Navigating Shanghai is made easy with its efficient and extensive public transportation network, ensuring you can explore the city with ease.
The Shanghai Metro system, one of the world’s largest, offers numerous lines connecting key areas across the metropolis. With clear signage in both Chinese and English, it’s user-friendly for international visitors. Carrying a map or using a navigation app is advisable, as some station names can be similar, but navigating major areas should pose no issue.
Buses are a popular choice among locals, though identifying the right one can be challenging for visitors due to the predominantly Chinese signage. Taxis provide a straightforward mode of transportation, with readily available cabs throughout the city. They are color-coded by companies, not regions, and a taxi ride from Pudong International Airport to the city center typically costs around 200 CNY. The Maglev train, a high-speed magnetic levitation line, offers a quick and unique experience from the airport to Longyang Road Station, costing 50 CNY one-way.
For a scenic journey, consider taking a ferry across the Huangpu River, offering stunning views of Shanghai’s iconic skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. The ferry connects the Bund on the Puxi side with Lujiazui on the Pudong side, providing a picturesque way to travel between these two bustling areas.
Another historic mode of transport is the retro-style trams in the old French Concession area, which provide a charming way to explore this leafy district with its European-style architecture and vibrant street life.
For a unique perspective, take a leisurely ride on the Shanghai Sightseeing Bus, which offers hop-on-hop-off services covering major attractions like the Bund, Nanjing Road, and Yuyuan Garden. The buses have multilingual audio guides, making it easy to learn about the city’s history and culture as you travel.