If you’ve got a layover in Beijing, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PEK. The city, in China, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by Airport Express Train. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PEK:
First, verify that you can enter China — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Airport Express Train takes about 75 minutes into Beijing, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CNY is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Beijing
From PEK, the Airport Express Train gets you to Beijing in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 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 Express Train offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Beijing Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Beijing layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$10 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$25 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Beijing, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Beijing, we’d suggest Lama Temple (Yonghegong) and Olympic Park (Bird’s Nest & Water Cube). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
If you’d rather stay inside PEK — 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:
- Air China First Class Lounge (T3)
- Aerotel Beijing (Terminal 2)
Best Bites Near PEK
- In the city: Jing Yaa Tang and King’s Joy are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Beijing.
- At the airport: Pizza Hut (T3) and Dezhuang Hot Pot (T3) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Left Luggage services are available in T2 (near Gate 9 Departures, Gate 11 Arrivals) and T3 (near Gate A Departures, Gate C Arrivals).. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Beijing.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PEK 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 China and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at PEK
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PEK has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Beijing doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from PEK, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.