Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) Guide

There are two main parking facilities for travellers driving to Beijing Airport. Garage No. 2 is located in front of Terminal 2 and Garage No. 3 can be found in Terminal 3. Short and long-term rates are available, and both garages contain over four thousand parking spaces. 

Limited car rental options are available from Beijing Airport. It’s worth noting that international driving permits are not recognised in China, so talk to your Travel Expert and check the requirements well in advance if you’re planning a self-drive holiday in China and consider other options. 

Designated taxi ranks are accessible from Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 at Beijing Airport, making this one of the most convenient ways to travel to or from the airport.  

Airport shuttles and hotel transfers provide a good balance of convenience and affordability when travelling to or from Beijing Airport. It’s worth organising this in advance, so ask your Travel Expert to help you book airport or hotel transfers today. 

The Airport Express Line is by far the easiest and quickest way to get from Beijing Airport to the city centre, with a journey time of 20 to 30 minutes. The service runs every 10 minutes or so and connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 with Dongzhimen Station (for Subway Lines 2 or 13) and Sanyuanqiao Station (for Subway Lines 10 or 12). See the Beijing Capital International Airport website for up-to-date information on timetables and fares. 

A free inter-terminal shuttle bus runs frequently between Gate 7 in the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 2 and Gate 7-9 of the Arrivals Hall in Terminal 3.  

As a major international airport, there are lots of different airlines flying into and out of Beijing Airport (PEK). Major carriers include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Japan Airlines. For a more complete list, see the page above. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Beijing Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. You may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

Several ground transportation options are available from Beijing Airport to the city centre (and vice versa), including airport shuttles, taxi transfers and public transport connections like the Airport Express Line. 

Yes, there are several lounges at Beijing Airport, including the V2 China Eastern Lounge, Hainan Airlines Club Lounge and Air China Domestic and International Lounges. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the lounges at Beijing Airport. 

If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the facilities, opening times and whether you can access any of the lounges at Beijing Airport. Ready to book accommodation for your trip to China? Ask your Travel Expert to help you find the perfect airport hotel or city stay today. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Beijing booked with us. Ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store and remember to provide them with your frequent flyer number or membership details. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, exclusive deals and early access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Beijing Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

Beijing Airport operates out of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Check your flight booking information and boarding pass to confirm your departure or arrival terminal in advance. A free inter-terminal shuttle bus runs frequently between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 for passengers needing to transfer between them. 

Yes, short-term and long-term parking rates are available at Beijing Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on facilities and the current rates. 

Dedicated nursing rooms, equipped with changing tables, are available in both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 at Beijing Airport. Families can also head to the kids’ activity zones in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 while waiting for their flight.  

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Beijing Airport? There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including brands like Chanel, Burberry, Lululemon and Max Mara, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check the Beijing Airport terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores with their location and opening hours. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Beijing Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially when booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds.