🚗Ways to Travel from Pudong Airport to Downtown Shanghai

SAINAMPING TAJIWONGSURIYAKOOL
Dec 20, 2025
2 min read

Pudong International Airport (PVG) is Shanghai's main aviation hub, located approximately 45 kilometers from the city center. It's a major destination for international flights and features large terminal buildings, shops, restaurants, and modern facilities to accommodate the large number of passengers traveling to and from China.

Today, Tim will be sharing ways to travel into Shanghai city center, specifically around Nanjing Road. Let's take a look at the different options!

(Pudong International Airport → Nanjing East Road)

Method 1: Take the Maglev and Metro.

Total fare: Approximately 54 yuan.

Travel time: 30–40 minutes

Opening hours: 07:00–21:40

Advantages: It's the fastest option and offers a new travel experience.

Disadvantages: Requires transferring to the Metro or other transport to get into the city center, inconvenient for those with a lot of luggage.

💡 Ideal for travelers with minimal luggage who want to save time.

Maglev trains are high-speed trains that use magnetic power, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. They take only 8 minutes from the airport to Longyang Road Station.

*Receive a 10 yuan discount on the Maglev train fare when you show your airline ticket to the sales staff (reduced from 50 to 40 yuan).

Method 2: Take the Metro (Line 2 – Light Green Line)

Fare: 7 RMB

Travel time: ~1 hour (excluding walking time)

Operating hours: 06:00–22:30

Pros: Low cost; direct line from the airport to the city center (no transfers).

Cons: Luggage must be scanned before entering the station; can be very crowded during rush hours.

💡 Tip: Download the “Metro Shanghai” app for routes and travel information.

Method 3: Take a Taxi or Book a Ride via the Didi App

Fare: Starting from 150–250 RMB, depending on vehicle size and distance

Travel time: 1–1.5 hours

Operating hours: 24 hours

Pros: Private and convenient; taxis can be taken directly from the airport parking area.

Cons: Higher cost; risk of traffic congestion; possible issues such as overcharging or drivers smoking inside the car.

💡 Recommendation: Use the Didi app for clearer pricing and trip details rather than hailing a taxi outside.

Method 4: Airport Bus

Fare: 25 RMB

Travel time: ~1.5 hours

Operating hours: 07:00–23:30 (based on Airport Bus Line 4 schedule)

Pros: Affordable.

Cons: Longer travel time due to multiple stops; once you reach the final stop, you’ll need to transfer or walk to your accommodation.

💡 Best for travelers who are not in a rush and carry light luggage.

Method 5: Private Airport Pickup

Fare: Starting from 300 RMB, depending on vehicle size and distance