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Shanghai airport taxi

Hi, we've never flown into Shanghai before. Have to Beijing, went to the official taxi rank. The staff were sending locals to the local taxis but insisted we went on a premium taxi at twice the price. Any advice?

Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao airports both have official taxi ranks, but it’s common for travelers to experience confusion or pressure to use “premium” taxis. Here’s what you should know to avoid overpaying:

1. Official Taxi Ranks:

  • Both airports have clearly marked official taxi queues. For standard taxis, you should join the “普通出租车 / Standard Taxi” line, not the “Premium / 高级出租车” line.
  • The premium taxis usually charge roughly double the standard fare for the same distance, but they are newer cars and may offer credit card payment.
  • Staff at the airport sometimes try to redirect foreigners to premium taxis, often citing convenience or English-speaking drivers.

2. Tips for Using Standard Taxis:

  • Stay in the standard taxi queue; you have the right to use these taxis.
  • Show your destination in Chinese on your phone or written on paper—this helps with communication.
  • The approximate fare from Pudong Airport to central Shanghai (People’s Square, Bund area) is around 250–350 CNY depending on traffic. Hongqiao Airport is closer, around 100–150 CNY.
  • Ensure the driver uses the meter. Standard taxis in Shanghai are metered; do not agree to a flat fare unless you prefer it.

3. Alternatives:

  • Airport shuttle buses: Cheaper, safe, but slower, especially with luggage.
  • Metro: Both airports are connected to Shanghai Metro lines. Pudong has Line 2, which goes to central Shanghai. Hongqiao is directly at Hongqiao Railway/Metro Hub (Line 2 & Line 10).
  • Ride-hailing apps like DiDi: Can be used with international cards and often have English interface; allows you to choose car type and see approximate price.

Summary: You can safely use the standard taxis at Shanghai airports without paying extra for a premium taxi. Being prepared with your destination written in Chinese and following the official queue is usually enough to avoid the pressure to overspend.

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