How to Get from Chengdu Airport to City Centre

The moment I landed at Chengdu Tianfu Airport, I was impressed by how clean and spacious it was, and I found it pretty easy to find my way around. After grabbing my luggage, though, the real question hit me: “How can I get into the city quickly without spending too much?”

Fortunately, Chengdu makes it simple for travellers like me. The airport is well-connected, offering a range of options whether you prefer the metro, shuttle buses, or ride-hailing apps. Some choices are faster, some are cheaper, and a few give you the best of both worlds.

Here’s a guide to the easiest ways for a Malaysian traveller to get from Chengdu Airport to the city.

Getting from Chengdu Airports to the City Centre

Whether you land at Tianfu International Airport (TFU) or Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), the big question for a Malaysian traveller like me is: "What’s the easiest, fastest, and most affordable way to get into the city?"

Here’s a handy guide to help you decide what works best for your trip:

🚆 By Airport Train / Metro – Getting from Chengdu Airports to the City

Whether you arrive at Tianfu International Airport (TFU) or Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), taking the metro is one of the easiest ways to reach Chengdu city. From my experience as a Malaysian traveller, it’s fast, clean, and very affordable.

1. From Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) to the City

Source: en.wikipedia.org

🛤️ Metro Line

Take Metro Line 18, which connects directly to the city centre.

Where it departs: From Terminal 1 & Terminal 2—just follow the signs for “Metro”.

📍 Route & Key Stops

Route: Tianfu Airport → Xinglong → Haichang Road → Century City → Jincheng Plaza East → South Railway Station

Key Stops:

• South Railway Station – perfect if you’re catching a high-speed train.
• Tianfu Square – the main city centre hub.

🕒 Operating Hours

• First Train: 6:00 AM
• Last Train: 11:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 3–6 minutes

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

• Price: ¥2–8 (~S$0.36–1.42)
• How to buy: Use ticket machines or the Chengdu Metro app. Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

Great for solo travellers, budget travellers, or those travelling light.

Benefits:
✅ Fast and cheap
✅ Direct to city centre
✅ Air-conditioned and easy to use

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Can get crowded during rush hour
• Limited luggage space – carry-ons are fine, but big suitcases can be tricky

2. From Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) to the City

Source: en.wikipedia.org

🛤️ Metro Line

You can take Metro Line 10 or Line 19 to get into Chengdu.

Where it departs: Right inside Terminal 2—super easy to find, just follow the metro signs.

📍 Route & Key Stops

• Line 10: Shuangliu Airport → Taipingyuan (transfer to Line 3 or 7) → Wuhouci → People’s Park → Luomashi
• Line 19: Shuangliu Airport → Tianfu Station → Tianfu Airport

🕒 Operating Hours

• First Train: 6:00 AM
• Last Train: 11:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 5–8 minutes

💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy

• Price: ¥2–10 (~S$0.36–1.78)
• How to buy: Use ticket machines, the Chengdu Metro app, or scan QR codes with Alipay / WeChat Pay.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

Perfect for budget travellers, solo travellers, or anyone staying in the city for a short trip.

Benefits:
✅ Very cheap
✅ Smooth and comfortable ride into the city
✅ Easy to manage with light luggage

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Not a direct line to the city centre—you’ll need to transfer once
• Can get crowded during peak hours

🚌 By Airport Shuttle Bus – Getting from Chengdu Airports to the City

If you’re a Malaysian traveller looking for a cheap and reasonably convenient way to get from the airport to Chengdu city centre, the airport shuttle bus is a solid option. It’s slower than the metro or a taxi, but it works well if your hotel is along the route.

1. From Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) to the City

📍 Route & Key Stops

There are several shuttle bus routes:

💸 Ticket Price & Where to Buy

• 06:00–23:30: ¥15 (~RM10)
• 23:30–06:00: ¥25 (~RM17)
• How to buy: Tickets are sold at counters near the airport bus station, or you can pay via WeChat Pay / Alipay onboard.

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

Perfect for budget travellers, solo backpackers, or anyone staying near a main stop like Chunxi Road.

Benefits:
✅ Direct routes to key areas
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ No transfers needed

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Less frequent than the metro
• Slower during peak traffic hours
• Not ideal if you have lots of luggage or your hotel isn’t near a stop

🚌 2. From Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) to the City

For Malaysian travellers on a budget, the airport shuttle bus from Shuangliu Airport is a cheap and convenient way to reach the city centre, especially if your hotel is near one of the stops. It’s slower than the metro or taxi, but it’s straightforward and avoids transfers.

📍 Route & Key Stops

💸 Ticket Price & Where to Buy

• Price: ¥10–17 (~RM6.50–11)
• How to buy: Pay at the shuttle bus counter or via mobile apps like WeChat Pay / Alipay

🧳 Pros & Ideal Travellers

Great for travellers arriving during off-peak hours or staying near the city centre.

Benefits:

✅ Cheaper than a taxi
✅ Direct drop-off in downtown Chengdu

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Slower than the metro or a taxi
• Can be crowded on weekends or public holidays
• Not a 24-hour service—make sure your flight arrival matches the bus schedule

📌 Tip: If your hotel isn’t close to any shuttle stop, you might need to switch to the metro or take a short taxi ride once you reach downtown.

🚕 By Taxi or Ride-Hailing – Getting from Chengdu Airports to the City

For Malaysian travellers, taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Didi is one of the easiest ways to get from Chengdu’s airports into the city. It’s especially convenient if you have heavy luggage, arrive late at night, or simply want a smooth door-to-door ride.

1. From Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)

Source: My Panda Tours

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

• Taxi: Follow signs to the official taxi stand just outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 on the ground floor.
• Didi: Ride-hailing pickup zones are usually on the same level as the taxi area, clearly marked.

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

• Taxi: ¥100–140 (~RM65–90) to city centre
• Didi: ¥90–130 (~RM60–85), depending on car type and traffic

🕒 Duration & Traffic

• Normal hours: 50–70 minutes to Tianfu Square or Chunxi Road
• Rush hour: Up to 90 minutes (especially 7:30–9:00 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM)

🧳 Who It’s Best For

• Families
• Business travellers
• Late-night or early morning arrivals
• Anyone with large suitcases

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Always use the official taxi queue and ignore touts inside the terminal
• Check the fare estimate in Didi before booking, especially during bad weather or public holidays (surge pricing may apply)

2. From Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)

Source: 成都双流国际机场

🚖 Where to Get a Taxi or Book a Ride

• Taxi: Official taxi queues are at Exit 4 (T1) and Exit 8 (T2) on the ground floor
• Didi: Follow the ride-hailing signs from arrivals to the designated pick-up areas

💸 Fare Estimates & Cost Range

• Taxi: ¥60–90 (~RM40–60) to city centre
• Didi: ¥50–80 (~RM33–53)

🕒 Duration & Traffic

• Normal hours: 30–45 minutes to Tianfu Square or Chunxi Road
• Rush hour: Up to 60–75 minutes

🧳 Who It’s Best For

• Short stays or business trips
• Travellers arriving during peak hours
• Anyone who prefers a direct trip without navigating the metro

⚠️ Watch Out For

• Avoid unlicensed taxis and always queue at the official stand
• Confirm your Didi pick-up point in the app, as Shuangliu has multiple terminals and zones

🚗 By Private Airport Transfer – Getting from Chengdu Airports to the City

Source: Peek

For Malaysian travellers who want a smooth, hassle-free arrival in Chengdu, private airport transfers are an excellent choice. Your driver will meet you right at the terminal, help with your luggage, and take you directly to your hotel—no taxi queues, no apps, no stress. This is perfect if you’re tired after a long flight, travelling with family, or arriving late at night.

🕒 Duration & Availability

• From TFU (Tianfu Airport): About 50–70 minutes to the city
• From CTU (Shuangliu Airport): About 30–45 minutes to the city
• Availability: 24/7, ideal for late-night or early-morning arrivals

💸 Cost Range

• Tianfu Airport → City: ¥280–400 (~RM180–260)
• Shuangliu Airport → City: ¥180–300 (~RM115–195)

💡 Booking Tips

• Check whether tolls or parking fees are included in the fare
• Choose a larger vehicle (like an MPV) if travelling with more luggage or in a group

✅ When It Makes Sense

• Families with kids
• Travelling with big suitcases
• First-time visitors to Chengdu
• Small groups or business travellers seeking comfort

📱 Perks & Advantages

• Fixed fare: Know the cost before you go—no meter surprises
• Comfortable: Relax after a long flight and avoid crowded terminals
• Direct service: Straight from airport to hotel, no transfers needed

⚠️ Considerations

• Must book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons
• Double-check your pickup details—terminal, flight number, and car plate

🚙 By Car Rental – Self-Drive from Chengdu Airports to the City

Source: chinahirecar.com

If you love the idea of exploring Chengdu and its nearby attractions at your own pace, renting a car is a fantastic option. It gives you full flexibility over your schedule and is perfect for day trips, road adventures, or longer stays beyond the city centre.

🕒 Duration & Availability

• From Tianfu Airport (TFU): Around 50–70 minutes to the city centre.
• From Shuangliu Airport (CTU): Around 30–45 minutes to the city.
• Availability: Rental services operate 24/7 at both airports.
• Note: Do allow some extra time for car collection and paperwork.

💸 Cost Range

• Around ¥200–400/day (approximately RM130–260/day), depending on the car type and rental period.

💡 Booking Tips

• Book online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check carefully for insurance coverage, mileage limits, and fuel policies before confirming.

✅ When It Makes Sense?

• You’re planning day trips to places like Mount Qingcheng or Leshan Giant Buddha.
• You’ll be staying in Chengdu for several days.
• You prefer a private, flexible travel experience.
• You’re travelling in a group or with lots of luggage.

📱 Perks & Advantages

• Freedom: Explore Chengdu and beyond on your own schedule.
• Comfort: More space and privacy compared to public transport.
• Side trips: Easy access to scenic spots outside the city.

⚠️ Considerations

• Driving license: You need a valid license that is accepted in China (often an International Driving Permit is required).
• Navigation: Download offline maps or use local apps like Gaode (Amap) or Baidu Maps.
• Traffic: Roads in Chengdu can be busy, especially during rush hours.
• Parking: Limited in downtown areas like Chunxi Road or Taikoo Li.
• Tolls & Fees: Watch out for toll roads and confirm what’s included in your rental deal.

🧳 Which Option is Best? Tips Based on Your Travel Style

Getting from Chengdu’s airports to the city centre is easy once you know your travel style. Here’s a quick guide for Malaysian travellers to help you choose the option that suits you best:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

Best options: Taxi or Private Transfer
For families, convenience is key. A taxi or pre-booked private car takes you directly from arrivals to your hotel—no stress, no transfers. Fares range from RM40–90 depending on airport and traffic.

💸 Budget Travellers / Backpackers

Best option: Airport Shuttle Bus
If you’re watching your budget, the airport shuttle bus is perfect. It’s cheap, direct to central areas like Tianfu Square or Chunxi Road, and fairly reliable. Tickets cost around RM6–17 depending on the route and airport.

🚄 Solo or Business Travellers

Best option: Metro (or High-Speed Train from TFU)
Chengdu’s metro is clean, fast, and affordable, connecting both airports to the city. If you fly into Tianfu Airport (TFU), you can also catch a high-speed train into the city in about 40 minutes. Fares are around RM1–6, ideal for solo travellers or business trips.

🌙 Late-Night Arrivals

Best options: Taxi or Private Transfer
Both Chengdu airports have taxis operating 24/7, and private car services can be arranged in advance. These are lifesavers if your flight lands after midnight, with fares ranging from RM33–260 depending on airport and service.

🛣️ Road Trippers / Exploring Sichuan

Best option: Car Rental
If you plan to explore beyond Chengdu—like Mount Emei, Leshan Giant Buddha, or the Tibetan plateau—renting a car gives you flexibility and freedom. Daily rental costs range from RM130–260, depending on vehicle type and rental period.