For travelers with a layover in Bagan, the proximity of BPE to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 120 minutes via Airport Shuttle Bus, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave BPE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Burma. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Bagan takes about 120 minutes by Airport Shuttle Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
The Best Way Into Bagan from BPE
From BPE, the Airport Shuttle Bus gets you to Bagan in around 120 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 140 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Shuttle Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Bagan Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Bagan, budget roughly $25 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $10 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Bagan, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Qinhuangdao Beidaihe Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At BPE, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage storage facilities are likely very limited or unavailable at this regional airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
What to See and Do in Bagan
For a layover visit to Bagan, we’d suggest City Center Walk and Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside BPE — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Bagan.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe and Terminal Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Sleep & Lounge Options at BPE
Long overnight layover? Your options at BPE include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Burma also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BPE should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Burma and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Bagan is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Bagan.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.