If you’re flying into Shanghai, you’ll be landing at one of the city’s two main airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Knowing which airport you’re arriving at is crucial since the transportation options differ slightly between them. Here’s a complete guide to help you transfer from Shanghai airport to city hotel using taxis, Didi, the Maglev, the metro, and Wikitaxi.
1. Two Main Shanghai Airports
Shanghai’s two airports, Pudong and Hongqiao, serve different purposes, and their locations matter for your travel plans:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Located 30 kilometers east of the city center, Pudong Airport mainly serves international flights. It’s the busiest airport in the region, and most likely where you’ll land if you’re flying in from overseas.
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Hongqiao Airport is closer to the city center, around 13 kilometers away. It mostly handles domestic flights but also has some regional international connections.
2. Transportation Options from Each Airport
When it comes to getting from the airport to your hotel, Shanghai offers a variety of transportation options. Let’s dive into each one:
Taxi
Taking a taxi is probably the most straightforward option. Taxis in Shanghai are readily available at both airports, and you can catch them at designated taxi stands. But there’s one thing you need to be cautious about: scams. Some drivers might overcharge or take longer routes. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s best to use DiDi or WikiTaxi. For reference, a taxi ride from Pudong to the city center typically costs around ¥150-200 ($20-$28), depending on traffic.
Didi (China’s Uber)
If you’re familiar with uber app, then you’ll have no trouble using Didi in Shanghai. Didi works similarly to Uber and provides the convenience of booking through an app without needing cash. You can select the type of car, track your driver’s location, and know the estimated fare upfront. Didi’s app is available in English, which makes it accessible to foreign travelers.
However, there are two cons about DiDi: 1. bear in mind that your foreign credit card might not always work seamlessly, so having cash or WeChat Pay can save you from a hassle. 2. You need to navigate yourself to the dedicated park station where DiDi driver is allowed to pick up. 3. It is difficult to request larger Didi when you have bulky luggage with you.
In this case, WikiTaxi can save you these hassles and transfers you from airport to your destination easily.
WikiTaxi
Wikitaxi, the hassle-free solution for your airport-to-hotel transfer in Shanghai.
- With Wikitaxi, you won’t need to navigate through busy airports or search for a taxi or Didi. Your professional driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall with a sign, ready to assist with your luggage and take you directly to your car. This service eliminates the stress of finding transportation, especially in an unfamiliar environment.
- Plus, Wikitaxi offers clear, upfront pricing with no surprises.
- Designed for bulky luggage trourists (need a larger taxi for luggage), family with small children with safety seat needed or family traveling.
Maglev Train
If you’re landing at Shanghai Pudong Airport without too many luggage and want to experience something unique, the Maglev Train is worth considering. It’s the fastest commercial train in the world, reaching speeds of up to 430 km/h (267 mph). The journey from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station takes just about 8 minutes. From there, you can switch to a metro line to continue your journey to the city center. While it’s not a door-to-door service, it’s a fun way to save time and experience cutting-edge transportation. A one-way Maglev ticket costs ¥50 ($7), and round-trip tickets are ¥80 ($11). Discounted prices are available for airline passengers with a same-day ticket: ¥40 for a single journey and ¥70 for a round trip.
Metro
Both Pudong and Hongqiao airports are connected to Shanghai’s metro system, which is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around. If you’re coming from Pudong, you’ll hop on Line 2. From Hongqiao, Line 10 and Line 2 are your primary connections. While taking the metro might not be the most convenient if you have heavy luggage, it’s a budget-friendly option, costing just a few yuan (less than $1) per ride. It’s especially great if you’re traveling light and have a bit of time to spare.
3. Wikitaxi: A New Way to Transfer
Wikitaxi is designed specifically for travelers who want a smooth transition from the airport to their hotel. Here’s why I think Wikitaxi is worth considering:
Why Choose Wikitaxi?
- No Scams, No Surprises: Unlike regular taxis where you might get overcharged, Wikitaxi offers fixed prices upfront. You won’t have to worry about detours or extra charges.
- English-Speaking Drivers: One of the major challenges I’ve faced in Shanghai is the language barrier. With Wikitaxi, you get English-speaking drivers who know the city well.
- Pre-Booking Convenience: You can book your Wikitaxi in advance, giving you peace of mind when you land. There’s no waiting around in line or dealing with airport crowds.
- Professional Service: Wikitaxi drivers are vetted and professional, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to your hotel.
Wikitaxi vs. Didi and Regular Taxis
So, why would you choose Wikitaxi over Didi or a regular taxi? Here’s a quick comparison:
- Price Transparency: With Didi, the fare may fluctuate based on demand, and regular taxis can sometimes be hit or miss. In contrast, Wikitaxi offers clear, upfront pricing with no surprises.
- Reliable Pick-Up: If you’ve just arrived after a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is to hunt for a ride. Wikitaxi lets you schedule your pick-up in advance, which means the driver will be waiting for you.
- Language Support: While Didi does have an English interface, communication with drivers can still be challenging if you don’t speak Mandarin. Wikitaxi bridges that gap with English-speaking drivers.
My Final Thoughts on Getting from the Airport to the City
Transferring from Shanghai’s airports to the city doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. If you prefer speed and novelty, the Maglev Train from Pudong Airport is an absolute must-try. For budget-friendly travelers, the metro offers unbeatable value. If you’re tech-savvy and don’t mind using a rideshare app, Didi is a convenient option. And for those seeking a seamless, scam-free, and professionally handled transfer, Wikitaxi is a fantastic choice.
Regardless of which transportation option you choose, the key is knowing what to expect so you can plan accordingly. I hope this guide has helped you get a better sense of what each airport and transfer option offers. Safe travels and enjoy your time in Shanghai!