Quick Answer
The best way to get from Shanghai Pudong Airport to downtown for most travelers is the Metro Line 2 (70 minutes, 3-7 CNY, direct to People's Square). This is the most reliable and cost-effective option, especially during Shanghai's notorious rush hour traffic. For speed: Maglev + Metro transfer (50-60 minutes, 50 CNY with flight ticket). For convenience with luggage: Taxi or Didi (45-70 minutes, 180-250 CNY). For budget with heavy bags: Airport shuttle bus (60-90 minutes, 16-34 CNY). Note that Shanghai taxis always use meters; no negotiation needed.
Taxi from Pudong Airport to Shanghai City Center
Taking a taxi from Shanghai Pudong Airport to downtown is the most convenient door-to-door option. The airport is 30-40 km (18-25 miles) from central areas like People's Square, with travel time heavily dependent on Shanghai's infamous traffic. Unlike many Asian airports, Shanghai taxis always use meters and are strictly regulated. During rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM), the trip can take 90+ minutes instead of 45-60.
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (metered) | 45-90 minutes | 180-250 CNY (≈$25-35 USD) | Families, groups, heavy luggage, convenience | Metered, +30% 11 PM-6 AM, + tolls (15-20 CNY) |
| Didi (ride-hailing) | 45-90 minutes | 150-220 CNY (≈$21-31 USD) | Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/app | App shows price, pickup in designated zone |
| Private Transfer (pre-booked) | 45-75 minutes | 300-500 CNY (≈$42-70 USD) | Business, families, groups, peace of mind | Fixed price, English-speaking driver, meets at arrivals |
How to Get a Taxi at Pudong Airport
Follow signs for Taxi after exiting baggage claim at either Terminal 1 or 2. You'll join an orderly queue managed by staff. The system is efficient, even during peak times. Tell the attendant your general destination (e.g., "People's Square", "The Bund", "Jing'an") and they'll help if needed. Taxis are clean, meters are used, and receipts are provided. Have your hotel address written in Chinese characters to show the driver. The internet says it's easy, and it truly is—one of Asia's best taxi systems.
Taxi Fare Breakdown & Tolls
Daytime (5 AM-11 PM): 16 CNY for first 3 km, then 2.5 CNY/km. After 10 km, 3.6 CNY/km. Night (11 PM-5 AM): 20% surcharge. Tolls: The driver will take the expressway (S1 or S20) with a 15-20 CNY toll, added to the meter. Total fare to central Shanghai typically ranges 180-250 CNY. Always get a receipt—it has the taxi number and driver info. I once left my phone in a Shanghai taxi; the receipt helped retrieve it within hours.
Late Night Taxi from Pudong Airport
For late night arrivals (after 11:00 PM), taxis are readily available with a 20% night surcharge. Expect 200-280 CNY to downtown. The queue moves quickly, even at 2 AM. This is your most reliable option. Didi is also available but may have surge pricing. The airport buses still run but drop at terminals, not hotels. The internet often warns about taxi scarcity, but Pudong is a 24-hour airport with excellent ground transport.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You arrive at Pudong at 5:00 PM on a weekday. To save money, you skip the 7 CNY metro and take a taxi. You hit rush hour traffic on the Yan'an Elevated Road. The meter ticks past 200 CNY as you crawl for 90 minutes. You arrive stressed, having paid 30 times the metro fare. Meanwhile, the traveler who took the Metro Line 2 arrived 20 minutes earlier for 7 CNY, using the subway's dedicated right-of-way. I've made this mistake—check the time before choosing a taxi.
Didi (Ride-Hailing) from Pudong Airport
Didi Chuxing is China's Uber, with extensive service in Shanghai. Fares are similar to taxis (150-220 CNY to downtown) but can surge during peak hours. The app (Chinese or international version) is essential. You'll need a Chinese SIM card with data, and payment via Alipay/WeChat Pay (linked to Chinese bank account) or international credit card. Pickup is at designated ride-hailing zones in the parking garages—follow signs carefully.
Using Didi as a Foreigner: The Reality
Many travel blogs say "just use Didi." The reality: the international Didi app has limited functionality. The Chinese app requires a Chinese phone number. Payment is tricky without Alipay Tour Pass or a Chinese bank card. The pickup zones in Pudong's massive garages can be confusing. For tech-savvy travelers who set up Alipay Tour Pass before arrival: it works well. For others: stick with taxis. I've helped countless confused tourists at the Didi pickup point trying to connect with drivers.
Didi vs Taxi: Which is Better?
Didi advantages: Upfront pricing, car types (economy/premium), driver info in app, cashless. Taxi advantages: No app needed, accepts cash, pickup queue is straightforward, drivers know the city better. For most tourists: Taxis are simpler. For residents/expats: Didi offers more convenience. During rain or holidays, Didi surge pricing can exceed taxi fares by 50%.
Step-by-Step: Booking Didi at PVG
1. Connect to airport WiFi (requires Chinese number verification) or use mobile data. 2. Open Didi app. 3. Set pickup to "Pudong Airport T1/T2 - Ride-hailing pickup zone." 4. Set destination (use Chinese characters). 5. Select car type (Express is cheapest). 6. Confirm booking. 7. Go to parking garage B1 (follow signs). 8. Meet driver at designated bay number. 9. Show confirmation. Having your destination in Chinese characters is crucial—most drivers don't speak English.
Private Transfer from Pudong Airport
Private Airport Transfer Service
Private transfer services can be pre-booked online or through your hotel. Cost: 300-500 CNY (≈$42-70 USD) for a standard sedan to downtown. This is ideal for business travelers, families with young children, or those with lots of luggage. The English-speaking driver meets you at arrivals with a sign, helps with luggage, and provides a stress-free journey. While 2-3 times the taxi fare, it's worth it for first-timers or late arrivals.
When Private Transfer Makes Sense
Despite the higher cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You're a family with young children and car seats needed. 2) You have multiple large suitcases. 3) You're arriving after a long international flight and want zero hassle. 4) You're a group of 3-4 people (splitting makes it reasonable). 5) Your company is paying. 6) You need an English-speaking driver for instructions. The internet often says "taxis are fine," but with a tired family of four and 6 bags, a pre-booked van with a waiting driver is priceless.
Hotel Pickup Services
Many luxury hotels in Shanghai offer complimentary airport pickup for guests booking certain room categories. Mid-range hotels may offer it for 200-300 CNY. Always ask when booking. This is often a good deal as the driver knows your exact hotel. Some Airbnb hosts also offer pickup for a fee. Confirm in advance and have the hotel's contact number handy.
Metro Line 2 & Maglev Train from Pudong Airport
Metro Line 2 runs directly from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai, reaching People's Square in about 70 minutes for 3-7 CNY. It's the most reliable option time-wise, unaffected by road traffic. The Maglev train reaches 300 km/h, taking 8 minutes to Longyang Road Station (50 CNY with flight ticket), then transfer to Metro Line 2, 7, or 16. While the Maglev saves 20 minutes, the transfer with luggage can negate the time saved.
Metro Experience: What to Really Expect
The metro station is connected to both terminals via indoor walkways. Follow signs with the green metro logo. Purchase single-journey tickets from machines (English available) or use Shanghai Public Transportation Card. During rush hour (7:00-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM), trains are extremely crowded—nearly impossible with large suitcases. Outside these hours, it's manageable. The internet says "metro is easy," but that's only true with light luggage and avoiding rush hour. I've seen tourists struggling with suitcases on packed trains during peak times.
Who Should Take the Metro?
The metro is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers with one manageable suitcase/backpack. 2) Those on a tight budget. 3) People staying near a Metro Line 2 station (People's Square, Nanjing East Road, Lujiazui, Jing'an Temple). 4) Avoiding rush hour traffic. Not suitable for: Families with strollers/young kids, travelers with multiple large bags, elderly/disabled, or those with heavy luggage during rush hour.
Maglev: Is It Worth the Experience?
The Shanghai Maglev hits 300 km/h (186 mph) in 8 minutes. It's a smooth, futuristic experience. With same-day flight ticket: 50 CNY one-way, 80 CNY round-trip. Without: 50 CNY one-way. Worth it for: Train enthusiasts, those staying near Longyang Road, or when traffic is terrible. Not worth it for: Those with heavy luggage (transfer at Longyang Road involves stairs), or when metro is already convenient. The internet hypes the speed, but the transfer often makes total journey time similar to just taking Metro Line 2 all the way.
Airport Shuttle Bus from Pudong Airport
Airport shuttle buses operate 8 lines from PVG to various Shanghai locations. Fares: 16-34 CNY. Travel time: 60-90 minutes depending on traffic and destination. Buses have luggage compartments, making them better for heavy bags than the metro. They run from early morning until the last flight arrival, with intervals of 15-30 minutes. While slower than metro during light traffic, they can be faster during rush hour than taxis stuck in gridlock.
Airport Bus Lines: Key Routes
| Bus Line | Destination | Fare (CNY) | Travel Time | Operating Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Bus Line 1 | Jing'an Temple (West Nanjing Road) | 20-24 | 60-80 min | 7:00-23:00 | City center, Nanjing Road area |
| Airport Bus Line 2 | Hongqiao Airport/Train Station | 30-34 | 60-80 min | 7:00-23:00 | Connecting to Hongqiao transport |
| Airport Bus Line 5 | Shanghai Railway Station | 18-24 | 60-80 min | 7:00-23:00 | Train connections, northern downtown |
| Airport Bus Line 7 | Shanghai South Railway Station | 20 | 60-75 min | 7:00-23:00 | Train connections, southern areas |
| Airport Night Bus | Multiple stops to downtown | 16-30 | 70-100 min | After 23:00 until last flight | Late night arrivals |
Bus vs Metro: A Reality Check
Bus advantages: Luggage space, seats guaranteed, avoid subway stairs/crowds. Bus disadvantages: Subject to traffic, longer travel time. Metro advantages: Predictable timing, cheaper, more frequent. Metro disadvantages: Crowded, stairs, no luggage space during rush hour. For travelers with one large suitcase: the bus is often better than struggling on the metro. For backpackers: metro is faster and cheaper.
How to Take the Airport Bus
After baggage claim, follow signs for "Airport Bus" or "Airport Shuttle Bus." Purchase tickets at the booth near the bus stop (cash/Alipay/WeChat Pay). Tell staff your destination; they'll point you to the correct line. Buses are comfortable coaches with air conditioning. Keep your ticket; you may need it to retrieve luggage. Buses make 1-3 stops en route; listen for announcements or ask the driver.
Metro & Maglev: Detailed Route & All Stops
Understanding the metro and Maglev routes helps optimize your journey. Below are all stops for key lines connecting Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai.
Metro Line 2 (Green Line) - Full Route from PVG to Downtown
Metro Line 2 runs from Pudong International Airport to East Xujing, passing through Shanghai's core. From PVG to People's Square takes about 70 minutes. Key interchange stations in bold:
- Pudong International Airport (Terminals 1 & 2) - Journey start
- Hai Tian San Road
- Ling Kong Road
- Chuansha
- East Changji Road
- Guanglan Road - Important: Some trains terminate here. You may need to cross the platform to continue toward downtown.
- Tangzhen
- Middle Chuangxin Road
- East Jinqiao Road
- Jinjing Road
- Yunshan Road
- Deping Road
- Beiyangjing Road
- Century Avenue - Major interchange with Lines 4, 6, 9
- Shanghai Science & Technology Museum
- Century Park
- Longyang Road - Interchange with Maglev train
- Zhangjiang High Technology Park
- Jinke Road
- Guanglan Road (again)
- Loushanguan Road
- West Yan'an Road
- Zhongshan Park - Interchange with Lines 3, 4
- Jiangsu Road
- Jing'an Temple - Popular shopping area
- West Nanjing Road
- People's Square - City center, interchange with Lines 1, 8
- Nanjing East Road - Close to The Bund
- Lujiazui - Financial district, Oriental Pearl Tower
- Dongchang Road
- Century Avenue (again, loop continues)
Maglev Train Stations
The Maglev has only two stations:
- Pudong International Airport Station (located between Terminal 1 and 2)
- Longyang Road Station (interchange with Metro Line 2, 7, 16)
From Longyang Road, take Metro Line 2 westbound to reach People's Square (approx. 20-25 minutes), or Line 7/16 to other destinations.
Airport Bus Line 1: Major Stops
Airport Bus Line 1 (to Jing'an Temple) stops at:
- Pudong Airport T1/T2
- Longyang Road Metro Station (Maglev transfer)
- Longdong Avenue
- West Huaihai Road (near Xintiandi)
- South Shanxi Road
- West Nanjing Road (Jing'an Temple) - Final stop
Pudong Airport to Shanghai City Center Route Map
The map below shows the route from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to the city center. The primary routes are via Metro Line 2 (underground), Maglev + Metro, and taxi/bus via the S1 Shanghai-South-Nanjing Expressway.
View the route on Google Maps: View route from Pudong Airport to Shanghai City Center on Google Maps
The distance from Pudong Airport to People's Square is approximately 40 km (25 miles) via expressway. The Metro Line 2 route is slightly longer at 45 km (28 miles) but avoids road traffic entirely.
Pudong Airport to City: Ticketing & Costs Comparison
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Luggage Space | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (metered) | 45-90 minutes | 180-250 CNY (≈$25-35 USD) | Excellent (trunk + back seat) | Most travelers, families, groups, heavy luggage |
| Didi (ride-hailing) | 45-90 minutes | 150-220 CNY (≈$21-31 USD) | Excellent | Tech-savvy, have Chinese SIM/app, avoid queues |
| Private Transfer | 45-75 minutes | 300-500 CNY (≈$42-70 USD) | Excellent (larger vehicles available) | Business, families, groups, pre-booked comfort |
| Metro Line 2 | 70 minutes | 3-7 CNY (≈$0.40-1 USD) | Poor (carry on lap, crowded at peak) | Solo/duo, light luggage, budget, avoiding traffic |
| Maglev + Metro | 50-60 minutes | 50-57 CNY (Maglev 50 + Metro 3-7) | Poor (transfer with luggage) | Speed, experience, staying near Line 2/7/16 |
| Airport Bus Line 1 | 60-80 minutes | 20-24 CNY (≈$3-4 USD) | Good (under-bus compartment) | Heavy luggage, budget, hotel near bus stop |
How to Purchase Tickets for Each Option
Taxi: Pay driver cash (CNY) or Alipay/WeChat Pay. Didi: App payment via linked account. Metro: Single-journey tickets from machines (English available) or Shanghai Public Transportation Card. Maglev: Tickets at Maglev station (show flight ticket for discount). Airport Bus: Ticket counter at bus stop. Private Transfer: Pre-paid online. Have small CNY bills for metro/bus tickets; machines may not accept large notes.
Cost Comparison: What Locals Choose
Locals with light luggage: Metro (3-7 CNY). Locals with heavy luggage/group: Taxi/Didi (split cost). Business travelers: Taxi or private car. Airport employees: Metro or bus. As a tourist, expect to pay the same fares as locals for metro/bus/taxi. Private transfers and some luxury hotel pickups are marked up for tourists. Don't stress about saving 50 CNY; choose based on your luggage and comfort needs.
Traveler Experience: Getting to Shanghai from Pudong Airport
Arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport can be overwhelming—it's massive, with Terminal 1 and 2 connected by a long indoor train. After exiting baggage claim, you're greeted by clear signage in English. The key is deciding your transport before you arrive. Have small CNY bills ready. The airport is efficient, but during peak hours (10 AM-2 PM, 6-9 PM), queues for taxis can be 20-30 minutes.
First-Time Visitor Experience
As a first-timer, it's straightforward: Follow signs for your chosen transport. For taxi: join the orderly queue. For metro: follow green metro signs downstairs. For bus: follow airport bus signs. For Didi: follow ride-hailing signs to parking garage. Most signs are bilingual. The hardest part is choosing the right option for your luggage and hotel location. I've helped countless confused tourists at the transport hall—plan ahead to avoid this.
The Reality of Shanghai Traffic
Shanghai traffic is legendary. The 40 km from PVG to downtown can take 45 minutes at 2 AM or 2 hours at 6 PM. The Yan'an Elevated Road, the main artery, is often a parking lot during rush hour. Metro is unaffected by traffic, making it the most time-reliable option. The internet might say "taxi takes 45 minutes," but that's only at 3 AM on a Tuesday. During weekday rush hour, budget 90-120 minutes by road.
A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake
You arrive at Pudong on Friday at 6:00 PM with two large suitcases. To save money, you take the metro. You struggle down escalators with heavy suitcases during peak hour. The train is packed; you block the door, receiving annoyed looks. After 70 minutes standing, you emerge at People's Square only to find your hotel is a 15-minute walk and there are no taxis available. You drag your bags through crowded streets, exhausted. A 200 CNY taxi would have been worth every yuan. I've been this traveler—don't be me.
Practical Tips & Advice for Pudong Airport to Shanghai
- With large luggage (2+ suitcases): Take taxi, Didi, or airport bus. Metro is difficult with large bags, especially during rush hour.
- First-time visitor tip: Have your hotel address written in Chinese characters on paper or phone. Most taxi drivers don't speak English.
- Late night arrival (after 11:00 PM): Taxi is most reliable. Metro stops around 10:30-11:00 PM. Airport night buses run but drop at terminals, not hotels.
- Early morning flights (before 8:00 AM): Metro Line 2 starts around 6:00 AM from PVG—may not reach airport in time for 7:00 AM flights. Take taxi or pre-booked car.
- With kids/strollers: Taxi or private transfer. Metro has stairs and crowded trains; buses are better than metro.
- Business travelers: Private transfer or taxi. The extra cost is justified by time saved and professionalism.
- Cost-saving tip: Metro (3-7 CNY) if with light luggage. Airport bus (16-34 CNY) if with heavy luggage.
- Time-saving tip (non-rush hour): Taxi/Didi (45-60 minutes). Time-saving tip (rush hour): Metro (70 minutes, predictable).
- Group travel (3-4 people): One taxi (same price as 1-2 people, split cost). More economical than multiple metro/bus tickets.
- Weekday vs weekend: Weekday rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) dramatically increase taxi/bus time. Metro is consistently 70 minutes.
- Hotel location matters: Hotels near Metro Line 2 stations: metro is convenient. Hotels in Pudong/Lujiazui: taxi may be quicker. Hotels in French Concession: airport bus Line 1 may stop nearby.
- Return trip (city to airport): Allow 2-3 hours before flight. Taxi can be booked via Didi or hotel. Metro is reliable time-wise.
- Mobile apps: Download Didi (ride-hailing), Metro Man (Shanghai metro map), Google Translate (offline Chinese), and Maps.me (offline maps).
- Payment: Have CNY cash (200-300 in small bills). Most taxis accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. Metro tickets: cash or transportation card.
- SIM cards: Buy at airport (China Mobile/Unicom counters) or arrange eSIM before arrival. Essential for Didi, maps, translation.
- Peak seasons (Chinese holidays, Golden Week): Allow extra time. All transport is busier. Book private transfers well in advance.
- Rainy season (June-September): Taxi demand surges. Metro becomes even more crowded. Consider airport bus.
- Accessibility: Metro has elevators but not at all stations. Taxis are most accessible. Airport buses have steps.
- Luggage storage at airport: Available if you want to explore before heading downtown. Then take metro without luggage.
- Tipping: Not expected in China. Taxi: round up fare (e.g., 187 to 190). Porters: 5-10 CNY per bag.
- Scams: Ignore unofficial taxi touts inside terminal. Only use official taxi queue. No "special tourist price" for taxis—meter only.
Map showing routes from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai via Metro Line 2, Maglev, and expressways.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pudong Airport to Shanghai City Center
What is the fastest way to get from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the city center?
The fastest option is the Maglev train combined with Metro Line 2, reaching People's Square in about 50-60 minutes total. The Maglev alone takes 8 minutes to Longyang Road Station, then transfer to Metro Line 2. For door-to-door speed during non-rush hours, a taxi or Didi takes 45-60 minutes directly to your hotel. The internet often says Maglev is fastest, but that's only true if your hotel is near a Metro Line 2 station; otherwise, a direct taxi during off-peak hours can be comparable.
How much is a taxi from Shanghai Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai?
Metered taxi fare: 180-250 CNY (approx. $25-35 USD) to downtown areas like People's Square, The Bund, or Nanjing Road. Late night surcharge (after 11:00 PM): +30%. Tolls: 15-20 CNY extra for expressways, usually included in meter. The meter is always used in Shanghai taxis; no negotiation needed. For 3-4 people with luggage, a taxi is often the most convenient and cost-effective choice despite the higher price.
How do I take the metro from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai?
Take Metro Line 2 (Green Line) directly from Pudong International Airport Station. The journey to People's Square takes about 70 minutes. Key stops: Pudong International Airport → Guanglan Road (transfer to other carriages) → Century Avenue (transfer hub) → People's Square (city center). Trains run approximately 6:00 AM to 10:30-11:00 PM. Purchase tickets at airport station using cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay.
What is the Maglev train from Pudong Airport and is it worth it?
The Shanghai Maglev is a magnetic levitation train reaching 300 km/h, taking 8 minutes to Longyang Road Station. One-way fare: 50 CNY (approx. $7 USD) with same-day flight ticket, 40 CNY without. It saves 20-25 minutes compared to Metro Line 2, but requires transfer to Metro Line 2, 7, or 16 at Longyang Road. Worth it for: travelers with light luggage, staying near a metro line, or wanting the experience. Not worth it for: families with heavy luggage, hotels not near metro, or during rush hour transfers.
Is there an airport shuttle bus from Pudong Airport to Shanghai?
Yes, 8 airport shuttle bus lines operate from PVG. Key lines: Airport Bus Line 1 to Jing'an Temple (20-24 CNY, 60-80 minutes), Line 2 to Hongqiao Airport (30-34 CNY, 60-80 minutes), Line 5 to Shanghai Railway Station (18-24 CNY, 60-80 minutes), Line 7 to South Railway Station (20 CNY, 60-75 minutes). Buses run from 6:00-7:00 AM until last flight arrival. Useful for heavy luggage or hotel near terminal, but slower than metro during traffic.
What is the cheapest way from Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai?
Metro Line 2: 3-7 CNY (approx. $0.40-1 USD) to city center, depending on distance. The absolute cheapest option. Airport Bus: 16-34 CNY. However, I don't actually recommend the metro for first-time visitors with large luggage during rush hour (7:00-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM). It's extremely crowded, with limited luggage space and many stairs. The bus is a better budget option with luggage.
How long does it take from Pudong Airport to The Bund?
Taxi/Didi: 45-70 minutes depending on traffic (worst: 90+ minutes during rush hour). Maglev + Metro: 50-60 minutes (8 min Maglev + 20-25 min Metro Line 2 to Nanjing East Road + walking). Metro Line 2: 65-75 minutes to Nanjing East Road Station. Airport Bus Line 1 + walk: 70-100 minutes. Late at night with no traffic: taxi can be 40 minutes. The internet often underestimates traffic; add 30-50% time during weekday rush hours.
Is Didi (Chinese Uber) available at Pudong Airport?
Yes, Didi (China's ride-hailing app) is available. Cars: 150-220 CNY to downtown, similar to taxis. Pickup: Follow signs to designated ride-hailing pickup zones (usually in parking garage). You need: Chinese SIM card with data, Didi app installed, Chinese payment method (Alipay/WeChat Pay linked to Chinese bank card or international card). Availability is good, but surge pricing during peak hours. Foreigners with international cards can use Didi's international version, but functionality may be limited.
What is the best option for late night arrival at Pudong Airport?
Late night arrivals (after 11:00 PM): Taxi or Didi. Metro Line 2 last train: around 10:30-11:00 PM from airport. Maglev last train: 10:15 PM (check schedule). Airport buses run until last flight arrival, but frequency decreases after midnight. Taxis charge 30% night surcharge but are readily available. Pre-booked private transfer is also reliable. I don't recommend trying metro/bus connections late at night unless you confirm exact last departure times.
How early should I leave Shanghai for Pudong Airport?
For international flights: Leave 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights: Leave 2-2.5 hours before. Travel time: 45-90 minutes from downtown depending on traffic. Add extra 30 minutes during weekday rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM, 4:00-7:00 PM). Pudong is one of the world's largest airports; check-in and security can take 45-90 minutes. The Maglev/metro is reliable time-wise, but taxis can be unpredictable. I've seen people miss flights due to Shanghai traffic.
Are there money exchange and ATMs at Pudong Airport?
ATMs: Widely available in arrivals (ICBC, Bank of China, etc.). Money exchange counters: Available 24 hours in both terminals, but rates are poor. Better to withdraw CNY from ATM using international card (check fees). Have 200-300 CNY in smaller bills (10, 20, 50) for taxi/bus/metro. Most places in Shanghai accept mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay), but you'll need cash for initial transport.
Is there free WiFi at Pudong Airport for booking Didi?
Yes, free WiFi is available but requires Chinese phone number verification. Better to buy a Chinese SIM card with data at the airport (China Mobile/China Unicom counters) or arrange an eSIM before arrival. Airport WiFi for foreigners is notoriously difficult to connect to. Having reliable mobile data is essential for ride-hailing, maps, and translation apps in Shanghai.