The Maglev train combined with Metro Line 2 is the fastest and most exciting way to reach the city center.

About Shanghai City Center (People Square)

People's Square (Renmin Guangchang) is the geographic and cultural heart of Shanghai, occupying the site of the former Shanghai Racecourse in the center of Puxi (the western, historic side of the city). The square is flanked by three major cultural institutions: the Shanghai Museum (with world-class collections of Chinese bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy), the Shanghai Grand Theatre, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, whose scale model of the entire city on the third floor is mesmerizing.

Nanjing Road, China's most famous shopping street, extends east from People's Square to the Bund. The eastern pedestrian section (Nanjing Road East) is a neon-lit canyon of department stores and shops drawing 1 million visitors daily, while the western section (Nanjing Road West) features luxury malls and heritage Art Deco buildings. The former French Concession neighborhood, south of Nanjing Road, offers tree-lined boulevards, colonial villas, boutique cafes, and some of Shanghai's best restaurants.

People's Square is Shanghai's main metro interchange, connecting Lines 1, 2, and 8, making it the most convenient base for exploring the city. From here, the Bund's iconic waterfront skyline views are a 20-minute walk east, the trendy Xintiandi entertainment district is 15 minutes south, and the dynamic Jing'an Temple area is 15 minutes west.

Nearby Landmarks

Shanghai Museum Nanjing Road The Bund (nearby) Xintiandi People's Park

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost CNY 150-200 ($21-28)
Time 45-90 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost CNY 120-170 ($17-24)
Time 45-90 minutes

Designated area at arrivals

Train (Maglev + Metro Line 2)

Cost CNY 50
Time 55 minutes
Frequency Maglev every 15-20 min; Metro every 3-5 min

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Maglev from PVG to Longyang Road (8 min, 430 km/h!). 2. Metro Line 2 to People Square (30 min).

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi CNY 150-200 ($21-28) 45-90 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare CNY 120-170 ($17-24) 45-90 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train CNY 50 55 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Metro Line 2 from PVG runs until approximately 10:00 PM. The Maglev runs until about 9:15 PM. After that, night buses (Line 5) run from the airport but are very slow (2+ hours). Taxis from PVG to People's Square cost ¥150-200 and take 45-70 min. DiDi ride-hailing is widely available.

Luggage Tips

The Maglev train has luggage racks and is very comfortable for bags. Metro Line 2 is much more crowded and challenging with large luggage. People's Square metro station has extensive coin lockers. For heavy luggage during rush hours, consider a taxi directly to your hotel.

Accessibility

PVG airport and the Maglev train are wheelchair accessible. Metro Line 2 stations have elevators though some require staff assistance to locate. People's Square station is large and complex but has accessible routes. Shanghai's sidewalks are generally flat and well-maintained in the central area.