Airport-to-City Transportation Options in Guangzhou
Major Transportation Hubs at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, one of China’s busiest aviation hubs, operates three terminals: T1, T2, and the newly launched T3. Each terminal integrates diverse transportation modes to streamline travel. T3, inaugurated in October 2025, features a multi-level transportation center connecting to P11 and P12 parking garages with 1,800 open parking spaces initially. The terminal’s design prioritizes seamless transfers between private vehicles, taxis, ride-hailing services, and public transit.
Airport Shuttle Buses: Affordable and Accessible
24-Hour Free Shuttle Between Terminals
Travelers moving between T1, T2, and T3 can utilize complimentary shuttle buses operating round-the-clock. During peak hours (22:00–03:00), services run every 10 minutes, while off-peak intervals (03:00–08:00) extend to 30 minutes. De 08:00–22:00, buses depart every 20 minutes. Passengers can board at T1’s Departure Hall Door 12, T2’s Door 42, or T3’s Door 62.
Inter-Terminal Rail Links
A dedicated inter-terminal rail service connects all three terminals, with trains departing every 17 minutes on average. Stations are located at T1’s A Arrival Area near Door A1, T2’s Transportation Center Level 1, and T3’s Transportation Center Level B2. This rail network ensures efficient transfers for passengers with connecting flights.
Long-Distance and Citywide Bus Services
The airport’s bus network extends to major cities across Guangdong Province, including Shenzhen, Dongguan, Foshan, and Zhuhai. From T1, buses depart from Areas A3–A5, while T2 services operate via the West Passenger Terminal. All long-distance routes now include T3 as a drop-off point. City buses also link the airport to downtown districts like Tianhe, Yuexiu, and Haizhu, with late-night services available until 05:30.
Rail and Metro Connections
Guangzhou East Railway Station Integration
The newly opened Baiyun Airport East Station (T3) synchronizes with terminal operations, providing direct access to Guangzhou South Railway Station, Pazhou Intercity Station, and cities like Foshan, Dongguan, and Huizhou. Passengers can book tickets via official platforms or 12306.
Metro Transfers via High-Speed Rail
Travelers using Metro Lines 3 ou 9 can transfer at Gaozeng Station to a dedicated T3 shuttle bus or take Line 9 to Baiyun Airport North Station (T2) and switch to the inter-terminal rail. The shuttle bus between Gaozeng and T3 covers six kilometers in approximately 15 minutes, with departures every 15–20 minutes.
Private and Ride-Hailing Services
Parking and Vehicle Access
Self-driving passengers can reach T3 via the Airport Second Expressway or Airport Expressway. Short-term parking is prohibited at departure levels; drivers must use P11 or P12 garages. Ride-hailing vehicles pick up passengers at P12 Garage Levels 1 e 2, while taxis have designated zones at T3’s Arrival Level Door 72. Short-haul taxis serve Huadu and Baiyun Districts, whereas long-haul taxis cover other Guangzhou districts.
Navigation and Real-Time Updates
The airport collaborates with mapping platforms like Gaode, Baidu, and Tencent Maps to provide real-time transit guidance. Travelers are advised to confirm terminal assignments on their itineraries, as T1 handles international flights for select airlines, while T3 manages domestic operations for carriers like China Eastern and Juneyao Airlines.
Late-Night and Emergency Transit Solutions
Overnight Bus Services
For arrivals after metro closure, overnight buses operate from 23:30–05:30, departing every 30 minutes. Routes cover key areas such as Tianhe City Plaza, Yuexiu’s Garden Hotel, and Haizhu’s Ergong Station. Passengers should arrive early to avoid delays, as schedules may adjust seasonally.
Multi-Lingual Support and On-Site Assistance
The airport offers information counters and staff assistance in multiple languages. Travelers can seek help with ticket changes, transportation queries, or directional guidance.
