A long layover in Lanzhou is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 130 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave LHW:
- 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 Lanzhou takes about 130 minutes by Airport Intercity Railway. 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 Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport into town:
- Airport Intercity Railway: About 130 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 150 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport
Luggage storage is available at Luggage storage services are typically available in the departures hall. Inquire at an information desk for exact location and fees.. 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 Lanzhou.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Lanzhou:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Lanzhou.
What’s Worth Seeing in Lanzhou
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Lanzhou, two standouts are:
- Zhongshan Bridge & Yellow River Promenade — It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
- Lanzhou Waterwheel Garden — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside LHW — 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:
- Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport VIP Lounge
- Airport Shops & Local Souvenirs
Eating Well on a Lanzhou Layover
In Lanzhou
If you make it into town, Ma Zilu Beef Noodles (马åç¦çèé¢) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Dazhong Lane (大ä¼å··) Food Street.
Inside LHW
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Lanzhou Beef Noodle is your main option. Airport Fast Food & Cafe works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and LHW is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Lanzhou 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at LHW
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LHW 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 Lanzhou 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 Lanzhou.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.