Smart Traveler’s Guide to Shanghai Pudong International Airport: Expert Tips & Real Reviews

Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG)

Welcome to our tips and quick reference guide for Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG). Here, you’ll find essential information to plan your trip efficiently and make the most of your airport experience. With this guide, you can effectively navigate one of China’s busiest international hubs. Additionally, you will find tips and reviews to help make your journey smoother. Discover practical advice on navigating the terminals, insights into dining and shopping options, and firsthand reviews from travelers about the facilities and services. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or visiting for the first time, these tips and reviews will enhance your travel experience at PVG.


Shanghai Pudong Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD) is the main international airport serving the city of Shanghai in China. It is located 30 km (19 miles) from Shanghai city center, in Pudong.


Shanghai Pudong International Airport is hub for Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, Shanghai Airlines and Spring Airlines, and a focus city for Hainan Airlines.

Pudong Airport is praised for its spacious terminals (T1, T2, S1, and S2), offering modern facilities and a wide variety of shops and eateries. The satellite terminal (S1), opened in 2019, adds to the airport’s capacity.

In 2024, Shanghai Pudong Airport experienced a significant surge in passenger traffic, contributing to a record-breaking year for Shanghai’s airports. The city’s airports collectively handled over 124.8 million passengers, marking a 29% increase from the previous year.

Terminals +info

Shanghai Pudong Airport features two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, each with its own unique design and operational focus.


Terminal 1

Terminal 1, opened in 1999, is primarily used by China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines, along with several international carriers like Qantas, Delta, and Air France. It has a distinctive seagull-shaped design and includes 28 gates, with some being double-decker. The terminal is divided into three floors: departures on the third floor, arrivals on the second, and baggage claim and transfers on the first. Facilities include restaurants, banks, luggage storage, and a 240-hour visa-free transit service.


Terminal 2

Terminal 2, which opened in 2008, is mainly used by Air China and other Star Alliance members. It features a wavy design, slightly larger than Terminal 1, and includes gates numbered 50-98. This terminal enhances the airport’s capacity to handle both domestic and international flights efficiently.

Contact

Address: 18 Xinjinqiao Road, Pudong District, Shanghai 2012016, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA


Phone
: +86 68347575 | +86 21 96990



Lost & Found

Phone:

- Terminal 1: +86 (21) 68340096

- Terminal 2: +86 (21) 68340417


Email:
 lostandfound@shairport.com

Reviews +info

On this website, you will find valuable tips and reviews about Shanghai Airport, designed to help you navigate your travel experience smoothly. These reviews can help you understand what to expect in terms of service quality, cleanliness, and overall passenger experience.

-Our Review of Shanghai Pudong Airport

-Pros and Cons of PVG Airport

-Mini-Guide of the Airport (2’ Guide)

-Other reviews

-Some Stats

Shanghai Airport in numbers

Here are some key facts about Shanghai Pudong International Airport:

  • Location: Approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of Shanghai’s city center.
  • Terminals: Features two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with a satellite concourse.
  • Runways: Currently operates with five runways.
  • Passenger Traffic: Handled over 79 million passengers in 2019.
  • Transportation: Connected to the city via Metro Line 2.

Transportation +info

See below more information about the transportation options from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the city and other sites around: 


Bus:
There are different bus services which depart from Shanghai Airport to several destinations. 
See more information


Taxi:
Taxi at Shanghai Airport is available for all passengers to Shanghai or any other destination. 
See more information


Maglev Train: 
Shanghai Airport has the first high-speed maglev railway (commercial) in the world. It gets to city centre in just 8 minutes. 
See more information


Metro: 
Metro Line 2 links Shanghai Airport and Longyang Road, Lujiazui, People’s Square and Hongqiao International Airport.
See more information


Car Rental: 
Renting a car in Shanghai Pudong Airport is a good idea to move around. Check our search engine for further details!
See more information

About Shanghai

Shanghai is located on the central coast of China and is the country’s largest city, as well as a global financial hub. Historically, Shanghai was a vital coastal point during the colonial era, shaping its development into a cosmopolitan metropolis. Today, it is renowned for its blend of ancient imperial attractions and modern landmarks, making it one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

A visit to Shanghai offers a mix of cultural and architectural highlights. A stroll along The Bund, the city’s iconic waterfront promenade, provides stunning views of Shanghai’s classic skyline, including the futuristic skyscrapers of the Pudong district. The Oriental Pearl Tower, a symbol of modern Shanghai, offers observation decks with panoramic views and a fascinating history museum at its base. For a taste of traditional Chinese architecture and landscaping, Yu Garden is a must-see destination featuring serene ponds, pavilions, and intricate rock formations.

Exploring Shanghai’s vibrant streets is equally rewarding. Nanjing Road, the city’s premier shopping street, stretches over 5.5 kilometers and combines historic department stores with luxury boutiques and modern malls. At night, Nanjing Road transforms into a dazzling spectacle with neon lights illuminating its bustling pedestrian zones. Visitors can also savor local delicacies at century-old food stores or enjoy a ride on the nostalgic Dangdang sightseeing tram.

For those seeking unique experiences, enrolling in a Huangpu River cruise offers breathtaking views of both historic and modern Shanghai from the water. The cruise showcases landmarks such as The Bund and Lujiazui’s skyscrapers while providing insight into the city’s evolution. Additionally, neighborhoods like French Concession and Xintiandi offer glimpses into Shanghai’s colonial past alongside trendy cafes and boutique shops.

Shanghai seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through its rich history and vibrant modernity.