There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Chongqing into a quick city adventure. From CKG, the Metro Line 10 can get you into town in around 110 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave CKG:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for China. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Chongqing takes about 110 minutes by Metro Line 10. 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.
Transport from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport into town:
- Metro Line 10: About 110 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 130 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chongqing might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Chongqing, we’d suggest Hongyadong Commercial Street and Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chongqing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CKG, check out Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport Lounge or CKG Duty-Free Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Chongqing, local travelers recommend Da Yu Hotpot (Grand Hotpot City). If you have time for a second stop, Yu Xin Chuan Cai (Jiefangbei) is another popular pick.
Back at CKG, Chongqing Xiao Mian (Airport) is the go-to. Pacific Coffee (CKG Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
You can store your luggage at Luggage storage services are available in Terminals 2 and 3, typically near arrival halls or check-in counters.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Chongqing as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CKG is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Chongqing and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CKG 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 Chongqing with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Chongqing may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.