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Beijing is a major global aviation hub, served by two main airports—Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). These airports connect the city to destinations worldwide, handling millions of passengers annually. Offering modern facilities, efficient transport links, and a wide range of airlines, airports in Beijing ensure seamless travel experiences. Whether for business or leisure, travelers can expect world-class services and convenient access to the city and beyond through its well-developed airport network.
2 Airports In Beijing
The airports in Beijing are known for their world-class facilities and passenger services. Currently, the city has two major international airports catering to different regions and travel preferences:
1. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Photo: Shujianyang / Wikimedia Commons
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is the primary and one of the busiest airports in Beijing and one of the biggest worldwide. It was opened in 1958 and has been extended several times to handle rising passenger traffic. The airport has three terminals to its name, out of which Terminal 3 is the biggest airport terminal in the world. PEK offers direct or one-stop service to over 120 international and domestic destinations through such prominent carriers as Air China, China Eastern and Emirates, and Lufthansa.
Location: Shunyi District, Beijing, China
2. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
Photo: N509FZ / Wikimedia Commons
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), known for its cutting-edge architecture, opened in 2019. Located 46 km south of downtown Beijing, it is planned to serve 72 million passengers a year. Known as the “Starfish Airport” for its shape, it has smart mart check-in, facial recognition technology, auto baggage handling and massive retail spaces. It is also used by airlines such as China Southern, British Airways and Finnair.
Location: Daxing District, Beijing, China
Places To Visit Near Airports In Beijing
Here listed are some of the places to visit near these airports to add more excitement to your journey:
1. Great Wall Of China
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 60 km away from Beijing Capital International Airport, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is one of the best-preserved parts of this ancient wonder. It is accessible by taxi or pre-booked tours for travellers. The Mutianyu part is said to be less crowded and has incredibly scenic views. A visit to the top takes a cabin and descends in toboggan for a thrilling end. Watchtowers, stone stairs and snaking pathways make it an ideal place for photography.
Address: Mutianyu Village, Huairou District, Beijing, China
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: March – November
2. Forbidden City
Photo: User:kallgan / Wikimedia Commons
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is situated 29 km from Beijing Capital International Airport and 45 km from Daxing International Airport. It surrounds over 900 ancient buildings, spanning the entirety of the Chinese imperial past. Visitors are free to explore grand halls, beautiful courtyards, and magnificent imperial gardens. English-speaking guides, audio guides and multi-lingual guides are available for the visit. Entrance tickets are to be reserved in advance through official websites.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays)
Best Time To Visit: April – October
3. Temple Of Heaven
Photo: Fong Chen / Wikimedia Commons
The Temple of Heaven, just 30 km from Beijing Capital and Daxing Airports, is an impressive palace complex viewed for its lovely round features and nice grounds. Constructed in the 15th century, it was once where emperors went to worship for a good harvest. Today, the park draws regular visitors and locals who come to practice Tai Chi, dance, and perform traditional music and numerous other activities.
Address: 1 Tiantan E Rd, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: May – September
4. Summer Palace
Being a UNESCO-listed site, the Summer Palace is a renowned tourist destination located 40 km from Beijing Capital International Airport, featuring beautiful gardens and lakes along with historic pavilions. Important features of the Summer Palace include Kunming Lake, the Long Corridor, and the Marble Boat. Tourists have the option to take boat tours across the water or walk across the stone bridges during their visit. Signage throughout the palace complex directs visitors effectively and provides maps together with guided tour options.
Address: 19 Xinjiang Dongmen Rd, Haidian, Beijing, China
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: May – October
5. Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest)
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
The Bird’s Nest, which is the Beijing National Stadium, stands 25 km away from Beijing Capital International Airport. The 2008 Olympic venue continues to draw visitors who can take guided tours to explore its architectural design and Olympic legacy. Nighttime visitors to the stadium can discover its interior spaces and enjoy both exhibits and illuminated light shows. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the adjacent Olympic Forest Park.
Address: 1 National Stadium S Rd, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Curtis Adams / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Beijing provides a diverse selection of hotels close to its two airports. The Cordis Beijing Capital Airport Hotel provides guests with exquisite rooms, diverse dining options from around the world, meeting spaces for conferences and a free shuttle service to airport terminals. Hilton Beijing Capital Airport offers spacious accommodations along with spa facilities and multiple restaurants and fitness centres. The Hyatt Place Beijing Daxing offers modern accommodations along with business amenities and family-friendly options near Daxing International Airport.
Where To Eat
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The airports in Beijing have multiple dining establishments. Tourists at Beijing Capital International Airport have the opportunity to taste Peking Duck at Quanjude Restaurant while local outlets serve noodles and dumplings. Starbucks, Burger King, and Costa Coffee are international brands available across all airport terminals. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly present. Passengers at Beijing Daxing International Airport can enjoy meals at high-end restaurants that specialise in Sichuan and Cantonese dishes.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ellen Jenni / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Carry local currency (Chinese Yuan), as cash is still widely used in markets and taxis.
- Make sure you have your hotel information available in Chinese to ask for directions.
- Review air quality predictions to know when to wear a mask during pollution surges.
- When visiting temples or historical sites, you should wear modest clothing to respect local customs.
- Access the Beijing subway app and download offline maps for effortless city navigation.
Travellers can experience hassle-free journeys between destinations through airports in Beijing, which offer exclusive facilities and services with exceptional connectivity. Travellers coming for tourism or business purposes will find these airports feature efficient transport connections together with contemporary facilities and direct access to the city’s famous landmarks. TripXL helps you organise your Beijing adventure so you can experience smooth travel operations during your entire journey!
Cover Photo: Belinda Fewings / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
