Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Beijing Airport Transportation

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.

Beijing Capital International Airport offers several convenient transportation options connecting the airport with downtown Beijing and other parts of the metropolitan area. Travelers can choose between fast rail services, airport buses, taxis, or private transfers depending on their budget, travel time, and destination. The Airport Express train and taxis are usually the fastest ways to reach the city centre, while buses provide a more economical alternative.

Below are the main transport options available at Beijing Capital Airport.

beijing CAPITAL airport to city centre

Best options to get to city centre are Airport Express or taxi or transfer. 

Airport Express

The Beijing Airport Express is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach the city centre. The train connects the airport with Dongzhimen Station, with stops at Sanyuanqiao and both airport terminals.

  • Travel time: about 20–25 minutes
  • Frequent departures throughout the day
  • Direct access to the Beijing subway network

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From Dongzhimen you can easily transfer to Subway Lines 2 and 13 to reach many areas of the city.

Shuttle bus

Airport shuttle buses connect Beijing Capital Airport with several major districts, railway stations and hotels in Beijing. They operate on multiple routes and are a convenient option for travelers heading to areas not directly served by the Airport Express.

  • Economical option
  • Several routes across the city
  • Available from both terminals

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Public Bus

Passengers can also use regular public buses from the airport to different parts of Beijing and nearby suburbs. These buses are generally cheaper but may take longer due to traffic and multiple stops.

Public buses are best suited for travelers familiar with Beijing’s transport system.

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Taxi

Taxis are widely available outside the arrivals halls of each terminal and provide a direct and comfortable way to reach downtown Beijing.

  • Travel time: 45–60 minutes
  • Available 24 hours a day
  • Metered fares

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Car Rental

Renting a car at Beijing Capital Airport can be a good option for travelers planning to explore Beijing’s surrounding regions or nearby provinces. Several international and local car rental companies operate at the airport.

Check our search engine to find the best offers.

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TRANSFER BETWEEN TERMINALS 

Beijing Capital Airport provides free shuttle buses between terminals for passengers who need to transfer between flights.

  • Frequent service throughout the day
  • Connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3
  • Clearly marked stops outside each terminal

Always allow extra transfer time between terminals, especially during peak travel hours.