Shanghai Airport: Guide to Transportation, Costs & Proximity to Attractions

Welcome to fly to Shanghai! It’s the third popular city in the world and the most populous city in China, with a population of nearly 25 million. In this guide, we’ll talk about Shanghai Airport in different aspects to help you go native in Shanghai!

Shanghai Airport Code

There’re two main airports in Shanghai. Each has its code (letters as an identifier): Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) & Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).

“PVG” combines “P” for Pudong and “VG” as a unique identifier. PVG is Shanghai’s primary international hub, which handles about 70% foreign flights (including long-haul routes to Europe/Americas).

“SHA” is the earliest & original airport in Shanghai, opened in 1907. It mainly serves domestic flights and short-haul international flights (like East Asia).

Get yourself a fast & reliable eSIM in Shanghai before arrival on Trip.com~ 📱

How to Get from Shanghai Airport to City?

Credit: from thewheelchairtraveller.com | Maglev

Here’s a simple & easy-to-read table for you to transfer from Shanghai Airport to the city center.

 Pro tips:

• For speed, take the Maglev (just 8 mins to Longyang Road).
• Metro Line 10 is direct to downtown (30 mins to Nanjing Road).
• Skip rush hours (7-9 AM; 5-7 PM).
• Pre-book your taxi/DiDi if you arrive late at night.
• Use mobile apps (DiDi/Alipay) or buy a Shanghai Public Transport Card for discounts.

What US Cities Fly Direct to Shanghai?

Several US cities offer non-stop flights to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). You can fly from the top departure cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. Airlines like China Eastern, United, and Air China are recommended, which offer frequent routes.

Other cities like Dallas and Chicago offer seasonal or less frequent direct flights to Shanghai. Most routes require connections. Note that Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) rarely serves flights from the U.S. – only a few routes (like Los Angeles – Shanghai) with a higher cost.

Which Shanghai Airport Is Better?

Credit: from 50 Sky Shade | Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Here’s a clear comparison table, showing which Shanghai Airport is better for different needs.

 Note:

• PVG is closer to Disneyland (~20 km, ~30 mins drive).
• SHA is much closer to downtown attractions like the Bund, Nanjing Road, or the French Concession…

Dos & Don’ts at Pudong & Hongqiao

Here’s something you need to know before you fly to Shanghai Airport (PVG/SHA). Let’s see in detail from different aspects.

For luggage:

• Carry-on: 1 bag (≤20×40×55cm, ≤7kg) + 1 small item; liquids ≤100mL in a clear bag
• Checked baggage: Economy gets 20kg (≤40×60×100cm); overweight fees apply (~¥12–20/kg).
• Banned items: No lighters, loose batteries, or power banks >160Wh.

For transportation:

• Better do not hop in any taxi… (use official taxi or DiDi in case you’re overcharged).
• You can use your Visa card to pay for taxi fees. Or choose WeChat Pay/Alipay (more local & faster).
• Download Amap Global or Baidu Map before landing. Google Maps may not work in China unless you get your VPN.

More tips:

• Stay alert but never cut in line when queuing…
• PVG’s T2 has free showers!

Shanghai Restaurant Recommendation

TASTE OF CHINA Immersive Dining

Located at Shanghai’s historic The Bund · City Hall Plaza, this multi-sensory dining experience blends cutting-edge technology with Chinese culinary tradition. Through dynamic digital art, landscapes like the Yellow River and Li River come alive around—and even on—your plate.

Guided by the panda chef “Cheng BaoBao,” you’ll journey through seven culinary keys exploring China’s rich history and diverse culture. Each dish tells a story, merging flavor, art, and technology.

More than a meal—it’s an immersive encounter. Taste the essence of China, experience its spirit, and leave forever captivated.

TASTE OF CHINA - Opening Hours

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Two Daily Seatings:

• Lunch Banquet: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
• Dinner Banquet: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

(Costume and styling experience is recommended 2 hours prior to seating)

TASTE OF CHINA - Address

No.LG1-03, Zone E, 215 Middle Jiangxi Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Shanghai Airport Hotel

Credit: from besthotelsshanghai.com | Joyful Star Hotel

If you arrive late at Shanghai Airport, consider booking a hotel near the airport to stay the night. Here are some recommendations, which are well-selected!

Hotels Near Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG):

• Joyful Star Hotel: 24-hour airport shuttle, 5-minute drive from PVG
• Hongjin International Hotel: Spacious room, free parking, near metro line 1

Hotels Near Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA):

• GreenTree Inn Hongqiao Airport No.2: ~2.2 miles (3.6 km) from SHA, near Hongqiao Flower Market
• Baolong Homelike Hotel: Near Shanghai Zoo, quiet location, 15-minute drive from SHA

Insider Tips for Shanghai Airport

You might face unexpected challenges when landing at Shanghai Airport (PVG/SHA). Try to get more practical information in the following text!

• For the best exchange rates, head to the Bank of China counter (Terminal 2, arrival level) at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).
• Take the Maglev train instead of a taxi from PVG to save money.
• Find a 24-hour rest lounge at PVG near Gate 71 (~$7/hour with massage chairs).
• Use free nap pods in Terminal 2 at SHA.
• Buy a fast & reliable China eSIM on Trip.com before arrival to get well-connected in China.