City in Guangdong, China
Getting around Shenzhen
How to get around Shenzhen
The metro is fast and covers the main districts, with direct links to the Hong Kong border. Use DiDi where the metro doesn't reach.
Ways to get around Shenzhen
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen Metro | 2–14 CNY by distance | Use Alipay QR; Lines 1 and 9 link Luohu and Futian |
| DiDi | About 18–32 CNY for 5 km | Pay via Alipay |
| Border crossings | From metro fares | Luohu, Futian, Shenzhen Bay for Hong Kong; passport and entry checks |
| Shared bikes | About 1.5–3 CNY | Good in Shekou and OCT |
Ride-hailing apps in Shenzhen
A 5 km ride costs about ¥18–32 ($2.7–4.8).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| DiDi | Dominant; pay via Alipay |
- Use DiDi or metered red taxis; avoid unlicensed drivers at the border and Bao'an arrivals.
Arriving in Shenzhen
Shenzhen Bao'an (SZX)
Metro Line 11 to Futian about 8–14 CNY, 30–40 min; taxi or DiDi 100–150 CNY, 40 min.
Hong Kong International (HKG)
Ferry from the airport SkyPier to Shekou or Fuyong, about 160–220 CNY, 40 min; needs Hong Kong immigration steps.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the right. IDPs aren't recognised. Visitors need a temporary Chinese driving permit (up to 90 days) or a Chinese licence.
- Onward travel in China: High-speed trains link nearly every big city, often faster than flying; book with a passport on 12306 or Trip.com. Cheap domestic flights and sleeper trains cover long distances.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Shenzhen?
No. Use DiDi instead.
What's the best way to get around Shenzhen?
The metro is fast and covers the main districts, with direct links to the Hong Kong border. Use DiDi where the metro doesn't reach.
How do I get from the airport to Shenzhen?
Metro Line 11 to Futian about 8–14 CNY, 30–40 min; taxi or DiDi 100–150 CNY, 40 min.
Is Shenzhen walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Shenzhen
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.