Layover in Shanghai

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See your timeline and recommended experiences — fast, realistic, and worth leaving the airport for.

Our advice for your less than 3 hours layover

Shanghai is massive, so commit to one neighborhood and rely on metro lines exclusively.

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Pick the airport and toggle options to see what's realistic.

While you're at the airport

Tips and amenities from our insider guides.

PVG is Shanghai’s main international hub. Two terminals, long walks, strong lounge coverage, Maglev/metro to city.

🛋️ Lounges 📝 Traveler notes 🛏️ Sleep / Rest 🍽️ Food 🚿 Showers 🧳 Luggage Storage 🔌 Essentials

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Insider tip: Long walks and possible gate changes; check terminal/gate early.

Read the full PVG guide →

SHA is the city airport for Shanghai (domestic/regional). Two terminals, closer to downtown, lounges exist but fewer than PVG.

🛋️ Lounges 📝 Traveler notes 🛏️ Sleep / Rest 🍽️ Food 🚿 Showers 🧳 Luggage Storage 🔌 Essentials

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Insider tip: Closer to city; terminals can still be busy. Arrive with buffer.

Read the full SHA guide →

Services

Helpful add-ons that make a layover smoother.

Driver / Transfers

PARTNER Our preferred partner for private transfers and local drivers.

Find a trusted driver →

Luggage Storage

PARTNER Drop your bags in minutes and explore Shanghai hands-free.

Find luggage storage →

eSIMs

Going exploring? Don't rack up roaming charges or buy an overpriced SIM at the airport. Buy an eSIM for a few dollars prior to your trip and have access to unlimited data.

Get an eSIM for China →

Need help booking flights?

BETA

Built for budget travelers who want real experiences—not airport chairs.

Try the MyLayover Trip Engine →

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