Arriving at a new airport can be a little unpleasant, especially when you need to get to the city. There are several ways to get from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO) to the city center and hotels, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of time, cost, and comfort. This information will help you plan your trip and choose the optimal option.
Official taxi stands are usually located directly near the exits from the arrival terminals. Usually, airport representatives help organize the queue. Make sure the taxi driver uses the meter, or agree on a price in advance. It is important to have small change with you, as not all drivers may have change from large bills. Be prepared to state the address of your hotel in Chinese to avoid misunderstandings.
A private transfer is a convenient but more expensive option. Usually, the driver meets you in the arrivals hall with a sign with your name. Confirm the meeting point and driver's phone number in advance. The price for a private transfer is fixed at the time of booking, which allows you to avoid unexpected expenses. Make sure the price includes all fees and taxes.
Shared shuttles and minibuses are a more economical option, especially if you are traveling alone or with a small amount of luggage. They usually run on a schedule or are filled with passengers heading in the same direction. Travel time may be longer as the shuttle may make stops at several hotels. This is a good choice if you are not in a hurry and want to save money.
From Qingdao Jiaodong Airport, you can reach the city by train, metro or bus. This is the cheapest option, but it may be inconvenient if you have a lot of luggage or do not know Chinese. The metro is a fast and efficient way to get to the city center, but you may need to transfer to another line. Buses are the slowest option, but they cover a larger area.
Travel time to the city center depends on traffic and time of day. During peak hours, the journey may take longer. Usually, the journey to the city center takes from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Approximate prices (in EUR):
| Taxi | 20 – 35 | 30 – 60 minutes |
| Private transfer | 40 – 60 | 30 – 45 minutes |
| Shared shuttle | 10 – 20 | 60 – 90 minutes |
| Train/Metro | 5 – 10 | 60 – 120 minutes |
| Bus | 3 – 7 | 90 – 150 minutes |
Time and prices may vary depending on traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Qingdao Jiaodong Airport include Qingdao city center, Shinan district, Shilaoren beach and other cities in Shandong province, such as Yantai and Weihai.
Official taxi stands are located near the exits from the arrival terminals. Usually there are representatives who help with organization.
A private transfer is an individual transport that is pre-booked. The driver meets you at the airport with a sign.
A shared shuttle is an economical option, but travel time may be longer due to stops at other hotels.
Yes, you can reach the airport by metro, but you may need to transfer to another line.
Usually, the taxi ride to the city center takes from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
The cost of a taxi to the city center ranges from 20 to 35 euros.
It is advisable to have the address of your hotel in Chinese to avoid misunderstandings with the driver.
Not all taxi drivers accept cards, so it is better to have cash with you.
You can get to other cities from the airport by train or bus. Trains are usually faster and more comfortable.
Tipping is not required, but it is always pleasant if you are satisfied with the service.
Immediately contact the company that organized the transfer, at the phone number indicated in your confirmation.