How to Get to Shanghai. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Shanghai

Major Airports

Shanghai is served by two main airports, each with distinct roles.

Airport Information

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Main international gateway, 30 km east of city.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Mainly domestic and regional flights, 13 km west of the city.
PVG offers direct flights from global hubs like New York, La, London, Paris, Tokyo.

Flight Availability & Pricing

Flight availability typically holds steady, but prices vary by season.

Pricing & Booking Tips

Prices change significantly during peak seasons (summer, Golden Week, Chinese New Year).
Booking in advance is recommended for holiday periods. Services like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner can help.
Airport facilities include duty-free, restaurants, currency exchange, Wi-Fi, and waiting areas.

Maglev Train

Fastest option from PVG to Longyang Road Station (8 min, ¥50 one-way).

Metro Lines

Line 2 from PVG (60-80 min, ¥7-¥10) to city center, Line 2 & 10 from SHA (20-40 min, ¥4-¥6).

Taxi/DiDi

PVG: 45-60 min, ¥180-¥250. SHA: 20-30 min, ¥80-¥120.

Airport Facilities & Services

At PVG & SHA

Duty-free shopping (PVG) plus an extensive range of restaurants and cafes.
Currency exchange services and You can easily find an atm.
Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals.
Lounges and hotels located within or beside the terminals.

Transfer Options Overview

Metro Line 2 connects PVG to People's Plaza and Hongqiao.
Airport Buses serve various parts of the city from both airports.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps (DiDi) are available 24/7.
Check traffic conditions for taxi/DiDi travel times.

Departure Information

Exit Fees/Taxes

No particular exit fees or taxes are paid separately at the airport; these are typically included in your airfare.

International Flights

Arrive at PVG at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Domestic Flights

Arrive at SHA/PVG at least 2 hours before departure.

Land Transportation to Shanghai

Train Connections

Shanghai serves as a major rail hub in China, with extensive connections.

High-Speed & Conventional Rail

High-speed trains connect Shanghai (Hongqiao/Shanghai Railway Stations) to major cities.
Booking: Online via 12306.cn (Chinese only) or Trip.com. Tickets also at depots.
Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during holidays.

Long-Distance Buses

Bus travel provides options for destinations not served by rail.

Bus Stations & Routes

Shanghai features various long-distance bus stations, including Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Terminal.
These connect to cities in neighboring Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, and further afield.
Buses are generally slower as opposed to trains but reach a greater variety of destinations.

Self-Driving

Self-driving for international visitors poses obstacles and particular requirements.

Driving Requirements & Conditions

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not valid within China. A temporary Chinese driving permit is needed.
You might encounter heavy traffic and chaotic, especially during peak hours. Signs on the road are mainly in Cantonese.
Parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center. Chauffeur-driven rentals are a more down-to-earth option for foreigners. Find options at DiscoverCars.com.

Sea & River Travel

Shanghai's port handles cruises and offers limited river transportation.

Ferry Services & Cruises

Shanghai International Cruise Terminal (SICT) and Wusongkou handle international cruise lines.
Huangpu River cruises offer panoramic sightseeing tours (day and night). These are for tourism, not commuter transport.
Immigration procedures at seaports mirror airport processes, requiring passport and visa (where appropriate).

Road Conditions and Safety

Roads in and around Shanghai are generally well-maintained.
Traffic rules are often not strictly followed by all drivers.
Motorcyclists and cyclists may not adhere to lane discipline.

Defensive driving is advisable due to unpredictable traffic.
Be extra cautious as a walker or cyclist.
Avoid walking on major highways or expressways.

Departure Checklist

Airport Departure

Leave plenty of time for the airport procedures, especially for international travel.

Timing Recommendations

International Flights: Arrive at PVG at least 3 hours before departure.
Domestic Flights: Arrive at SHA/PVG at least 2 hours before departure.
Procedures: Check-in, security screening, immigration (international), gate.

Train Station Departure

High-speed rail departures also have important timing considerations.

Rail Departure Timing

High-Speed Trains: Arrive at railway stations at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
This allows time for security checks and locating your platform.
Ensure all required documents are ready for inspection.

Luggage Check

Confirm baggage allowances and any restrictions with your airline before heading to the airport.

Currency Exchange

Convert any remaining CNY or ensure you have enough for last-minute purchases.

Airport Facilities

All major airports and railway stations offer shops, restaurants, and lounges for departing travelers.

Final Departure Tips

Document Review

Double-check all travel documents for smooth processing.

Before You Leave

Passport: Check validity and visa expiration.
Boarding Pass: Have it printed or ready on your mobile device.
Health Declaration: Ensure any required exit health forms are completed.

Local Services Check

Check any local service arrangements prior to your departure.

Transport & Accommodation

Airport Transfer: Confirm taxi or DiDi booking to the airport/station.
Hotel Checkout: Settle any outstanding bills and return keys.
SIM Card: Deactivate or dispose of local SIM card if no longer needed.

Connectivity & Devices

Vpn

Disconnect your VPN before crossing borders if you are using it.

Devices

Ensure all electronic devices are fully charged or powered off for security checks.

Power Banks

Pack power banks in your carry-on luggage, not checked luggage, due to airline regulations.

Smooth Departure

After these steps facilitates a calm and efficient departure from Shanghai, enabling you to reflect on your travels.

How to Get to Shanghai