How to Get to Shanghai Airport: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Overview of Shanghai's Airports

Shanghai is served by two major airports: Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport. Pudong is the primary international gateway, handling most long-haul international flights, while Hongqiao mainly handles domestic flights and some short-haul international flights to nearby countries.

Pudong International Airport (PVG):

Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of downtown Shanghai, Pudong International Airport is the city's main international airport. It has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, connected by a shuttle bus service. The airport is a major hub for both international and domestic flights.

Hongqiao International Airport (SHA):

Located much closer to the city center, about 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of downtown Shanghai, Hongqiao International Airport primarily serves domestic flights and a few international routes. It also has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, connected by a pedestrian walkway.

2. Getting to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

2.1 By Metro

The most cost-effective way to reach Pudong International Airport is by taking the Shanghai Metro. Line 2, the city's most important metro line, runs directly to the airport.

Route:

• Take Line 2 (Green Line) from any station along its route, heading toward East Xujing.
• Transfer: If you're coming from downtown or the western parts of Shanghai, you may need to transfer at Guanglan Road Station (transfer required for those coming from central or western Shanghai).
• Final Stop: The train will take you directly to the Pudong International Airport Station.

Travel Time: The journey from downtown Shanghai (People’s Square) to Pudong International Airport takes approximately 60-70 minutes.

Cost: The fare ranges from ¥7 to ¥9, depending on the distance traveled.

Tip: The metro is extremely busy during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM), so plan accordingly.

2.2 By Maglev Train

The Shanghai Maglev Train is one of the fastest trains in the world, providing a quick and futuristic way to reach the airport.

Route:

• The Maglev Train departs from Longyang Road Station on Line 2.
• The train travels at speeds up to 431 km/h (268 mph), taking you directly to Pudong International Airport.

Travel Time: The entire journey takes about 7-8 minutes.

Cost: A one-way ticket costs ¥50, and a round-trip ticket costs ¥80. Discounts are available for passengers with a valid flight ticket.

Tip: The Maglev Train runs from 6:45 AM to 9:40 PM, with trains departing every 15-20 minutes.

2.3 By Taxi

Taking a taxi is the most convenient but also the most expensive option for getting to Pudong International Airport.

Route:

• Taxis can be hailed from anywhere in the city, and the driver will take you directly to the airport.

Travel Time: Depending on traffic, the journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Cost: The fare usually ranges between ¥150 to ¥250, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.

Tip: Make sure to leave early if traveling during rush hour, as traffic can be heavy.

2.4 By Airport Shuttle Bus

Several airport shuttle buses operate between various points in Shanghai and Pudong International Airport.

Routes:

• There are multiple shuttle bus lines, each serving different parts of the city.
• Buses operate from early morning until late at night.

Travel Time: Depending on the route and traffic, the journey can take between 1 to 2 hours.

Cost: The fare typically ranges from ¥20 to ¥30.

Tip: Check the schedule in advance, as some routes may have limited service.

3. Getting to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

3.1 By Metro

The Shanghai Metro Line 2 and Line 10 both run directly to Hongqiao International Airport.

Route:

• Take Line 2 or Line 10 from any station along their routes.
• Final Stop: Both lines stop at Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 Station.

Travel Time: The journey from downtown Shanghai (People’s Square) to Hongqiao Airport takes about 30-40 minutes.

Cost: The fare ranges from ¥4 to ¥6, depending on the distance traveled.

Tip: Line 10 is less crowded than Line 2 during peak hours.

3.2 By Taxi

Taking a taxi to Hongqiao International Airport is quick and convenient.

Route:

• Taxis can be hailed from anywhere in the city, and the driver will take you directly to the airport.

Travel Time: The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Cost: The fare usually ranges between ¥50 to ¥100, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.

Tip: As with Pudong Airport, traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

3.3 By Airport Shuttle Bus

Several shuttle buses operate between various parts of Shanghai and Hongqiao International Airport.

Routes:

• Buses serve different routes across the city and are a cost-effective option.

Travel Time: The journey typically takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Cost: The fare is usually around ¥15 to ¥30.

Tip: Buses are less frequent during late hours, so check the schedule in advance.

4. Additional Travel Tips

4.1 Plan Your Journey in Advance

• Consider the time of day you will be traveling. Traffic in Shanghai can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours. Give yourself extra time if you are traveling during these periods.

4.2 Language Considerations

• While English signage is available at both airports and on the metro, having the name of your destination written in Chinese characters can be helpful when communicating with taxi drivers.

4.3 Use Travel Apps

• Apps like DiDi (for taxis) and the official Shanghai Metro app can help you navigate the city more efficiently.

4.4 Consider Luggage Restrictions

• When taking the metro or shuttle buses, be mindful of luggage restrictions. If you have large or multiple bags, a taxi might be the most convenient option.

5. Summary

Whether you are heading to Pudong International Airport for an international flight or to Hongqiao International Airport for a domestic one, Shanghai offers a range of transportation options to suit your needs. The metro is the most cost-effective, the Maglev Train is the fastest, and taxis offer the most convenience. Shuttle buses are a great middle-ground option, balancing cost and convenience.

By planning your route in advance and considering factors like time of day and luggage, you can ensure a smooth journey to the airport, making your trip through Shanghai a hassle-free experience.