MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Bengbu

How to Get to Bengbu

Bengbu Anhui, China Travel Guide

Air Travel Overview

Major Airports & Airlines

Bengbu has no major civilian airport. Travelers typically fly into one of two nearby international airports and then connect to Bengbu via high-speed rail or ground transport.

Airports

  • **Hefei Xinqiao International Airport (HFE):** Approximately 1.5-2 hours from Bengbu.
  • **Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG):** Approximately 2-2.5 hours from Bengbu.
  • Airlines: China Eastern, China Southern, Air China, Spring Airlines.

Flight Routes & Seasonality

Both HFE and NKG serve numerous domestic routes across China. International routes from these airports mainly connect to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and some regional destinations.

Booking Insights

  • No direct international flights from major global hubs. Connections via major Chinese or Asian hubs.
  • More expensive prices in peak Chinese travel seasons (Spring Festival, May Day, National Day, summer holidays).
  • Lower prices during off-peak times. Reserve far ahead for holidays.

Hefei Airport Facilities

Standard international airport facilities, duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange. Free Wi-Fi (requires Chinese phone number).

Nanjing Airport Facilities

Similar facilities to Hefei, with extensive domestic and global routes. VPN is necessary for many international websites.

Transfer Essentials

Consider high-speed rail for productivity. Pre-book train tickets, especially during peak seasons.

Airport to Bengbu Transfers

From Hefei Xinqiao International Airport HFE

  • Shuttle To the airport Shuttle to Hefei South Railway Station.
  • High-speed trains (G or D) from Hefei South to Bengbu South Railway Station (approx. 1 hour).
  • Direct taxi or pre-arranged private car (approx. 1.5-2 hours).
  • Shuttle + Train is commonly the most efficient.

From Nanjing Lukou International Airport NKG

  • Shuttle To the airport Bus to Nanjing South Railway Station.
  • High-speed trains from Nanjing South to Bengbu South Rail Depot (approx. 1-1.5 hours).
  • Direct taxi or private car (approx. 2-2.5 hours).
  • This is a highly efficient option.

Flight Booking Tips

Booking Platforms

Use platforms like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for international and domestic flights.

Peak Season Travel

Book international flights several months ahead of time for busy periods. Book domestic flights at least 1-2 months ahead.

Flexibility

Adjusting travel dates by a few days can sometimes secure better fares.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Bengbu boasts excellent rail connectivity, making it a convenient base for exploring Anhui and adjacent provinces.

High-Speed Rail

  • Bengbu South Train Station: High-speed hub on the Beijing-Shanghai line.
  • Connects to Beijing (3.5-4h), Shanghai (2.5-3h), Nanjing (1-1.5h), Hefei (1h).
  • Book tickets through Trip.com (Ctrip) well in advance.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Bengbu has a long-distance bus station (Bengbu Coach Station) offering routes to surrounding cities within Anhui province and some destinations in neighboring provinces.

Bus Travel

  • Buses are slower but a price-effective alternative for shorter distances.
  • Connects to towns not served by rail.
  • Buy tickets at the bus station on travel day or a few days ahead.

Self-Driving Considerations

Foreigners cannot legally drive a car in mainland China with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a foreign driver's license alone. You a valid Chinese driving license.

Driving Rules

  • Car rental without a driver is not feasible for tourists.
  • Consider hiring a chauffeured car through major companies or hotels.
  • Navigation without local language skills can be challenging.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads and highways around Bengbu and connecting to other cities are generally well-maintained and modern. Rural roads can range in quality.

Traffic Notes

  • Urban traffic can be dense and chaotic, especially during peak hours.
  • Driving standards and adherence to traffic laws differ significantly.
  • Pedestrians and cyclists often lack right of way.

Important Driving Notes

  • Foreign driving licenses are not valid.
  • Car rental without a driver is not a option for tourists.
  • Hire a car with a driver for convenience and legality.
  • Use local navigation apps with a driver.
  • Major car rental companies like DiscoverCars.com do exist.

Sea/River Arrivals

Passenger Services

Bengbu's inland placement signifies sea and river arrivals are not applicable for international or inter-city passenger transport.

No Major Services

  • No international sea or river ports.
  • No major domestic passenger ferry/cruise services.
  • The Huai River does not support inter-city passenger travel.

Local River Cruises

River transportation on the Huai River in Bengbu is limited to local sightseeing boats or short leisure cruises on Longzihu Lake.

Recreational Options

  • Leisure watercraft are available on Longzihu Lake.
  • Scenic rides for recreational purposes.
  • Not a form of transportation between locations.

No International Ports

Bengbu's inland location means no sea or international river access.

No Major Ferry Routes

The Huai River does not support large-scale passenger ferries.

Local Recreational Only

Boating on Longzihu Lake exclusively for sightseeing purposes.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing China via air or land for foreign tourists.

Included in Airfare

  • Your international airfare commonly comprises any relevant airport taxes.
  • No extra fees at airport check-out.
  • Confirm flight specifics before departure.

Departure Timing

Plan your departure with sufficient time for transfers and airport procedures.

Recommended Times

  • International Flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before departure (Hefei or Nanjing).
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Train Travel: Show UP 30-45 minutes before departure from Bengbu South.

Airport & Station Facilities

Check-in & Security

Airports provide check-in counters, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration. Train stations have ticket business premises and security.

Shopping & Dining

Both airports and train stations feature duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes for departing travelers.

Lounges & Services

Airports also provide lounges and various other services for a comfortable departure experience.

Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your flight or train schedule 24-TWO days before departure. This informs you of changes and allows plan adjustments.