Written by Natalia |
During a long international layover, have you ever feel exhausted and bored? Or have you ever reluctant to explore the unknown city due to numerous concerns such as visa, language, and transportation? Thanks to a series of new services published in 2025, you can enjoy a short Shanghai layover tour to witness the city skylines in Pudong District and taste delicious local food in Shanghai, etc.
This article will offer a detailed guide about visa, tourists attractions, transportation, etc, so that you could have a relaxing layover experience in Shanghai meanwhile immersing yourself in this international metropolis even if you only have 12 hour layover in Shanghai.
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- Can You Explore Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover?
- Reserve Sufficient Time
- What to Do in Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover
- Best places to visit in Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover
- Suggested 12 Hour Shanghai Layover Itinerary
- Transportation Tips for a Smooth Layover
- Practical Tips for Your 12 Hour Shanghai Layover
- If You Can’t Leave the Airport: Making the Most of Airports
- FAQs about a layover tour in Shanghai
- Plan a 12 Hour Shanghai Layover tour with Chian Xian Tour
Can You Explore Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover?
Do I need a visa for a 12 hour layover in Shanghai?
Now citizens from 55 countries like US, Russia, UK, France are subject to a 240-hour visa-free transit policy. So if you are from these countries, and have an onward tickets to the third country or region, there is no need to apply for a visa and you can leave the airport directly with your valid international travel document and connecting flight ticket.
For tourists from other countries, if you stay in China for not more than 24 hours and do not leave the designated area of the port, then it is not required to apply for a visa. While if you want to take a tour around the urban area of Shanghai and the duration does not exceed 24 hours, you can apply to the border inspection authority at the port for a temporary entry permit with your passport and connecting flight ticket. And there is no need to apply for a visa in advance.
Can I leave the airport during a layover in Shanghai?
Passengers from visa waiver countries, those with a layover duration not more than 24 hours, and visitors from countries on Chinaās 30-day visa-free policy list, can leave the airport with valid certificates and a connecting flight ticket.
For passengers donāt meet the the visa-free policy requirements, they are not permitted to leave and can only move within the transfer area.
Shanghai 24-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit policy explained
To ensure you enjoy a smooth 12 hour layover in Shanghai, the core differences of the two polices are listed below.
Ā |
240-hour visa-free transit policy |
|
Applicable to |
Citizens of allĀ countries |
Citizens of 55 countries |
Duration of Stay |
Up to 24 hours |
Up to 240 hours (10 days) |
Scope of Activities |
If leaving the airport, a Temporary Entry Permit is required, but activities are generally limited to the city where the port of entry is located. |
Can travel within the allowed activity areas across 24 provinces, regions, and municipalities in China. |
Requirements |
Passport andĀ a connecting flight ticket, and no need toĀ apply for a visaĀ if not leaving the airport area. |
Passport and aĀ connecting flight ticket |
Entry Ports |
All open international ports. |
Any of the 60 open ports, including Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Hongqiao International Airport, and Shanghai Port |
Which airport is better for a layover –Ā Pudong vs Hongqiao?
For foreign tourists, Pudong Airport is better. It is an international transportation hub operating most international flights in Shanghai. The airport also offers 24-hour customs clearance service and 240-hour visa-free transit, which provide great convenience to international travelers. And subway line 2, maglev train and airport line connect the airport to downtown area.
Related reading: Shanghai Transportation: Getting to & around
Reserve Sufficient Time
Though the 12-hour layover time may seem not short, but after deducting the time for entry and exit procedures, transportation, and returning to the airport for subsequent flight procedures, the remaining time is about 6 hours. Therefore, it is recommended to choose scenic spots that are relatively close to the airport, such as The Bund, Shanghai Tower and Nanjing Road, in case you miss flights.
What to Do in Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover
See below the top things to do in ShanghaiĀ for a short layover tour. They are all iconic highlights of the city.
The Bund – Best Viewing Point
As the city landmark, the Bund is a must-visit attraction of Shanghai tour, which is by the Huangpu River and about 1.5 kilometers long. 52 classic buildings of various architectural styles stand here, telling the ups and downs of the city. When the lights are on at night, the cluster of skyscrapers on the opposite bank like Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower showcase the charm of this international metropolis.
Yu Garden – Famous Jiangnan Garden
With a history more than 450 years, Yu Garden is a famous Jiangnan Garden. The pavilions, terraces, towers, rockeries, ponds and plants embody the artistic style of the southern gardens of Ming and Qing Dynasty – tranquil, beautiful, exquisite, and delicate. You can also explore Yuyuan Market next to it to buy some Chinese style souvenirs.
Nanjing Road – A Prosperous Business Street
Known as āthe First Commercial Street of Chinaā, Nanjing Road is the earliest commercial street in Shanghai after it opened as a commercial port. Now, it is still a prosperous pedestrian street integrating shopping, tourism, leisure, business and exhibition. You can find several China time-honored brands and plenty of international brands here. At night, the street is even more brilliant and bustling.
Related reading: Shopping in Shanghai: What and Where to Buy
Shanghai Tower – The Highest Building in China
At the sightseeing hall on the 118thĀ floor of Shanghai Tower, the highest building in China, you will enjoy a stunning view of the entire city landscapes, including over 3000 and 1000 high buildings in Puxi District and Pudong District.
Jade Buddha Temple – Enjoy a Tranquil Tour
The temple is famous for the Jade Buddha enshrined there. The quiet environment inside the temple forms a strong contrast with the outside flourishing city. Here, you can not only appreciate the exquisite Buddhist statues and architectural arts, but also feel the inner tranquility and peace.
Zhujiajiao Water Town – Venice in Shanghai
In this classic Jiangnan water town, the ancient landscape of bridges, architectures and water will make you feel like travelling back to ancient China. Here, you can take the sculling boat to travel through the waterways and watch the buildings of Ming and Qing Dynasties on both sides, or wander along the ancient street to taste local snacks and experience leisure life pace.
Ride Shanghai Maglev – Experience Flying Close to the Ground
As the worldās first commercially operated maglev line, it connects Pudong Airport and Longyang Road metro station. Its maximum operating speed is up to 430 kilometers per hour, allowing you to experience the thrill of āflying close to the groundāĀ and feel the technological charm of Shanghai as an international metropolis. Although the whole journey only takes about 8 minutes, it is definitely an unforgettable high-speed traffic experience.
Shanghai Museum – Various Abundant Collections
Shanghai Museum is a large museum of Chinese ancient art, thus highly recommended for your 12 hour layover in Shanghai. The most abundant cultural relics are bronze wares, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings and seals. Total number of collections is over 1.02 million, including over 140,000 precious cultural relics.
Taste Shanghai Food
Shanghai food combines the local dishes with flavors of different areas which is exquisite and various. The representative dishes are Braised Pomfret and Stir-Fried Shrimps and the unmissable snacks include Small Steamed Buns, Pan Fried Pork Bun and Spare Ribs with Rice Cakes. You can taste the local dishes in Dexing Restaurant and Yixinzhai Restaurant or savor snacks in Nanjing Road and Yuyuan Market.
Former French Concession – Combination of Chinese and Western styles
This is a historical street full of European charm and romantic atmosphere. On both sides of roads are varieties of garden villas, cafes, boutique stores and restaurants. You can feel the unique combination of Chinese and Western styles when wandering leisurely. It is also a great place to take photos and explore niche shops.
Recommended Tours: Shanghai Highlight Day Tour
Best places to visit in Shanghai on a 12 Hour Layover
Quick overview ā is 12 hours enough for Shanghai?
After deducting the time for transportation and various procedures, you will have about 6 hours, which will be enough to visit two or three scenic spots in downtown area.
Morning layover in Shanghai: Temples, gardens & local breakfast
During the morning layover, you can visit the Longhua Temple, a famous millenarian temple. Here you can start the trip in a tranquil setting and taste the vegetarian noodles – Luohan noodles. Then head to the Yu Garden to tour the exquisite Jiangnan Garden and explore nearby City God Temple business circle to taste the Small Steamed Buns and Spare Ribs with Rice Cakes.
Afternoon layover in Shanghai: Bund, Nanjing Road & museums
If you plan a layover in afternoon, then The Bund is unmissable where you can see different styles of architectures from all over the world and the modern skyline of skyscrapers in Lujiazui. Then you can have a lunch at Nanjing Road and experience the bustling commercial atmosphere of Shanghai there. If time permits, it is recommended to visit Shanghai Museum, where you can see abundant cultural relics like bronze wares, ceramics, etc.
Evening layover in Shanghai: Huangpu River cruise & night views
A classic way to feel the charm of Shanghai is the Huangpu River cruise. The international architectural complexes and the skyscrapers on both sides present an incredibly breathtaking scene when lights are on at night.
Overnight layover in Shanghai: Late-night food & skyline stroll
To feel the authentic marketplace atmosphere, Yongan Road Night Market and Tianzifang Night Market are top places where you can find various local snacks. After dinner, go to Lujiazui and wander along the riverside road to look up closely at the dazzling lights of skyscrapers such as the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Recommended tour: Shanghai Highlight Afternoon and Evening Tour
Suggested 12 Hour Shanghai Layover Itinerary
Sample half-day city tour
Take the maglev train from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station to feel the top speed of train, then transfer to metro line 2 to Nanjing East Road station. After arrival, spend 3 – 4 hours wandering along the Bund and exploring the nearby Yu Garden.
Full 12-hour city tour with highlights
If you have full 12 hour layover in Shanghai, major city highlights can be covered. You can visit the Yu Garden and City God Temple in the morning, and then head to French ConcessionĀ in the afternoon. In the evening,Ā appreciate the toweringĀ skyscrapersĀ in Pudong District.
Recommended tour: 1 Day Shanghai Classic Group Tour
Transportation Tips for a Smooth Layover
Getting from Pudong Airport to Shanghai city center
The most economic and common choice is metro line 2, which connects Pudong airport with several core areas in downtown Shanghai. If you seek for efficiency and experience, it is recommended to combine maglev train with metro. Airport shuttle buses and taxis are suitable for tourists with a lot of luggage or who are going to a specific location.
Luggage storage options at Pudong and Hongqiao airports
At Pudong Airport, there are storage spots between Gate 4-5 and Gate 10-11 in Departure Hall and near Gate 7 for domestic arrivals in the Arrival Hall in Terminal 1. And in Terminal 2, you can find them near the Island A in Departure Hall and beside Exit 2A for international arrivals.
In Hongqiao Airport, the storage spots are opposite to the Gate 5 in Departure Hall and opposite to Gate 1 in Arrival Hall.
How much time should I allow for returning to the airport?
For the whole procedures in airport, at least 2 hours and 3 hours will be needed for domestic and international flights, respectively. About the transportation time to the airport, it depends on your location. Usually, 1 – 1.5 hours is required.
Practical Tips for Your 12 Hour Shanghai Layover
Where to eat during a layover ā street food vs fine dining
Street food is better for tourists who prefer to experience the local food culture, the cost is also relatively low but it may take time to find the place. The best are food streets and night markets, like Yuyuan Market and Yongan Road Night Market. While fine dining offers elegant environment, delicate dishes and good service. And it can be easily find inside the airport and in the business circles. But the cost is higher.
Safety & travel tips for short-term visitors
- During your 12 hour layover in Shanghai, the most important thing is to leave sufficient time for entry and exit procedures, security checks, baggage claim, terminal transfers, etc.
- Confirm whether you need to apply for a visa or not if you plan to leave the airport.
- Bring the important certificates with you, such as passport, visa, air ticket, credit card and more.
- Ensure to keep communication smooth so that you can receive changes of your flight status in time.
If You Can’t Leave the Airport: Making the Most of Airports
Relax in an Airport Lounge
There are lounges operated by the airlines for first-class passengers, business-class passengers and elite members in both airports, such as China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Air China, Juneyao Airlines, etc. Besides, passengers can pay to enter the lounges set by the airport themselves and the third party.
Explore Terminal Amenities
You can find plenty of stores in both airports selling the luxuries, cosmetics, tobacco and alcohol, souvenirs and specialties. Of course, the dining options are diverse, ranging from Chinese and Western meals, fast food, coffee, desserts to snack bars. There is also free Wifi to use, but the internet speed might be slow. Sometimes, some cultural exhibitions will be held in the airports, which is also worth watching.
Consider a Transit Hotel
For tourists who are very tired, a transit hotel will be a better choice. Inside both airports, you can find several kinds of hotels. And most hotels around the airport offer 24-hour free airport shuttle service. So you can choose according to your needs to enjoy a rest.
FAQs about a layover tour in Shanghai
Which countries are visa-free in Shanghai?
Citizen from the following countries can have a 240-hour visa-free transit in China if they have an onward ticket to the third country or region.
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway.
- Americas: United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
- Asia: South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia.
Additionally, citizens from 43 countries are allowed to enter and travel in China for 30 days. There are also regional visa-free policies in different cities. Click to learn more information on how to travel to China without a visa.
How do I get the temporary entry permit for a layover tour?
You can apply to the border inspection authority at the port with your passport and connecting flight ticket. You may also need to fill in a form and be questioned.
Do I need to book a tour in advance to get the visa exemption?
As long as you meet the visaĀ waiveĀ policy, itĀ isĀ not necessary to book a tour, but joining a guided tour is more convenient and energy-saving.
Can I leave the airport if I am on a 24-hour visa-free transit?
Yes, and if you do not leave the designated area at the airport port, no additional procedures are needed, but if you plan to tour city center, it is required to apply for a temporary entry permit.
Is it better to book a private tour or a group tour?
A private tour will be more suitable for the 12 hour layover in Shanghai, because the itinerary is specially designed for you, and the guide will arrange the time more precisely to avoid delay. And you do not need to consider the time of other travelers.
What should I do with my luggage during the tour?
The best way is to choose direct baggage check. Another popular choice is to store the luggage in airports. Bringing the luggage is feasible, but it is very inconvenient during your Shanghai travel.
What is the minimum layover time required to do a city tour?
For a leisure tour in downtown Shanghai, it will be ideal to reserve at least 6 hours.
Are there night tours available for evening layovers?
Of course, the night scenery in Shanghai is very famous with several highlights at night, you can watch the resplendent skyscrapers in the Bund, wander the bustling Nanjing Road, or taste local food in night markets.
Plan a 12 Hour Shanghai Layover tour with Chian Xian Tour
To avoid missing flights, a reasonable time schedule is of great importance. China Xian TourĀ can plan an itinerary with main city attractions reasonably according to your time. And sufficient time will be reserved for traveling from the airport to the city center and related airport procedures so that your flight will not be affected and you can enjoy an immersive 12 hour layover tour in Shanghai. Just contact us to talk about more details.
