Shanghai Airport Guide: Pudong or Hongqiao – Which Should You Choose?

When planning a trip to Shanghai, one of the most important considerations is how to navigate the city’s airports. Shanghai has two major international airports: Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Each serves different routes and offers unique advantages depending on your travel plans. In this detailed Shanghai Airport guide, we will compare both airports and help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Why Does the Choice Matter?

Choosing the right airport can make a significant difference in your experience. From convenience to cost, the airport you land at can impact your transfer times, flight options, and overall travel efficiency. While Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao are close geographically, they serve different purposes, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

The Basics: Shanghai Pudong vs. Hongqiao

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) are both major international airports serving the city, but they are quite different in terms of location, services, and types of flights they accommodate.

• Shanghai Pudong (PVG): Located about 30 kilometers (18 miles) east of downtown Shanghai, Pudong is Shanghai’s primary international airport. It handles most international flights and serves as a major hub for long-haul flights to and from Asia, Europe, the U.S., and other parts of the world.
• Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA): Situated around 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of downtown, Hongqiao is primarily used for domestic flights and some regional international routes. It’s the hub for many major Chinese airlines like China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines.

Knowing the fundamental differences between these two airports helps travelers plan their arrival and departure times effectively.

1. Airport Location and Accessibility

Pudong Airport (PVG) Location

Pudong is situated in the eastern part of Shanghai, a bit farther from the city center. Despite its distance, the airport is well-connected to the city via several transport options. The Maglev Train (shuttle from Pudong to Longyang Road Station) offers the fastest connection, taking just 8 minutes to reach the city center, but costs about 50 RMB. For more affordable options, travelers can take a taxi, which takes approximately 40–50 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 150-200 RMB. Alternatively, buses are also available but are slower.

Hongqiao Airport (SHA) Location

Hongqiao, on the other hand, is located closer to downtown Shanghai, making it a more convenient choice for travelers staying or transiting in the central areas. Travel time from Hongqiao to downtown Shanghai is about 20 minutes by taxi (costs around 40-60 RMB), and the Shanghai Metro Line 2 provides a direct link to several central locations, taking about 30 minutes.

Verdict: If you’re staying in the downtown area or have tight time constraints, Hongqiao is your best bet. Pudong, while farther away, is more convenient for long-haul international travelers, especially those with extra time in the city.

2. Types of Flights: Domestic vs. International

Pudong International (PVG): Dominated by International Flights

Pudong is the main airport for international flights. Whether you’re flying to North America, Europe, or Southeast Asia, you’ll most likely land at Pudong. This airport offers numerous direct connections to global destinations. For example, major airlines like Emirates, Air France, Lufthansa, and Delta Airlines all operate from this airport.

Hongqiao International (SHA): Primarily Domestic and Regional International

Hongqiao caters primarily to domestic flights and regional international routes. If you’re traveling within China or nearby countries like Japan, South Korea, or Taiwan, Hongqiao is likely the better airport for you. The airport also serves as a hub for domestic airlines such as China Eastern Airlines and Spring Airlines.

Verdict: For international travelers, Pudong is the clear winner. However, if you’re flying domestically or to a neighboring country, Hongqiao will likely offer more convenient and direct options.

3. Airport Facilities and Amenities

Pudong Airport (PVG) Facilities

Pudong is a large and modern airport with all the amenities you would expect from an international hub. It offers:

• Duty-free shops with a wide range of luxury brands
• VIP lounges for premium passengers, such as the China Eastern and Cathay Pacific lounges
• A variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine
• Free Wi-Fi (but registration is required)
• Hotel shuttle services for layovers
• A business center with meeting rooms

The airport also features a spa, sleep pods, and various art exhibitions in terminals, providing more than just a transit space but an experience.

Hongqiao Airport (SHA) Facilities

While smaller, Hongqiao is also well-equipped:

• Shopping malls with local products and some international brands
• A variety of restaurants and cafes catering to Chinese tastes
• Free Wi-Fi (requires phone number registration)
• Business facilities for those with work-related needs
• Lounges available for premium travelers, mostly from local airlines

Hongqiao doesn’t have quite the same extensive range of luxury services as Pudong, but its proximity to the city center means you’re never far from local amenities or Shanghai’s vibrant dining and entertainment scene.

Verdict: Pudong offers a more comprehensive range of facilities, especially for international travelers who may need lounges, shopping, or business services. Hongqiao is still well-equipped but focuses more on functionality.

4. Transportation Options Between Airports

Travelers might need to transfer between Pudong and Hongqiao, particularly if they’re flying into one and departing from the other. Fortunately, Shanghai has efficient options for getting between the two airports:

• Taxi: A taxi ride between the two airports takes about 1 hour and costs approximately 200 RMB.
• Maglev + Metro: You can take the Maglev from Pudong to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Metro Line 2, which directly connects both airports. The trip takes about 1 hour and costs 30-50 RMB.

Verdict: If you need to transfer between the two airports, the Maglev + Metro combination is your best option, as it’s affordable and quick.

5. Flight Connection Time: Allowing Enough Time

When planning your connection between flights, it’s essential to keep in mind the transfer times. If you’re connecting through Pudong Airport, be aware that the airport is much larger and security checks tend to take longer. On average, you should allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a domestic-to-international connection or vice versa.

On the other hand, Hongqiao Airport is smaller and easier to navigate, which may make for smoother and quicker connections. However, if you are connecting from international to domestic flights, be sure to allow sufficient time for customs and immigration procedures. Ideally, allow 1 to 1.5 hours.

Verdict: For connections, Pudong requires more time due to its size and international focus. Hongqiao, being smaller, is often faster, but you still need to account for security and immigration checks.

6. Budget Considerations: Airport Fees and Transport Costs

• Taxi fares from Pudong to the city center are around 150–200 RMB. The Maglev offers a faster, more efficient route for about 50 RMB.
• Taxi fares from Hongqiao are generally lower, ranging from 40–60 RMB. The Metro Line 2 offers a cheap and direct route to the city center for about 5 RMB.

For budget-conscious travelers, Hongqiao might be the more cost-effective airport, especially considering transport costs. Pudong, however, offers more options for high-end travelers seeking premium services.

Verdict: Hongqiao offers a better value if you’re budget-conscious. However, Pudong may still be the better choice if you have an international flight and need more services.

7. Airport Surroundings and Hotels

Both airports have hotels nearby, but the areas around Pudong and Hongqiao are distinct.

Pudong Area Hotels

Pudong offers a selection of luxury hotels, including the Grand Hyatt Shanghai, Jin Jiang Hotel, and Shanghai Pudong Airport Hotel. These options are ideal for travelers with layovers or those who want easy access to both the airport and the Shanghai Disneyland area.

Hongqiao Area Hotels

Hongqiao also has a variety of hotels, but these are generally more business-focused. Hotels like the Swissotel Grand Shanghai and Hongqiao State Guest Hotel are perfect for those on short stays or traveling for business.

Verdict: If you’re looking for luxury and proximity to attractions like Disneyland, Pudong is the better area. For business travelers, Hongqiao offers practical options with easy access to Shanghai’s corporate centers.

8. From the Airport to Major Attractions: Distance, Transport, and Time

When planning your arrival in Shanghai, knowing how far each airport is from the city’s key attractions and the best transport options to get there is crucial. Whether you’re heading to the iconic The Bund, the historic Yu Garden, or the vibrant Nanjing Road, we’ll break down the distances and travel times from both Pudong and Hongqiao to some of Shanghai’s most famous sights.

1. The Bund

The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront area, is home to colonial-era buildings and offers stunning views of the Lujiazui skyline.

From Pudong Airport (PVG) to The Bund:

• Distance: 45 km (28 miles)
• By Taxi: Approximately 40-50 minutes, costing around 150-200 RMB.
• By Maglev + Metro: You can take the Maglev to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Line 2 and head toward Nanjing East Road. The whole journey will take about 50 minutes and cost 60-70 RMB.

From Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to The Bund:

• Distance: 20 km (12 miles)
• By Taxi: Roughly 25-30 minutes, costing 40-60 RMB.
• By Metro: Take Line 10 to Zhongshan Park, and transfer to Line 2, which goes directly to Nanjing East Road, taking around 35 minutes and costing around 5 RMB.

Verdict: If you’re heading to The Bund, Hongqiao Airport offers a quicker, more affordable option.

2. Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden located in Shanghai’s Old City, known for its pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds.

From Pudong Airport (PVG) to Yu Garden:

• Distance: 42 km (26 miles)
• By Taxi: 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic, at a cost of 150-200 RMB.
• By Maglev + Metro: Take the Maglev to Longyang Road, transfer to Line 2, and get off at the People’s Square Station. Then transfer to Line 10 for a short ride to Yuyuan Garden station. This trip takes about 50 minutes and costs around 60-70 RMB.

From Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to Yu Garden:

• Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
• By Taxi: Around 25-30 minutes, with a fare of 40-60 RMB.
• By Metro: Take Line 10 from Hongqiao Airport to Zhongshan Park, then transfer to Line 2 at People’s Square and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station. The total travel time is around 35 minutes, costing 5-6 RMB.

Verdict: Hongqiao is much closer to Yu Garden, making it the better choice for those planning to visit this historic attraction.

3. Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s premier shopping street, lined with global brands, local boutiques, and department stores.

From Pudong Airport (PVG) to Nanjing Road:

• Distance: 40 km (25 miles)
• By Taxi: 45-60 minutes, costing around 150-200 RMB.
• By Maglev + Metro: Take the Maglev to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Line 2 at the People’s Square Station for a quick ride to Nanjing East Road. The total travel time is about 50 minutes and costs 60-70 RMB.

From Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to Nanjing Road:

• Distance: 15 km (9 miles)
• By Taxi: 20-25 minutes, with a fare of 40-50 RMB.
• By Metro: Take Line 2 directly from Hongqiao Airport to Nanjing East Road in about 25 minutes. The fare is only around 5 RMB.

Verdict: For Nanjing Road, Hongqiao is your best bet in terms of travel time and cost.

4. Shanghai Museum

Located in the heart of the city at People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum is home to an impressive collection of Chinese art and artifacts.

From Pudong Airport (PVG) to Shanghai Museum:

• Distance: 45 km (28 miles)
• By Taxi: Expect a 45-60 minute drive, costing approximately 150-200 RMB.
• By Maglev + Metro: From the Maglev, transfer to Line 2 at Longyang Road Station, then head to People’s Square Station. The trip takes around 50 minutes and costs 60-70 RMB.

From Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to Shanghai Museum:

• Distance: 17 km (10 miles)
• By Taxi: A 25-30 minute ride, costing 40-60 RMB.
• By Metro: Take Line 2 directly from Hongqiao Airport to People’s Square Station in about 30 minutes. The fare is 5 RMB.

Verdict: Hongqiao is closer to the Shanghai Museum, providing a quicker and more affordable route.

5. Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland is one of the city’s most popular attractions for families, featuring immersive themed lands and rides.

From Pudong Airport (PVG) to Shanghai Disneyland:

• Distance: 20 km (12 miles)
• By Taxi: 25-30 minutes, costing around 60-80 RMB.
• By Maglev + Metro: Take the Maglev to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Metro Line 16, which directly connects to Shanghai Disneyland Station. This will take about 30-40 minutes and cost around 30-40 RMB.

From Hongqiao Airport (SHA) to Shanghai Disneyland:

• Distance: 50 km (31 miles)
• By Taxi: Expect a 60-minute ride, costing 180-230 RMB.
• By Metro: Take Line 2 from Hongqiao Airport to People’s Square, then transfer to Line 16 for the Disneyland stop. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and costs 6-8 RMB.

Verdict: Pudong is significantly closer to Disneyland, making it the more convenient choice for Disney visitors.

Conclusion: Airport Comparison for Major Attractions

Here’s a quick comparison of the distances and transport times from both airports to the main attractions:

Verdict: Hongqiao Airport is generally closer to most of Shanghai’s central attractions, making it the better option for those staying in the city or focusing on shorter trips. Pudong Airport, however, is the best choice for travelers heading to Shanghai Disneyland or those flying on international routes.

By understanding the proximity of both airports to key attractions, you can plan your Shanghai trip more efficiently and minimize time spent in transit.

Unique Perspective: The Emotional Choice

Most guides focus on logistics—fair enough. But airports carry vibes, and that matters. Pudong’s grandeur mirrors Shanghai’s global rise; it’s where we’ve felt China’s pulse strongest, watching planes from every continent land. Hongqiao, though, has a grounded warmth—like a friend ushering you into China’s daily rhythm.

Once, at Pudong, we helped a lost Aussie couple find the Maglev. Their awe at its speed reminded us why we love guiding travelers—China dazzles when you embrace its quirks. At Hongqiao, we’ve rushed from plane to train, marveling at how China stitches its vastness together. Your choice might hinge on feeling, not just facts.

Expert Insights and Data

Travel expert Sarah Chen, a Shanghai-based consultant, notes, “Pudong’s scale suits long-haul logistics, but Hongqiao’s hub design wins for efficiency.” A 2024 Shanghai Airport Authority report backs this: SHA’s transfer times average 20% faster than PVG’s due to its layout.

Case study: In 2023, we guided a family from PVG to Suzhou via Hongqiao. They landed at Pudong, took Metro Line 2 to SHA, then a bullet train—all in under five hours. Pudong alone would’ve stretched it to seven. Real-world proof: connectivity trumps distance.

Conclusion: Which Airport Should You Choose?

The decision between Pudong and Hongqiao ultimately depends on your flight type, destination, and convenience.

• Choose Pudong Airport if you’re traveling internationally, prefer premium services, or have a longer layover.
• Choose Hongqiao Airport if you’re flying domestically or regionally, staying in the city center, or need a more efficient, budget-friendly transfer.

No matter which airport you choose, both offer excellent services and connectivity. By understanding the unique advantages of each, you can make the best choice for your trip to Shanghai. Safe travels!

Final Thoughts from the Road

Shanghai’s airports reflect its duality—Pudong’s bold ambition, Hongqiao’s quiet competence. We’ve grown to love both, quirks and all. At Travel China With Me, we’ve guided thousands through these gates, each trip a story. Which will yours be? Drop your plans below—we’d love to tailor more tips.