16-hour layover in Shanghai: Is it worth leaving the airport?

Hi there!

I’m heading to Hanoi next week and we’ve got a 16-hour layover in Shanghai. Is it worth leaving the airport? We’re Belgian, so no visa required.

Thanks! !

Hi there,

Of course! Your luggage will stay in transit, so there’s nothing you need to do. Just go through border control, then take the metro to the city center—Line 2 (green). The first train leaves at 6:00 AM and costs less than a euro. From Pudong Airport to downtown Shanghai by bus, taxi, metro, and Maglev train

Hi there,

Of course it’s worth it (and the cost), as Patrick already mentioned. A quick trip to the Bund, Nanjing Road, and the charming Yu Garden with some street food to get into the vibe. Just make sure to head back early enough—you’ll need to go through security and immigration again.

Awesome, thanks for your replies!

Aren’t the exit and entry procedures at the airport too complicated? Also, if we do go out, how early do you recommend we get back before our Shanghai–Hanoi flight? 2–3 hours like in Europe? Or more?

Thanks!

Mathieu

Hi,

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return. Keep your next boarding pass handy. Arrival formalities and checks can take a while on the way back, depending on how busy it is and how many counters are open. When returning, being there 3 hours early is for security.