How to Get Around Shanghai: Metro, Buses, Taxis & More for Travelers

Just touched down in Shanghai, and honestly, the first thing I noticed was how massive and efficient the city feels. As a Malaysian traveler, I’m used to the ease of getting around places like KL or Penang—but Shanghai? It’s next level. The metro system is impressively fast and modern, but navigating it for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming (especially if you don’t read Chinese) 😅. That said, once you get the hang of it, it’s smooth sailing—or should I say, smooth riding 🚇.

Getting around Shanghai has its own unique rhythm. The streets buzz with life—fast-paced metro rides beneath towering skyscrapers, charming old neighborhoods you’ll want to stroll through 🚶‍♀️, and even ferry rides across the Huangpu River that offer seriously scenic views ⛴️. Whether you’re hopping on a public bus 🚌, flagging a taxi 🚕, or renting a bike for a breezy park ride 🚲, there’s a transport mode for every kind of traveler.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key ways to get around—from metro cards to must-download apps, which rides are best for families vs. solo explorers, and a few personal tips I picked up along the way (like which metro lines are air-conditioned—a lifesaver depending on the weather in Shanghai 🌤️).

Here’s everything you need to know about getting around in Shanghai—whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just trying to find your next bowl of something delicious. 🍜🗺️

🚇 Metro, Subway, or Train System in Shanghai

If you’re heading to Shanghai and wondering how to move around efficiently—good news! The Shanghai Metro (上海地铁) is one of the largest and most convenient train systems in the world. Coming from Malaysia, where we value comfort, cleanliness, and clarity, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how modern and well-connected the metro is. It’s fast, fairly clean, and mostly air-conditioned—syok! 😄

🗺️ System Overview

The Shanghai Metro is HUGE—over 500 stations and 16+ lines (identified by numbers and colors). It covers most major tourist areas, business districts, and even goes all the way to the airports. You’ll find a mix of local and express services depending on the line, and transfers between lines are mostly seamless. 🚉

📍 Key Tourist Stops You’ll Probably Use

Here are some metro stations you’ll likely stop at during your trip:

• People’s Square (人民广场) – Shopping, museums, central hub 🎯
• East Nanjing Road (南京东路) – Pedestrian shopping street 🛍️
• Lujiazui (陆家嘴) – The iconic skyline + Shanghai Tower 🏙️
• Disney Resort (迪士尼) – For families visiting Shanghai Disneyland 🎢
• Yuyuan Garden (豫园) – Historic Chinese gardens & food street 🍢

Signs and station names are in both Chinese and English, so no worries if you can’t read Mandarin!

💳 Tickets, Cards & How to Pay

You can use:

• Shanghai Public Transport Card (交通卡) – Works like Malaysia’s Touch ‘n Go
• WeChat Pay or Alipay – Most locals use this, but you’ll need to set it up before arrival
• Single-journey tokens – Buy them at ticket machines (multilingual options available)
• Tourist Day Passes – 1-day or 3-day metro passes are available at larger stations and are great if you’re exploring a lot in one day.

Tip: Grab your card at the airport or main metro stations—very convenient for topping up!

🕒 Operating Hours & Frequency

• First train: Around 5:30–6:00 AM
• Last train: Between 10:30 PM and 11:30 PM (varies by line)
• Train frequency: Every 3–7 minutes during the day
  Very punctual and efficient—just like the MRT back home 🇲🇾👍

✅ Pros & Ideal Users

• Perfect for solo explorers or couples who want a cheap and fast way to get around 🚇
• Families can use it too, just avoid peak hours if you’ve got young kids 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Cleanliness is solid, and most trains are air-conditioned (some older lines can be warm though)
• Some stations have free Wi-Fi or mobile signal boosting

Compared to Singapore’s MRT, it’s more extensive but can be a little less intuitive, especially when switching lines in big transfer hubs.

⚠️ Tips & Watch-Outs

• Peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM & 5:30–7:00 PM) are really packed—like sardine can level 😰
• Stations like People’s Square are huge and can be confusing—follow the signs, but allow extra time
• While signage is bilingual, announcements can be fast, so stay alert!
• Some older lines don’t have screen doors—so mind the platform edge

🔗 If you’re coming straight from the airport, check out our Shanghai Airport to City Center guide for the best routes and train options!

🚌 Taking the Bus & Airport Shuttles in Shanghai

If you’re thinking of using buses in Shanghai, don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks, even if you're new to China’s public transport. As a fellow Malaysian (and regular MRT/bus user back home), I found the Shanghai bus system surprisingly accessible once you get used to a few quirks!

🚌 Local Bus System Overview

Shanghai’s public bus network is massive, and it’s managed by several state-run companies under the Shanghai Public Transport Card Co. You’ll find buses connecting residential areas, shopping streets, parks, and scenic riverside spots that might be harder to reach by metro. Locals use it daily, but not many tourists do—mostly because of the language barrier. Still, it’s worth trying, especially for areas not directly served by the metro!

📍 When to Take the Bus in Shanghai

While the metro is usually faster, buses can be a great choice when:

• You want to visit places like Century Park 🌳 or Qibao Ancient Town 🏘️, which require a bit of walking from the nearest metro
• You’re exploring scenic routes like along the Huangpu River or heading to suburban neighborhoods on a budget
• You want a slower, more local-paced experience (and maybe snap a few street pics 📸)

Two popular and useful routes:

• Bus 71: A modern BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) line that cuts across central Shanghai
• Pudong Airport Shuttle Line 1: Great for hotel zones and Lujiazui business area

💳 How to Pay & Ride

Buses in Shanghai are super affordable, usually around ¥2–3 per ride. You can pay by:

• Shanghai Public Transport Card (交通卡) – just like our EZ-Link
• Mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay (if set up)
• Cash – but you’ll need exact change; drivers don’t give back change

✅ Board at the front door, exit at the back.
Most buses have digital screens showing the next stop (some in English), but it’s still a good idea to follow along on a map app like Gaode (Amap) or Baidu Maps.

🕒 Bus Operating Hours & Frequency

• Regular hours: Around 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM
• Some night buses run until midnight or later
• During the day, buses come every 5–15 minutes, depending on the route

It’s generally reliable, though some routes may run less frequently during off-peak hours or weekends.

✈️ Airport Shuttle Bus – A Handy Option

If you’re flying into Shanghai and don’t want to drag your luggage onto the metro, the airport shuttle buses are a lifesaver:

• Available from Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA) airports
• Drop-offs at major hotels, city terminals, and metro hubs
• Fares range from ¥20–30, depending on your destination
• Tickets can be purchased at airport counters or directly from the driver (cash or transport card)

🚐 Tip: If you’re arriving late at night or traveling with heavy bags or young kids, the shuttle is more relaxing than switching metro lines.

✅ Is the Bus Good for You?

• Budget-conscious travelers: Definitely, it’s one of the cheapest ways to get around
• Curious explorers: It’s a more relaxed way to see street life and local vibes
• Locals use it every day, and with the air-con and comfy seats, it’s not a bad ride at all!

Compared to Singapore, buses in Shanghai might feel a bit older and more chaotic—but they’re just as practical once you get used to them.

⚠️ Things to Watch Out For

• Signage can be in Chinese only, though many buses now have bilingual displays
• Route changes or stops skipped during construction (apps may not update quickly)
• Some apps are in Chinese, so it helps to have Amap or Google Translate handy

👀Here's a little tip: don't forget to grab the discount code, it can save you a lot of money!

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😀Important Note

• Restaurant Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
• Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
• Dinner: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

🚖 Getting Around Shanghai by Taxi & Ride-Hailing

If you're visiting Shanghai and prefer private transport over crowded metros or navigating bus routes, taxis and ride-hailing apps are a reliable and convenient choice—especially if you’re traveling with kids, seniors, or lots of luggage 🎒🧳. As a fellow Malaysian used to Grab rides and cashless comfort, I found the Shanghai experience quite smooth once I got the hang of it.

🚖 Availability & Reputation

Taxis are widely available in Shanghai, especially in tourist areas, train stations, and outside malls. They're generally regulated and metered, and drivers are licensed—so you can feel reasonably safe. That said, some tourists have encountered overcharging or “broken meter” excuses, so using ride-hailing apps is the safer bet, especially if you're new to the city.

Locals now mostly use ride-hailing apps like DiDi, which is the Chinese equivalent of Grab. You’ll rarely see people hailing cabs by the roadside anymore—DiDi is the way to go.

📱 Best Ride-Hailing Apps in Shanghai

• DiDi Chuxing (滴滴出行) – The most popular and reliable ride-hailing app in China
• Available on App Store & Google Play (download the international version in English!)
• Offers car types from basic taxis to DiDi Premier and DiDi Luxe
• Upfront pricing, in-app payment, and optional English language interface
• You can even schedule rides in advance or use translation tools in the app

✅ Tip: Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay for a smoother experience, though some DiDi cars also accept foreign cards.

💸 Fare Estimates & Payment

• From city center to Pudong Airport (PVG): ~¥180–¥250 (approx. SGD 35–48)
• From city center to The Bund: ~¥20–¥40 (approx. SGD 4–8)
• All taxis are metered, with a base fare around ¥14 and surcharges for night time or long distances
• DiDi shows you the fare upfront, and sometimes offers promotions or coupons in-app
• Cash is accepted in traditional taxis, but card payments are rare—better to use apps

🛬 Airport Pickup Info

• Pudong (PVG): Official taxi stand is clearly marked at Arrival Exit 1, Terminal 1
• Hongqiao (SHA): Taxi queue outside the Arrivals Hall, Level 1
• Ride-hailing pickup areas are in designated zones—usually indicated by “App Car Pick-Up” signs
• Expect a small airport surcharge (usually ¥10–¥15)
• For peace of mind, you can pre-book a car through DiDi or Trip.com Airport Transfers if you prefer a driver waiting with your name

🔗Check out China Map Apps here

✅ Best for These Travellers

• Families with kids 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 – No need to wrestle with strollers on escalators
• Seniors or limited mobility travellers – Door-to-door comfort
• Late-night arrivals or early flights – When metros are closed
• Those staying in quieter or non-central districts where metro coverage is thinner

⚠️ Watch-Outs & Local Tips

• Avoid unlicensed taxis waiting at tourist spots—these drivers often overcharge or take longer routes
• Always insist on the meter if taking a street taxi
• During peak hours (8–9 AM, 5–7 PM) or rainy days, ride-hailing may have delays or surge pricing
• If using DiDi, double-check the license plate and driver photo before hopping in

💡 Bonus Tip: DiDi’s English version sometimes doesn’t show all car types. If you're adventurous and can read a bit of Chinese, switch to the local version for more options (just remember to screenshot the route!).

🚶 Exploring Shanghai on Foot

If you enjoy discovering a city at street level, Shanghai is wonderfully walkable in all the right places. Coming from Singapore, where walking through Orchard Road or Marina Bay feels safe and efficient, I found Shanghai to be a lively, layered experience—part urban adventure, part cultural stroll.

🚶 Is Shanghai Walkable?

Yes, very, especially in tourist-friendly districts. Many of Shanghai’s top attractions are clustered in well-connected zones, so you can easily hop from one iconic spot to another on foot. For example:

• The Bund (外滩): A must-see waterfront promenade with postcard views of the skyline 🌆
• East Nanjing Road (南京东路): A vibrant pedestrian shopping street—buzzing day and night 🛍️
• Tianzifang & Xintiandi: Artsy alleys and trendy cafes nestled in restored Shikumen lanes 🎨🍵
• French Concession: Tree-lined streets, boutiques, and charming cafés—perfect for a slow, scenic walk 🍂

Walking lets you notice small details—like hanging lanterns, street snacks, or quiet corners locals love.

🛣️ Sidewalks, Crossings & Navigation

• Sidewalks are common, especially in central and tourist areas. Some are wide and leafy, others narrower or shared with parked scooters
• Pedestrian crossings exist, but drivers may not always stop—look both ways!
• Accessibility: It’s mostly flat, but watch out for the occasional uneven pavement or random step. Wheelchair users may find some areas challenging, especially in older parts like Tianzifang

Compared to Singapore, expect more unpredictability—scooters might zoom by even on walkways, and crosswalks don’t always guarantee right of way 🚦😅

🗺️ Navigation, Signs & Safety

• Google Maps works, but not perfectly—try Amap or Baidu Maps (with English support) for more accurate walking routes
• Most signs include English in tourist zones, and street names often come with Pinyin too
• Safety: Walking in Shanghai feels generally safe, even at night in busy areas. I strolled along The Bund at 10 PM with no issues at all 🌃

🌦️ Weather Considerations

Shanghai is super walkable in spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov)—mild, breezy weather makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Summers (June–August) can be hot and humid 🌞, while winters (Dec–Feb) are cold but walkable with a good coat 🧥.

Check out the weather in Shanghai before planning your outdoor itinerary—it's worth knowing what to expect!

📸 Scenic Walks & Hidden Gems

• Huangpu Riverside Walk: A peaceful escape with skyline views, perfect around sunset 🌇
• Wukang Road in the French Concession: Stylish, quiet, and full of photogenic buildings and cafés ☕
• Fuxing Park: Great for a morning walk where you might spot locals doing tai chi or ballroom dancing 🕺🌳
• Qibao Ancient Town: Slightly outside the city center but charming to wander through, especially in the evening lantern light 🎏

✅ Best for These Travellers

• Solo adventurers who love to explore at their own pace
• Couples looking for romantic strolls and cool cafés
• Foodies chasing smells down little lanes (check out food streets in Shanghai!)
• Shutterbugs—this city is full of unexpected photo spots 📷

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Busy intersections can be chaotic—stay alert
• Some streets lack shade, so bring an umbrella or hat in summer
• Construction zones can force detours, especially near new developments
• Scooters on sidewalks—they don't always follow rules!

🔗 Want a better walking experience? It helps to pick the right base—check our guide on where to stay in Shanghai for walkable districts near metro lines and key sights.

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🚋 Iconic Local Rides in Shanghai – Not Your Usual Commute, Lah!

If you’re a Singaporean traveler who loves a bit of cultural charm with your transport (but maybe not too wild 😅), Shanghai has a few fun, nostalgic, and uniquely local ways to get around that go beyond the metro and buses. While sleek subways get you there fast, these options add a little personality to the journey.

🚋 Old-School Tram at Zhangjiang

One of the coolest hidden gems is the Zhangjiang Tram in Pudong. It’s Shanghai’s only modern tram line, running on electricity and gliding smoothly through a quieter science-tech district. You’ll find it in the Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park area—perfect if you're exploring beyond the usual tourist trail.

• 🗺️ Where: Pudong, near Line 2’s Zhangjiang High Technology Park Station
• 💰 Cost: Around ¥2–3 per ride, paid with the same Shanghai Public Transport Card
• 🎯 Why try it: Quiet, scenic, and a totally different pace from the metro
• ✅ Great for: Chill explorers and tram geeks; not so great if you're rushing for time

It's not exactly the clanging streetcars of Hong Kong, but it offers a calm, suburban vibe that contrasts sharply with Shanghai’s buzzier zones.

🛺 Tourist Sightseeing Carriages at The Bund

You’ll spot these brightly lit tourist shuttle carts zipping along The Bund at night 🌃. They’re like mini open-air trams (some look like toy trains!) and let you soak in the skyline views without walking the whole stretch.

• 🗺️ Where: Along The Bund, usually in the evenings
• 💰 Cost: Around ¥20–30 per person
• 🎯 Why try it: For the experience of cruising past the Lujiazui skyline, camera-ready!
• ✅ Great for: Families, seniors, and tired feet after a long day 🚶‍♀️💤
• ⚠️ Not great for: Rushing schedules or those wanting an actual A-to-B ride

🚕 “Black Cars” & Motorized Rickshaws – A Word of Caution

You might be tempted by those unlicensed black cars or electric tuk-tuk-style rides that linger around markets or metro exits—skip them lah unless you’re feeling super adventurous.

• 🛑 They’re usually not regulated, may overcharge, and don’t follow proper routes
• Locals rarely use them unless it’s super late or no taxis are around
• ✅ Great for… no one really (unless you’re filming a drama 😅)

📸 Senses & Scenes

Taking the tram or sightseeing buggy offers a more relaxed way to feel the city's vibe—you'll hear the slow hum of the tram, see everyday life roll by, and maybe catch the scent of roasted chestnuts or street skewers 🍢. It’s slower, yes, but it’s also Shanghai at eye level—not underground or behind a taxi window.

⛴️ Cruising Through Shanghai

If you’re a Singaporean traveller who enjoys mixing sightseeing with a little breeze in your hair, Shanghai’s river transport is a delightful—and surprisingly practical—way to experience the city. With the Huangpu River cutting through the heart of Shanghai, water transport isn’t just scenic, it’s part of the city’s character.

⛴️ What’s Available?

Shanghai offers a few water-based options that range from functional to photo-worthy:

• Shanghai Ferry (上海轮渡) – Public ferries crossing the Huangpu River, used by locals and budget-savvy tourists
• Huangpu River Cruises – Private sightseeing cruises that take you past iconic landmarks
• Hop-on Hop-off River Boats – Touristy but super fun if you like flexibility and skyline selfies 📸
• Private yacht/boat rentals – Available for romantic nights or small group experiences

The ferries are operated by the city’s transport network, while cruise services are run by various private companies like Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise Co.

🗺️ Where It Goes

Water transport mostly follows the Huangpu River, separating Puxi (the historic west) and Pudong (the modern skyline east):

• Ferries connect key piers like:
• • Dongchang Road Pier (东昌路码头)
  • Fuxing Road East Pier (复兴东路码头)
  • Zhongshan Wharf near The Bund (中山东一路码头)
• River Cruises usually loop between The Bund, Lujiazui, and Yangpu Bridge, offering amazing skyline views especially at night 🌆
• Several piers are close to metro stations like Line 2 Lujiazui, making transfers easy

💸 Tickets & How to Ride

• Ferries: Super cheap—¥2–¥5 per ride, paid via Shanghai Public Transport Card, Alipay, or cash
• River Cruises: Range from ¥50 to ¥150+, depending on the type of boat (basic to luxury) and time of day
• You can buy tickets at the pier, but during weekends or public holidays, queues can be long—go early or book online in advance
• English support is limited at kiosks, so it helps to screenshot the Chinese name of your destination

🕒 Timings & Frequency

• Ferries run daily, generally from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, every 10–15 minutes
• Sightseeing cruises often start in the late morning and run until 9:30–10:00 PM, with sunset and night cruises being most popular
• Some premium boats even include buffet dinners or live commentary

🎯 Who It’s Best For

• First-time visitors & photographers: For epic skyline views of The Bund and Lujiazui
• Couples: The evening river cruise is super romantic 🌃❤️
• Families: Ferries are safe, quick, and fun for kids
• Those avoiding traffic or metros: A peaceful alternative with a breeze!

⚠️ Watch-Outs

• Some boarding points have steep steps or floating platforms—may be tricky for elderly or those with limited mobility
• Boats are open-air, so bring sunblock, a hat, or umbrella 🌞☔
• During rainy or foggy days, the views are limited and boats may get splashy near the rails
• Peak times mean longer queues and fewer seats by the railing

📸 Local Flavour

From your ferry or cruise boat, you might spot:

• Cargo barges chugging along, reminding you this is a working river
• Locals commuting via ferry with their e-bikes
• Tourists and couples taking selfies with Oriental Pearl Tower twinkling behind them
• The golden glow of colonial architecture on The Bund reflecting on the water 🏮🌉

🛵 Getting Around Shanghai on Two Wheels – E-Scooters & Shared Bikes

Looking for a quick, zippy way to get around Shanghai? While you won’t find motorbike taxis like in Bangkok, the city has embraced micro-mobility in a big way—especially shared e-scooters and bicycles. For Singaporean travellers used to comfort and order, this might feel a bit adventurous—but it’s a super fun, practical way to explore!

🛵 What’s Available?

Shanghai’s main micro-mobility options include:

• Shared e-bikes and e-scooters from providers like HelloBike (哈啰出行), Meituan Bike (美团单车), and Alipay’s Qingju Bike (青桔单车)
• All are app-based, dockless systems used by locals for quick commutes and last-mile connections
• They’re official services, often parked along sidewalks, metro exits, or residential areas

📍 Where to Find Them

You’ll see them everywhere—outside metro stations, near parks, shopping malls, and on quieter streets in districts like French Concession, Xintiandi, and around universities. No need for a dock—just park them neatly in a safe spot (avoid blocking pathways).

📲 How to Use

1. Download the app (HelloBike, Meituan, or Alipay for Qingju)
2. Register with your phone number – some apps may require Chinese number, but international SIMs may work via Alipay/WeChat Pay
3. Add a payment method – Alipay is easiest for foreigners; some accept international cards
4. Scan the QR code on the bike/scooter to unlock
5. Ride, park, and end trip in-app

💰 Rides typically cost ¥1–¥3 per 15–30 minutes. Super affordable!

🛡️ Safety Tips

• Helmets are not provided, and not commonly worn—ride carefully
• Stick to bike lanes where available, and avoid busy roads
• For first-timers: hold the handlebars firmly, don’t go too fast, and be extra cautious when turning 🚦
• Avoid riding during rain, steep areas, or where traffic is intense

✅ Ideal For

• Solo travelers hopping between cafes, museums, or metro stations
• Beating traffic in narrow alleys or historic areas
• Quick trips around campus zones or neighborhoods too far to walk but too short for a cab

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Rush hour pricing may be higher on some platforms
• Limited insurance coverage for tourists
• Not great if you're carrying big luggage, wearing skirts, or unsure of traffic flow
• Some apps may be in Chinese only, so prepare screenshots or translations ahead of time

🚘 Renting a Car & Driving in Shanghai – Should You Do It?

If you’re a Singaporean traveller used to well-signed roads, ERP-style systems, and orderly traffic, driving in Shanghai might feel like a different ballgame. While not impossible, it’s definitely not for the faint of heart—traffic here can be dense, aggressive, and unpredictable, especially in the city centre.

🚘 When It Makes Sense to Drive

For most travellers, public transport or ride-hailing is the smarter choice within the city. But renting a car can make sense if:

• You’re travelling with young kids or seniors, and want flexibility for day trips
• You plan to visit outskirts or countryside areas like Zhujiajiao Water Town, Suzhou, or Hangzhou 🚗🌾
• You’re staying in suburban hotels or resorts where public transport is limited

Otherwise, navigating central Shanghai by car can be stressful due to heavy traffic, limited parking, and confusing road rules.

📍 Where to Rent a Car

You can rent a car easily at:

• Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA) Airports
• Major city outlets (e.g., Jing’an, Lujiazui)
• Online via platforms like Trip.com:

📄 Requirements for Tourists

Singaporean travellers cannot use a Singapore license directly in China. You’ll need:

• A Chinese driving license (foreign licenses and IDPs are not recognised)
• Some companies offer temporary driving permits, but it’s complex and time-consuming
• Recommended only if you’re planning a long-term stay or cross-province road trip

✅ Alternative: hire a car with a driver for convenience and legality

💸 Cost Overview

• Daily rates: from ¥250–¥500+, depending on car type and season
• Deposit: usually ¥2,000–¥5,000, refundable
• Fuel policy: Typically full-to-full
• Extra costs: tolls on highways, parking fees (~¥10–20/hr in city), and traffic fines if incurred

There’s no ERP-style congestion charge, but traffic jams can cost you time, especially during peak hours.

🛣️ Driving Conditions & Culture

• Right-hand driving (opposite of Singapore!)
• GPS works well—use Amap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps for accuracy, but they're mostly in Chinese
• Road signs in tourist areas include English, but further out they may not
• Local drivers can be aggressive—expect sudden lane changes, honking, and scooter swarms 😅

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Parking is tough in central districts—limited spaces and strict enforcement
• Tight roads in older neighborhoods, lots of mopeds and delivery bikes
• Limited signage in English outside tourist zones
• Complex driving permit process may not be worth it for short visits

✅ Ideal for These Travellers

• Families doing a multi-city itinerary
• Business travellers needing flexibility across multiple stops
• Couples or groups planning scenic drives outside the city

If you’re sticking to urban sightseeing, skip the rental and go for public transport or a car with driver.

Final Tips of Getting Around in Shanghai

The best way to explore? Mix it up—hop on the metro, try a ferry, ride an e-scooter (safely!), and don’t forget to have mobile data ready for apps and maps. If you haven’t sorted that yet, check out the best eSIM for China.

Need help planning more?

👉 Where to stay in Shanghai

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Happy exploring! 🧭✨