Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer
What’s the Best Way to Get from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to the City Center?
If you’re flying into Chengdu, your first question is probably: “How do I get from the airport to my hotel in the city?” Whether you’re here to see the adorable pandas, try some fiery hotpot, or explore the historic alleys of Kuanzhai Xiangzi, your journey starts the moment you land. That’s where the topic of Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer becomes essential.
As someone who’s traveled in and out of Chengdu more times than I can count, I’ve tested every mode of airport transfer—some relaxing, some chaotic. In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the options for getting from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) to the city center so you can make the smartest choice for your time, budget, and comfort.
Where is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport?
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) southwest of Tianfu Square, the heart of Chengdu. Thanks to its close proximity to the city, most Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfers are surprisingly fast and affordable—if you know what you’re doing.
What’s the Best Way to Get from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to the City Center?
| Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Costing | Comfort Level | Availability |
| Metro | 40–50 min | ¥5–¥7 ($1) | Moderate | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Shuttle Bus | 50–70 min | ¥10–¥20 ($2–$3) | Moderate | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Taxi | 30–45 min | ¥60–¥100 ($8–$14) | High | 24/7 |
| Ride-Hailing App | 30–45 min | ¥50–¥120 ($7–$17) | High | 24/7 |
| Private Transfer | 30–40 min | ¥150–¥250 ($20–$35) | Very High | 24/7 (pre-book) |
1. Chengdu Metro – Budget-Friendly and Surprisingly Easy
Taking the metro might sound intimidating if you’re new to China, but it’s actually a breeze. The city’s metro system is clean, safe, and well-signed—even in English. From Terminal 2 of Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, you can directly access Metro Line 10, which connects you to other major lines heading to the city center.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking the Metro:
- Follow signs in the terminal for “Metro/Subway” – The entrance is well-marked in both English and Chinese. Head down to the basement level.
- Buy a ticket at the machine or counter – You’ll find bilingual touch-screen ticket machines. Insert cash or use a UnionPay card.
- Tip: You can also buy a rechargeable metro card if you’ll be in Chengdu for several days.
- Board Metro Line 10 toward Taipingyuan – This line runs every 5–8 minutes.
- Transfer to Line 3 or Line 2 depending on your final stop:
- For Tianfu Square (city center): Transfer at Taipingyuan to Line 3, then to Line 1.
- For Chunxi Road (shopping district): Transfer to Line 2 at Taipingyuan.
- Exit at your station and follow the signs to the street or taxi stand.
🕒 Travel time: 40–50 minutes
💰 Cost: ¥5–¥7 (~$1 USD)
😌 Comfort level: Moderate (can get crowded)
🕘 Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer via metro is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, or anyone light on luggage.
2. Airport Shuttle Bus – Great for Direct Routes
Airport shuttle buses are still a good option if your hotel is near their drop-off points. Buses run from both terminals to key destinations like Chengdu East Railway Station, North Railway Station, and Minshan Hotel.
How to Use the Airport Shuttle:
- Look for the shuttle bus ticket counters near the exit of Terminal 1 or 2.
- Buy your ticket for the specific route (cash or card usually accepted).
- Head to the correct bus stop—staff will direct you if unsure.
- Sit back and relax. Buses are air-conditioned and have luggage storage.
Chengdu Tianfu Airport Shuttle Bus Lines
| Bus Line | Route | Time and Price |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Bus No.1 65KM, 1H20M | Outbound: Tianfu Airport T2 (天府机场T2) → Chunxi Road (春熙路) Return: Chunxi Road (春熙路) → Tianfu Airport T1 (天府机场T1) → T2 (天府机场T2) | Outbound: 09:00–24:00 Price: RMB 40 (09:00–24:00) Return: 07:00–20:00 Price: RMB 40 |
| Airport Bus No.2 58KM, 1 hour | Outbound: Tianfu Airport T2 (天府机场T2) → Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站) Return: Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站) → Tianfu Airport T1 (天府机场T1) → T2 (天府机场T2) | Outbound: 09:00–24:00 Price: RMB 35 (09:00–23:00), RMB 40 (23:00–24:00) Return: 07:00–20:00 Price: RMB 35 |
🕒 Travel time: 50–70 minutes
💰 Cost: ¥10–¥20 (~$2–$3 USD)
😌 Comfort level: Moderate
🕘 Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Tip: Not ideal if your hotel is far from shuttle stops. You may need a taxi for the last leg.
3. Taxi – Convenient and Readily Available
Taxis are still one of the most common Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer choices. Official taxi ranks are located outside both terminals.
How to Catch a Taxi:
- Exit the terminal and follow signs for the taxi queue.
- Join the official line—ignore touts offering rides inside the terminal.
- Show the driver your hotel address in Chinese (have it printed or saved on your phone).
- Ensure the driver uses the meter before starting.
🕒 Travel time: 30–45 minutes
💰 Cost: ¥60–¥100 (~$8–$14 USD)
😌 Comfort level: High
🕘 Availability: 24/7
Taxis are great for first-timers or late-night arrivals. Always keep small change and prepare for limited English from drivers.
4. Ride-Hailing Apps – Local Flexibility
Apps like Didi work similarly to Uber. If you have access to mobile data and payment apps, this is a very flexible Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer method.
How to Use Didi:
- Download Didi and register (some apps now have English interfaces).
- Enter your pickup location and hotel address.
- Choose vehicle type (standard, premium, or van).
- Wait at the designated pickup zone—usually outside the terminal.
🕒 Travel time: 30–45 minutes
💰 Cost: ¥50–¥120 (~$7–$17 USD)
😌 Comfort level: High
🕘 Availability: 24/7
Ideal if you have a Chinese SIM and are comfortable using apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
5. Private Transfer – Effortless and VIP-Style
If you want to land, relax, and go straight to your hotel without stress, book a private Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer in advance.
How It Works:
- Book online through a travel site or local provider before your flight.
- Receive confirmation with driver details and emergency contact.
- After landing, walk to the arrivals area where your driver will hold a sign with your name.
- Enjoy a comfortable ride with luggage assistance and zero navigation stress.
🕒 Travel time: 30–40 minutes
💰 Cost: ¥150–¥250 (~$20–$35 USD)
😌 Comfort level: Very High
🕘 Availability: 24/7 (pre-booking required)
Why Choose Our Private Airport Transfer?
🚗Fixed price, no surprises
Price (Pls note our price is per car, NOT per person):
| 1 Person | 2 Person | 3-5 Person | 6-9 Person | >10 Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 USD | 50 USD | 66USD | 102USD | Contact us for accurate quote |
🚗English-speaking drivers available
🚗Luxury vehicles for maximum comfort
🚗Best for families & business travelers
Typical Cost:
¥200-¥400 ($30-$60) depending on vehicle type
A private Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer is perfect for those who want to start their trip stress-free with a professional driver and comfortable ride!
Why You Should Transfer from Private Chengdu Shuangliu Airport
If you have ever arrived in a new city dragging your suitcase past packed taxi lines or attempting to decipher a foreign metro map following a long-distance trip, you already appreciate the importance of a seamless, pre-arranged airport pickup. Many people are astonished by the variety of choices available at Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer—but not all of them are made equal. Taxis might strike either right or wrong. If you are hauling several bags, the subway might not be perfect. Often, shuttle busses stop not exactly where you need to go.
Booking a private transfer could simply be the best choice you ever make:
1. Zero Language Barriers
Even if Chengdu is growing more cosmopolitan, many cab drivers still speak just Mandarin. If you are not fluent, explaining your destination or negotiating modifications on demand can be challenging. Your driver already knows your destination in advance with a private transfer; there is no communication problems.
2. Flight Cancellations Nothing Stressful
Private transfer companies track your flight instantly. Your driver will thus wait if your plane runs late. There’s no reason to panic about missing a metro train or taxi following a delay.
3. Perfect for Groups and Families
Traveling in a group, with young children, or with older family members? More room, comfort, and safety come from a private transfer. Most agencies provide car seats upon request; larger vans are accessible to hold up to six people.
4. Door-to– Door Practicality
You don’t have to negotiate streets in search of your hotel or drag your suitcase across subway platforms. Your driver will drop you exactly at the front of your hotel.
5. Late-Night Arrivals
After 11 PM, public transportation choices get much less. No matter when your flight lands, a private Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer guarantees always a safe, enjoyable ride.
6. Business-Ready
Should you be heading into Chengdu for business, a professional transfer sets the tone. Executive cars with complimentary water, and privacy provide a quiet area for you to relax either before or after your meetings. Basically, especially if you’re unfamiliar to the city or flying under tight timetables, a private Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer provides the ideal mix of comfort, dependability, and peace of mind.
How do We ensure our services are always reliable & on time:
1. Our driver has to report their work in 5 procedures via Wechat app every time.
- We keep a close eye on your flight’s status, so even if there are delays or changes in schedule, we’ll be there to pick you up on time. You can relax knowing that we are constantly monitoring your arrival to provide prompt service.
2. Confident and reliable
- We provide our customers with competent and reliable drivers. Our drivers are accustomed with routes to tourist destinations, hotels, and restaurants.
3. About our Vehicles
- Our vehicles are licensed and registered by the Shenzhen tourism administration.
- We replace our tour vehicles after every 4 years, as such your tour vehicle will be less than 2 years old.
- In order to give you a perception of your tour car, we’ll send you photos of our tour car before your departure.
- All our vehicles are insured and each seat covers up to 50,000 RMB.
Three Steps to Meet Your Driver in Chengdu
Step 1: Pre-Arrival Information
Before your arrival, we will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth meeting with your driver. This includes the driver’s name, photo, contact number, vehicle’s plate number, vehicle’s branding, capacity for customers and languages spoken. Additionally, we will provide you with a electronic map and instructions for your destination.
Step 2: Upon your arrival
Upon arrival, follow the designated position as shown in our email to meet your driver. In the unlikely event that you are unable to locate our driver, please follow these steps to get in touch with us:
1. Go to the information desk opposite the terminal exit where English-speaking staff are available to assist you.
2. Ask them to call our 24/7 emergency line provided in our confirmation letter and request assistance. We are committed to resolving any issues promptly and ensuring your satisfaction.
Step 3: Driver Services
Our drivers are dedicated to providing excellent service and can assist you with various needs during your journey:
1. If you require directions or need assistance finding the nearest toilet or money exchange, feel free to ask your driver.
2. At hotels or airports, your driver will be there to help you with luggage handling and check-in formalities.
3. Our vehicles have spacious trunks that can accommodate all of your luggage comfortably. 4. If you require additional amenities such as Wi-Fi, GPS devices, baby seats, or car air purifiers, please inform your driver who will be happy to assist.
Managing Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer to Key Scenic Locations
Assume you are not staying downtown; perhaps you intend to travel directly from the airport to one of the amazing sites in Chengdu. Good news: Many of the must-see locations in the region may be reached straight from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer, therefore saving you both time and hassle. Here is a guide on how to get right from the airport to the top attractions of Chengdu.
1. Giant Panda Breeding Chengdu Research Base
Arguably Chengdu’s most famous site, the Panda Base is about 35 km (22 miles) from Shuangliu Airport.
- Travel Time: Around 60 minutes by private transfer
- Public Transport: Not direct—requires metro and a taxi transfer
- Best Option: Private transfer or Didi ride
📍 Tip: Visit early in the morning (before 10 AM) to catch the pandas at their most active.
2. Systems of Dujiangyan Irrigation
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dujiangyan is a 2,000-year-old irrigation system that still works today. It’s around 70 km (43 miles) northwest of Chengdu.
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by private car
- Public Transport: Requires transfer from the airport to Xipu Railway Station, then a local train
- Best Option: Book a round-trip Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer with a local tour provider
📍 Tip: Combine with a visit to Mount Qingcheng if you have time.
3. Mount Qingcheng (Qingcheng Shan)
This sacred Taoist mountain is lush, peaceful, and steeped in Chinese philosophy. Located just beyond Dujiangyan, it’s perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.
- Travel Time: 2–2.5 hours by private car
- Public Transport: Requires multiple transfers
- Best Option: Private transfer or hire a car with driver for the day
📍 Tip: Take the cable car up and hike down for the best views.
4. Leshan Giant Buddha
Another UNESCO site, the Leshan Buddha is the largest stone Buddha in the world and a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Distance from Airport: ~130 km (81 miles)
- Travel Time: 2–3 hours by private transfer
- Public Transport: Requires airport-to-railway station transfer, then high-speed train
- Best Option: Full-day private transfer or guided tour
5. Chengdu’s Historic City Center (Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Street, Wuhou Shrine)
If your hotel is in the heart of the city, you’ll likely be near these iconic attractions.
- Travel Time from airport: 30–45 minutes
- Transfer Options: Metro, taxi, private car—all viable
- Best Option: Private transfer for hassle-free entry to pedestrian zones
📍 Tip: Visit in the evening when lanterns are lit and street food stalls are buzzing.
Most Often Requested Questions from Other Passengers:
Q1: Can I schedule a last-minute Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer?
A: A lot of providers welcome same-day appointments made online or through applications like Trip.com or Klook. Book at least 24 hours in advance, though, for the best rates and certain availability—particularly for late-night arrivals or big cars.
Q2: Are the drivers licenced and professional?
A: A reputable transfer company employs licenced, qualified drivers in clean cars. If you are making an online reservation, look for current reviews and operator ratings.
Q3: Suppose my flight is delayed?
A: Not cause for concern. Most Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer companies track your flight real-time and change your pickup point of reference. During booking, be sure you provide your flight number exactly.
Q4: Does Chengdu need tipping? A: Although tipping is not traditional in China, great service is always appreciated. More than enough is a little cash tip of ¥10–¥20.
Q5: Will the driver converse in English?
A: Not often. Most private transfer companies use WhatsApp or in-app chat to offer rudimentary English communication. Should language be a factor, select a company catering to English-speaking drivers.
Q6: Can I change or cancel my reservation?
A: Most businesses let free cancellements up to 24 hours beforehand. Before confirming, always review the cancel policy.
Q7: There are what kind of cars accessible? A: For bigger parties, you have options including SUVs, business-class vehicles, economy sedans, and even minivans. Usually, bookings allow you to add extra luggage room or baby seats.
Q8: Would simply riding a taxi be less expensive?
A: Indeed, however taxis do not have set rates and you could run across frauds or problems with communications. You get peace of mind and upfront pricing from a Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer.
Q9: Do ride applications like Didi require a Chinese SIM card?
A: It helps; certain international Didi versions accept credit cards and foreign numbers. Still, a pre-arranged transfer is more handy for first-timers.
Choosing the Best Chengdu Shuangliu Airport Transfer
If you want a smooth, stress-free arrival in Chengdu, booking our private Chengdu Shuangliu airport transfer is the best choice. It’s comfortable, reliable, and eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport or bargaining with taxi drivers. Whether you’re heading straight to your hotel or planning to visit Chengdu’s famous attractions, our private transfer ensures you start your trip on the right note!
