How to Get to Shanghai City Centre from the Airport - Quick Guide

Recommendation: Take the Pudong Maglev to Longyang Road, then transfer to Metro Line 2 toward east Nanjing Road to reach Shanghai City Centre in about 40 minutes. If you land at PVG, you'll need about 8 minutes on the Maglev to Longyang Road, then roughly 25–35 minutes on the subway to central districts.

For arrivals at Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), you can reach the city centre in about 30-40 minutes by Metro, taking Line 2 to People’s Square or Line 10 to East Nanjing Road. Use the exits nearest to your hotel and follow the signs to the city-centre stations.

Steps for a quick arrival: simply follow these points: 1) Check online for updated times and departures; 2) Buy tickets at the machine or via the app; 3) Follow the signs for the transfer; 4) to get to the exit nearest your destination; 5) If you're travelling with luggage, consider a private transfer for greater convenience.

If you're travelling with luggage or bulky baggage, consider a private transfer (private). A taxi from PVG to the centre costs around 170–250 CNY and takes 60–90 minutes at peak times; with a private transfer you have pick-up at the terminal and don't wait at the stations.

Regarding visas: if you need visas, check the date (expiry date) and the validity of your passport; check the rules online and with the relevant embassy. Carry printed copies and plan in advance to avoid mishaps.

We've prepared these options so you can get from the arrivals hall to the city with as little friction as possible. Use nearby exits and prepare for a good arrival experience.

Pudong International Airport (PVG) to the City Centre: Maglev to Longyang Road and Metro Connection

For the customer arriving on a visa, this route is the fastest and most reliable way to reach central Shanghai. Board the Maglev from PVG Terminal 2 to Longyang Road (about 8 minutes, fare around 50 CNY). At Longyang Road, transfer to Metro Line 2 toward East Xujiahui. The ride to central stops such as People’s Square, Nanjing Road, and Lujiazui takes roughly 28 minutes. If you travel with a group, this two‑segment route keeps departures predictable and helps you keep seats together, especially when you request a preferred seat near doors or windows. We'll inform you promptly about any changes to timetables and remember to confirm your ticket; these steps work well whether you’re solo or with other travellers. If you prefer private arrangements, we can discuss private journeys and coordinate contacts to ensure safe transfers from the exit to your hotel in the LuJiaZui area or near central sights. Welcome to Shanghai–we’ll help you plan a smooth entrance, whether for business, tourism, or a brief Beijing connections stopover.

Step-by-step route

Tip: if date of travel coincides with peak crowds, consider booking a secure seat on the maglev and plan departures with time to spare. If you need emergency support, carry contacts and your hotel's telephone number; we can give you a backup plan and a confirmation with local staff. For those who want quick answers, request assistance at PVG information counters–our welcome staff can help you find nearby routes and renew tickets. If you plan to travel with children or large groups, we can coordinate private journeys and nonetheless maintain a clear itinerary. If you have a visa issue or customer support need, we'll inform you about concessionary taxi options and telephone services for 24/7 assistance, and ensure safe coverage for date changes or emergencies along the route. In short, the PVG→Longyang Road→Line 2 route takes you to the central centre of Shanghai quickly and efficiently. Please note that departures and fares may change; consult before travelling and request confirmation at the station counter to avoid surprises.

Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) to Downtown Shanghai: Short Rail Options and the Metro

Take the Metro for quick, budget-friendly access