Who else is transiting PVG right now?
Key Facts
- Airport: Pudong Airport (PVG)
- Country: China
- Layover window: 24 hours
- Recommended time outside: 18–20 hours — treat it as a mini trip
- Visa & Entry: 144-hour transit visa-free for 54 nationalities through Shanghai. Also the 24-hour transit visa-free for airside stopovers.
Insider tip
The Maglev (world's fastest commercial train at 430km/h) is the most fun airport connection on earth. Worth taking once even if the metro is cheaper.
Getting to Shanghai City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Maglev to Longyang Rd + Metro Line 2 | ¥50 + ¥10 | 20 min + 30 min |
| Taxi / DiDi (direct) | ¥170–250 | 45–80 min |
Top Shanghai: Where to Go
The Bund (Waitan)
60 min from city centreArt Deco European bank buildings facing the Pudong skyline — the most dramatic urban contrast in the world. Best at dusk.
French Concession (Tianzifang)
65 min from city centreEuropean-era tree-lined streets with boutiques and cafes. Tianzifang alley maze is the most photogenic part.
Yuyuan Bazaar & Garden
65 min from city centreMing Dynasty private garden surrounded by a traditional bazaar — xiaolongbao at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant next door.
Eat Like a Local in Shanghai
Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant in Yuyuan — the originator. ¥48 for a bamboo steamer of 6.
24-Hour Itinerary
Day 1 — Morning
Check into hotel near city centre
Book a hotel within 15 min of the main sights. Luggage storage available at most hotels even before check-in.
Day 1 — Midday
Shanghai signature experience
Use your first afternoon for the city number 1 must-see. Tiredness catches up later.
Day 1 — Evening
Local dinner and evening market or rooftop bar
Evening markets, floating markets, and night bazaars are peak atmosphere. Do this on day 1.
Day 2 — Morning
Second neighbourhood exploration
Mornings offer better light for photos, cooler weather, and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Day 2 — Late Morning
Airport transfer — allow 3 hrs before flight
Build in buffer for morning traffic. International check-in closes 45–60 min before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 24-hour layover in Shanghai?
It depends on your passport and the destination. Many countries (Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, Qatar, South Korea, Taiwan) offer free transit visas for 4-24 hour layovers. Schengen countries usually require a visa even for short stops. Check the visa note specific to this guide before you book.
Is 24 hours enough to leave Pudong Airport?
For 3-hour layovers, leaving airside is risky. For 6+ hour layovers, you can comfortably see one neighbourhood. For 12-24 hour layovers, you can experience the city properly. Always factor in immigration queues (30-90 min) and security on return (60-90 min).
What is the best way to get from Pudong to Shanghai city centre?
Most major hub airports have an express train or metro link that is faster and cheaper than taxis. For short layovers, prioritise the train (no traffic risk). For overnight or late arrivals, a pre-booked transfer is safer.
Is there luggage storage at Pudong?
Most major airports have official luggage storage at USD 8-20 per bag per day. For cheaper rates, Radical Storage partner shops in the surrounding city charge USD 5-7 per bag per day — book on-app before you land.
Connect with other travellers at PVG
Getting out of Pudong Airport
Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.
Pre-book a fixed-price transfer
Our pickDriver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. No surge, no haggling at 2am.
Check transfer pricesRenting a car instead? Compare rentals with free cancellation.Things to do in Shanghai
Lock in a few experiences before you go — the good ones sell out.
Tours, tickets & day trips
Our pickGetYourGuide has the deepest catalogue for Shanghai and free cancellation on most experiences — book now, decide later.
Browse ShanghaiJust need timed-entry attraction tickets? Try Tiqets.Trains & buses from Shanghai
Compare overland routes — often cheaper, more scenic and skip the airport queue.
Flights from Shanghai
Compare 400+ airlines departing Pudong Airport
Hotels near Shanghai Airport
With 24 hours, a day-use hotel room is worth it — shower, sleep, and recharge before your next flight.
Other layover guides for Shanghai
Planning a longer stay in Shanghai?
Read our full destination guide — hotels, attractions, visa tips, and more.
Shanghai Destination Guide →