Line 2 connects Pudong Airport directly to central Shanghai — 60 minutes to People's Square for ¥7–¥9, or 7 minutes via Maglev to Longyang Road.
At a Glance
- Airport
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
- Journey time
- ~60 min to People's Square (Line 2) / ~7 min to Longyang Road (Maglev)
- Fare estimate
- ¥7–¥9 (Line 2 metro) / ¥50 (Maglev)
- Metro lines
- Line 2 Maglev (Transrapid)
How to Get from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to the City
The Shanghai Metro is the fastest public transport option for getting between Shanghai city and the airport area. The Line 2 and Maglev (Transrapid) connect the nearest metro station to the city centre.
Travel Tips
- Line 2 goes directly to the city centre — no changes needed for People's Square, Nanjing Road, or Hongqiao.
- The Maglev (¥50) is spectacular but only useful if you're staying near Longyang Road.
- Pay with Alipay Metro Code for the fastest boarding — scan your QR at the turnstile.
- Line 2 trains to the airport run every 6–10 minutes during the day.
- For Hongqiao Airport, Line 2 crosses the entire city — budget about 90 minutes.
- Both Pudong Airport terminals connect to the same Line 2 station underground.
Paying for the Journey
Payment methods: Shanghai Transit Card (SPTC) · Alipay Metro Code · WeChat Pay Metro Code · UnionPay contactless · Paper ticket.
💡 Use Alipay (Metro Code in the Shanghai Metro mini-program) — scan the QR at the turnstile, no card needed. The Shanghai Transit Card (¥20 deposit) is the physical card option, also accepted on buses and taxis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the metro from Pudong Airport to the city?
About ¥7–¥9 depending on your destination. People's Square is ¥7, Hongqiao is ¥9. The metro is by far the cheapest option — taxis cost ¥150–¥250 to the city centre.
Does Line 2 stop at both Pudong Airport terminals?
Line 2 has one station called "Pudong Airport" that serves both terminals via an underground connection. Maglev also uses this station. Follow airport signs to the metro upon arrival.
Is the Maglev in the same station as the metro?
No — the Maglev has its own terminus station in the airport, connected via a walkway to the metro Line 2. Both are within the airport complex. The Maglev arrives at Longyang Road where you transfer to Line 2 for the city.
How long does Line 2 take to Nanjing Road (The Bund)?
About 55–60 minutes from Pudong Airport to East Nanjing Road station on Line 2. Trains are frequent (every 6–10 min) and air-conditioned. A good option even with luggage during off-peak hours.
See also: Shanghai Metro ticket prices · Payment card guide · Full Shanghai Metro guide
Source: Shanghai Shentong Metro Group. Journey times and fares are indicative — verify before travel.