Shanghai: Maglev Train Airport Transfer with Pickup

Summary

Hotel to Pudong Airport by Maglev with Local Guide

Skip Shanghai traffic and ride the world’s fastest Maglev train from your hotel to Pudong Airport with a local guide by your side. You’ll be picked up at your door, guided through every step (even ticketing), and glide to PVG in just eight minutes — it’s surprisingly peaceful for such a high-speed trip. It’s one of those travel moments you’ll remember long after you land.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous about missing my flight out of Shanghai — traffic here can be wild, and I’d heard stories. But then our guide, Mr. Chen, showed up right on time at the hotel lobby, holding a sign with my name (I always get a weird thrill seeing that). He greeted me in English with this gentle “Ni hao,” and we were off into the city’s morning hum. The air outside had that faint scent of steamed buns from a nearby stall — made me wish I’d grabbed breakfast.

The drive to the Maglev station was quick, maybe 20 minutes? Hard to keep track because Mr. Chen kept pointing out little things: “That building is shaped like a bottle opener,” he said, grinning. At the station, he handled all the tickets and led me through security like it was nothing. The Maglev itself… well, you feel it before you realize how fast you’re going. There’s this soft whoosh as it pulls away — no clacking rails, just this floating sensation and suddenly the city is blurring past at 430 km/h. I tried to film it but mostly caught my own surprised face reflected in the window.

Mr. Chen chatted about his favorite noodle shop near the airport (“not for tourists,” he winked), and even helped me check my flight details one last time on his phone. The whole thing felt oddly calm for an airport transfer — no stress, just this smooth glide straight into Pudong International Airport’s departures hall. I still think about that moment when we stepped off the train; everything felt lighter somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Maglev Transfer to Airport

• Meet representative at hotel
• Drive to Maglev train station
• Ride Maglev train to Pudong Airport
• Staff accompany to airport terminal

Top questions

How long does the Maglev train take from downtown Shanghai to Pudong Airport?

The Maglev covers the 19-mile (32-km) distance in only 8 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included in this transfer?

Yes, you’ll be picked up directly from your Shanghai hotel by a local representative.

Will someone help me with tickets and getting on the train?

Yes, an English-speaking staff member will accompany you from your hotel through boarding.

Is this suitable for travelers with children or limited mobility?

The service is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult's lap.

What language does the guide speak?

The representative provides English-speaking services during your transfer.

What’s included

Your transfer includes pickup at your Shanghai hotel by an English-speaking local guide, private transport to the Maglev terminal, your one-way ticket for the high-speed Maglev ride itself, and personal assistance all the way to Pudong International Airport departures.