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) |
Tap to Ride: Contactless Payment with International Credit Cards
Shanghai’s transit system has become incredibly tourist-friendly. You can now use your international credit card to pay for the Metro, Maglev, and Airport Link Line directly at the gate, eliminating the need to wait in line for a physical ticket.
How it works:
Simply tap your physical credit card on the IC card reader (marked with the contactless “wave” symbol) at the ticket gate when entering or exiting the station. Once the screen displays “Please Enter” or “Please Exit,” you can proceed. The entire process is seamless and takes only 1 to 2 seconds.
- Supported Card Types: Visa, Mastercard, American Express (AMEX), JCB, and UnionPay.
- The Process: When you tap in, the system will place a pre-authorization hold on your card. The final, accurate fare will be calculated and charged automatically once you “tap out” at your destination.
Important Precautions:
Activation: Contactless setup and authorization policies vary by bank. We highly recommend contacting your bank before your trip to ensure your card is activated for overseas transit use.
Enable Contactless: Ensure your card is enabled for contactless payments (look for the “wave” symbol on your card) and authorized for small international transactions.
💡 Pro Tips for Gate Entry and Assistance
To ensure a hassle-free experience at the gates, keep these three things in mind:
- Look for the Green Arrow: Before approaching a gate, make sure to use one marked with a bright green arrow. This indicates the gate is active and open for entry or exit. If you see a red “X,” that specific gate is either closed or designated for passengers coming from the opposite direction.
- Normally Open Gates: Don’t be surprised if the ticket gates are already open! Many stations in Shanghai use gates that are “open by default” to speed up the flow of passengers. Even if the gates are open, you must tap your card or scan your QR code. If you attempt to pass without a valid tap, the doors will automatically snap shut to block you.
- Seek Assistance: If you encounter any issues with your payment, card, or directions, look for the Service Center (usually a glass-walled booth located near the ticket gates). Staff are available at every Metro, Maglev, and Airport Link Line station to assist you.
Destinations, Travel Times, and Comfort Level Comparison
To help you finalize your plans, the following table breaks down the travel times to Shanghai’s key districts and compares the comfort of each transit mode—helping you balance speed with a stress-free experience.
| Mode of Transport | Major Destinations | Est. Travel Time | Comfort & Suitability |
| Metro Line 2 | Longyang Rd. / People’s Square / Hongqiao Airpot Terminal 2 / HongQiao Railway Station | 40 – 95 mins. | Standard (Can be crowded) |
| Maglev Train | Longyang Rd. (Transfer to Metro) | 8 mins (Ride only) | Premium & Smooth |
| Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway) | Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 | 40 min. | High (Spacious & Modern) |
| Taxi | Door to Door. (city wide) | 45 – 90 mins | Excellent (Private & direct) |
| E-Hailing(Didi) | Door to Door. (city wide) | 45 – 90 mins | Excellent (Private & direct) |
| Airport Bus | Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 / others | 60 – 90 mins. | Moderate (Coach seating) |
💡Tips for Luggage and Waiting Times
- Luggage Storage: Please note that Metro Line 2 is a standard commuter line and does not have dedicated luggage racks. You will need to keep your bags with you at your seat or standing area. In contrast, the Maglev, Airport Link Line, Airport Buses, and Taxis all provide ample space or dedicated compartments for suitcases.
- Frequency and Waiting Times:
- Metro Line 2: High frequency, with trains arriving approximately every 3 minutes.
- Airport Link Line: Moderate frequency, departing every 15 minutes.
- Maglev Train: Longer intervals, typically departing every 30 minutes.
- Taxis: Available 24/7, but you may need to queue for 5 to 15 minutes depending on the time of day and passenger volume.
PVG Transportation Hub: Layout & Service Map
The Transportation Hub, located conveniently between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, is the central point for all ground transit and essential amenities. Below is the layout map and a list of services you can find here:
Ground Transportation:
- Metro Line 2, Maglev, and Airport Link Line (Suburban Railway)
- Taxi Stands, E-hailing (Didi) Pick-up Points, and Airport Buses
- Long Distance Bus Station
- Parking Garages (P1/P2)
Passenger Facilities:
- Essentials: Currency Exchange, Express Delivery, and Police Station.
- Comfort: Airport Hotel, Meeting Points, and Drinking Water Stations.
- Health & Family: Medical First Aid, Nursing Rooms, and Family Restrooms.
- Restrooms: Standard and Accessible Restrooms.
Navigation & Accessibility:
- Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Walkways
- Dedicated Accessible Elevators for those with limited mobility.
conclusion
Navigating one of the world’s busiest hubs doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing where to go, how to pay, and which transport mode fits your needs, you’ve already mastered the hardest part of your arrival. Remember to take your time, keep this guide handy, and don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff at the Service Centers if you need help.
Safe travels on your way into the city, and have a wonderful time exploring the vibrant streets of Shanghai!