Shanghai Visa-Free Travel
Since November 30, 2024, the visa-free period for some eligible foreigners has been extended to 240 hours (10 days).
Shanghai visa-free tours refer to the travel arrangements that allow eligible foreign visitors to explore Shanghai and ligalble cities without a visa for a certain period.
Visa-Free Itineraries
To visit key sites in Shanghai during the international layover, it is recommended to have a duration of at least 6 hours. This timeframe allows for a relaxed exploration of major attractions such as The Bund, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and possibly an additional site like the Shanghai Tower or a leisurely meal to savor local cuisine.
Half-Day Layover Recommendations - 6-Hour Itinerary
If you have a 6-hour layover in Shanghai, you can consider visiting 2 sites to make the most of your time.
- Operation hours: 9 am - 6 pm
- Tour duration: approximately 3 hours
- Layover time needed: 6-8 hours
- Recommended itinerary: Pick up from Pudong Airport to th city (1 hour) or take Megalev Train from Pudong Airport (10 minutes), The Bund (1 hour), Yuyuan Garden (1 hour), take the private transfer (1 hour) or take the Megalev Train (10 minutes) back to Pudong Airport
One-Day Layover Recommendations - 8-Hour Itinerary
For an 8-hour layover in Shanghai, 2 to 3 sites are recommended. You can choose some well-known attractions with convenient transportation and rich cultural connotations, such as The Bund, Yu Garden, and the Shanghai Tower...
- Operation hours: 9 am - 6 pm
- Tour duration: approximately 5 hours
- Layover time needed: 9-12 hours
- Recommended itinerary: Pick up from Pudong Airport to the city(1 hour) or take Megalev Train from Pudong Airport (10 minutes), The Bund (1 hour), Yuyuan Garden (1 hour), add one more attractions like Shanghai Tower, Former Frencha Concessiopn or Nanjing Road Shopping Street, then take the private transfer (1 hour) or take the Megalev Train (10 minutes) back to Pudong Airport
Layover at Late Afternoon till Night - 3 Hour Shanghai Activities at Night
Make the most of your late afternoon to night layover in Shanghai with a 3-hour plan: Explore glittering city lights along the Bund, stroll through Nanjing Road for shopping, and sample local street food at Yu Garden Bazaar.
- Operation hours: 5 am-9 pm
- Tour duration: approximately 3 hours
- Layover time needed: 6-8 hours
- Recommended itinerary: Take the Megalev Train from Pudong Airport (10 minutes) to the city, The Bund skyline (1 hour), Huangpu River Cruise (45 minutes), Nanjing Road Shopping Street （1 hour), then back to Pudong Airport by Megalev Train (10 minutes)
Get to the City - Shanghai Airport Private Transfers for Layover Visitors
From Shanghai Pudong Airport, reach the city via taxi or private transfer, metro, airport shuttle, or maglev train.
- Subway Line 2: It is a cost-effective and time-saving option, suitable for those who are not in a hurry and prefer a more economical way.
- Maglev Train: It is the fastest way to get from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station, taking only about 8 minutes. The fare is 50 RMB for economy class and 100 RMB for business class.
- Airport Bus: It is suitable for those carrying large luggage or those who prefer a more comfortable ride. The fare is between 15 and 30 RMB, and takes about 1 hour to the city.
- Taxi or Private Transfer Service: It provides a door-to-door service, which is very convenient for those with a lot of luggage or those who are not familiar with the local transportation
Shanghai Highlights provides the best value private transfers with an experienced driver. Be met and transferred at Shanghai Pudong Airport for your layover tour. Sit back and relax as we take care of your transportation, ensuring a hassle-free journey to explore Shanghai during your layover.
Pudong Airport (PVG) to Hongqiao Airport (SHA)/ Hongqiao Railway Station Transfer
1 hour 10 minutes, 52km
Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai Layover
Find info on visa requirements, transportation, luggage storage, and top attractions. Simplify your stopover experience and maximize your time in Shanghai.
1. Can I Leave Shanghai Airport During a Layover?
Yes, you can exit Shanghai airport during a layover, subject to visa requirements, layover duration, and airline policies.
If eligible, utilize Shanghai's visa-free transit policy (up to 240 hours) for qualifying countries. Plan for a minimum 6-hour layover for city exploration, factoring in the commute, airport procedures, and flight schedules.
Consider whether your luggage is checked through or if you need to handle baggage and re-check in if changing airlines.
2. Do I Need a Visa for a Shanghai Layover?
Visa necessity depends on your nationality and layover duration.
From December 18, 2024, China's visa-free transit has been extended from the previous 72/144 hours to 240 hours (10 days).
This policy applies to citizens from 54 countries who hold valid international travel documents (with a validity of at least three months) and a passenger ticket for connecting travel to a third country (region) with a confirmed seat and the departure time within 240 hours of the arrival time at Shanghai Pudong Airport.
You need to inform the carrier when boarding, fill in an arrival/departure card, and apply for the 240-hour stay permit upon arrival (which can also be done online in advance).
3. Do I Need to Apply for a Permit in Advance for a 240-hour Free Layover in Shanghai?
No, you don't need to apply for a permit in advance for a 240-hour free layover. You can apply it upon arrival in Shanghai.
Just make sure you are eligible, meet the necessary criteria, including having an onward ticket, and have the necessary documentation for this extended stay.
4. Minimum Layover Time Needed If I Want to Visit the City of Shanghai?
If you want to leave Shanghai airport during an international layover and visit the city, it is recommended to have at least 6 hours of layover time. It is recommended to allow sufficient time for transit procedures, travel to the city, sightseeing, and returning to the airport with ample buffer time before your connecting flight.
5. What to do in Shanghai During a Layover?
For a Short Layover (Less than 6 Hours): Suggest staying at the airport and making use of its amenities. Explore duty-free shops, sample various cuisines at airport restaurants, or unwind in the lounges. Airport facilities usually offer free Wi-Fi for browsing, work, or entertainment like videos.
For a Medium-Length Layover (6 - 8 Hours): Embark on a half-day city tour if your layover exceeds 6 hours. Visit iconic 2-3 spots like The Bund and Yuyuan Garden, and Yuyuan Bazaar, immersing yourself in a 400-year-old Chinese garden. Enjoy traditional architecture, rockeries, and local delicacies at Yuyuan Bazaar. Budget around 1.5 hours for the garden visit.
For a Long Layover (9 - 12 Hours): Opt for a full-day tour of 3-4 spots, including The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Nanjing Road, Xintiandi, Shanghai Tower, and more. Discover Xintiandi, blending modern and traditional elements, featuring chic shops, cafes, and restaurants in historic Shikumen residences.
Late Afternoon till Night Layover in Shanghai (at least 6 hours): The Bund and Huangpu River Cruise and Nanjing Road. Take the subway to East Nanjing Road Station and walk to The Bund. Admire the European-style buildings on the west bank of the Huangpu River and the modern skyscrapers on the east bank at dusk.
Go to the Lujiazui area in Pudong to see modern skyscrapers by visiting the Shanghai Tower at the observation deck.
ERA Acrobatic Show at Shanghai Circus City (starts at 19:30 on weekdays, weekends, and holidays): Watch skilled performers amaze you with spectacular acrobatics, and a mix of cultural influences for an unforgettable show.
6. Where to Store Luggage in Pudong Airport?
At Shanghai Pudong International Airport, you can leave your luggage at various locations in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2:
Terminal 1
Departure Hall: Between Gates 4 - 5 and Gates 10 - 11 on the third floor. Service hours: 06:00 - 24:00. Hotline: 021 - 68345201.
Arrivals Hall: Near Gate 7 on the first floor in the domestic arrivals area. Same opening hours and hotline number.
Terminal 2
Departure Hall: Located on the third floor near island A and island M. Service hours: 06:00 - 24:00. Hotline: 021 - 68340065.
Arrivals hall: Next to International Arrivals 2A exit on the second floor. Opening hours and hotline remain the same.
Return to the Airport
When you're done exploring during your stopover, remember to leave enough time to return to the airport. Plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early for international flights and 1-2 hours early for domestic flights, taking into account traffic and your chosen way of travel like a taxi, metro, or airport shuttle.