Hefei Anhui, China Travel Guide
Hefei Xinqiao International Airport (HFE) is the main airport. Major Chinese airlines (China Eastern, China Southern, Air China) operate domestic flights to cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou. Limited direct international flights exist to East Asian and Southeast Asian destinations. No direct intercontinental flights from major global hubs; connect via a major Chinese or Asian city. Flight prices increase during Chinese national holidays.
Airport Bus: Multiple routes connect HFE to Hefei city center, including Hefei South Railway Station. Operate frequently, approx. ¥25. Taxi: Available 24/7. Use meter, ¥100-¥150 to city center. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are also available. Metro: Line S1 (Airport Line) under construction. Check for updates on metro access.
Hefei is a major railway hub for high-speed rail (G and D trains) at Hefei South Railway Station, connecting to major Chinese cities. Conventional trains operate from Hefei Railway Station. Book in advance via 12306.cn (official site) or third-party agencies.
Several long-distance bus stations (e.g., Hefei Central, Hefei West) connect Hefei to cities within Anhui and neighboring provinces. Slower and less comfortable than trains, but reach smaller towns.
International Driving Permits are not recognized inside China. Foreigners need a temporary Chinese driving permit or a full Chinese driving license. Driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic and varied adherence to traffic laws.
Not applicable for Hefei, as it is an inland city within China.
Limited to local recreational cruises on Chaohu Lake for leisure and sightseeing, not for transportation.
Not applicable at seaports for Hefei.
Arrive at Hefei Xinqiao International Airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights. For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security, and immigration (for international flights).
Arrive at the railway station at least 30-60 minutes before departure. Ticket verification and security checks are required before boarding. Both Hefei South and Hefei Railway Station offer various facilities.
Ensure your temporary Chinese driving permit or full license is valid. Plan your route to the airport or main highways, allowing extra time for city traffic. Return your rental car according to company policies, confirming fuel levels and any potential damage.
Ensure all luggage adheres to airline or train weight and size restrictions. Double-check for any prohibited items in carry-on or checked bags. Keep essential documents and valuables in your carry-on luggage. Fasten all bags before heading to the airport or station.
The Hefei Metro is modern, clean, and expanding, serving as the city's main urban rail transit. An extensive network of public buses includes the entire city. Hefei does not currently have a tram system.
Metro fares are distance-based, starting from ¥2-¥3. Buses typically cost ¥2-¥3 per ride. Mobile payment (A quick response code scan via WeChat Pay or Alipay) is the dominant payment technique for both metro and buses. Hefei Tong Card is a rechargeable smart card for both.
Metro generally functions from ~6:00 AM to 10:00-11:00 PM. Peak hour frequency is every 5-7 minutes; off-peak is 8-12 minutes. Bus operating hours vary by route, with most running from early morning until late evening.
Newer metro stations include elevators and escalators, with accessible restrooms and tactile paving. Some newer buses are low-floor with ramps, but full accessibility varies across the network.
Use Baidu Maps or Aguide for real-time public transport navigation and accurate route planning. Utilize mobile payment apps for seamless fare payment. Avoid peak hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) to minimize crowds.
Identify licensed taxis by their distinct colors, illuminated roof signs, and visible meters. Drivers usually display their ID. Hail taxis on the street, find them at designated stands, or book through ride-hailing apps. Cash is accepted, but WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly common. Always insist the driver uses the meter.
Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant ride-sharing app within China, offering services like Didi Express and Didi Premier. Download the Didi app and register; an English interface is available. Link an international credit/debit card or use WeChat Pay/Alipay for payment. Didi includes safety attributes like displaying driver/vehicle information and trip tracking. Always verify details before entering the car.
Generally safe. Insist on meter use. Beware of unofficial taxis or flat rates.
Includes safety features. Verify details in app before entering.
Inform someone of your route or share live location, especially late at night.
You need a valid Chinese driving license (full local license or temporary permit for foreigners). International Driving Permits are NOT valid. Major Chinese rental companies operate. Driving in Cantonese cities can be challenging due to heavy traffic, unfamiliar rules, and language barriers.
Bicycle sharing is extremely popular in Hefei. Companies like HelloBike and Meituan Bike offer dockless bike sharing services, accessible via their apps (often integrated into Alipay or WeChat). Scan a A scannable code to unlock; fares are low (¥1.5-¥3 per 30 minutes). Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists and generally require a Chinese motorcycle license.
Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. China has strict DUI laws. Awareness of local driving culture is important.
Main roads and highways are typically in good condition. Inside the city, roads can become congested, particularly during rush hour. Exercise caution.
Paid parking garages and street parking are available in Hefei. However, parking can be scarce in popular and central areas. Plan accordingly when you are driving.
Many parks, like Lord Bao Park and Swan Lake Park, are ideal for walking and strolling. Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street is great for shopping and experiencing commercial energy. Areas around universities offer pleasant walks. Self-guided tours with mapping apps are easy; guided tours may be arranged through local travel agencies.
Hefei has dedicated bicycle lanes on many main roads, making cycling a viable option. Be aware of other cyclists, electric scooters, and motor vehicles. While helmets are not universally worn, they are recommended for safety. Hefei is generally a safe city; however, exercise caution in heavy traffic areas or poorly lit alleys at night.
Dedicated hop-on-hop-off services are limited. Local operators offer bus tours to certain places or nearby towns.
Recreational renting a boat or scenic cruises available on Swan Lake and Chaohu Lake, purely for leisure.
Limited services for travelers with mobility needs. Pre-arrange assistance with your hotel or a specialized tour operator.
For a truly local experience, try using the bike-sharing apps. It's an affordable and fun way of exploring the city.
