What to do at Shanghai Pudong Airport during a layover and can you go into the city?

When transferring at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) in 2026, everything depends on how the tickets are purchased. If you are flying with one airline on a single ticket, after arrival simply follow the signs for International Transfer — you do not need to go through passport control, collect luggage, or obtain a visa. Your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight, and your boarding pass is already issued at the departure airport. You only need to go through hand luggage screening again and find your departure gate (To Gate).

If you have tickets from different airlines, or the transfer includes a domestic flight, or you simply want to explore the city, then you will have to leave the transit area. To do this, you need to apply for visa-free transit (for Russians, a 30-day visa-free regime is currently in effect; for other countries, up to 10 days). Follow the signs for Arrival to the transit counters, fill out the form (you can do it online in advance at the website), go through passport control, collect your luggage, and — you are in Shanghai.

If you have a long layover (from 8 hours), be sure to go into the city. The easiest way to get to the center is by metro (about 6 yuan, 40 minutes to Lujiazi station) or by the high-speed Maglev (50 yuan one way, but then you still need to transfer to the metro). In the center, see the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Bund waterfront with its legendary view of skyscrapers and the Shanghai Tower.

For those staying at the airport, there are free rest areas with loungers, hot water dispensers (you can brew tea or noodles), inexpensive cafes, and free WiFi. If you want comfort, buy access to a VIP lounge — there are soft chairs, food, and drinks. You can book access in advance at Trip.com.

You can learn more in our reliable and honest guide in the article Transfer at Shanghai Pudong: Complete Guide – Visa, Luggage, City Access and What to See. There we have covered all scenarios in detail, including terminal changes, risks of flight delays, and how to get a free hotel from the airline.

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