How to Get from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport to Chengdu City 2024

Important to Know:

1. Chengdu is served by two international airports: Shuangliu Airport and Tianfu Airport. Tianfu Airport is located approximately 50km from downtown, farther than Shuangliu Airport, requiring about an hour's drive or at least a 35-minute metro ride. Please consider this when booking your ticket and planning your journey.
2. Currently, all international flights depart from and arrive at Tianfu Airport.

  • Chengdu Tianfu Airport: Location, Flights & Transportation
  • Chengdu Shuangliu Airport: Location, Flights & Transportation
  • Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (IATA: TFU, ICAO: ZUTF) is a mega project for Chengdu and serves as a bustling hub for air travel in Southwest China. Domestically, Tianfu Airport offers extensive connections to cities across the country. Whether you're flying to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai or exploring scenic destinations such as Lijiang and Guilin, you'll find a wide range of flights to suit your travel needs. Internationally, Tianfu Airport provides flights to major cities across Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond, ensuring convenient access to global travel networks.

    If you are flying to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, here we offer a comprehensive and detailed transportation guide to assist you in efficiently transferring to downtown Chengdu.

    Where is Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport Location: Airport Avenue, Lujia Town, Jianyang City, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province (四川省成都市简阳市芦葭镇空港大道), about 50km to Tianfu Square (Chengdu City Center). Available transportation includes metro, airport buses, taxis, high speed train, etc.

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport Location Map Chengdu Tianfu International Airport Location Map (click to enlarge)

    From Chengdu Tianfu International Airport to Downtown Chengdu

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport offers a variety of convenient transportation options to connect to downtown Chengdu. Travelers can choose from metro, airport buses, and high-speed trains, taking about 30 minutes to one hour. Those preferring taxis, car-hailing services, or private cars can also take expressways to downtown in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. ⋙ More About Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Chengdu Tianfu Airport Ultimate Guide | Terminals, Facilities & Metro/Bus/Taxi to City

    Chengdu Tianfu Airport Ultimate Guide | Terminals, Facilities & Metro/Bus/Taxi to City

    By Private Transfer of China Discovery (Most Recommended)

    Choose our private tour service for worry-free airport pickup without navigating metro transfers or language barriers with taxi drivers. China Discovery ensures a comfortable and efficient experience. Our friendly guide and driver will greet you at the arrival hall and escort you in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel or desired destination. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities throughout the journey, with punctual airport drop-off included. ⋙ Contact Us Now

    By Metro

    The metro station "Terminal 1 & 2 of Tianfu International Airport" is situated between the airport's two terminals and is served by two metro lines: Line 18 and Line 19.

    Line 18 heads towards Chengdu South Railway Station (火车南站), operating local and express services. The express service is non-stop and reaches its destination in about 35 minutes. For both the local and express services, the fare from Tianfu International Airport to Chengdu South Railway Station is 10 CNY.

    From Chengdu South Railway Station, you can transfer to Metro Line 1 to get to Wenshu Temple, Tianfu Square (close to Chunxi Road, very convenient to Renmin Park, Kuaizhai Alley and Jinli Old Street), and Chengdu Railway Station. You can also transfer to Metro Line 7 to Chengdu East Railway Station and Jinsha Site Museum. Chengdu Panda Base is a little far from the city center. If you plan to go there, you may need another hour from Tianfu Square. ⋙ More About Chengdu Metro

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is about 73km to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. The two airports are seamlessly connected by Line 19. ⋙ More About Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

    By Airport Buses

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport buses operate on 5 routes: Chunxi Road (Line 1), Jinsha Bus Hub (Line 2), Chengdu Zoo (Line 3), Chengdu East Railway Station (Line 4), and Shuangliu Airport (Line 5). Lines 1, 2, and 3 run 24/7 with a flat fare of 15 CNY during the day and 25 CNY at night (23:30~6:00). Line 4 runs from 8:15 AM to 1:50 AM. Line 5 runs from midnight to 5:00 AM, during the suspension of Metro 19. Tickets can be bought online or on-site; on-site purchases are cash-only. The journey from Tianfu International Airport to Chunxi Road takes about 1 hour.

    By Taxi & Car-Hailing Services

    Travelers with heavy luggage can opt for a taxi or car-hailing service to downtown via the Tianfu International Airport Expressway, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Note that passengers are responsible for the expressway tolls, so the total fare typically ranges from 150 to 200 CNY.

    Tianfu Airport Comprehensive Transportation Tianfu Airport Comprehensive Transportation
    (Click to Enlarge)

    Other Options - By Coaches & High-Speed Trains

    Tianfu International Airport is equipped with both a coach station and a high-speed train station, making travel convenient for passengers. The coach station connects the airport to various cities within Sichuan Province, including Jianyang, Zigong, Deyang, Rongxian, Lezhi, Anyue, Suining, Renshou, Neijiang, Zizhong, Meishan, Mianyang, Nanchong and Leshan. Please refer to the on-site ticketing information for any updates or adjustments.

    The high-speed train station not only serves destinations within the province but also offers services to cities like Chongqing, Kunming, and Guiyang. Passengers can also choose to take the high-speed train to downtown Chengdu; the journey from the airport to Chengdu East Railway Station takes just 30 minutes, with second-class tickets priced at around 30 CNY.

    How to Plan a Chengdu Tour

    Best Time to Travel to Chengdu

    The best time to visit Chengdu largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. However, generally speaking, the best time to visit Chengdu is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and comfortable, with pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities like visiting the giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding or exploring the ancient streets of Jinli. Additionally, spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, adding to the charm of Chengdu's landscapes.

    Where to Stay in Chengdu

    When planning your visit to Chengdu, selecting the right area to stay in can significantly enhance your travel experience. Optimal areas for accommodation lie within the 1st ring road of the city, as most of Chengdu's attractions are nestled within this area.

    With a well-developed metro network, navigating between all the attractions is convenient via public transportation or taxi. There are five main accommodation hubs within the 1st ring road: the eastern area (proximate to Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li), the southwestern area (near Wuhou Memorial Temple and Jinli Pedestrian Street), the central area (close to Tianfu Square, Chengdu Museum, Renmin Park, and Kuanzhai Alley), the western area (adjacent to Dufu Cottage, Sichuan Museum, and Qingyang Palace), and the northern area (near Wenshu Yuan Monastery).

    Must-See Tourist Spots in Chengdu

    Chengdu is a city rich in culture and history, offering a variety of attractions that will captivate any visitor. One of the must-visit spots is the Chengdu Panda Base, where you can see adorable giant pandas up close and learn about their conservation efforts. For a taste of local culture, head to Jinli Pedestrian Street, a bustling area filled with traditional architecture, local crafts, and delicious Sichuan snacks. Another highlight is the Wuhou Memorial Temple, which provides a fascinating glimpse into China's Three Kingdoms period. Nearby, you can visit the tranquil Renmin Park (People's Park), where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, sip tea at a traditional teahouse, and even join locals in a game of mahjong. Don't miss the vibrant Chunxi Road shopping district, where you can shop, dine, and experience the city's dynamic urban culture. Check out the Top 10 tourist attractions in Chengdu rated on TripAdvisor for more travel ideas!

    Recommended Chengdu Tours:
    1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour
    2 Days Chengdu City Break

    If you plan to spend more days travelling, you can try our popular panda volunteer programs, go to the wonderland Jiuzhaigou, see the giant Buddha in Leshan, or expand your trip to Beijing - capital of China, Shanghai - modern metropolis, and Xian - time-honored ancient capital to have a deeper understanding of China.

    Recommended Tours featuring Chengdu:
    7 Days Sichuan Discovery Tour (Chengdu/Leshan/Emei/Chengdu/Jiuzhaigou)
    7 Days Ancient China Tour with Panda (Beijing/Xian/Chengdu)

    Major Accommodation Areas in Chengdu Major Accommodation Areas in Chengdu
    (Click to Enlarge)
    Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Downtown Chengdu Attractions

    Chengdu Food & Cuisine You Have to Try

    When it comes to food and cuisine, Chengdu is a paradise for food lovers. Renowned for its spicy and flavorful dishes, Sichuan cuisine, of which Chengdu is the capital, offers a tantalizing array of flavors and ingredients that will leave you craving for more.

    One of the must-try dishes is the famous Sichuan hotpot, a spicy and numbing broth filled with a variety of fresh meats, vegetables, and tofu. Another iconic dish is mapo tofu, featuring soft tofu cooked in a fiery chili and bean paste sauce, topped with minced meat and Sichuan peppercorns for a unique numbing sensation. For those seeking a snack, don't miss out on Sichuan's delicious street food offerings, such as dan dan noodles and Sichuan-style dumplings. In addition to its spicy dishes, Chengdu also offers a wide range of non-spicy options.Check out this detailed introduction and restaurant recommendations for more delicious food in Chengdu.

    Travel Chengdu with China Discovery

    Want to travel in and around Chengdu and don't know how to arrange your day by day itinerary? In every city, our professional local guide and driver will escort you from your hotel, train station, airport to all attractions with comfortable private car with speed and convenience and let you catch the highlights of every site and city, so you can get really relaxed on the way and focus on what you are interested. The tour can be tailor-made according to your plan, time and interests and demands. If you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact us and tell us your needs, and we will customize a memorable Chengdu tour for you!

    Sichuan Travel Photos

    Recommended Chengdu Tours

    Top 3 Chengdu tours chosen by most customers to explore Chengdu in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

    Chubby Giant Panda at Chengdu Panda Base

    2 Days Leisure Chengdu Private Tour with Panda Visit

    Chengdu: Jinli Street, Giant Panda Base, Wenshu Temple

    Cute Pandas Living in Their Natural Environment

    1 Day Chengdu Relaxing Panda Highlights Tour

    Chengdu

    Our dear client visited Wenshu Monastery like local

    3 Days Chengdu Highlights Tour plus Leshan Giant Buddha

    Chengdu: Chengdu Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, Jinli Street

    Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

    Customize a Trip

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