A layover in Hefei is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Hefei Luogang International Airport sits just 100 minutes from the city center by Airport Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside HFE
A few things to sort out before you leave HFE:
- 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 Hefei takes about 100 minutes by Airport Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CNY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Hefei from the Airport
From HFE, the Airport Bus gets you to Hefei in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 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 Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Hefei:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Hefei, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Hefei Luogang International Airport
Luggage storage is available at Luggage storage services are generally available within the terminal, often near arrival halls or check-in counters.. 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 Hefei.
What to See and Do in Hefei
If you head into Hefei, here are two things worth checking out:
Xiaoyaojin Park (éé¥æ´¥å¬å) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Anhui Museum (å®å¾½çåç©é¦) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HFE, check out Airport VIP Lounge or Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Hefei
If you make it into town, Chaohu Restaurant (å·¢æ¹é¥åº) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Sanhe Rice Dumpling Shop (ä¸æ²³ç±³é¥º).
Inside HFE
If you’re staying in the terminal, Local Noodle & Rice Bowl is your main option. Airport Coffee & Tea House works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at HFE include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in China also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HFE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Hefei or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Hefei exploring the streets or relaxing at HFE, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.