Car hire in Beijing or Shanghai

Question

I am planning a china trip later in the year. I wanted to know the typical cost for hiring a car with driver for 8hrs and less than 100kms. I can see quotes online but wanted to know prices from local companies. Does the cost go up significantly if the driver speaks english?

Answer

Hiring a car with a driver in Beijing or Shanghai is a common option for tourists who prefer convenience, flexibility, and comfort. For a standard 8-hour service covering less than 100 km, local rates are usually more affordable than international online quotes.

Typical costs from local companies vary depending on vehicle type, company, and driver experience:

Economy sedan (e.g., Buick, Volkswagen): approximately 600–800 CNY per 8 hours, including fuel and driver.
Mid-range or luxury sedan (e.g., Audi, BMW): approximately 1000–1500 CNY per 8 hours.
Minivan or SUV (suitable for 4–6 passengers): around 1200–1800 CNY per 8 hours.

If you require a driver who speaks English, the cost usually increases because qualified English-speaking drivers are less common. The surcharge can be around 200–400 CNY per day depending on the company and the driver’s proficiency.

English-speaking driver surcharge: 200–400 CNY per 8-hour day.
Booking through hotels or local travel agencies may be slightly higher than booking directly with local companies.
It is often recommended to pre-arrange and confirm all details (hours, distance, fuel, tolls, parking fees) to avoid extra charges.

Additional tips:

Local companies usually accept WeChat Pay or Alipay, which makes payment straightforward.
For sightseeing in Beijing or Shanghai, traffic can be heavy, so keep extra time in your schedule.
Confirm whether the car includes a GPS system or if your driver can navigate well without one.

In summary, hiring a local driver for 8 hours is convenient and moderately priced. Including an English-speaking driver adds some cost but greatly improves communication, especially if your itinerary involves asking the driver for directions, recommendations, or slight detours.

Car hire in Beijing or Shanghai

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