Getting Around Shanghai
Getting Around Shanghai
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
One thing that surprised me about Shanghai transport is how incredibly efficient it is. You’d think it would be a bit chaotic with so many people, but once you get the hang of it, it all flows pretty smoothly. The metro system is your best friend here; it’s clean, modern, and gets you pretty much anywhere you need to go in the city. I’d say the main modes of public transport are the metro, buses, and taxis. They run late, with the metro typically operating until around 11 PM, which can be super handy after a long day of exploring.Now, if you’ve got limited time, you might be tempted to grab a city tourist pass, thinking it's the best deal. Many visitors think it’ll save them money, but honestly, regular tickets are pretty affordable. A single metro ride usually costs around ¥3 (like paying under a buck in some other cities) — pretty reasonable!
Oh, before I forget, local rush hour can be a wild ride! The metro gets packed, and I once lost my personal space vibe during a morning commute on Line 2 heading to People’s Square. Seriously, I was practically nose-to-nose with someone, but hey, I eventually got used to it.
I also had a lovely surprise one rainy day when I hopped on a bus in Jing'an. To my amazement, the bus was nearly empty! In Shanghai, the weather affects everything — especially the number of folks commuting. On sunny days, you can expect packed metros and buses, but when it’s pouring, the crowds lighten up a bit.
A neat money-saving tip: if you're traveling with friends, it could be worth it to get a group ticket – you often save a bit if you travel together. And regarding taxis, while they’re convenient, they can be pricier than the metro, especially during peak hours when fares surge.
One last thing about safety: always keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpocketing isn’t rampant, but it’s wise to be mindful, especially on crowded buses or the metro.
In the end, moving through Shanghai is all about timing and adapting to the flow of locals. Whether it’s hopping on the No. 13 bus to Xintiandi for dinner or catching the metro to the Bund at peak hours, just remember to embrace the experience!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The metro in Shanghai is one of the most extensive and efficient public transportation systems in the world, covering major tourist areas such as Pudong, the Bund, and Xintiandi. Tickets can be purchased at the station using cash or a Shanghai Public Transportation Card, which is convenient for multiple rides and offers a discount on fares, typically costing between 3 to 14 RMB depending on the distance traveled. Key lines to consider include Line 2, which connects Hongqiao Airport, People's Square, and Pudong Airport, and Line 10, which leads to popular sights like Yuyuan Garden and Tianzifang. To save time, download the Shanghai Metro app for real-time updates and English-language navigation, and be mindful of peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) when the trains can be extremely crowded. Always stay alert and keep your belongings secure, as crowded trains can attract pickpockets.
popular with tourists
Taxis in Shanghai are a convenient option for getting around the city, with availability 24/7 and a fleet that can easily be hailed from the street or booked through popular ride-hailing apps like DiDi. Fares start at around ¥14 for the first 3 kilometers, with additional costs for distance and time, so it's advisable to familiarize yourself with your destination's distance to estimate the fare. When taking a taxi, it's essential to have your destination written in Chinese, as many drivers may not speak English, and you can also show them a map on your phone. Additionally, always ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging, and prefer official taxis with a logo and a displayed driver ID for safety. Finally, if traveling during peak hours, plan for potential traffic delays, especially around popular areas like The Bund or Nanjing Road.
popular with tourists
The bus system in Shanghai is extensive and covers major tourist attractions, including The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Museum, making it a convenient option for exploring the city. Fares typically cost between 2 to 3 RMB for regular routes, and payment can be made using a Shanghai public transport card or cash for purchases on board, although cash may not be accepted on all buses. A key tip for tourists is to download a bus app or use a translation app to understand bus numbers and routes, as signs are predominantly in Chinese; having the name of your destination written in Chinese can also be beneficial. To save time, try to avoid peak hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) as buses can become overcrowded. Additionally, ensure you stand back when waiting as drivers might not always stop perfectly at the curb; keeping a safe distance is important for your safety.
popular with tourists
Cycling in Shanghai is a fantastic way to explore the city, with numerous bike-sharing options like Mobike and Ofo available throughout the area, especially in popular districts such as Xuhui, Jing'an, and along the Huangpu River. You can easily rent a bike using a mobile app, with typical costs around 1-3 CNY for an hour, and deposits usually ranging from 99 to 299 CNY depending on the service. For a seamless experience, plan your routes along dedicated bike lanes, especially the scenic waterfront paths along the Bund or in parks like Fuxing Park. Remember to wear a helmet for safety, obey traffic rules, and avoid busy roads during peak hours to ensure a relaxing ride. Lastly, try to cycle early in the morning or later in the evening to enjoy cooler temperatures and less crowded streets.
popular with tourists
Walking in Shanghai is an excellent way to explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, as many attractions are conveniently located within walking distance of each other, especially in areas like the Bund and Xintiandi. While there are no typical costs associated with walking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the extensive pedestrian walkways and bridges. A key tourist tip is to download a good map application, as many streets can be complex, and some signs may not be in English. To save time, try to walk during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, especially in the summer months. Finally, always be aware of your surroundings, as traffic can be busy; look out for bicycle lanes that often run parallel to pedestrian paths.
popular with tourists
The ferry system in Shanghai provides a scenic and efficient way to cross the Huangpu River, connecting popular areas such as the Bund and Pudong. Fares are typically very affordable, ranging from 2 to 10 RMB, and you can pay using cash or a Shanghai transportation card at the terminals. A key tourist tip is to take the ferry during sunset for stunning views of the city skyline, especially when passing the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. To save time, consider using the ferry instead of road transport during peak hours, as it can bypass heavy traffic. Always be mindful of your belongings and follow safety instructions, especially when boarding and disembarking.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Shanghai. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.