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How Can You Make the Most of a 16-Hour Layover in Shanghai?

5 min read
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Bogger

Key Points

A long layover can be a travel bonus, especially in a city as dynamic as Shanghai. With 16 hours to spare, you have enough time to get a real taste of this incredible metropolis. This guide will help you navigate a whirlwind tour of Shanghai’s highlights, from ancient gardens to futuristic skylines, all while ensuring you get back to Pudong International Airport (PVG) with time to spare.

First Things First: Logistics

Before you dash into the city, let’s cover the essentials.

Visa-Free Transit: Shanghai offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of many countries. This allows you to leave the airport and explore. Be sure to check if your nationality is eligible before you travel. You’ll need to present your passport and a confirmed ticket to a third country or region at the dedicated counter.

Luggage Storage: Hauling bags around is no fun. Both Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA) airports have luggage storage services. At PVG, you can find them in the arrivals and departures halls of both terminals. Storing your bags will free you up to explore the city comfortably.

Getting into the City: The fastest way to get from PVG to downtown Shanghai is the Maglev train. It’s a thrilling experience, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph). The journey to Longyang Road Station takes only eight minutes. From there, you can easily transfer to the Metro system (Line 2) to reach the city center.

Your 16-Hour Shanghai Itinerary

This plan is designed to be efficient, giving you a mix of culture, food, and iconic sights. We’ll use the Metro for most of the travel within the city as it’s fast, affordable, and easy to navigate.

Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Old Shanghai Charm

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  1. Start at Yu Garden (豫园): From Longyang Road, take Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station and transfer to Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station. This classical Ming Dynasty garden is a peaceful oasis amidst the city’s hustle. Wander through its beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds.
  2. Explore the Yuyuan Bazaar: Surrounding the garden is a bustling market full of traditional architecture, souvenir shops, and street food. It’s the perfect place to grab your first taste of Shanghai. Try some xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) from a local vendor.

Midday (Approx. 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Lunch and Modern Marvels

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  1. Lunch in Lujiazui (陆家嘴): Take Metro Line 10 from Yuyuan Garden to East Nanjing Road, then switch back to Line 2 and head east across the river to Lujiazui Station. This is Shanghai’s financial district, home to its famous skyline. There are numerous dining options here, from food courts in the large shopping malls to upscale restaurants with amazing views.
  2. Ascend a Skyscraper: Choose one of Shanghai’s iconic towers for a breathtaking view. The Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building, offers the highest observation deck. Alternatively, the Shanghai World Financial Center (the “bottle opener”) and the classic Jin Mao Tower also provide stunning panoramas.

Afternoon (Approx. 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM): The Bund and Nanjing Road

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  1. Walk The Bund (外滩): From Lujiazui, take the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel or a quick ferry ride across the Huangpu River. You can also take the Metro Line 2 back to East Nanjing Road Station. The Bund is a famous waterfront promenade lined with historic colonial-era buildings. Stroll along the river and admire the stark contrast between the classic architecture on your side and the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui you just left.

  2. Shop on Nanjing Road (南京路): The Bund leads directly to East Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is a spectacle of lights, shops, and people. It’s a great spot for people-watching and maybe picking up a souvenir or two.

Evening (Approx. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Dinner and Final Views

  1. Dinner: You’ll find countless dining options around Nanjing Road and The Bund. For a memorable meal, consider trying a classic Shanghainese restaurant. Look for dishes like braised pork belly (hong shao rou) or scallion oil noodles (cong you ban mian).
  2. Nighttime on The Bund: Before heading back, take one last look at the Pudong skyline from The Bund. The buildings are brilliantly illuminated at night, creating a magical, cyberpunk-like scene that you won’t forget.

Heading Back to the Airport

Plan to start your journey back to PVG around 8:00 PM to give yourself plenty of time. From East Nanjing Road Station, take Metro Line 2 directly to Longyang Road Station.

Important: The Maglev’s last train from Longyang Road is usually around 9:40 PM. Be sure to check the schedule. If you miss it, you can continue on Metro Line 2 all the way to Pudong International Airport. The Metro ride takes about an hour, so budget your time accordingly.

Once back at the airport, retrieve your luggage, check in for your flight, and relax. You’ve just successfully experienced the best of Shanghai in a single day