How to Get from [Airport] to Downtown Shanghai?

Welcome to Shanghai! Whether you’re landing at Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao Airport (SHA), reaching downtown Shanghai is straightforward. Both airports offer multiple transportation options, but your choice depends on your budget, time, and preferences. Let’s break down the best ways to start your adventure in this bustling metropolis.

Which Airport Welcomes You?

Shanghai has two major airports: Pudong Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao Airport (SHA). Pudong is the city’s primary hub for international flights, located about 40 km east of downtown. Hongqiao, closer to the city center (15 km away), handles domestic and regional flights. Most visitors arrive at Pudong, so we’ll focus on that first.

From Pudong Airport: Metro, Maglev, or Taxi?

  • Metro Line 2: The cheapest option, running 24⁄7. A single ride costs ¥10 ($1.4) and takes ~1 hour to reach People’s Square or Nanjing Road. Follow signs to “Metro Station” in the arrival hall.
  • Maglev Train: For speed, hop on the magnetic levitation train to Pudong’s Longyang Road Station (8 minutes, ¥50). From there, transfer to Metro Line 2 or 7. Perfect if you’re short on time.
  • Taxi: A direct ride to downtown costs ¥150–¥200 (\(20–\)28) and takes 40–60 minutes. Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) for smoother roads.

What’s the Fastest Way to Downtown?

If time is your priority, the Maglev + Metro combo is hard to beat. The Maglev’s top speed of 430 km/h gets you to Longyang Road in minutes, and Metro Line 2 zips you to key areas like Bund or Jian Guo Road. Total travel time: ~45 minutes.

For Hongqiao Airport, the Metro Line 10 connects directly to downtown (¥4, 30 minutes). Taxis from Hongqiao cost ~¥50–¥70 and take 20–30 minutes.

How Much Will It Cost?

Here’s a quick comparison of costs and times:

Option Cost Time Best For
Metro (Pudong) ¥10 1 hour Budget travelers
Maglev + Metro ¥50 + ¥5 45 minutes Speed & convenience
Taxi (Pudong) ¥150–¥200 40–60 minutes Comfort & luggage
Airport Shuttle ¥20–¥30 1–1.5 hours Groups or no rush

What Are Your Transfer Options?

Once in downtown, Shanghai’s Metro system (14 lines!) makes getting around easy. Download the Shanghai Metro app for English-friendly maps and real-time updates. For sightseeing, Nanjing Road, The Bund, and Xintiandi are all walkable from central stations like People’s Square or Jian Guo Road.

The Bund
Stroll along the Huangpu River, admire historic European-style buildings, and enjoy the stunning Pudong skyline—especially magical at night with dazzling city lights! 🌃✨

If you’re heading to Hongqiao, consider the Metro Line 10 for direct access to attractions like Jiaozhou Lu (French Concession) or Yuyuan Garden.

Any Tips for a Smooth Journey?

  1. Cash vs. Card: Metro stations accept both cash and mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat). Taxis often prefer digital payments.
  2. Avoid Peak Hours: Metros get crowded during 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–7 PM.
  3. Ask for Help: Look for “English-speaking staff” signs at airports. Many drivers and staff speak basic English.
  4. Wi-Fi & Apps: Use Shanghai Metro Wi-Fi (free) or download Didi (China’s Uber) for affordable rides.

Bonus Tip: If you’re visiting Suzhou, Wuxi, or other nearby cities later, Shanghai’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) leaves from Hongqiao Station (connected to the airport) or Shanghai Main Station.

Ready to explore? Contact Deep China Travel for personalized itineraries, private tours, and hassle-free bookings. Safe travels! 🚇✨