From Pudong Airport to Hongqiao Railway Station – Quick Transfer Tips

Recommendation: Take the Maglev from Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road, then switch to Metro Line 2 toward East Xujing and ride to Hongqiao Railway Station. The Maglev lasts 7–8 minutes and costs about 50 CNY; the Line 2 segment adds roughly 40–45 minutes with a fare near 4 CNY. In total, budget around 60 CNY and just under an hour to reach the station. This route is reliable and keeps you moving, even arriving with holding luggage.

Another option for traveler seeking the cheapest route uses only the subway: board Line 2 at PVG and ride directly to Hongqiao without a transfer. This option can take around 70–90 minutes and costs roughly 8–12 CNY. If you plan to explore around the city center after you arrive, this choice minimizes complexity and transfers.

If you use a wechat account, check live timetables via the official wechat mini program before you exit the terminal. You’ll see platform numbers, exit options, and which carriages to stand in for the Longyang Road or Hongqiao lines. When arriving, you can top up your transport card on site to avoid delays. This approach is practical for the traveler on a budget and avoids surprises.

Pick-up at Hongqiao Railway Station is straightforward: taxi stands outside the main exit and dedicated pick-up lanes near the arrivals hall. For a pre-arranged meet-up, connect with a driver via wechat and share your arrival time; this keeps your transfer smooth if you’re pressed for time.

After you reach the station, follow exit signs to the correct platform or connection. If you have a tight connection, allow for a margin and check arrivals boards around the station. For flexibility, keep your ticket handy and hold your bag close during the walk between platforms.

Metro vs Maglev vs Taxi: Time and cost comparison

The best option for most travelers seeking speed and value is the Maglev to Longyang Road followed by Metro Line 2 to Hongqiao Railway Station. This combo minimizes traffic risk, stays reliable during peak hours, and offers real-time updates to keep traveling smooth. Youll feel clear about the plan, avoid crowds on busy roads, and still keep costs in a cost-effective range. For early or night arrivals, this route remains efficient, giving you maximum flexibility to reach your destination without hassle–from the station to your hotel or business meeting.

Time snapshot

• Metro only: Pudong Airport to Hongqiao Railway Station via Line 2. Typical time 75–95 minutes; fare about 9–12 RMB. Good when you seek a steady schedule and want to avoid transfers.
• Maglev + Metro: Pudong to Longyang Road by Maglev (about 7 minutes, ~50 RMB), then Longyang Road to Hongqiao Railway Station by Metro Line 2 (roughly 35–40 minutes, ~6 RMB). Total time ~55–65 minutes; total cost ~55–60 RMB.
• Taxi: Door-to-door option. Travel time 60–90 minutes in light traffic; 90–120+ minutes in busy traffic. Cost roughly 260–360 RMB, depending on distance, tolls and night surcharges.

Options and tips

• Want speed with minimal hassle? Opt for Maglev + Metro. It’s reliable, offers real-time status, and handles traffic variability gracefully. If you travel solo or with business luggage, youll appreciate the straightforward transfer at Longyang Road.
• Traveling with a private plan or late-night arrival? Taxi provides stationprivate style convenience with door-to-door form. It’s convenient for night journeys, but traffic can spike costs and travel time.
• Cost-conscious travelers should consider Metro only. It’s the most budget-friendly path and remains clear of road traffic, though it takes longer and involves at least one transfer in some routes.
• Midday crowds or peak traffic? Maglev avoids road congestion, while Metro stays reliable with frequent trains. Real-time updates help you adjust if a line slows down or a gate closes.
• If you’re visiting multiple stops in a single day, the maximum flexibility of Metro options can better fit a tight schedule and help you manage travel form and credits across stations.

Optimal transfer window to minimize waits and risk of delays

Aim for a 90-minute transfer window after landing at pudong airport for domestic arrivals, and 120 minutes for international arrivals, to reach hongqiao railway station without rushing. Whether you travel with some luggage or a light bag, this margin covers immigration or baggage reclaim and keeps the transport on track.

For budget-conscious travelers, the cheapest option is the two-step, air-conditioned transfer: from pudong airport ride the Maglev to longyang road in about 7–8 minutes (fare around 50 CNY), then continue on line 2 to hongqiao railway station in roughly 50–60 minutes (fare around 8–9 CNY). Total time around 1 hour 15 minutes and cost about 60–70 CNY.

For more comfort and reliability, book a professional pickup with a driver waiting on arrival. A private, air-conditioned vehicle handles luggage and delivers you directly into hongqiao railway station area, typically costing 200–400 CNY depending on the service and whether you choose curb or meet-and-greet pickup.

During busy days or holidays, extend the window by 15–30 minutes to account for queues and platform changes. This buffer can allow a smoother transfer and reduce risk of delays. If you want more predictability, pre-book a pickup service to reduce risk of delays.

Whether you prefer the cheapest route or the most comfortable option, those services around pudong airport offer options for every budget. Check the line and pickup location in advance, and ensure the driver knows your flight number for a smooth transfer into hongqiao.

Ticketing: where to buy passes and how to skip lines

Buy passes in advance using official apps or at Pudong Airport counters. Especially for a quick transfer, online purchases and mobile payments cut the line time. Whether you choose the Maglev to Longyang Road or the direct metro route, use e-tickets or a reloadable card to speed through gates. After purchase, keep the QR code or card ready; only present it at the entrance to enter. The Shanghai Public Transportation Card will bring peace of mind during a busy period; it applies to most rides, but Maglev requires a separate ticket–check whether you need that form. If you need assistance, staff will assist at the information desk. Be aware of queue times during peak hours; if you have needs beyond standard tickets, fill a form to request help.

From Pudong Airport to Hongqiao Railway Station, take Maglev to Longyang Road, then transfer to Metro Line 2 toward Hongqiao. There is no direct line to Hongqiao from Pudong; whether you prefer a single combined ride or a short transfer, this is the fastest option. After you arrive at Longyang Road, use the transfer area and buy a Metro ticket if you don’t use a card. At Hongqiao, follow entrance signs to the HSR complex; exit through the designated gates and head to the ticket hall. Check the departure boards for any changes to platform or carriage; if you must switch lines, the major interchange is straightforward, and staff can help immediately.

Practical tips to skip lines: book online via 12306 or your travel app and download the e-ticket QR; use the vending machines or mobile pay to load a transit card; at Pudong, the self-serve machines offer English. Carry your passport if needed for long-distance tickets; use the card or QR to enter and exit without waiting. If you need a seat or changes on a later leg, choose your seat when you buy the ticket; otherwise you will face minor delays at the gate. For other transfers, the major benefit is avoiding the counter lines by having the ticket ready; the driver of a taxi may offer a direct ride but won’t shorten ticket lines; immediately head to the gate as soon as you reach the station; be aware of weather if storms slow trains.

Step-by-step route: from Pudong arrivals to Hongqiao platform

Recommendation: From Pudong arrivals, take the Maglev to Longyang Road, then transfer to Metro Line 2 toward Hongqiao Railway Station. One clear change, reliable transport, and predictable prices make it ideal for a layover with children; youll reach the platform in about 60–70 minutes.

Step 1: Maglev to Longyang Road After baggage claim, head to the Maglev counter or ticket machine in Terminal 2. Pick-up a one-way ticket for the short trip to Longyang Road. The Maglev ride lasts about 8 minutes and covers roughly 30 kilometers, with air-conditioned cars for comfort and a solid reliability rating.

Step 2: Transfer to Metro at Longyang Road Exit the Maglev and follow signs to the Metro. The interchange area includes a central square and clear signage, making the changes easy. Tickets can be bought at a machine or with a transit card; the public transport fare is minimal, around 6–7 CNY.

Step 3: Ride to Hongqiao Railway Station Board Line 2 in the direction of Hongqiao Railway Station and stay on until you reach the platform you need. The ride takes roughly 25–40 minutes, depending on crowd and time of day; the carriages are air-conditioned, and you can enjoy the route with minimal stops between Longyang Road and Hongqiao.

Step 4: Arrive and meet at the Hongqiao platform Exit to the designated platform area for your train. In Hongqiao you’ll find amenities such as restrooms, seating, outlets, shops, and eateries. If you have a pickup, walk to the official pick-up point outside the station; taxis wait nearby. If you’re coordinating with someone, you can share a pickup time and location easily; during peak hours, allow extra minutes to navigate crowds. The distance between PVG and Hongqiao platforms is roughly 50–60 kilometers in total, with those options offering convenient flexibility for your trip.

Tips and extra details For the best overall experience, consider booking a private transfer if you’re traveling with children or lots of luggage; but for a layover, most travelers prefer the public route. Prices for Maglev plus Metro are around 56–60 CNY total; a private transfer will cost higher. The route is reliable and has a good safety record; you can booking ahead to secure a pickup without worrying about lines. Those traveling with additional bags should use the pick-up options to avoid walking long distances between modes. The total distance is between 50 and 60 kilometers, and you’ll pass through several amenities along the way, allowing you to adjust plans if you have an extended layover. Booking in advance helps you avoid last-minute changes and reduces risk.

Budget tips: cards, off-peak travel, luggage handling

Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card (SPTC) for subway, buses, and many taxi rides. It provides convenience and transparency in fares. In shanghais, pick up the card at Pudong Airport, Hongqiao, or city stations; a 20 CNY deposit plus an initial load will cover several rides. Load at kiosks or via the app to have a quick tap and avoid cash handling during your layover. This card will streamline your visit to the city and help your budget stay under control.

Plan off-peak travel to cut waiting times and crowds. The Pudong to Hongqiao route via Maglev to Longyang Road plus Line 2 subway is the fastest public option and remains economy-friendly. Maglev ticket around 50 CNY; subway fare 4-8 CNY. If you have a layover or tight schedule, aim for departures outside 7:00–9:00 and 17:00–19:00; you will save minutes and keep your local logistics simple.

Pack light and use luggage handling services wisely. Keep a single roller bag and a small daypack to reduce crowding on escalators and buses. At Pudong and Hongqiao, sign boards point to left-luggage desks for a short layover; store bags while you visit the hotel or your next train. When moving between stations, place the luggage on the floor of the subway car or hold it close to you to avoid loss. If you need extra space, a hotel offers luggage transfer options for an additional fee. Consider needs like extra luggage while planning your route.

Costs, acceptance, and language help you stay on budget. Carry a hotel card with the local address in English and Chinese to speak with drivers and hotel staff, where you need assistance. Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card when possible on subway and buses, and check if your taxi accepts it; vehicles and official stands offer transparent fare signs. For international travelers, keep the hotel name on a card in English and Chinese to show at the taxi stand. The system offers transparency, fares appear on the screen, and staff can help you navigate the transportation network on your layover or regular visit. This will keep you moving efficiently and safely. If you will drive between locations, check hotel parking options in advance.