Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport is about 32 km from Shenzhen city centre. Transport costs vary depending on your method, destination, and time of day.
By transport type
Metro Line 11: CNY 7-11 per person. Metro Line 11 (the Airport Express line) runs from the airport to Futian, Shenzhen's central business district. It is fast and modern, taking about 45-60 minutes to Futian station. Runs approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30-11 PM.
Airport bus: CNY 15-30 depending on the route. Slow but inexpensive.
Taxi: CNY 100-170 to central areas. Meters are standard. After 11 PM, fares increase by roughly 20 percent. Rush hour traffic pushes fares toward the higher end.
Pre-booked transfer: $35-60 USD for a sedan. Minivans and premium vehicles cost more. The price is fixed regardless of traffic.
By destination
| Destination | Taxi (CNY) | Transfer (CNY) | |-------------|------------|----------------| | Futian (CBD) | 90-130 | 280-400 | | Nanshan (tech hub) | 50-80 | 180-280 | | Luohu (HK border) | 120-170 | 350-500 | | Shekou (port area) | 60-90 | 200-320 | | Huaqiangbei (electronics) | 80-120 | 260-380 | | Hong Kong (cross-border) | 200-300 | 500-800 |
Hidden costs to consider
- Late-night surcharge: Taxi meters increase after 11 PM. Budget an extra 20 percent.
- Traffic factor: Rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) fares can be significantly higher as the meter runs on both time and distance.
- Language confusion: If a taxi driver misunderstands your destination, the detour costs you money on the meter. Having your address in Chinese reduces this risk.
- Payment friction: Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, you are limited to cash. ATMs are available in arrivals.
Tips for managing costs
- The metro at CNY 7-11 is by far the cheapest option, but factor in walking and possible transfers to your final destination.
- For groups of 3-4 people, a taxi or transfer becomes more cost-effective per person than individual transit fares.
- Cash in CNY is the most reliable payment for taxis. ATMs in the arrivals hall accept international cards.
- Pre-booked transfers include the price for the vehicle, not per person, making them economical for families and small groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Shenzhen Airport from the city center?
Shenzhen Bao'an Airport is about 32 km from Futian CBD. Metro Line 11 takes 45-60 minutes, a taxi takes 30-50 minutes depending on traffic.
What is the cheapest way from Shenzhen Airport to the city?
Metro Line 11 at CNY 7-11 ($1-1.50 USD) is the cheapest option. It runs directly from the airport to Futian CBD. Runs from approximately 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
Can I get from Shenzhen Airport to Hong Kong?
Yes. A taxi to Luohu border crossing costs CNY 120-170, then you walk across to Hong Kong. A pre-booked transfer can take you directly to Hong Kong destinations for $60-100 USD. There are also cross-border buses.
How much is a taxi from Shenzhen Airport to Futian?
A metered taxi from Shenzhen Bao'an Airport to Futian CBD costs CNY 90-130 (approximately $12-18 USD). After 11 PM, expect a 20% surcharge.