Shanghai, a futuristic metropolis of 25 million people, is the perfect gateway to discovering China! Its two airports, Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA), welcome over 100 million travellers from around the world every year.
Whether you’re touching down in China for the first time or you’re in transit to another Asian destination, Trip.com reveals all the top tips to make the most of your visit: premium lounges, authentic restaurants, duty-free shopping, innovative services, and so much more! Welcome to the ultimate Shanghai airport experience!
Shanghai's 2 Airports: Which One Should You Choose? ✈️
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (浦东国际机场) remains Shanghai's main airport, with two terminals currently in operation.
Opened in 1999 and expanded over the years, Pudong welcomes the majority of long-haul international flights from Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. The airport handles both international and domestic flights with remarkable efficiency!
- Distance from the city centre: approximately 30 km to the east;
- Terminals: 2 (T1 and T2, connected by a free shuttle every 15 minutes);
- Main airlines: China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Air France, and many international carriers;
- Highlight: The ultra-fast Maglev train (430 km/h) – the fastest in the world.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (虹桥国际机场) was renovated in 2010 and is located much closer to the city centre. This compact airport mainly serves domestic flights within China, as well as a few nearby Asian destinations (Japan, Korea, and Taiwan).
- Distance from the city centre: Located 13 km west of the city centre;
- Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 for select international services, and Terminal 2, a modern domestic hub ready to whisk you away on your next adventure);
- Major airlines: Spring Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, China Eastern (domestic flights);
- Highlight: Integrated into the Hongqiao Transportation Hub, featuring a high-speed rail station and three metro lines.
Transport Options from Shanghai Airport 🚇
From Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG)
1. Maglev Train + Metro (the must-do experience ✨)
The Shanghai Maglev is more than just a way to get around – it’s a true technological marvel! This magnetic levitation train literally floats above the tracks, reaching speeds of 430 km/h and offering a travel experience that’s truly one of a kind. Here’s everything you need to know:
- Route: Pudong Terminal 1 or 2 → Longyang Road Station;
- Duration: 7 minutes and 20 seconds flat at a top speed of 430 km/h!
- Price: 50 CNY one way / 40 CNY if you show your flight ticket for the same day;
- Timetable: First departure 07:02, last 21:42 (plus two night trains at 22:15 and 22:40);
- Frequency: A train every 15-20 minutes during the day.
Once you arrive at Longyang Road, hop off and take Metro Line 2 (the green line) to reach all the central districts: Lujiazui and its skyscrapers, Nanjing East Road for some shopping, People's Square right in the heart of the city, or the historic Former French Concession.
2. Direct Metro Line 2 (the most budget-friendly ✅)
For budget-conscious adventurers or those who simply enjoy a leisurely journey, Line 2 offers a seamless, direct connection from Pudong straight to the city centre.
- Route: Pudong International Airport → People's Square (terminus: Xujiahui);
- Duration: 65-75 minutes, depending on your final destination;
- Price: 7 CNY (around £0.75) – unbeatable!
- Operating hours: First metro 06:00, last 22:30;
- Frequency: Every 5-8 minutes during peak hours.
3. An official taxi
Shanghai's taxis are reliable, clean, and equipped with mandatory meters.
- Journey time: 55-80 minutes, depending on traffic and destination
- Average price for the journey is 160-190 CNY (£17–£21), including motorway tolls.
- Night-time surcharge: +30% between 11 pm and 5 am
- Departure points: Terminal 1, Exit 12 on the ground floor, and Terminal 2, Exit 25 on the arrivals level.
💡 Top tip: have your hotel address written in Chinese characters on your phone – not many drivers speak English.
4. Ride-hailing with Didi (the Chinese Uber)
Didi is the number one ride-hailing app in China, and it's far more popular than Uber!
- Duration: 50-70 minutes
- Price range: 110-230 CNY (£12–£25) depending on vehicle type and traffic.
- Pick-up point: T1 Car Park P1 'ride-hailing' zone, T2 Car Park P2 Level B2 Zone 3
- Benefits: Fixed upfront pricing, in-app payments, and no haggling.
From Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA)
1. Metro - 3 lines to choose from
Hongqiao boasts fantastic metro links, with three lines running directly from Terminal 2!
- Line 2 (the most useful for tourists):
- The route: Crossing Shanghai from west to east, all the way to Pudong.
- Travel time: 30-35 mins to People's Square, 45 mins to Lujiazui
- Price: 5 CNY (£0.55)
- Operating hours: First metro 05:33, last 22:05
- Line 10 connects the north and south of Shanghai (handy for reaching certain hotels) – operating hours: 05:26–22:31
- Line 17: head southwest from Shanghai – operating hours 06:00–23:00
💡 Top tip: it takes barely 8 minutes to walk from the plane to the metro entrance. No other airport in China offers such a seamless experience!
2. Taxi
- Journey time: 25-50 minutes, depending on your destination and traffic
- Average price: 50-120 CNY (£5.50–£13) - much cheaper than from Pudong
- Starting point: Terminal 2, Level 1, Gates 3 and 4 (24 taxi ranks)
3. By Didi / Amap ride-hailing
- Duration: 25-40 minutes
- Average price: 50-100 CNY (£5.50–£11)
- Pick-up zones: T1 Car Park P1, Level B2; T2 Car Parks P5/P6/P7, Level 2
4. By public bus (for those on a budget)
- Unbeatable prices: just 2 CNY (£0.22)!
- Duration: 90-130 minutes, depending on the route and traffic
- Destinations: Shanghai South Railway Station, The Bund, People's Square
- Special night bus services: Routes 316 and 320 to the Bund (operating from 23:00 to 05:00)
📱 Stay connected in a flash with a China eSIM.
🎁 Enjoy 5% off your first booking for attractions & tours in Shanghai!
NO.1
Transport Comparison: Which Option Is Best for You? 🚕
Transport | Pudong → City Centre | Hongqiao → City Centre | Perks | Price |
Maglev + Metro | 40-50 mins | N/A | A unique 430 km/h experience | 50-58 CNY |
Direct metro | 65-75 min | 30-45 min | Affordable, reliable, eco-friendly | 5-8 CNY |
Official taxi | 55-80 min | 25-50 mins | Door-to-door, travel in comfort | 50-190 CNY |
Didi Ride-hailing | 50-70 mins | 25-40 min | Fixed prices, no surprises | 50-230 CNY |
Public bus | N/A | 90-130 min | As cheap as possible | 2 CNY |
Private transfer | 50-70 mins | Just 20-40 minutes | Zero stress, all-inclusive | 130-400 CNY |
2 Options for Visa Exemptions at Shanghai Airport 🛂
Great news for UK, French, Belgian and Swiss travellers: China is offering visa-free entry depending on the type and duration of your stay. Here are the two main options:
China has announced a new policy to allow UK passport holders to enter China visa-free for up to 30 days.
The official start date has not yet been confirmed.
This change would bring the UK in line with around 50 other countries that already enjoy visa-free access to China, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia and Japan.
Option 1: Standard 30-day exemption (for a classic stay)
Since December 2023, France has enjoyed a unilateral visa exemption, which has now been extended until 31 December 2026.
What you need to know:
- Duration: Up to 30 consecutive days visa-free;
- Accepted travel purposes: tourism, business, family visits, transit, and exchanges;
- Coverage: throughout China, with no geographical restrictions;
- Required documents: a valid passport only (no onward ticket required);
- Countries covered: 45 incredible destinations, including France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Spain, and many more exciting places to explore!
Option 2: 240-hour transit exemption (for long layovers)
For travellers on international connections, China offers a 10-day transit exemption.
Specific conditions:
- Hold a passport from one of the 55 eligible countries;
- A flight ticket already booked to a THIRD COUNTRY (not your country of origin);
- Departing within the next 240 hours;
- Have your arrival/departure card filled in;
- Your incredible journey is currently focused on specific, captivating regions! The authorised zones are limited to: Shanghai, Jiangsu (Suzhou, Nanjing), and Zhejiang (Hangzhou) only. Please note, your adventure won't extend to Beijing, Xi'an, or Guangzhou.
Just visiting Shanghai? Take advantage of the 30-day visa exemption (no onward ticket required, and the whole of China is yours to explore).
Transiting from London to Tokyo via Shanghai? Take advantage of the 240-hour transit visa exemption (limited to Shanghai and the surrounding areas).
Airport Lounges and Premium Spaces in Shanghai ✨
Shanghai’s airports are the height of sophistication, boasting stylish lounges and premium services. Here’s everything you need to know to relax and unwind before your flight or during a layover.
The star lounges of Pudong (PVG)
📍 Plaza Premium Lounge - Terminal 2, Satellite Hall S2, 4th Floor
Pudong's top-rated lounge, a firm favourite with travellers from all over the world.
Highlights:
- Open non-stop from 05:00 until the last flight of the night;
- Private sleep zones: alcoves featuring electric massage chairs;
- Spa showers: modern cubicles featuring Aesop products, towels and Dyson hair dryers;
- Gourmet buffet: Dive into a world of flavour with delicate steamed dim sum, a vibrant array of exotic fruits, exquisite Chinese desserts, and a soothing selection of teas... and so much more to tempt your taste buds!
- Tech: flight announcements are broadcast even in the showers (so there's no risk of missing your boarding!)
Restrictions to keep in mind:
- Maximum duration: 2 hours (strictly timed);
- Entry will be refused if you arrive less than 2 hours before departure;
- On-site price: around £26–£30 (book on Trip.com to save 25%).
Convenient lounges at Hongqiao (SHA)
Hongqiao offers a more modest selection, but it's well-distributed between its two terminals.
Terminal 1 (limited international flights):
- VIP Lounge V03: Located in the international zone after security, featuring light snacks, showers, and WiFi;
- Domestic VIP Lounge: located before security near Gate 5, offering convenient landside access.
Terminal 2 (the main hub):
- Golden Century VIP Lounge: the most spacious option, located on the 3rd floor near Door 8, with a full buffet;
- First Class Lounge: located in the domestic area near Gates 25-26, reserved for premium class travellers;
- V01 VIP International Lounge: a quiet and comfortable space for regional international flights.
📱 Stay connected in a flash with a China eSIM.
🎁 Enjoy 5% off your first booking for attractions & tours in Shanghai!
WiFi, Facilities and Modern Services at Shanghai Airport 🌟
Simple and free Wi-Fi connection
Contrary to popular belief, connecting to WiFi at Chinese airports has become incredibly easy!
3-step process:
- Select the 'Airport-Free-WiFi' network in your settings;
- Sign up via email OR phone number (international numbers accepted);
- Enjoy unlimited browsing and data throughout your entire layover.
💡 Trip.com Top Tip: Grab a China eSIM on Trip.com (£4.50–£13 depending on the duration) to get connected as soon as you touch down, without having to rely on WiFi. It’s an absolute must-have for using Didi, WeChat Pay, and Google Maps (thanks to the built-in VPN).
Food and Dining at Shanghai Airport: From Street Food to Fine Dining 🍜
Pudong: A 24-hour feast
You'll find authentic Shanghainese specialities here. Pudong truly excels at offering genuine local cuisine, and it's certainly not just about international fast food!
- Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Shanghai’s iconic soup dumplings, served piping hot at several restaurants throughout the terminal;
- Shengjianbao (生煎包): pan-fried pork buns, crispy on the bottom and fluffy on top;
- Noodle bars: fresh hand-pulled noodle soups, made right in front of you;
- Wonton soup: delicate wonton dumplings in a fragrant shrimp broth.
Hongqiao: Compact Diversity
At Terminal 1 - International flavours:
- Godiva: luxury Belgian chocolates (perfect for gourmet gifts);
- Ajisen Ramen: Japanese noodles in a tonkotsu broth;
- Local cafes: Bubble tea and Asian fusion pastries.
At Terminal 2 - Noodle heaven:
- Discover a fantastic array of regional noodle bars, each with its own unique specialities! Indulge in Lanzhou's incredible hand-pulled noodles, savour the fiery kick of Sichuan dishes, and find comfort in Canton's delicious wontons.
Duty-Free Shopping: Top Finds and Great Bargains 🛍️
Souvenir shops in Pudong
Beyond the classic duty-free alcohol and tobacco, Pudong offers a selection of premium souvenir boutiques.
Culinary souvenirs:
- Hangzhou Longjing Tea: the legendary 'Dragon Well' green tea in elegant gift sets;
- Yunnan Pu-erh tea: fermented tea cakes (which, much like a fine wine, only get better with age);
- Dried fruits and nuts: red dates, macadamia nuts, and pistachios.
Crafts & Culture:
- Authentic Suzhou silk: 100% natural silk scarves, shawls and kimonos;
- Jingdezhen porcelain: gongfu tea cups, traditional teapots;
- Calligraphy and painting: reproductions of classic works and calligraphy brushes;
- Painted fans: crafted from silk or bamboo and featuring traditional patterns.
Technology and gadgets:
- Huawei and Xiaomi smartphones (international versions);
- DJI drones (cheaper than in Europe);
- Wireless headphones and high-capacity power banks.
Shanghai’s airports are the pinnacle of Chinese modernity. While they might not yet reach the legendary luxury of Singapore’s Changi Airport, they far surpass most major international hubs when it comes to service, cleanliness, and efficiency.
With China’s strategy of continuous improvement, Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao are set to remain among the world’s top 10 airports for years to come.
Welcome to Shanghai! ✈️
FAQ – Shanghai Airport ❓
Which Shanghai airport do flights from London use?
All long-haul flights from Europe arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Hongqiao Airport (SHA) is mainly for domestic flights and a few regional routes to Japan and South Korea.Is the Maglev train really worth the price?
Yes, definitely. The Maglev is not just transport but a unique tech experience. It reaches 430 km/h and takes only 7 minutes. The ticket costs about 50 CNY (around £5–6), which is great value for such a one-of-a-kind ride.How early should I arrive at Shanghai Airport?
Arrive at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight. Security checks are strict but efficient. During peak times (7–9 am and 5–7 pm), allow an extra 30 minutes.Can you transfer between Pudong and Hongqiao airports?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. You should allow at least 5 hours in total, including 1.5–2 hours for transport, plus check-in and security again. If possible, book flights using the same airport.