Quick answer: For many first-time visitors, Metro Line 2 is the simplest low-cost way from Pudong Airport into Shanghai and avoids road traffic. DiDi or taxi is easier with heavy luggage or a hotel far from the metro. The Maglev is fast to Longyang Road but usually requires a transfer, while the Airport Link Line is especially useful for traveling between Pudong and Hongqiao-side connections.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is far enough from central Shanghai that choosing the right transport matters.
Option 1: Metro Line 2
This is my default recommendation for a first-time traveler who can manage their luggage.
Why use it
- avoids road traffic
- inexpensive
- connects into central Shanghai
- straightforward with Amap navigation
Best for
- daytime arrivals
- light or medium luggage
- hotels near a metro station
At the airport, follow signs for the metro. You can buy a ticket at the station or use supported mobile-transport payment options.
Option 2: DiDi or taxi
A car is the easiest door-to-door choice.
Best for
- families
- heavy luggage
- late arrival
- hotels with inconvenient metro transfers
Use the exact hotel destination in DiDi and confirm the license plate before entering the car.
Road travel time can vary significantly with traffic.
Option 3: Maglev + Metro
Shanghai’s Maglev connects Pudong Airport with Longyang Road.
From Longyang Road, transfer to the metro or continue by car.
The Maglev is interesting and fast, but it is not automatically the simplest choice if your hotel still requires another transfer.
Option 4: Airport Link Line
Shanghai’s Airport Link Line connects Pudong Airport with the Hongqiao side of the city in about 40 minutes end-to-end.
This is especially useful if you need to reach:
- Hongqiao Airport
- Hongqiao Railway Station area
- western Shanghai connections
It also connects with several metro lines along the route.
Which should you choose?
Hotel near central Metro Line 2
Take the metro.
Heavy luggage or several travelers
Compare DiDi with the metro route.
Connecting toward Hongqiao
Check the Airport Link Line.
Want to experience the Maglev
Use it to Longyang Road, then transfer.
Save your hotel before landing
Before your flight, save in Amap:
- hotel name
- Chinese hotel name
- Chinese address
- nearest metro station
That makes your arrival much easier.
FAQ
Is Metro Line 2 affected by road traffic?
No, which is why it can be a reliable arrival option during busy road periods.
Does the Maglev go directly to the Bund?
No. It terminates at Longyang Road, where you transfer to other transportation.
Can I take DiDi from Pudong Airport?
Yes. Follow the app’s pickup instructions carefully because large airports have designated pickup areas.
What if I land very late?
Check the current operating hours of rail services before relying on them; a taxi or DiDi may be necessary after trains stop running.
Related: How to Use DiDi in China
Subway guide: How Foreigners Use the Subway in China