China Visa-Free Travel
Shanghai and Surrounding Cities 240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit Policy
Since November 30, 2024, eligible foreign travelers can enjoy up to 240 hours (10 days) visa-free stay in Shanghai and some neighboring cities.
China Visa-Free Transit Tours allow qualified foreign visitors to travel within designated areas without a visa, experiencing the culture and scenery of Shanghai and nearby cities.
Recommended Visa-Free Travel Itineraries
Make the most of Shanghai’s 240-hour visa-free policy with up to 10 days of exploration!
- Shanghai Visit (2-3 days): Walk along The Bund, explore Yuyuan Garden, and soak up the city’s charm and history.
- Nearby Cities (Suzhou, Hangzhou): Take high-speed trains to enjoy the beautiful water towns and rich culture of Jiangnan.
Layover Recommendations
Half-Day Layover — 6-Hour Itinerary
- Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Tour Duration: About 3 hours
- Recommended Layover Time: 6-8 hours
- Suggested Route:
- From Pudong Airport to city by taxi/private transfer (~1 hour) or Maglev Train (~10 minutes to Longyang Road station);
- Visit The Bund (~1 hour), Yuyuan Garden (~1 hour);
- Return to Pudong Airport by private transfer or Maglev Train.
One-Day Layover — 8-Hour Itinerary
- Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Tour Duration: About 5 hours
- Recommended Layover Time: 9-12 hours
- Suggested Route:
- From Pudong Airport to city as above;
- Visit The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, plus an additional attraction such as Shanghai Tower, Former French Concession, or Nanjing Road Shopping Street;
- Return to airport.
Late Afternoon to Night — 3-Hour Night Activities
- Operating Hours: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Tour Duration: About 3 hours
- Recommended Layover Time: 6-8 hours
- Suggested Route:
- Maglev Train from Pudong Airport to city;
- Enjoy The Bund skyline (~1 hour), Huangpu River Cruise (~45 minutes), and Nanjing Road shopping (~1 hour);
- Return to airport by Maglev Train.
Transportation from Shanghai Pudong Airport to City
- Metro Line 2: Economical and time-saving for those not in a rush.
- Maglev Train: Fastest option—about 8 minutes to Longyang Road Station. Tickets: 50 RMB economy, 100 RMB business.
- Airport Bus: Comfortable, good for large luggage; fare 15-30 RMB; about 1-hour ride.
- Taxi/Private Transfer: Door-to-door, convenient for heavy luggage or unfamiliar travelers.
GotoChina offers reliable private transfers with experienced drivers for hassle-free city transfers during your layover.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai Layover
- Can I leave Shanghai airport during a layover?
Yes, if you meet visa requirements, layover duration, and airline policies. Use Shanghai’s 240-hour visa-free transit if eligible. Minimum 6-hour layover is recommended. - Do I need a visa for a Shanghai layover?
Depends on your nationality and layover time. The 240-hour visa-free policy applies to citizens from 54 countries with valid travel documents and onward tickets to a third country. - Do I need to apply for the 240-hour permit in advance?
No, you can apply upon arrival or online in advance. - What is the minimum layover time to visit Shanghai city?
At least 6 hours to allow for transit, sightseeing, and airport return. - What can I do in Shanghai during a layover?
- Short layover (<6 hrs): Stay in airport and use amenities.
- Medium layover (6-8 hrs): Visit 2-3 spots like The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Yuyuan Bazaar.
- Long layover (9-12 hrs): Visit 3-4 spots including Nanjing Road, Xintiandi, Shanghai Tower.
- Evening layover (≥6 hrs): Enjoy The Bund night view, Huangpu River cruise, and Nanjing Road night market.
- Where to store luggage at Pudong Airport?
- Terminal 1: 3rd floor between Gates 4-5 & 10-11 (Departure), 1st floor near Gate 7 (Domestic Arrivals).
- Terminal 2: 3rd floor near islands A & M (Departure), 2nd floor near International Arrivals 2A exit.
Service hours: 06:00 – 24:00.
- How early should I return to the airport?
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1-2 hours before domestic flights.
Shanghai Visa-Free Transit Layover Itinerary Table
| Layover Duration | Tour Time | Main Transport | Recommended Attractions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| < 6 hours (Short) | – | – | Stay at airport, relax, shop | Airport facilities & free Wi-Fi |
| 6 hours (Half Day) | ~3 hours | Maglev + Taxi/Private Car | The Bund (1h), Yuyuan Garden (1h), Maglev ride | Allow time for transport |
| 8 hours (One Day) | ~5 hours | Maglev + Taxi/Private Car | The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road | Flexible based on your interests |
| 6-8 hours (Night) | ~3 hours | Maglev + Walk | The Bund night view, Huangpu River Cruise, Nanjing Road night shopping | Evening sightseeing |
| 9-12 hours (Long) | ~6-7 hours | Maglev + Taxi/Private Car | The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Nanjing Road, Xintiandi, Shanghai Tower | Deeper city exploration |
| 1-10 days | Flexible | High-speed train, metro, taxi | Shanghai & surrounding cities (Suzhou, Hangzhou) | Use full 240-hour visa-free stay |
Pudong Airport Luggage Storage Locations
| Terminal | Location | Service Hours | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | 3rd floor Departure Hall (Gates 4-5 & 10-11), 1st floor Domestic Arrivals near Gate 7 | 06:00-24:00 | 021-68345201 |
| Terminal 2 | 3rd floor near Island A & M, 2nd floor Intl Arrivals near Exit 2A | 06:00-24:00 | 021-68340065 |
