Quick Answer
The best way to get from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to downtown Guangzhou for most travelers is the Guangzhou Metro Airport Line (Line 3) (45-60 minutes, 8-10 RMB). It's fast, cheap, and avoids Guangzhou's notorious traffic. For families with kids or groups of 3-4: Take a taxi or Didi (40-60 minutes, 120-180 RMB, metered). For late-night arrivals (after 11:30 PM): Pre-book a private transfer or taxi, as the metro stops. Avoid airport touts offering "special taxi" – they charge 300-500 RMB for the same ride.
Guangzhou Metro Airport Line (Line 3) to Downtown
Taking the Guangzhou Metro Line 3 from Baiyun Airport to the city center is the top recommendation for solo travelers, couples, and anyone on a budget. The metro stations are located inside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, making it incredibly convenient. The train is an express service with limited stops, reaching major downtown hubs in 45-60 minutes for only 8-10 RMB. During Guangzhou's infamous rush hour traffic (7:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-8:00 PM), the metro is consistently the fastest and most reliable transport from CAN airport.
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou Metro Line 3 | 45-60 minutes | 8-10 RMB ($1.1-1.4) | Solo, couples, budget, avoiding traffic | Crowded during rush hour, stairs with luggage |
| Taxi (Metered) | 40-70 minutes | 120-180 RMB ($17-25) | Families (3-4), groups, lots of luggage | Massive queues at airport, traffic delays |
| Didi (Ride-hail) | 40-70 minutes | 110-170 RMB ($15-24) | Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/alipay | Need app & local payment, pick-up zone walk |
| Airport Express Bus | 60-90 minutes | 20-35 RMB ($3-5) | Specific hotel/destination, late night | Slow, may require taxi transfer at end |
| Private Transfer | 40-60 minutes | 250-400 RMB ($35-55) | Late night, luxury, corporate travel, big groups | Most expensive, needs pre-booking |
How to Find the Metro Station in Baiyun Airport
In the massive Terminal 2 (T2), the main international terminal, follow the clear signs with the red metro "M" logo. From the arrivals hall, go to the Transportation Center (GTC) on the lower levels (-B1 or -B2). The walk can take 8-12 minutes. In the older Terminal 1 (T1), the station is also on a lower level, accessible via elevators or escalators near the center of the terminal. Signs are in both Chinese and English. The internet says it's easy to find, but the sheer size of T2 means you could walk 500 meters just to reach the metro gates – factor this into your time.
Buying Tickets & Using the Metro
You have four options: 1) Single Journey Token: Buy from vending machines (English available) using cash (5/10/20 RMB notes) or scan Alipay/WeChat QR code. 2) Guangzhou Metro Card: Not worth it for a single trip. 3) Alipay/WeChat Pay: Scan the QR code from the "Guangzhou Metro" mini-program directly at the gate – the most seamless method if set up. 4) Contactless Bank Card: Some gates accept Visa/Mastercard with contactless symbol. I strongly recommend setting up Alipay with an international card before you arrive. Watching tourists struggle with cash at the machines during peak hours is a common sight.
Metro Route & Key Downtown Stops
The Airport Line runs south from the airport. Key stops for tourists: Jichang Nan (Airport South) (transfer to Line 3 main branch), Yantang, Guangzhou East Railway Station (for trains, 8 RMB), Tiyu Xilu (Tianhe Sports Center) (heart of Tianhe CBD, 9 RMB), Zhujiang New Town (iconic skyscrapers, 9 RMB), Canton Tower (for the landmark tower, 10 RMB). The train has both express (fewer stops) and ordinary (all stops) services. Board any train – the express is only marginally faster for the airport-to-downtown leg.
Taxi from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to City Center
Taking a taxi from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to downtown is the most door-to-door convenient option, especially with heavy luggage or a family. The official taxi queue is well-organized at both terminals. The metered fare to Tianhe District is 120-180 RMB ($17-25), plus 20-30% midnight surcharge (11:00 PM - 5:00 AM). The journey takes 40-70 minutes, heavily dependent on the infamous Guangzhou traffic. Always insist the driver uses the meter ("dǎ biǎo, qǐng" - please use the meter). Avoid the touts inside the terminal offering "fixed price" taxis – they charge 2-3 times the metered rate.
Finding the Official Taxi Queue
Follow signs for "Taxi" in the arrivals hall. In T2, you'll take an elevator or escalator down to the taxi pick-up zone on a dedicated level. The queue is orderly but can be very long during peak arrival times (10:00 AM-1:00 PM, 8:00 PM-12:00 AM). Wait time can be 5-25 minutes. Staff manage the queue. Have your destination address written in Chinese (your hotel's Chinese name and address) to show the driver. Most taxi drivers do not speak English.
Taxi Fare Breakdown & Surcharges
Flag fall: 12 RMB (first 2.5 km). After 2.5 km: 2.6 RMB per km. For distances over 35 km, an additional 50% long-distance surcharge applies. The trip from the airport to downtown is about 30-35 km, so the surcharge usually applies. There's also a 20-30% night surcharge from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM. Tolls (if taking certain expressways) are paid by the passenger. Total cost to Tianhe: 120-180 RMB. To Pazhou (Canton Fair complex): 140-200 RMB. Have smaller bills (20s, 50s) ready; drivers may not have change for 100 RMB notes.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You exit baggage claim, tired. A friendly man asks "Taxi?" and offers a fixed price of 300 RMB to your hotel. You agree, thinking it's easier. His "taxi" is an unlicensed car. The ride is fine, but upon arrival, he demands 350 RMB, claiming a "highway toll." You argue but pay. The official metered fare would have been 140 RMB. You just paid 150% more. I see this weekly. Always walk to the official taxi queue. The internet says touts are a problem, but that's an understatement – they are aggressive at CAN.
Didi (Chinese Ride-Hailing) from Baiyun Airport
Using Didi Chuxing at CAN Airport
Didi Chuxing (China's Uber) is a popular alternative to taxis. Fares are similar (110-170 RMB to downtown) but cars are often newer and cleaner. You must have the Didi app, a Chinese SIM card for verification, and Alipay/WeChat Pay set up. The international version of the app works with some foreign cards. Pick-up zones are designated at both terminals (follow signs for "Online Car-hailing" or "Didi"). You may need to walk 3-5 minutes from the terminal. Select your car type (Express, Premium, Comfort). Wait time is typically 5-10 minutes.
Advantages & Challenges of Using Didi
Advantages: Upfront price, no cash needed, driver navigation via app, car quality often better. Challenges: Requires stable mobile data. The app interface, even in English, can be confusing. Drivers may call you (in Chinese) to confirm location. During peak times, surge pricing can make it more expensive than a taxi. For foreigners without a Chinese phone number, the SMS verification during sign-up can be a major hurdle. I've helped many travelers stuck because they couldn't receive the verification code on their foreign number.
Airport Express Buses to Guangzhou City
Airport Express buses (空港快线) are a lower-cost, door-to-hotel-area option. Tickets cost 20-35 RMB, purchased at counters near the exits of T1 and T2. Buses run to major hubs like Guangzhou Railway Station, Garden Hotel, and Tianhe. Travel time is 60-90 minutes, heavily subject to traffic. While cheap, I don't actually recommend it for first-time visitors with luggage unless your hotel is right at the bus terminus. You'll likely need a taxi from the bus stop to your final hotel, adding cost and hassle. It's best for locals or those on an extreme budget staying near a drop-off point.
Airport Bus Routes & Schedules
Key routes from Baiyun Airport: Line 1: To Guangzhou Railway Station (火车站) via Garden Hotel (花园酒店). Runs 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM, every 20-30 min, 22 RMB. Line 2: To Jiangnan Hotel (江南酒店) in Haizhu District. Line 5: To Zhongshan 5th Road (北京路) near Beijing Road Pedestrian Street. Line 6: To Tianhe (天河城). Schedules are frequent during the day (every 15-20 min) but thin out after 10:00 PM. Check the electronic boards at the ticket counters for the next departure.
Who Should Take the Airport Bus?
The bus is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers with one backpack. 2) Those whose hotel is within 5 minutes' walk of a bus terminus (e.g., Garden Hotel). 3) Extreme budget travelers. 4) Late-night arrivals (some lines run past metro closure). Not suitable for: Families with kids and strollers, travelers with large suitcases (limited bus storage), those going to destinations not near a bus stop, or anyone in a hurry.
Private Transfer & Hotel Shuttle Service
Private Airport Transfer Service
Pre-booked private transfers cost 250-400 RMB ($35-55) for a standard sedan. A driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign, helps with luggage, and takes you directly to your hotel. This is the most stress-free option, ideal for late-night arrivals, corporate travel, families with young children, or groups of 3-4. You can book via travel sites (Klook, Trip.com) or through your hotel. While expensive, the peace of mind after a long flight, especially with jet-lagged kids, is worth it for many.
Hotel Shuttle Buses
Some higher-end hotels (Marriott, Hilton, etc.) and some hostels offer free or paid shuttle bus service from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport. This is usually a shared minibus that makes stops at several hotels. You must reserve in advance by emailing the hotel. It's often free for guests or costs 30-50 RMB. Ask your hotel before you book. This is a fantastic option if available, as it's direct and you don't need to navigate.
Guangzhou Metro Line 3: Complete Station List (Airport Branch)
Understanding the full metro route helps you plan your journey. The Airport South to Tiyu Xilu section is the most important for getting downtown. Here are all stations on the Airport Branch (Line 3) from north to south:
- Guangzhou Airport South (T2) (机场南) - Terminus at Terminal 2.
- Guangzhou Airport North (T1) (机场北) - Terminal 1 station.
- Gaozeng (高增) - **CRITICAL TRANSFER STATION**. Here, you can transfer to Line 9. Also, some trains terminate here. If your train ends, get off and wait for the next train heading to Tiyu Xilu or beyond.
- Renhe (人和)
- Longgui (龙归)
- Jiahe Wanggang (嘉禾望岗) - **MAJOR TRANSFER HUB**. Transfer here to Line 2 (to Guangzhou South Railway Station) and Line 14.
- Tonghe (同和)
- Yongtai (永泰)
- Baiyun Dadao (白云大道北)
- Jingxi Nanfang Hospital (京溪南方医院)
- Meihuayuan (梅花园)
- Yantang (燕塘) - Transfer to Line 6.
- Guangzhou East Railway Station (广州东站) - For high-speed trains. Exit for Tianhe shopping area (Grandview Mall).
- Linhexi (林和西) - Exit for CITIC Plaza, Tianhe.
- Tiyu Xilu (体育西路) - **HEART OF TIANHE CBD**. Massive transfer station for Lines 1 and 3 (main branch). Extremely crowded.
- Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城) - Transfer to Line 5. Exit for Zhujiang New Town CBD, Guangzhou Opera House, IFC.
- Canton Tower (广州塔) - Exit for Canton Tower, Pearl River, APM line.
How to Navigate the Metro at Key Transfer Stations
At Gaozeng: Don't panic if the train terminates. Simply get off, cross the platform, and wait 2-3 minutes for the next train south. At Jiahe Wanggang: Follow signs carefully if you need Line 2 (green) to Guangzhou South Railway Station. It's a large, busy station. At Tiyu Xilu: This is one of the busiest metro stations in China. Follow exit signs (A, B, C, etc.) meticulously. If you're lost, go up to street level and use your phone map.
Return Trip: City Center to Baiyun Airport by Metro
Board Line 3 (northbound towards Airport South). Ensure you're on the correct branch – trains display "Airport South (T2)" or "Airport North (T1)". From Tiyu Xilu, the ride is 45-60 minutes. Allow extra time for getting lost in huge stations. The first/last trains are crucial: First train from Tiyu Xilu to Airport South is around 6:10 AM. Last train from Tiyu Xilu is around 11:30 PM. If you have a flight before 8:00 AM, do NOT rely on the metro. Take a taxi or Didi.
Baiyun Airport to Downtown Guangzhou Route Map
The map below shows the primary routes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to the city center. The metro Line 3 (in orange) is the backbone, running directly south through Tianhe to the Pearl River.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from Guangzhou Airport to Tianhe Downtown on Google Maps
View on Baidu Maps (Chinese map app, more detailed in China): Search 广州白云机场 to 体育西路 on Baidu Maps
The distance from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to Tianhe city center is approximately 28-35 km (17-22 miles) depending on your exact destination. The metro covers this distance in a nearly straight line, while road routes (highways) can vary with traffic conditions.
Baiyun Airport to City: Ticketing, Costs & Payment
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost (RMB) | Payment Methods | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou Metro (Line 3) | 45-60 mins | 8-10 RMB | Alipay/WeChat, Cash, Tokens | Solo, couples, avoiding traffic, budget |
| Taxi (Metered) | 40-70 mins | 120-180 RMB | Cash, Alipay/WeChat Pay | Families (3-4), groups, lots of luggage |
| Didi (Ride-hail) | 40-70 mins | 110-170 RMB | Alipay/WeChat Pay (in-app) | Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/app |
| Airport Express Bus | 60-90 mins | 20-35 RMB | Cash, Alipay/WeChat at counter | Extreme budget, near bus terminus |
| Private Transfer | 40-60 mins | 250-400 RMB | Credit Card (online booking) | Late night, corporate, families, luxury |
How to Pay: Cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay
Cash (RMB): Accepted everywhere (metro machines, taxi, bus). Have plenty of 5, 10, 20 RMB notes. Taxi drivers may not have change for 100 RMB. Alipay/WeChat Pay: The dominant method. Set up before you arrive, link an international card. Use for metro (scan at gate), Didi, taxis, shops. Credit Cards: Major hotels and some shops accept Visa/Mastercard. Do NOT rely on cards for transport. Tip: Withdraw 300-500 RMB at an airport ATM (Bank of China, ICBC) as a backup. Foreign cards work, but notify your bank.
Cost Comparison: What Locals Pay
Locals pay the same metered taxi fare (120-180 RMB) and metro fare (8-10 RMB). The only difference is they use Alipay/WeChat Pay seamlessly. As a tourist, you might pay more if you get an unlicensed taxi (300+ RMB) or take a private transfer for convenience. The metro price is fixed and the same for everyone.
First-Time Traveler's Experience at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
Arriving at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Terminal 2 can be overwhelming. It's vast, modern, and bustling. After immigration and baggage claim, you'll enter the massive arrivals hall. Do not stop in the middle – move to the sides. Look up for the color-coded signs: Metro (Red M), Taxi, Airport Buses, Online Car-hailing (Didi). The flow is well-organized, but the sheer volume of people can be disorienting. Have your first destination's Chinese address ready on your phone.
The Reality of Choosing Your Transport
If you have one backpack and are alone: Follow red "M" signs to the metro. It's a long walk but worth it. If you're a family of four with three suitcases: Head straight for the taxi queue. The walk to the metro with that much luggage involves multiple level changes and is miserable. If it's after 11:30 PM: Your options are taxi, Didi, or pre-booked car. The metro is closed. I've seen tired travelers dragging suitcases back and forth because they didn't decide their transport mode before exiting.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You arrive at 10:00 PM, thinking you have time for the metro. You get lost finding the metro station in T2, which takes 15 minutes. You finally get to the gates at 10:20 PM. The last train to the city leaves at 10:40 PM from the airport, but you need to buy a ticket. The line at the machine is long. You reach the front at 10:35 PM, fumble with cash, and by the time you get a token, it's 10:42 PM. The gates are closed. You're now forced to take a taxi during the night surcharge period. Always check the last metro departure time (around 11:00-11:30 PM from downtown, earlier from the airport).
Rush Hour, Late Night & Failure Scenario Guide
Guangzhou Rush Hour Traffic (Avoid If Possible)
Weekday Mornings (7:00-9:30 AM): Roads into the city are heavily congested. Taxi/Didi ride can take 80+ minutes. Metro is packed but moving. Weekday Evenings (5:00-8:00 PM): Similar congestion. Strategy: If you arrive during these times, the metro is still your best bet, despite crowds. If you must take a car, expect the journey to cost more due to time stuck in traffic.
Late Night Arrivals (After 11:00 PM) & Early Morning Departures
Metro: Last train from Airport South (T2) to downtown leaves around 11:20-11:30 PM. If you land after 10:30 PM, do not plan on taking the metro. Airport Buses: Some lines run until 1:00 AM. Check the electronic board at the bus ticket counter. Taxis/Didi: Available 24/7, with 20-30% night surcharge after 11:00 PM. The taxi queue can be long after midnight as fewer taxis are available. Pre-booked Transfer: The most reliable late-night option.
Early Morning Flights (Before 8:00 AM)
The first metro from Tiyu Xilu to the airport leaves around 6:10 AM, arriving at the airport around 7:00 AM. This is too risky for any flight before 9:00 AM, especially international. You must take a taxi or Didi. Book a Didi the night before (scheduled pick-up) or have your hotel call a taxi. Roads are clear at 4:00-5:00 AM, so the ride takes only 40 minutes.
What to Do If Your Transport Plan Fails
Scenario 1: Missed the last metro. Walk to the taxi queue or try Didi. If the taxi queue is enormous, consider the airport bus if it's still running. Scenario 2: No cash and Alipay not working. Find an ATM (in arrivals hall) to withdraw RMB. Most taxis now accept Alipay/WeChat, but cash is king. Scenario 3: Didi driver cancelled. Walk to the official taxi queue. It's your fail-safe. I've had Didi drivers cancel after accepting because they didn't want to go downtown. Have a backup plan.
Practical Tips for Every Traveler: Baiyun Airport to City
- With large luggage (2+ suitcases): Take a taxi or Didi. The metro has stairs and crowded trains with no dedicated luggage space.
- For families with young kids: Taxi or pre-booked car. Navigating the metro with strollers and kids in crowds is stressful.
- For business travelers: Taxi or Didi Comfort/Premium. The metro is fine if you only have a carry-on.
- For elderly travelers: Taxi or private transfer. Avoid the metro during rush hour.
- Solo female traveler at night: Take a taxi from the official queue or a Didi. Avoid the airport bus if your hotel is not at the terminus.
- First-time visitor tip: Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your credit card BEFORE you travel. It's a game-changer.
- Budget traveler tip: Metro is your friend. If your hotel isn't near a metro stop, take the metro closest, then a short Didi/taxi for the last mile.
- Late night arrival (after 11:00 PM): Pre-book a transfer or be prepared for a long taxi queue and night surcharge.
- Early morning flight (before 9:00 AM): Do NOT take the metro. Book a taxi or Didi the night before.
- During Canton Fair: All transport is extremely crowded and expensive. Book private transfers months in advance or use the metro (packed).
- Payment: Have a mix of cash (small bills) and a working mobile payment app.
- Internet: Buy a Chinese SIM card with data at the airport (China Unicom, China Mobile counters) or arrange an eSIM beforehand.
- Hotel location: Know your hotel's Chinese name and address. Show it to the taxi driver.
- Return trip to airport: From downtown, a Didi scheduled pick-up is reliable. From metro, allow 60+ minutes travel + 20 mins to walk to check-in.
- Guangzhou traffic jams: Are legendary. Avoid road transport during peak hours (7-9:30 AM, 5-8 PM) if possible.
- Language barrier: Most taxi drivers speak minimal English. Have your destination written in Chinese characters on your phone or a card.
- Taxis from city to airport: Hail on street or have hotel concierge book. Ensure the driver uses the meter. Approx. 120-180 RMB + tolls.
- Environmental choice: The metro is the most eco-friendly option.
- Absolute fastest option outside rush hour: Taxi/Didi on the expressway.
- Cheapest possible option: Metro (8 RMB).
- Most scenic route: Taxi on the expressway offers skyline views, but the metro ride is mostly underground.
Map showing primary routes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to downtown Tianhe district via Metro Line 3 and major highways.
Frequently Asked Questions: Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to City Center
What is the best way to get from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to downtown?
For most solo travelers and couples: Take the Airport Metro (Line 3). It's the fastest and most reliable option (45-60 mins, 8-10 RMB). For families of 3-4 with luggage: Take a Didi (Chinese ride-hailing) or taxi (40-60 mins, 120-180 RMB). For late arrivals after 11:30 PM: Pre-book a private transfer or taxi, as the metro stops running. The Baiyun Airport Metro is excellent, but it gets very crowded during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).
How much is the metro from Guangzhou Airport to the city?
The Airport Express (Line 3) from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport T1 or T2 to Tianhe Sports Center (downtown) costs 8-10 RMB per person (about $1.1-1.4 USD). You can use cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay, or a Guangzhou Metro card. The fare to different downtown stations varies: Zhujiang New Town is 9 RMB, Guangzhou East Railway Station is 8 RMB. It's the cheapest public transport option for getting from Baiyun Airport to downtown Guangzhou.
How long does the metro take from Baiyun Airport to Guangzhou city?
The Guangzhou Metro Airport Line (Line 3) takes approximately 45-60 minutes from Terminal 2 to downtown stations like Tianhe Sports Center or Zhujiang New Town. This includes time to walk to the metro station inside the airport, waiting for the train (every 5-8 minutes), and the actual ride. During off-peak hours, it can be as quick as 40 minutes. During weekday rush hours, it can take over 60 minutes due to crowding.
How much is a taxi from Guangzhou Airport to the city center?
Metered taxi fare from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to downtown (Tianhe District) is 120-180 RMB ($17-25 USD), depending on traffic and exact destination. The meter starts at 12 RMB for the first 2.5 km, then 2.6 RMB per additional km. There is a 20-30% surcharge from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM. A taxi to Guangzhou East Railway Station costs 100-140 RMB, to Beijing Road Pedestrian Street 130-170 RMB. Always insist on using the meter ('dǎ biǎo').
Is Didi (Chinese Uber) available at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport?
Yes, Didi Chuxing is available and widely used at Guangzhou Airport. Cost is similar to taxis: 110-170 RMB to downtown. You need a Chinese phone number and the Didi app (international version works with foreign cards). Designated pick-up zones are at both T1 and T2. Wait time is 5-10 minutes. Didi is often more comfortable than regular taxis. The internet says it's easy, but that's only true if you have a working Chinese SIM card for registration and verification codes.
What is the cheapest way from Baiyun Airport to Guangzhou?
Metro (Line 3): 8-10 RMB (45-60 mins). Public Airport Bus: 20-35 RMB (60-90 mins). Shared Shuttle Van: 30-50 RMB (50-70 mins). Walking: Not possible (28-35 km). The metro is the absolute cheapest and most efficient. I don't actually recommend the public airport bus for first-time visitors with luggage unless your hotel is right next to a bus stop, as you'll likely need to transfer to a taxi or metro afterwards.
Is there a direct metro line from Guangzhou Airport to the city?
Yes, Guangzhou Metro Line 3 (the Airport Express) runs directly from both Terminal 2 and Terminal 1 (T2 is the main terminal) to downtown Guangzhou. You do not need to transfer to reach major hubs like Guangzhou East Railway Station, Tianhe Sports Center, or Zhujiang New Town. It's a true airport express. However, if your final destination is on the older side of the city (like Yuexiu District's Beijing Road), you will need to transfer to Line 1 or 2.
What is the best option for late night arrival at Guangzhou Airport?
Late night arrivals (after 11:30 PM, when the metro stops): Pre-booked private transfer or taxi. Didi is also available 24/7. Airport buses (Airport Express lines) run until around 1:00 AM for some routes. Taxis charge a 20-30% night surcharge after 11:00 PM. I strongly recommend arranging transport in advance if arriving after 11:00 PM, as taxi lines can be long and Didi drivers may cancel. Pre-booking ensures a driver is waiting.
How early should I leave Guangzhou city for the airport?
For domestic flights: Leave 2.5 hours before departure. Travel time: 60-90 minutes by taxi (with traffic). For international flights: Leave 3.5 hours before. The metro takes 45-60 minutes but is subject to delays. Baiyun Airport is huge (T2 is one of the world's largest). Don't cut it close - I've seen people miss flights because they didn't account for the 15-minute walk from the metro to check-in counters and security queues.
Are there ATMs and money exchange at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport?
ATMs: Available throughout T1 and T2 (ICBC, Bank of China, etc.) that accept international cards. Money exchange: Counters are available (UTC, Bank of China) but rates are poor. Better to withdraw RMB from an ATM or exchange a small amount for transport (100-200 RMB) and do the rest in the city. Have 50-100 RMB in smaller bills (10, 20 RMB notes) for taxi or buying a metro ticket if your mobile pay doesn't work.
Can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay for the Guangzhou Airport Metro?
Yes, you can use Alipay or WeChat Pay to buy metro tickets or scan directly at the gate if you have set up the 'Guangzhou Metro' mini-program within the apps. This is the most convenient way. You can also buy a single journey token from the vending machines (they have English language option) using cash or QR code. For foreigners, setting up Alipay/WeChat Pay with an international card before arrival is highly recommended for seamless travel in Guangzhou.
Is there free WiFi at Guangzhou Airport for booking Didi?
Yes, free WiFi ('Airport Free WiFi') is available but requires a Chinese phone number to receive an SMS verification code. This makes it useless for most foreign travelers upon arrival. Better to buy a Chinese SIM card with data at the airport (counters in arrivals) or arrange an eSIM before you fly. Relying on airport WiFi for ride-hailing or maps often leads to frustration. Have a backup plan (like knowing the taxi queue location).