Cheap Flights to China
Best student & youth fares right now to China
If the price of flights to China is keeping you from exploring this awesome country and culture, then you’ve come to the right place. Our cheap flights to China will give you an easier way to explore Asia—just use the search box above to see what’s on offer!
Student flights from Canada to China
Want to plan a holiday or study abroad trip to somewhere with a totally unique culture, lots of history and an experience that’s totally unlike being at home? China is home to a culture that is both centuries-old and yet increasingly modern. This amazing country is filled with unreal natural landscapes, ancient architecture and bustling urban centers. If you want to be at the hub of a country known for its blend of rich history and innovative technology, China is the place for you.
Students from Canada also have a chance to learn the most-spoken language in the world (Mandarian Chinese), encounter an amazing culture and people and learn and work in a hub for business and technology. Getting ready to book your flight to China? Sign up to become a member and unlock exclusive student and youth discounts and promo codes!
Keep scrolling for more info on cheap flights to China, travel tips for China and more.
What are the main China airport hubs?
Although China has dozens of airports, there are three main airport hubs: Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Beijing: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is the main international airport in Beijing and the largest airport in China. Not surprisingly, it’s usually quite busy, so leave plenty of time to get through security and customs. The wait times can be as long as 3-3.5 hours! From the airport, you can take the Airport Express train to the city centre. It comes to both Terminal 2 and 3 every 15 minutes. A one-way ticket costs 25 RMB ($5 CAD).
Shanghai: Most international flights to Shanghai will come into the Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Once there, you can easily get to the city centre by taking Metro Line 2 to People’s Square. The ride takes just over an hour and costs about 28 RMB ($5.50 CAD).
Hong Kong: International flights to Hong Kong will arrive at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Again, make sure you leave plenty of time here for customs and security. Once you’ve arrived, take the Airport Express Train downtown. It costs 115 HK$ ($20 CAD) and the ride is about 25 minutes. If you get off at Central station, you can take the free MTR shuttle bus to 50 nearby hotels!
How to fly from Canada to China
Despite the ocean between China and Canada, there’s plenty of flight options from major Canadian hubs to most major Chinese cities, especially if you don’t mind a layover. If you’re flying from Vancouver or Toronto, you’ll have no problem grabbing a direct flight to one of about a dozen Chinese cities. If you’re flying from elsewhere in Canada, you’ll still have lots of options, just with a stop along the way.
The most popular airlines for flights to China include Air Canada, Cathay Pacific and Air China, among others.
When is the best time to fly to China?
China is a HUGE country, so the weather (and best time to visit) varies a lot from city to city. However, in general, the best time to visit China is in the spring and fall. Spring has beautiful weather in most of the country and there are fewer tourists throughout spring and fall. Summers can be hot and dry in Northern China, but Southern China has tropical and humid summers. In addition, June through September is the highest tourism season, so major sights can be really crowded. We recommend planning accordingly based on what’s most important to you (fewer crowds? cooler weather?) and checking for local holidays as well—things can be extremely crowded and chaotic around holidays in China, so unless you’re there to join the festivities, you may want to plan for another time!
When is the cheapest time to book a flight from Canada to China?
Prices based on searches made 60-91 days prior to departure.
Why do Canadian students love visiting China?
Between the rich cultural background, modern technology and thriving businesses, world-class shopping and experiences and friendly locals, China is an amazing destination for student travellers! Visiting China is a trip of a lifetime, with tons of options to study, volunteer, work or just take a break from normal life and experience something totally new.
China universities and campuses
Thinking about studying abroad in China? You’re in the right place! China has plenty of universities that offer a lot for international and exchange students. These universities, with their large international population, will make you feel right at home.
- For science students: consider Shanghai Jiao Tong University. It’s very prestigious and one of the best research universities in China (and the world!).
- For business students: get a taste of international business at Tsinghua University in Beijing. Interested in government or sociology? Check out Peking University.
- Fudan University is a well-respected and traditional Chinese university while housing plenty of international students. Plus, it has an amazing intensive Mandarian program!
- Of course, Hong Kong University is another amazing option that gives you a western-oriented school while still putting you at the heart of a vibrant Asian city.
China lifestyle and culture
Visitors and students in China will find life very different from what they might be used to in Canada, but will enjoy friendly locals, a mesmerizing culture and beautiful cities! Whether you’re staying in a big city like Beijing or Shanghai or a smaller town, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Keep in mind that there are many cultural differences in China—for example, smoking is common in most public places and tipping is not always common, especially in restaurants, and may even be considered rude. Fashion styles also tend to be a bit more conservative in China (i.e. you won’t see very many bikinis if you head to the beach!). It helps to be mindful of different cultural norms, but travelling in China is a learning experience: don’t be too hard on yourself if you make a mistake!
Exploring China on a student budget
It is easier than you may think to visit China on a student budget! You can find budget accommodation easily in China, especially in major cities. Not to mention that eating out tends to be quite a bit cheaper in China than it would be at home. Breakfasts are usually between 5-20 yuan ($1-4 CAD) and lunch/dinners are usually around 30-50 yuan ($6-10 CAD). In addition, there are plenty of free things to do through Chinese cities, from strolling through main squares and city streets to visiting museums and more.
Frequently asked questions about flying from Canada to China
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