Navigating your way around Shanghai, a bustling metropolis of 24 million, is surprisingly easy, thanks to the excellent public transportation system. For international travelers, understanding this transportation system means gaining access to both the city's most iconic and hidden gems.
Shanghai is a transportation hub of the world. It is well connected to China and the world through air, high-speed trains, and long-distance routes. High-speed trains are the best option for domestic travel.
By Air: Pudong (PVG) & Hongqiao (SHA) Airports
The two airports in Shanghai are used for different purposes.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): The main international gateway (serving 70+ countries) with modern facilities, English-speaking staff, and 24-hour immigration support.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Focused on domestic flights (e.g., Beijing, Guangzhou) and regional routes, seamlessly integrated with Hongqiao HSR Station for easy transfers.
Getting Downtown
Metro (Most Integrated): To travel from PVG to downtown, you may take Metro Line 2 (45-60 minutes, 7-9 RMB). Another option is to take the Maglev Train (8 minutes, 50 RMB one way, 80 RMB round trip), which links with Metro Line 2. To travel from SHA to downtown, take Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station (30 mins), then a short walk to the Bund.
Ride-Hailing & Taxis (Most Convenient): The ride-hailing option in the city is Didi, which is the Chinese version of Uber. The application has the option of connecting to Alipay, WeChat Pay, or any international credit card. The cost of a taxi ride from PVG to the Bund is ¥180 to ¥250 for 40 to 60 minutes, while the cost of a taxi ride from SHA to Nanjing Road is ¥80 to ¥120 for 25 to 35 minutes. The flag-fall rate is ¥16 for the first 3 kilometers, ¥2.50 thereafter, and a ¥1 fuel surcharge. A 20% premium is charged on the fare after 11 pm.
Visa Tip: Tourists will be required to obtain a pre-arranged tourist visa to enter the country. Tourists can apply for a 144-hour transit visa when entering or leaving the country via PVG or SHA, depending on the nationality. However, it is always recommended to check with the local embassy.
By High-Speed Rail (HSR), Domestic Travel Premier Choice
Shanghai is the core of China's HSR network, offering unmatched comfort and speed for trips to nearby cities:
Core Stations:
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (linked to SHA Airport): Handles 90% of HSR routes (e.g., Beijing, Nanjing, Hangzhou).
Shanghai Railway Station: Serves regional HSR and conventional trains (e.g., Suzhou, Wuxi).
Travel Times & Fares:
From Shanghai to Nanjing: 1 hour, ¥130-170 (2nd class); Shanghai ↔ Hangzhou: 45 mins, ¥70-90; Shanghai ↔ Beijing: 4.5 hours, ¥550-650.
Booking for Foreigners:
The official 12306 app has no English version, but its webpage supports English and both require passport number registration for foreign visitors.
Collect tickets at station kiosks (scan passport) or use e-tickets (available for most routes via booking apps).
By Long-Distance Bus
A budget option for Suzhou, Jiaxing and other nearby cities, with fares 30-50% cheaper than HSR. Use Shanghai South Bus Station or Hongqiao Bus Station. For journeys over 1 hour, though, use HSR: it is faster (often by 50%) and more comfortable.
Within the city, three tools cover 99% of needs: Metro, ride-hailing, and digital payments.
Shanghai Metro, Primary ToolWith over 20 lines and 500 stations, the Shanghai Metro is the world's largest metro system. It is clean and efficient, and the best way to avoid traffic.
Payment: Use Alipay/WeChat Pay's "Metro QR Code" (search "Shanghai Metro" in apps, no registration needed for short-term use). For Physical card, the 'Shanghai Public Transportation Card' (with a refundable deposit of ¥20) is ideal for travelers without a Chinese mobile number. It is available from Metro customer service centers and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Family Mart.
Fares & Use: Distance-based (¥3-10 per ride), with English signs and announcements at major stations. Wheelchair access is available at core stops (e.g., People's Square, Lujiazui).
Pro Tip: Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM) for a more comfortable ride.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing
Ride-hailing (Didi): Our first choice for door-to-door travel, with fixed prices, no haggling, and options for economy, business, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Taxis: The red, blue, and green metered taxis are everywhere. If you have trouble communicating, ask drivers to use navigation apps like Amap or Baidu Maps, as most drivers will understand simple English like 'Bund' or 'Lujiazui'.
Complaints: If you have problems like unmetered taxis or overcharging, call 12328 for English-speaking staff. Give them the license plate number.
Buses, Sightseeing Buses & Ferries
Public Buses: Extensive (over 1,000 routes), but they're also very slow due to traffic congestion. Best used for short trips within residential areas. The fare is ¥2. Tap card and QR code payment methods are also available, but maps are hard to find in English.
Sightseeing Buses: "Shanghai Bus Tour" - ¥100 to ¥150/day - A hop-on-hop-off bus tour that covers popular tourist spots such as the Bund, Yu Garden, and Lujiazui, making it a good choice for first-timers.
Ferries: A scenic cruise on the river for a fee of 2 RMB one-way, payment methods available are cash, Shanghai Public Transportation Card, and Alipay/WeChat Pay QR codes only (credit cards not available), with a great view of the city skyline. Recommended routes: Dongchang Road (Pudong) - Nanjing East Road (Puxi), and Nanpu Bridge - Lujiazui (operating hours: 06:00 - 22:00).
Payment apps: Download Alipay/WeChat Pay "International Version". Link foreign credit cards (no Chinese bank account needed). Most stores, transport and restaurants accept them. Carry ¥100–200 cash for small vendors and elderly sellers.
Navigation: Use Amap or Baidu Maps (with English interfaces) for real-time metro/bus routes, taxi estimates and walking directions.
Emergency contacts: Tourist hotline: 12301 (English support); medical: 120; police: 110. All operators can assist with basic English queries.
Airport immigration: Have passport, visa and accommodation proof ready. Customs may ask about travel plans. English forms are available.
Accessibility: Major metro stations, airports and HSR stations have wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.
Peak seasons: There are increased crowds during the Chinese New Year (January–February) and the National Day (1–7 October), so book transport and tickets in advance.
This Shanghai guide will help you navigate the city. Use the metro for efficiency, Didi for convenience, and your phone for seamless payments, allowing you to navigate like a local. Contact us to start your visit to Shanghai.
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