Welcome to Shanghai!
As the primary gateway to this bustling metropolis, Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is massive, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
In this guide, I’ll point out the essential things you need to know about PVG Transport—from the high-speed Maglev and the Airport Link Line to taxis and terminal layouts.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these tips will help you navigate your way from the arrival gate to the city center with ease and confidence.
Transport Operating Hours and Boarding Locations
Various transportation options are available to get you to and from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) Terminals 1 and 2, including the Metro, Maglev, Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway), taxis, airport buses, and e-hailing services
| Mode of Transport | Operating Hours | Boarding Location |
| Metro Line 2 | 06:00 to 22:30 | Transportation Hub (walkway between T1 & T2) |
| Maglev Train | 07:02 to 21:42 | Transportation Hub (walkway between T1 & T2) |
| Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway) | 06:00 to 22:00 | Transportation Hub (walkway between T1 & T2) |
| Taxi (Terminal 1) | 24 hours | Arrival Level (1F), outside Gates 4-8 |
| Taxi (Terminal 2) | 24 hours | Arrival Level (1F), outside Gate 26 |
| Airport Bus | 07:00 to 05:30 (Next Day) | Transportation Hub (walkway between T1 & T2) |
| E-Hailing(Didi/Apps) (T1) | 24 hours | P1 Parking Garage (follow signs for E-hailing) |
| E-Hailing(Didi/Apps) (T2) | 24 hours | P2 Parking Garage (follow signs for E-hailing) |
💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- Late-Night Arrivals: If your flight lands after 10:30 PM, please note that the Metro and Maglev will be closed. Your best options are the Night Bus (Late Night Line), Official Taxis, or E-hailing (Didi), which operate 24/7.
- Mind the Distance: PVG is massive! After clearing customs, it can take around 30 minutes to walk to the Transportation Hub (where the Maglev and Metro are located). If you have heavy bags, don’t hesitate to use the free luggage trolleys available throughout the arrival halls and walkways.
- Follow the Signs: Don’t worry about getting lost. The airport is equipped with clear, bilingual (Chinese/English) overhead signage. Simply follow the icons for “Maglev,” “Metro,” or “Taxi”—they will guide you directly to your boarding point across the terminals.
Transport Speed, Cost, and Payment Methods Comparison
To help you weigh your options, here is a detailed comparison of each transport mode’s speed, pricing (in both RMB and USD), and how you can pay for your fare upon arrival.
| Mode of Transport | Speed / Efficiency | Price (Approx.) | Payment Method |
| Metro Line 2 | Economy | < RMB 9 / $ 1.3 | RMB cash, credit card, APP |
| Maglev Train | Lightning Fast | RMB 50 / $ 7 | RMB cash, credit card, APP |
| Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway) | Rapid | < RMB 26 / $ 3.7 | RMB cash, credit card, APP |
| Taxi | Fast | RMB 150 – 350 / $ 21 – 50 | RMB cash, WeChat/Alipay (scan code to pay) |
| Airport Bus | Moderate | < RMB 36 / $5 | RMB cash, APP |
| E-Hailing | Fast | RMB 120 – 300 / $ 17 – 42 | App-bound (Alipay/WeChat) |
Transport and Service Location
