Shanghai Airport Transfer: From Pudong and Hongqiao to the City

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Shanghai Airport Transfer

Shanghai is a hugely popular destination with two airports, several rail services from both, and a city that stretches far beyond the famous waterfront. When you arrive from Australia, you’ll need to know how you’re going to get to the city. 

This guide compares Shanghai airport transfer options from Pudong and Hongqiao, including costs, useful metro connections and what to do after a late landing. You’ll also find advice on booking a private car, paying for public transport and connecting to your next flight or high-speed train.

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Shanghai Airport Transfers at a Glance

For most travellers arriving in Shanghai, the train will be the best option into the city. If you’re arriving in a larger group, with kids or several suitcases in tow, a pre-booked private transfer is your best choice. 

Below, we’ve rounded up the different options available for getting into Shanghai from either Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Note that Pudong is east of central Shanghai; Hongqiao is to the west and closer to the city centre.

Airport and option

Example journey time

Indicative cost

Best suited to

Pudong: Metro Line 2

About 1 hour to People’s Square

Around RMB7 / AU$1.50 per person

Travellers with manageable luggage and a hotel near a station

Pudong: Maglev plus onward transport

About 8 minutes to Longyang Road, then an additional journey

RMB50 / AU$11 for the standard one-way Maglev ticket; onward travel extra

Travellers who want to experience the Maglev or are staying near Longyang Road

Pudong: Taxi

About 50 minutes to People’s Square, depending on traffic

Official example: around RMB180 / AU$39 per vehicle

Direct hotel access without booking ahead

Hongqiao: Metro

Depends on terminal, destination and connections

Distance-based fare

Hotels conveniently reached by Lines 2 or 10

Hongqiao: Taxi

Around 30 minutes to central Shanghai, depending on traffic

Official estimate: RMB100–150 / AU$21–32 per vehicle

A direct journey with luggage

Either airport: Private transfer

Depends on destination and traffic

Check a quote for your route, date and vehicle

Families, groups and travellers who want an arranged pickup

AUD amounts are rounded estimates using approximately AU$1 = RMB4.67, checked on 5 October 2026. Exchange rates and card fees can change. 

Shanghai Airport Transfers at a Glance

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Booking a Private Shanghai Airport Transfer

If you’re like me and like to arrive in a place with your transport already arranged, then booking a private airport transfer is your best choice. It’s especially worth the money when arriving as a family or a larger group, making the whole start to your Shanghai trip smooth and stress-free. 

Trip.com offers Shanghai Pudong airport transfers and Hongqiao airport transfers. 

Before confirming an airport pickup, check:

  • Airport, terminal and flight details: use the airport code and the local arrival date shown on your ticket.
  • Hotel address: enter the full property address, especially if the brand has several Shanghai locations.
  • Luggage space: count large suitcases, cabin bags and items such as prams.
  • Meeting arrangements: confirm whether someone meets you in arrivals or you need to reach a designated pickup point.
  • Waiting and delay terms: check what happens if the flight is late or immigration takes longer than expected.
  • Child seats: request the seat you need and obtain confirmation before travelling.
  • Cancellation and extras: review the deadline and any charges relevant to your booking.
Booking a Private Shanghai Airport Transfer

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Shanghai Pudong Airport to the City

If you’re arriving in Pudong Airport and looking to use public transport into the city, there are several different options. 

Transport option

Approximate travel time

Estimated price in RMB (AU$)

Best for / what to know

Metro Line 2

About 60 minutes to People’s Square

RMB7 (AU$1.50) per person

A low-cost journey to central Shanghai, especially if your hotel is near a Line 2 station. 

Maglev

8 minutes to Longyang Road, plus your onward journey (10-15 minutes via metro to People's Square)

RMB50 (AU$10.70) per person, plus any onward metro or taxi fare

A fast train ride, but you’ll usually need another connection to reach your hotel.

Metered taxi

Around 50–70 minutes to central Shanghai; longer in heavy traffic

Budget around RMB150–180 (AU$32–38) per car

Direct hotel drop-off. Your destination, traffic and the night surcharge affect the fare. 

Pre-booked private transfer

Around 50–70 minutes to central Shanghai; longer in heavy traffic

Prices starting from around RMB115 (AU$25) per car

Pickup arranged before you arrive, with direct hotel drop-off.

Airport Bus Line 4

About 80 minutes to Shanghai Railway Station, North Square

RMB2–28 (AU$0.40–6) per person, depending on your stop

Useful for accommodation near its stops or a connection at Shanghai Railway Station.

Airport Bus Line 7

About 80 minutes to Shanghai South Railway Station

RMB4–20 (AU$0.90–4.30) per person, depending on your stop

Useful if you’re staying near Shanghai South Railway Station or continuing from there. 

Late Night Bus

Allow roughly 60–90 minutes to central stops, depending on where you get off

RMB18–34 (AU$3.90–7.30) per person

An overnight budget option, with stops near People’s Square and Jing’an Temple before continuing towards Hongqiao Hub.

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Metro Line 2

Metro Line 2 is the main low-cost rail option from Pudong Airport into central Shanghai. Both terminals at Pudong Airport are served by Line 2. For example, a ride from the airport to People’s Square costs approximately RMB7 (AU$1.50) and takes about an hour. 

Here’s are some popular destinations you can reach via Line 2: 

  • People’s Square
  • East Nanjing Road and the Bund
  • Luijazui
  • Jing’an Temple

To get to Line 2 at the airport, simply follow the metro signs. You will also need to pass through a security check before entering the actual train station.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for getting into Shanghai from Pudong Airport, but if getting to your hotel involves several changes or a long walk from one of the stations, I’d recommend booking a private airport transfer instead. 

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Metro Line 2

Pudong Airport to City Centre | By Maglev

Another option from Pudon Airport is the Shanghai Maglev, a high-speed train that connects to Longyang Road in the city.

It’s also more expensive; a standard one-way ticket costs RMB50 (AU$11), but the journey does only take eight minutes. The train can get up to speeds of 300 km/h.

Pudong Airport to City Centre | By Maglev
Reviews of Maglev Bullet Train
4.8/5
1295 reviews
5/5
Our first time riding on the Maglev and the most excitement was during the initial 2-3 mins picking up of speed, we could really feel the speed. The view outside was also fast and interesting!
review picture
4/5
It was a shame I couldn't see the scenery because it was dark when I arrived in Shanghai at night, but I was grateful that it saved me time compared to the subway. The subway seats are hard plastic and it takes about 50 minutes to get from the airport to People's Square. It's quite painful. The Maglev seats are soft and spacious. You have to transfer to the subway to get to People's Square, but the Maglev is worth it.
review picture
5/5
30+ km in 8 minutes! Definitely a bucket-list experience of flying out of Pudong. The train is very comfortable, you wouldn't know you're travelling in excess of 300km/h. Getting the tickets on Trip makes it all easier - discounts are applied automatically and you just wave your QR code at the ticket machine to print out the physical ticket card.
review picture
5/5
Everything is very fast and convenient. The train takes 7 minutes. It feels like you're flying.
review picture
5/5
Such a hidden gem in Shanghai near Yu Garden! The admin upgraded my room from single to double room free! The hot water also works very well
review picture

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Taxi

Taxis are of course another straightforward way to get to your hotel. At the airport, follow signs to the airport’s official taxi rank and show the driver your hotel’s Chinese name and address. 

Note that if you’re arriving at night, Shanghai applies a 30% night surcharge to the base and distance fares between 11 pm and 5 am, so budget a bit more if you’re arriving late and planning on getting a cab. 

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Taxi

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Bus

There is also a bus that goes into the city from Pudong Airport, and it can be worth considering if the destinations listed below match your plans: 

Service

Destination

Fare

Airport Line 4

Shanghai Railway Station, North Square

RMB2–28 (AU$0.40-6)

Airport Line 7

Shanghai South Railway Station

RMB4–20 (AU$0.90-4.30)

Late Night Bus

Hongqiao Hub East Transportation Center, with intermediate stops

RMB18–34 (AU$3.90-7.30)

Pudong Airport to City Centre | Bus

🏨 Browse the Best Hotels in Shanghai and book through Trip.com to secure a discounted price!

The Best Hotels in Shanghai

5 star

9.3/10Very Good11518 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.54km from downtown
The room was very spacious and clean. The Western breakfast was high quality, especially the egg tarts and cheese sandwiches which were particularly delicious. There's a dumpling shop downstairs that's affordable and tasty. We traveled during the National Day holiday, so there were lots of people, but the hotel is right on a pedestrian street, making it very convenient for exploring the surrounding area.
FromPLN 608
9.5/10Outstanding6767 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.47km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent; it's a quick walk or bike ride to the pedestrian street and the Bund. I arrived at noon, and the hotel hadn't reserved the newly renovated room type as requested in my booking notes. After my persistence and the front desk staff's proactive coordination, I was successfully checked into a newly renovated room type that afternoon and even upgraded to a suite. I could also see the Oriental Pearl Tower and the 'three-piece suit' (referring to the three iconic skyscrapers). Thumbs up! 👍👍👍 The concierge, housekeeping, and front desk services were all excellent too! 👍👍👍
FromPLN 733
9.6/10Excellent8523 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.7km from downtown
We had a fantastic stay and were made to feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The staff were exceptionally warm and attentive, always even greeting us at the door, opening doors and checking cars for belongings left behind after long shopping trips. The hotel has a beautiful, luxurious atmosphere, with excellent facilities including a very well-equipped gym and separate men’s and women’s sauna and steam rooms as well as a pool and hot tub. There is also an onsite spa opened till 2am! The ‘This Works’ bathroom toiletries in the rooms were a lovely touch and smelled wonderful. Breakfast was outstanding, with an impressive selection and freshly prepared omelettes, steamed buns and pancakes. The English-speaking staff were also incredibly helpful throughout our stay and provided great recommendations of places to see and where to eat close by. The location is excellent, within easy walking distance of Nanjing Road and the Bund. Overall, a beautifully presented hotel with genuinely excellent service — we would happily stay here again and am glad we chose to stay here as there are an overwhelming amount of choices available but we feel we made a great choice!
FromPLN 764
9.3/10Very Good5061 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area/Xintiandi Area Shanghai|1.78km from downtown
It felt like stepping back into the 1930s. All the facilities, though vintage, were fully functional. My room was near the elevator, but a screen cleverly shielded the entrance, so it wasn't directly facing it. The elevators were fast and plentiful, preventing any congestion during peak hours. The room was well-stocked with amenities, and I appreciated all the thoughtful little details. Breakfast was incredibly generous; I especially loved the Japanese breakfast with soba, sushi, and onsen eggs, though there were plenty of other options too. The rooftop cafe offered a panoramic view of the garden, but unfortunately, I missed out on the afternoon tea set that day, which was a real shame. The food in the banquet hall was also incredibly rich and varied. It really feels like you get to enjoy good food in these kind of old-money hotels.
FromPLN 443
9.4/10Outstanding9913 Reviews
Train Station Area Shanghai|2.4km from downtown
I stayed at the Pullman Jing'an for a business trip, and the experience far exceeded my expectations. The hotel boasts a prime location right in the Jing'an Temple commercial district, with the subway station just steps away. Getting to West Nanjing Road or Hongqiao is very convenient, and there is an abundance of dining options in the surrounding area. The lobby has a modern and grand design, and check-in was very efficient. The room offered an expansive view, and the bedding was exceptionally comfortable—a lifesaver for overcoming jet lag or recovering from intense work. The breakfast spread was extensive, featuring both Western pastries and a live noodle station for fresh Chinese noodles, making it a perfect start to the day. This will definitely be my top choice for my next trip to Shanghai!
FromPLN 438

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Business travel

9.4/10Outstanding12465 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.73km from downtown
Located right on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, the hotel is housed in a century-old historic building with a classic Old Shanghai vibe. Despite the bustling crowds during the National Day holiday, the hotel offers a quiet retreat amidst the hustle and bustle. The environment and service are both top-notch. While it lacks a swimming pool and parking lot, getting around, dining, shopping, and sightseeing are all extremely convenient. A great choice overall.
FromPLN 433
9.2/10Very Good9219 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.5km from downtown
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Absolutely Outstanding Experience at Conrad Shanghai! Our stay at Conrad Shanghai was nothing short of exceptional! From the moment we arrived until the day we left, everything exceeded our expectations. The location is absolutely perfect, right in the heart of Shanghai, with easy access to the city’s best attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants. The cleanliness was impeccable, the rooms were beautifully maintained, and every detail reflected the highest standards of five-star luxury. What truly made our stay unforgettable, however, was the outstanding hospitality and professionalism of the entire staff. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, attentive, and genuinely committed to making our experience special. 🌟 A Very Special Thank You to Molly! 🌟 Molly deserves exceptional recognition for her extraordinary kindness, dedication, and professionalism. She went above and beyond in every possible way, sparing no effort to ensure that our stay in Shanghai was as comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable as possible. Her genuine care, warm personality, and willingness to help with absolutely everything made us feel not just like hotel guests, but truly valued and welcomed. Molly is a remarkable asset to Conrad Shanghai and a shining example of what world-class hospitality should be. People like her are the reason guests fall in love with a hotel and look forward to returning. A huge thank you to Molly and the entire Conrad Shanghai team for making our visit to this beautiful city such a wonderful experience. Without hesitation, one of the best hotel experiences we’ve ever had! Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We will definitely be back!
FromPLN 926
9/10Good2618 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|0.85km from downtown
You can't beat the location – right in the heart of Nanjing West Road, bustling outside, yet quiet inside. The hotel is all-suite, with the smallest room being 62 square meters, offering separate living and sleeping areas, so space is definitely generous. Each suite comes with a kitchen (induction hob, microwave, etc.) and a washer-dry dryer, which is incredibly practical for long stays or dealing with the rainy season. The hotel's design has an old Shanghai charm, but it's not overly fussy; the Art Deco details are very appealing. Rooms are comfortable, and the restaurant is pleasant. There are reliable dining options nearby, and it's convenient for business meetings. The gym is outsourced to a chain brand, so the equipment is better than typical hotel gyms; there's also a pool for a relaxing dip. The terrace offers expansive views, perfect for an evening drink. Overall, the facilities are practical and impressive. I'll definitely stay here again next time I'm in Shanghai.
FromPLN 704
9.5/10Outstanding9523 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.73km from downtown
The hotel's location is extremely convenient, within easy walking distance of both Yuyuan Garden and the Bund. The overall environment and ambiance are great, and I personally really liked the signature scent used in the hotel. However, the service attitude definitely leaves much to be desired. We arrived with quite a lot of luggage, and the traffic outside the entrance was quite heavy. Despite seeing us get out of the car, the staff made no effort to come forward and help. We arrived at the hotel at 3:50 PM to check in, but our room was still not ready. Instead of explaining the situation clearly right from the start, the front desk kept pushing us to pay extra to upgrade our room type. We had originally booked a family room; although it didn't have a window, we felt it was sufficient for our needs and declined the extra charge. Even after we turned down the upgrade, the front desk still insisted they would arrange an upgrade for us, only to backtrack later and admit that our originally booked room wasn't ready yet. This style of communication was confusing and felt rather dishonest. What was even more baffling was that guests at the adjacent counter were experiencing the exact same issue with their room not being ready, yet the hotel compensated them with two days of free breakfast—while we were offered no such arrangement. This made us feel disappointed with how the hotel handles check-in issues. In addition, when we asked the front desk for assistance with booking a service in the evening, the staff member was unwilling to help. There were no other guests waiting at the front desk at the time, yet they still refused to assist. Overall, the staff lacked smiles, and their service attitude was far from proactive or welcoming. To sum up, the hotel is satisfactory in terms of its location, environment, ambiance, and scent, but its basic service and hospitality clearly need significant improvement. I hope the management can strengthen staff training, improve check-in arrangements, and respond to guests' needs with a more positive and sincere attitude. While a prime location is certainly an advantage, good service is equally crucial to ensuring a great stay.
FromPLN 656
8.9/108826 Reviews
The North Bund Area Shanghai|2.55km from downtown
This hotel is really great! It's just over a ten-minute walk to the North Bund, making it very convenient for getting around. The lobby is beautifully decorated, and the rooms are spacious with excellent natural light. They are also very clean. The front desk staff are particularly warm and considerate. I had a very pleasant stay and genuinely recommend it to everyone! Check-in was quick, and the breakfast offers a combination of Chinese and Western options.
FromPLN 658

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Family friendly

9.2/10Very Good3756 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.27km from downtown
The Westin Bund Center is a five-star hotel with an excellent location. It's within walking distance of Yuyuan Garden Metro Station, Yuyuan Tourist Mart, the Bund waterfront promenade, and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. The hotel is adjacent to the Bund Center, whose lotus-shaped roof acts like a crown for the hotel, giving it a grand and recognizable exterior. The lobby atrium is a design highlight, featuring a 26-meter-high glass ceiling and a glass 'sky escalator' connecting the first to fourth floors, seamlessly integrating natural light – it's absolutely beautiful. The Lobby Lounge, located in the atrium, is surrounded by palm trees and flowing water, evoking a Southeast Asian vibe. It subtly encourages visitors to pause, enjoy the scenery, chat, and sip tea – truly a delightful way to live. While the guest rooms aren't huge, their overall layout is well-planned and facilities are comprehensive. The Heavenly Bed is truly captivating; the soft, delicate, clean, and skin-friendly bedding enhances a deeply immersive dream. Three floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic city views – the more you stay, the more you'll love it! The Stage restaurant offers a bountiful buffet breakfast, with both Chinese and Western options. The omelets are shaped like egg dumplings and taste great, the croissants are quite good, the tofu pudding is delicious, and the latte coffee is also pleasant. We didn't get to try the Chinese restaurant as it was hosting a wedding banquet. The hotel also has a full range of fitness equipment and an indoor heated swimming pool. It's a truly joyful experience to relax and unwind here.
FromPLN 735
9.3/10Very Good4067 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.6km from downtown
This is my second time staying at this hotel. I booked an executive twin room with my child. The room was clean, and its location right in the heart of Jing'an Temple makes dining and taking the subway incredibly convenient. I first booked it because of its proximity to Eileen Chang's former residence, Changde Apartment, and I booked it again because of its excellent location and service. My child particularly loves the hot spring pool here. We also ate several meals at CP Jing'an this time, which was very convenient. However, you need to watch the time when taking a taxi. I noticed during this trip to Shanghai that Jing'an Temple is really congested. Getting to the hotel was a constant jam, and the ride to the airport was also quite slow. The hotel breakfast is excellent! There's a wide variety, and I always eat too much. Check-out time is also very flexible; my flight was at 4 PM, and the front desk staff kindly extended our check-out to 1:30 PM, which was fantastic service. I'll definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Shanghai.
FromPLN 715
9.4/10Outstanding7448 Reviews
Dapuqiao Area Shanghai|2.92km from downtown
I stayed here for a business trip and had a great experience. The room was quiet, the desk was practical, and the internet was stable. The hygiene was excellent, and check-in and check-out were quick. The location is convenient, perfect for business travel. Highly recommended.
FromPLN 508
9.7/10Excellent5663 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|1.78km from downtown
We were upgraded to a river-view suite at check-in, which greatly enhanced our stay. The secret was that having two rooms and a living room for a family of four gave us a total of three bathrooms, making it super convenient for everyone. The breakfast was lavish with fresh ingredients, and the front desk manager was very nice. In the evening, the jazz bar played nostalgic classics and tunes, which is perfect for middle-aged and older guests to reminisce about the past. There were quite a few foreign guests around as well. I heard it’s closing for renovation next year, and we probably won't be back until around 2029. Plus, the management company will be upgrading from Fairmont to Raffles. For those with a soft spot for old Shanghai, I recommend coming to experience it as soon as possible!
FromPLN 1,531
9.5/10Outstanding13510 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|2.51km from downtown
We had such great luck on this trip, and booking the hotel went smoothly. Choosing the Pudong Shangri-La was definitely the right decision! The location is super convenient—it's very easy to take a stroll along the riverside, and heading over to Super Brand Mall for dining and walking with the kids is a breeze. Best of all, the hotel service is simply amazing! WALLE WANG, the young lady who helped us with the check-in process, was so lovely. Seeing that we were traveling with a toddler under three, she went out of her way to help us upgrade to a river-view suite. This was a wonderful surprise for our family of three visiting Shanghai for the very first time! The suite is spacious, and our little one was thrilled to run around. The cleanliness of the hotel gave us great peace of mind, and the room setup was delightful. We will definitely stay here again the next time we return to China.
FromPLN 949

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Hot spring

9.4/10Outstanding3635 Reviews
Qingpu Zhujiajiao/Oriental Land Shanghai|43.7km from downtown
Sun Island is an established resort, perfect for family trips. All facilities are well-equipped, and the customer service is attentive. Kids can enjoy horse riding in the morning, feeding animals from the mini-train at noon, splashing around at the water park in the afternoon, and playing various indoor games at the club in the evening or when it rains. There are activities for every time of day, ensuring a fun experience. A bonus we discovered is that even adults can rent lure fishing equipment and enjoy a relaxed fishing session with no prior experience needed. Overall, it was a pretty good recreational experience!
FromPLN 393
9.5/10Outstanding2453 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|11.03km from downtown
Staying at The Anandi Hotel in Shanghai | A Healing Hotel Experience Before heading back to Beijing, I chose this healing hotel for a few days of rest in Shanghai. Here's my experience: Facilities and Activities 🏊🏻♂️: 1. Guests can use the hot spring, which wasn't crowded and wasn't very large. There are two public pools, one in the hot spring area and another on the 11th floor of the hotel. The gym is also small. There are free healing activities every day, with more options on weekends, including children's craft experiences 👍🏻. 2. The kids' club is on the second floor of the hot spring area, but children cannot be left unattended; parents must supervise them. I suggest they change this – if parents are constantly watching their kids, how can they have time to spend money? 😓 Environment 🌲: As a healing hotel, you essentially stay within the hotel. There isn't much to do in the surrounding area 😂. Dining 🍜: The breakfast at the Mystic restaurant is quite healthy. The executive lounge offers afternoon tea and light dinner. Yue Restaurant and Yuan Yan are actually the same restaurant. Dining taste ranking ➡️ Yuan Yan > Mystic restaurant > Executive Lounge. Service: Most of the staff provide excellent service. On weekends, due to more guests, the service quality can slightly dip 😝. In summary, the service at this hotel is very good, but the overall facilities are not large. If you're looking for a two or three-day healing stay, I highly recommend it 😜 (Special shout-out to Darcy for the excellent service!).
FromPLN 775
9.4/10Outstanding3762 Reviews
Shanghai Disney Resort Shanghai|21.83km from downtown
This is a Japanese-style ryokan where rooms are spread across individual two-story buildings, offering a relatively private and quiet environment. The rooms are spacious, and each comes with its own independent entrance. The hotel provides a shuttle bus that takes about 5 minutes to reach Disneyland, and morning and evening transfers can be reserved. In the morning, you generally only need to wait about 10 minutes to board the 7-seater van. For the evening, booking two hours in advance is usually sufficient to get on the bus on time, and the driver will also call to coordinate. The drop-off and pick-up point is located right next to the Disneyland metro and bus lines, and it takes about a 10-minute walk to get to Disneyland. Overall, it was a pretty good experience. Especially considering that most surrounding hotels cost over 1,000 RMB (4 digits), we managed to snag a special rate under 1,000 RMB, making it very good value for money. Highly recommended for a stay.
FromPLN 391
9.6/10Excellent2036 Reviews
Changfeng Park Area Shanghai|8.63km from downtown
After returning from Kyoto, I've been searching for a good hot spring resort in the Yangtze River Delta region. I first saw 御宿和庭 (Yushuku Watani) recommended on Dianping, and my stay there truly was a five-star experience. The hotel's location is excellent, right in the city center, and it boasts a beautiful garden landscape. The front desk service and hotel activities are exceptionally thoughtful, with various engaging small activities like handicrafts and sound healing meditation sessions. The hotel doesn't cut corners; the private hot spring tubs are very spacious, and you can even choose different types of springs. The mini-fridge is restocked daily with three soft drinks, and the hair dryer is a Laifen, which works incredibly well. Yukata are also provided, and the bedding is unbelievably comfortable – once you lie down, you simply can't bear to get up. The hotel's breakfast and lunch are also noteworthy. All in all, these two days have been one of the best, if not *the* best, hotel stays I've had in Shanghai.
FromPLN 343
9.7/10Excellent64 Reviews
Chongming Island, Changxing Island, Hengsha Island Shanghai|41.04km from downtown
The hotel is located in a villa area with free parking spaces. The rooms are very clean and well decorated. You can see that the owner has put a lot of effort into it. It has a Santorini style. The hygiene and facilities are top-notch. The swimming pool water is changed every day. In addition, the owner's son also provides water fight service, hahahaha
FromPLN 271

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Gym

9.2/10Very Good5719 Reviews
People's Square Area Shanghai|0.9km from downtown
A very nice hotel in an exceptional location: right on Nanjing East Road, Shanghai's premier shopping street, just a short walk from the Bund and the subway station. Extremely convenient for walking around and shopping. Breakfast is a real highlight: the international selection is outstanding with plenty of choices, and they also offer a great Italian-style breakfast, which is not easy to find in China. The luggage storage was also very useful; they held our bags after check-out with no issues, which is perfect for anyone with an evening or night flight. The only downside: there were very few power outlets in our room. I'm not sure if the other rooms are the same. Overall, a very pleasant stay, highly recommended!
FromPLN 588
9.5/10Outstanding4564 Reviews
Huaihai Road Area/Xintiandi Area Shanghai|0.97km from downtown
Pros: 1. The location is excellent. It's only about two or three kilometers by taxi to places like the Bund. The hotel is right next to Xintiandi, which is a very trendy and fashionable district, perfect for young people. 2. The rooms are spacious, and the decor doesn't look old-fashioned. Cons: Our group of three booked two rooms for three nights each, and our total room expense over these three days was over 8,000 RMB. One morning, I woke up early and asked if the hotel could offer a complimentary single breakfast for just me. The hotel refused, stating that breakfast costs 200 RMB per person. I've stayed in many five-star hotels in various places, and this is the only one that was so adamant about not providing a complimentary breakfast. If we had only stayed for one night, I might have understood, but I found their refusal quite surprising. Also, the hotel has live band performances in the evening. I asked a server if I could sit down and listen, but the server said it was a consumption area and I couldn't sit without making a purchase. I wonder why the hotel's dining area occupies such a large public space in the lobby, yet hotel guests aren't allowed to sit and enjoy the music. I hope the hotel can address this in the future.
FromPLN 907
9.3/10Very Good3269 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.12km from downtown
Staying at The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai once again reminded me of what it means to be the 'benchmark of Ritz-Carlton excellence.' While the building itself shows signs of age, it's precisely this history that lends it a sophisticated, old-money elegance. The location is absolutely impeccable, making it incredibly convenient to get around, and the surrounding dining options are so abundant, it's hard to choose! I especially want to thank the Grace team for their incredibly warm service. Every detail truly embodied the Ritz-Carlton's hospitality philosophy – it felt both genuinely warm and incredibly refined. With the Shanghai Rolex Masters happening, the hotel was particularly lively. It just goes to show that even an 'old Ferrari' (referring to the classic Ritz-Carlton brand) still attracts so many guests. And that lion statue was just too enthusiastic; it's become a网红 hotspot for photos, with everyone wanting to snap a picture with it as they pass by. Next time I'm in Shanghai, I won't hesitate to choose this hotel again. Thank you, The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai, and thank you, Grace team, for adding an unforgettable touch of warmth to this trip. I ❤️ Ritz. I ❤️ Shanghai.
FromPLN 824
9.3/10Very Good4634 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|4.54km from downtown
The hotel is located in the heart of Changning, offering extremely convenient transportation. Malls, convenience stores, and restaurants are all within easy reach, making shopping and dining a breeze. The room has an apartment-style layout, providing ample space with separate living and sleeping areas, giving it a very homey feel. The room was clean and tidy, the bedding was soft and comfortable, and the soundproofing was excellent, ensuring a peaceful night's rest.
FromPLN 227
9.4/10Outstanding18902 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.12km from downtown
Location: The hotel boasts an exceptional location, situated in the Jin Mao Tower, one of the 'Lujiazui Trio,' right next to the Shanghai Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. The hotel's design seamlessly blends Eastern aesthetics with Western architectural beauty, exuding both old-money charm and luxurious style. All hotel staff are also bilingual in Chinese and English. Experience: Our entire stay was fantastic. Since it was my birthday, Mia from Guest Services specially arranged a room upgrade for us. From the room, we could see the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Bund, and even the Magnolia Plaza across the river in North Bund. We thoroughly enjoyed watching the light show from here during the National Day holiday. Mia and her colleagues also prepared a Tiramisu birthday cake and flowers for me, for which I am truly grateful. Pool and Spa facilities: The indoor swimming pool's water quality was exceptionally clear, easily ranking among the top three of all the hotels I've visited. The sauna and cold plunge bath I experienced afterward were also excellent. The only area for improvement is that there was no discount for in-house guests at the hotel's buffet lunch. Even so, we will still choose to stay at the Grand Hyatt Shanghai on our next visit to Shanghai. Mia's professionalism and hospitality deserve commendation from the hotel and serve as an example for other service staff. Many thanks to the Grand Hyatt Shanghai 🙏🏻
FromPLN 901

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Swimming pool

9.1/10Good6801 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.97km from downtown
The hotel has an unbeatable location, within walking distance to Jing'an Temple and West Nanjing Road, and right next to the subway entrance, making getting around extremely convenient. The swimming pool area is lovely, featuring a heated pool which is wonderful to soak in after a long day of sightseeing. Overall, considering this commercial district, this hotel offers exceptional value for money.
FromPLN 426
9.5/10Outstanding3757 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|0.94km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent, making it convenient to go anywhere, and there are many great food options nearby. The room was spacious and bright, very clean, and the mattress was just the right firmness, ensuring a good night's sleep. The front desk lady was enthusiastic and offered us an even better room. Overall, it was a super value, and I'll definitely stay here again. Five-star recommendation!
FromPLN 1,438
9.3/10Very Good5514 Reviews
The Bund Area Shanghai|2.48km from downtown
Had a wonderful check-in experience and I'm extremely satisfied. Thank you to Lorna for the thoughtful arrangements. I loved the room—it was spotlessly clean and tidy. The view was gorgeous with an amazing line of sight, even catching a glimpse of the Oriental Pearl Tower. The location is fantastic, just about a 10-minute walk downstairs to the North Bund, with shopping malls and a metro station nearby, making getting around very convenient. Highly recommended, and it will definitely be my top choice next time I'm back!
FromPLN 681
9.4/10Outstanding5742 Reviews
Jing'an District/West Nanjing Road Shanghai|2.33km from downtown
The room was more spacious than it appeared in the photos. The executive room's grey-blue wallpaper, which isn't present in the standard rooms, matched the carpet color better. I stayed in an east-facing room, which offered a clear view of the Lujiazui 'three-piece suit' (referring to the three iconic skyscrapers), and the actual view was even more impressive than in pictures. The breakfast at the executive lounge was excellent; both the buffet items and the made-to-order dishes were delicious. The afternoon tea selection was quite ordinary. A minor drawback was the absence of lunch service. The lobby on the first floor of the Jing An branch was a bit dark, and there were many people passing through from the mall. For executive floor guests, I recommend checking in directly at the lounge.
FromPLN 1,153
9.3/10Very Good9069 Reviews
Lujiazui Area Shanghai|3.19km from downtown
I’m writing this detailed review as requested by Ctrip for a hotel assessment. I received a call beforehand and was given a room at 11:00 AM, upgraded to a higher floor, and there weren't many guests. After comparing many hotels, Kempinski offered the best value for money. Its location is quiet yet central, perfect for my two-night stay. Pros: 1. Excellent location, very close to the ferry. It's next to the Mandarin Oriental, and once you pass the Ocean Aquarium, there are no more crowded tourists, making it a peaceful oasis in a busy area. It's a 10-minute walk to Metro Line 2, a 6-minute bus ride on 939, a 3-minute walk to the ferry terminal, and a 3-minute walk to the riverside park. Xi Jia De dumplings and McDonald's are nearby. 2. River view room (Type 16). You get a partial river view overlooking North Bund and Yangpu Bridge, offering a wide, open panorama. This river view room is truly impressive, with large floor-to-ceiling windows. I'm not sure if city view rooms, if you're lucky, offer views of the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Bund on that side, but I assume some room types do. 3. The bathroom facilities are very well-equipped. The shower even has multiple massage jets. I'm not sure if the bathroom mirror is heated, but it always felt like there was a warm breeze. There are double sinks and a separate wet and dry area. It was much better maintained than I expected. 4. The wardrobe had a lint roller, the slippers were of good quality, and the sewing kit was comfortable to use. Plenty of drinking water was provided. 5. The swimming pool and gym were sufficient, with great views and not too many people. All equipment was well-maintained; definitely try the elliptical machine. Breakfast was decent; children are strictly charged. It was standard, with some foreigners, but a bit less impressive than Marriott properties; they don't specifically ask if you'd like coffee or hot tea. Areas for improvement: 1. The carpet had a strange smell. It was unbearable upon entering, but after a while, I got used to it. 2. The Executive Lounge wasn't comparable to Marriott's. 3. The service attitude was mediocre. Perhaps this is just how it is in Shanghai, or maybe our expectations from the South are higher? Hiding the coffee cup behind the kettle was also quite odd. They gave my brother a gift bag, which was a thoughtful touch. Overall, for a family trip with a limited budget, it offers great value for money and is worth recommending. Book a river view room and make sure to visit the gym and pool on the 30th floor. Take the ferry across the river for 2 yuan – definitely make the most of your stay!
FromPLN 643

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Breakfast

9.5/10Outstanding10297 Reviews
Sheshan, Songjiang University Town Shanghai|35.83km from downtown
Stayed here on the last night of the National Day holiday. The room was upgraded for free, which made for a very satisfying experience. The 'Deep Pit' environment is also excellent, with a beautiful water curtain show and a fantastic light and shadow show in the evening. There's also a sightseeing boardwalk and an underwater restaurant to explore. My family had a wonderful and relaxing stay.
FromPLN 847
9.4/10Outstanding2374 Reviews
Wujiaochang Commercial Area Shanghai|9.08km from downtown
The Junting Hotel (Wujiaochang Branch) is conveniently located, just a 300-meter walk from Exit 10 of Metro Line 10. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making the area very lively. The hotel lobby is small, but the rooms are great, spacious, and the bedding is quite comfortable. The hotel also offers complimentary late-night snacks. Overall, recommended!
FromPLN 322
9.2/10Very Good508 Reviews
Hongqiao Airport/National Exhibition and Convention Center Shanghai|15.59km from downtown
Location: Conveniently situated, directly accessible from Hongqiao Railway Station underground, after passing through the complex, so there's no need to go above ground to find it. Dining and other amenities are also easily accessible. Hygiene: Satisfied, quite clean. Facilities: Well-equipped, though the air conditioning was a bit difficult to adjust. Service: A big commendation to the front desk duty manager who answered the phone and handled my issue on the evening of March 13th. There was a slight problem with my room type upon check-in, and the duty manager resolved it promptly and with a sincere attitude. Very satisfied!
FromPLN 330
9.3/10Very Good1828 Reviews
Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center Shanghai|12.35km from downtown
This has become my go-to hotel whenever I need to make a quick night stop in the Hongqiao area in Shanghai. The location is super convenient, making it easy to get to and from the airport or train station. The room is always clean and comfortable, which is exactly what I need for a short rest. Highly recommend it for transit travelers!
FromPLN 123
9.7/10Excellent1946 Reviews
Hongqiao District Shanghai|8.21km from downtown
Cleanliness: Excellent Ambiance: Very satisfied Service: Top-notch service Facilities: Facilities are very new, the refrigerator and washing machine have both been disinfected. This feels like a hotel with excellent value for money. The cleanliness and ambiance are both superb. I especially love the large refrigerator in the room; it can hold all the drinks I buy.
FromPLN 221

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Shanghai Hongqiao Airport to the City

Transport option

Approximate travel time

Estimated price in RMB (AU$)

Best for

Metro Line 2 (departing from T2)

30–40 minutes to central stations

RMB4–6 (AU$0.90–1.30) per person

Direct access to Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, East Nanjing Road and Lujiazui.

Metro Line 10 (departing from T1 and T2)

25–40 minutes to central stations

RMB4–6 (AU$0.90–1.30) per person

Direct access to Xintiandi, Yu Garden and East Nanjing Road.

Metered taxi

Around 30–50 minutes; longer in heavy traffic

Around RMB100–150 (AU$21–32) per car

Direct hotel drop-off without an app booking. 

Pre-booked private transfer

Around 30–50 minutes; longer in heavy traffic

Prices starting from around RMB130 (AU$28) per car

Pickup arranged before arrival and direct hotel drop-off. 

Public Bus 941 (departing from T2’s East Transportation Centre)

About 90 minutes to Shanghai Railway Station, South Square

RMB2–6 (AU$0.40–1.30) per person, depending on your stop

Useful if your accommodation is near the route. Airport departures operate approximately 5:30am–11pm. 

Hongqiao Airport to City Centre | Metro

If you’re flying into Hongqiao Airport, the first thing to do is to check your terminal before choosing a metro route:

  • Terminal 1: Metro Line 10.
  • Terminal 2: Metro Lines 2 and 10.

If Line 2 is more convenient for your hotel and you’re arriving at Terminal 1, take Line 10 towards Hongqiao Railway Station. It’s two stops away, via Terminal 2, and you can change there to Line 2 towards central Shanghai without leaving the paid area

From Terminal 2, Line 2 is useful for hotels around Jing’an Temple, People’s Square, Nanjing Road and Lujiazui. Line 10 is worth checking for hotels around Yu Garden, Xintiandi and the Shanghai Library area. 

Hongqiao Airport to City Centre | Taxi or Private Transfer

A taxi suits a flexible arrival when you are happy to join the rank. A private transfer lets you arrange vehicle capacity and pickup instructions before travelling. With children, several suitcases or a hotel some distance from the metro, that convenience may be worth the additional cost.

Shanghai Hongqiao Airport to the City

Transferring Between Shanghai Airports

You might land in Shanghai and head straight to Suzhou or Hangzhou, saving Shanghai itself for later in your trip. If your onward high-speed train departs from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and you’ve landed in Pudong, the Airport Link Line provides a useful connection.

Take the Airport Link Line from Pudong Airport Terminal 1&2 Station to Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 Station. The train journey takes about 40 minutes and costs RMB26 (AU$5). Once you arrive, follow signs through the Hongqiao hub to the railway station and your train’s departure area.

Transport mode

Approximate travel time

Estimated cost: RMB (AUD)

Best for

Airport Link Line

About 40 minutes

RMB26 (AU$5.60) per person

A quick rail connection between Pudong and Hongqiao T2

Metro Line 2

Around 90 minutes

RMB8 (AU$1.70) per person

Budget travellers with plenty of time

Taxi

Around 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic

RMB200–300 (AU$43–64) per vehicle

Direct terminal access with luggage

Private transfer

Allow around 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic

Varies; one supplier lists RMB550+ (AU$118+) per vehicle

Arranged pickup and vehicle capacity for your group

Transferring Between Shanghai Airports

Shanghai Airport Transfers After Dark

If your landing in Shanghai late, you’re a bit more limited in options for getting into the city. Once the metro, Maglev and daytime airport buses finish running, your main options for reaching central Shanghai are a taxi or pre-booked private transfer. Pudong Airport also has a night bus.

Late Arrivals at Pudong

Pudong’s published Late Night Bus runs:

  • Terminal 1: 11 pm–5:30 am the next day.
  • Terminal 2: 11:03 pm–5:33 am the next day.

It travels towards Hongqiao Hub East Transportation Center via stops including Century Avenue, East Yan’an Road/Zhejiang Middle Road and Yan’an Middle Road/Huashan Road. The fare varies depending on the stop, but is somewhere around RMB18–34 (AU$3.80-7.30). 

For a direct journey, use the taxi rank or book a private transfer for your arrival.

Late Arrivals at Hongqiao

Metro Line 2 and Line 10 generally stop operation at around 10:30-11 PM. If your route has finished operating by the time you’ve picked up your bags, your best bet is a taxi or pre-booked transfer.

Shanghai Airport Transfers After Dark

The Best Things to do in Shanghai

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James Taylor

James Taylor

Trip.com Writer

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Hi, I'm James, an Australian travel writer based in Europe. Years of trips across Asia, Europe, the US and back home in Australia have taught me that good travel comes down to having the right information beforehand: knowing the details of transfers and public transport, which queue to skip, what's worth it and what's not. I'm bringing all that knowledge and research to my travel guides for Trip.com so you can spend less time working it out and more time enjoying your trip.

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Shanghai Airport Transfer