Ask a QuestionBoth Xi’an and Shanghai are popular tourists destinations in China. Xi’an is more historical, and Shanghai is modern. Xi’an is the best place to know about the history of China, especially Qin, Han and Tang dynasties. Shanghai is the best place to experience the metropolis of China with skyscrapers. And Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai will usually be the first choice of most of foreign travelers to China. How to get to Shanghai from Xi’an? This article will be helpful for you.
By air: the fastest way to get to Shanghai from Xi’an, taking about 2.5 hours, and sometimes the price of air ticket is cheaper than the high-speed train ticket
By high-speed train(bullet train): another convenient way to get to Shanghai from Xi’an, taking about 7-9 hours, and high-speed trains are steady, clean and comfortable
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (IATA: XIY) is located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province in China. It serves as a major transportation hub for the region, handling both domestic and international flights. The airport is one of the busiest in central China and plays a key role in connecting Xi'an to other parts of China and the world.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport(IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG) is one of the busiest and most important airports in China. Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of downtown Shanghai, it is the main international gateway for the city and one of the largest aviation hubs in the world. Pudong is known for its modern infrastructure and advanced facilities.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport(IATA: SHA, ICAO: ZSSS)
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA) is another major airport in Shanghai, though it's more focused on domestic flights and regional international flights compared to Pudong. Located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of downtown Shanghai, Hongqiao is closer to the city center and often more convenient for travelers heading to or from the city.
Hongqiao also serves as a major hub for high-speed rail connections. The Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, which is located right next to the airport, connects to the rest of China via the country's extensive high-speed rail network, making it an important transportation center.
Traveling from Xi’an to Shanghai, flight is the fastest way, which cost about 2.5 hours. Taking airplane to Shanghai from Xi’an is very convenient. And there are many flights from Xi’an to Shanghai every day.
Xi’an North Railway Station: Yuanshuo Road(Shangxin Road), Weiyang District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
Xi'an North Railway Station(西安北站) is one of the most important high-speed rail hubs in China, located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of downtown Xi'an. It is a major terminal for the high-speed rail network, especially for trains traveling to and from cities in eastern and central China, such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Zhengzhou.
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station: No. 1500 Shengui Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, China
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (上海虹桥火车站) is one of the major railway stations in Shanghai, particularly known for its role in high-speed rail travel. Located near Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, it’s a major transportation hub connecting travelers not only to the rest of Shanghai but also to key cities across China via the high-speed rail network.
High-speed trains have three series, G series, C series and D series. And the speed of G series high-speed trains is 250km/h to 350km/h. And high-speed trains becomes the first choice of many people in China for short-distance trip. There are high-speed trains from Xi’an to Shanghai every day, taking about 7-9 hours. If you do not mind 7-9 hours on the high-speed train, you can choose high-speed train to get to Shanghai from Xi’an.
Recommended Tour: 8 Days Beijing-Xian-Shanghai Group Tour
Where to Visit: Terracotta Army, Xi’an City Wall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas, Shaanxi History Museum
What to eat: various kinds of noodles, roujiamo
What to watch: the Great Qin
How long to stay in Xi’an: Generally speaking, 2-3 days are enough to explore Xi’an. And if you want to explore Huashan Mountain or other places, you can stay longer in Xi’an.
Landmarks of Xi’an: Terracotta Army, Xi’an City Wall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas, Shaanxi History Museum
Recommended Tour: 9 Days Classic China Family Tour
Shanghai Highlights: the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Museum
Best Foods to taste in Shanghai: Xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao, Shanghai-style braised pork
How to get around Shanghai: metro, taxis and ride-hailing
Best Time to Visit Shanghai: The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, while winters (December to February) are chilly and can get foggy.
Nearby cities of Shanghai: Hangzhou, Suzhou and Nanjing
Determine Your Travel Dates and Duration
Xi'an: 2-3 days to see the Terracotta Army, the Ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and other historical sites.
Shanghai: 4-5 days to explore the Bund, skyscrapers, gardens, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods
How to Get Around Xi’an and Shanghai
Direct Flights: The most efficient way to travel between Xi’an and Shanghai is by plane. The flight takes about 2 hours. There are multiple daily flights between Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).
Train: You can also take a high-speed train(bullet train), which takes about 7–9 hours from Xi’an North Railway Station to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station. While slower than flying, the train ride is comfortable and offers scenic views.
Arrange the Itinerary
You can arrange your itinerary according to your preference and needs, and you can also consult our personal travel advisor to help you. Our personal travel advisor will provide you professional advice.
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