing Airport provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Other nearby hotels include the Cordis Beijing Hotel and Crowne Plaza Hotel.
Exploring Beijing City
If your layover is sufficiently long, you may want to explore Beijing city and experience some of its famous attractions. In this case, you'll need to obtain the necessary documentation, such as a tourist visa or a "Visitors in Transit" permit, which allows for a temporary entry of up to 24 or 240 hours. Keep in mind that the round trip to the city center from Beijing Capital Airport can take about 2 hours, and from Daxing Airport, it can take 3 hours. Therefore, if you decide to explore Beijing, plan your time accordingly, considering traffic conditions and travel times to top attractions. Some popular places to visit during a Beijing layover include the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace.
Layover Tours
To make the most of your time in Beijing, you may consider joining a layover tour. These tours can be booked in advance and typically include private transportation and an English-speaking guide, ensuring a hassle-free and efficient sightseeing experience. Layover tours can be especially useful if you want to visit the Great Wall, as there is no direct public bus service from the Beijing airports to this attraction.
In summary, the ideal place to stay during your Beijing layover depends on the duration of your stopover and your personal preferences. Whether you choose to stay within the airport, opt for a nearby hotel, or explore the city, Beijing offers a range of options to accommodate your needs and ensure a memorable layover experience.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are a citizen of a country with visa-free access, such as the US, UK, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, you do not need a visa. You will need a valid passport, a confirmed connecting flight, and a completed arrival/departure card. If you are from a country without visa-free access, such as Algeria or India, you will need a visa to leave the airport.
The first and last two hours of your layover will be spent on customs and immigration, so you will only have about four hours free. Travelling to and from the city centre can take about two hours, leaving you with one to two hours of free time. If you have an eight-hour layover, you can visit one attraction, such as the Forbidden City or the Great Wall. With a longer layover of nine to twelve hours, you can visit two attractions.
Some popular attractions in Beijing include the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven.
Make sure to return to the airport at least two hours before your international flight. Check with your airline if you need to claim and recheck your bags. Research attractions in advance and plan your time wisely, as Beijing has heavy traffic.
