Flights to Shanghai from the UK: Compare Fares with TravelApp UK
Explore flights from the UK to Shanghai and discover China’s dynamic city life with Travelapp.
Compare flights from the UK to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Explore direct flights from London and Manchester, connecting routes from other UK airports, airline options and baggage information with TravelApp UK.
Places to visit in Shanghai
Yu Garden
Escape into a peaceful classical Chinese garden, more than four centuries old, hidden in the heart of the old city. Wind past traditional rockeries, quiet carp-filled ponds and elegant pavilions before sampling famous steaming soup dumplings at the neighbouring bazaar.
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Ride the high-speed lift to the distinctive pink spheres of this iconic skyline landmark for a thrilling view of the city. Walk across the transparent glass-floored sightseeing corridor, 259 metres above the ground, to see the streets and river right beneath your feet.
Nanjing Road
Experience the energy of one of the world's busiest shopping streets, which runs for around six kilometres west from the Bund, with its busiest pedestrian section leading to People's Square. Hop on a sightseeing tram to pass historic department stores, large modern flagship stores and walls of neon signs.
Shanghai Tower
Ascend to the clouds inside one of the world's tallest buildings, a striking piece of modern eco-architecture that twists 632 metres into the sky. Stand on one of the highest observation decks in the world to look down on the clouds and neighbouring skyscrapers.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Travel back in time by visiting a well-preserved ancient water town on the outskirts of the modern city. Ride a traditional wooden boat along narrow, willow-lined canals, passing under centuries-old stone bridges and historic white-walled homes.
Tianzifang
Get lost in a maze of historic Shikumen stone-gate alleys, built in the early 20th century and now a thriving artistic neighbourhood. Browse cosy independent designer boutiques, hidden art galleries and paper-cutting studios while local residents go about daily life on the balconies above the shops.
Shanghai Museum
Enter a striking building shaped like an ancient Chinese bronze cooking vessel in the heart of People's Square. Explore galleries filled with ancient ceremonial bronzes, delicate jade carvings and centuries-old calligraphy scrolls that span thousands of years of Chinese history. Plan your visit on the Shanghai Museum website.
Best-Selling Flights to Shanghai
No flights available at the moment. Please try again later.
About Flights to Shanghai
Find cheap flights to Shanghai from the UK with TravelApp UK and compare London to Shanghai flights, direct services and convenient one-stop connections to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Direct non-stop flights from the UK take approximately 11 to 13 hours, depending on the airline, route and operating conditions.
Most direct UK services depart from London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW), and Juneyao Air also flies direct from Manchester (MAN). Travellers from Birmingham (BHX) and Edinburgh (EDI) can compare connecting flights through major international hubs.
Shanghai is one of China's leading destinations for international business, finance, trade, technology and tourism. Whether you are travelling for work, visiting family or planning a city break, comparing airlines, departure times, baggage allowances and total journey duration can help you choose a suitable fare.
With TravelApp UK, you can:
-
Compare direct and connecting flights to Shanghai.
-
Explore departures from London and other major UK airports.
-
Review airline options and baggage conditions before booking.
-
Compare journey times, stopovers and arrival airports.
-
Contact a UK travel team for help with your flight enquiry.
Planning a Trip to Shanghai? Get a Quote from Our UK Team
Direct and Connecting Flights from the UK to Shanghai
Which Airlines Fly Directly to Shanghai?
London is the main UK departure point for non-stop flights to Shanghai, with a direct service from Manchester as well. Current published schedules show direct services from Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).
The airline mix differs by airport. British Airways and China Eastern operate direct Heathrow services, while China Eastern and Air China appear on published Gatwick to Shanghai schedules. Juneyao Air flies from Manchester. Always check the operating carrier, flight number and travel dates before booking.
|
Airline |
UK departure airport |
Route type |
Arrival airport |
|
London Heathrow (LHR) |
Direct, non-stop |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
London Heathrow (LHR) |
Direct, non-stop |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
China Eastern Airlines |
London Gatwick (LGW) |
Direct, non-stop |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
London Gatwick (LGW) |
Direct, non-stop, subject to operating dates |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
Manchester (MAN) |
Direct, non-stop, on selected days |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
London and other UK airports |
One stop via Dubai (DXB) |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
London and other UK airports |
One stop via Doha (DOH) |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
London and other UK airports |
One stop via Hong Kong (HKG) |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
|
|
London and other UK airports |
One stop via Singapore (SIN) |
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) |
Important route note: China Southern operates UK services to other Chinese destinations, but not non-stop to Shanghai. Do not assume that a China Southern flight to China operates directly to Shanghai. Check the complete itinerary and any domestic connection.
Airline schedules can change by season. Some flights operate on selected days, and published schedules may be adjusted. Check availability for your exact departure and return dates before making plans. The China National Tourist Office UK also publishes UK to China route information.
Connecting Flights to Shanghai
If you are travelling from outside London or Manchester, a connecting flight may offer a wider choice of departure times and fares.
Common connecting options include:
-
Emirates via Dubai (DXB): Connect through Dubai International Airport for onward flights to Shanghai.
-
Qatar Airways via Doha (DOH): Travel through Hamad International Airport before continuing to Shanghai.
-
Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong (HKG): Connect through Hong Kong for a flight to Shanghai Pudong.
-
Singapore Airlines via Singapore (SIN): Use Singapore Changi Airport as a connecting hub.
A one-stop itinerary can be useful if you are departing from Birmingham or Edinburgh, or from Manchester on days without a direct flight. Compare the total journey time, connection duration and final arrival time, not just the advertised flight price.
Direct Flights or Connecting Flights: Which Should You Choose?
|
Consideration |
Direct flight |
Connecting flight |
|
Journey time |
Usually around 11 to 13 hours |
Longer, depending on the stopover |
|
Airport changes |
Usually not required |
Depends on the itinerary |
|
Convenience |
No scheduled connection |
Requires time between flights |
|
Departure choice |
London and Manchester |
More options from UK regional airports |
|
Fare |
Compare current dates |
Can offer competitive alternatives |
A direct flight is often the simplest option if you want to reach Shanghai without a stopover. A connecting itinerary may suit travellers who want more departure choices or are looking for a different fare. Our guide to direct vs connecting flights explains the trade-offs.
Checked Baggage and Connecting-Ticket Protection
Many long-haul Economy fares include a checked baggage allowance of around 23kg, but this is not a universal rule. Some airlines and fare types include different allowances, while selected basic or promotional fares may charge separately for checked baggage.
Before booking, check:
-
The checked baggage allowance shown against your exact fare.
-
Cabin baggage dimensions and weight limits.
-
Whether additional baggage can be purchased in advance.
-
Whether your baggage is checked through to Shanghai.
-
Whether you need to collect and recheck your luggage during a connection.
Choose a single through-ticket where possible. When connecting flights are issued as one protected itinerary, the airline or ticketing carrier can usually provide assistance with eligible missed connections caused by an earlier flight delay. Baggage may also be checked through to the final destination where the airlines and ticket conditions permit.
Separate tickets can leave you responsible for missed onward flights, baggage collection, airport transfers and additional costs. Always check the ticket conditions before paying. Our hand luggage size guide covers common cabin sizes.
Not Sure Which Route Suits You? Let TravelApp UK Compare Them
UK Departure Airports for Shanghai
London Heathrow (LHR) to Shanghai (PVG)
Heathrow is a major departure point for direct flights to Shanghai. British Airways and China Eastern operate non-stop services to Shanghai Pudong International Airport, subject to their published schedules.
Travelling from Heathrow can be a convenient choice if you want to avoid a stopover. Compare departure times, return schedules, baggage allowances and fare conditions before choosing your flight. See our flights from London.
Book Flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Shanghai (PVG)
Flights from London Gatwick (LGW) to Shanghai
Gatwick also has direct services to Shanghai Pudong. China Eastern and Air China appear in published non-stop schedules, although the operating days and frequencies can vary.
If you live in South London, Surrey, Sussex or nearby areas, Gatwick may be a convenient alternative to Heathrow. Compare the complete cost of travelling to the airport as well as the flight fare.
Book Flights from London Gatwick (LGW) to Shanghai (PVG)
Manchester (MAN) to Shanghai (PVG)
Juneyao Air flies direct from Manchester to Shanghai Pudong on selected days, with extra flights scheduled over the Christmas period. Travellers can also compare connecting services through Dubai, Doha, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Check the latest timetable for your dates and compare the total journey time before choosing a direct or connecting flight. See our flights from Manchester.
Book Flights from Manchester (MAN) to Shanghai (PVG)
Flights from Birmingham (BHX) to Shanghai
Birmingham passengers can explore one-stop flights through major international hubs. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines may offer connecting itineraries depending on the operating schedule and available connections.
Compare departure times, layover duration and baggage arrangements to find a suitable route. See our flights from Birmingham.
Book Flights from Birmingham (BHX) to Shanghai (PVG)
Edinburgh (EDI) to Shanghai (PVG)
Travellers from Edinburgh can compare connecting flights through international hubs. A single-ticket itinerary can make the journey easier to manage, particularly when the onward flight is operated by a partner airline.
Check the full itinerary for connection times, airport changes and baggage arrangements. See our flights from Edinburgh.
Book Flights from Edinburgh (EDI) to Shanghai (PVG)
Arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is the main international gateway for many long-haul flights arriving in Shanghai. It is approximately 30 kilometres from central Shanghai, with several transport options connecting the airport to the city. The Shanghai Municipal Government's airport transport guide has more detail.
Your choice depends on your arrival time, hotel location, luggage and budget.
Shanghai Maglev Train
-
Journey time: Approximately 8 minutes to Longyang Road Station.
-
Route: Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road.
-
Speed: Up to around 300 km/h in regular service.
-
Typical standard fare: CNY 50 one way, or CNY 40 with a same-day flight ticket, subject to current prices.
-
Operating hours: Roughly 7am to 9:40pm from the airport, so late arrivals will need another option.
The Shanghai Maglev is one of the fastest ways to travel from Pudong Airport towards the city. It connects the airport with Longyang Road Station, where passengers can transfer to the Shanghai Metro network.
It is a useful option for travellers who want to avoid road traffic. However, it does not take you directly to every central Shanghai destination, so allow time for the onward metro journey or taxi.
Shanghai Metro Line 2
-
Route: Pudong International Airport towards central Shanghai and Hongqiao.
-
Popular stops: People's Square and East Nanjing Road.
-
Journey time: Around 60 to 70 minutes to central destinations, depending on the stop and service.
-
Typical fare: Around CNY 7 to 8, depending on the destination.
Metro Line 2 is a cost-effective way to reach central Shanghai. It serves major areas including People's Square and East Nanjing Road, making it useful for visitors staying near the city centre.
Check the latest timetable before travelling, particularly if your flight arrives late at night or early in the morning.
Airport Shuttles and Buses
Airport buses connect Pudong Airport with several parts of Shanghai and transport hubs. Routes, fares and operating hours vary.
Some services operate late at night, but airport buses should not be treated as a guaranteed 24-hour service. Check the route and departure time for your arrival.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Official airport taxi ranks provide a direct option for travellers heading to their hotel or accommodation.
-
Taxi services operate 24 hours.
-
Official taxi pick-up points are located outside the arrivals areas.
-
Journey times depend on traffic and your final destination.
-
Use the designated taxi rank or a recognised ride-hailing service.
For late-night arrivals, families with luggage or passengers staying outside central Shanghai, a taxi may be more convenient than public transport.
Ready to Explore Shanghai? Let TravelApp UK Find Your Flight
Setting Up Alipay and WeChat Pay Before Travelling
Shanghai makes extensive use of QR-code payments in shops, restaurants, transport services and everyday businesses. Visitors can use international bank cards with supported payment platforms, subject to card and issuer compatibility. The Shanghai Municipal Government's payment guide explains the options for international visitors.
Before departure:
-
Download Alipay or update WeChat.
-
Register using your mobile number.
-
Follow the app instructions to add an eligible international bank card.
-
Complete any identity or card verification requested.
-
Check applicable transaction fees and payment limits.
Keep a physical bank card and some cash as a backup. Not every card or transaction will necessarily work through a mobile payment app.
Why Book Your Shanghai Flight with TravelApp UK?
TravelApp UK compares direct and connecting routes for your dates, explains the baggage and fare rules and confirms the total price before you pay. You can contact our team on +44 20 3137 0990 or at info@travelapp.co.uk.
TravelApp UK is an ATOL holder, and eligible flight bookings receive an ATOL Certificate. Read our booking conditions, check an ATOL number on the CAA website and learn how to spot a fake travel agency online.
TravelApp UK offers instalments, Klarna and Fly Now Pay Later on eligible bookings. Klarna runs its own eligibility checks, and missed payments can lead to a booking being cancelled or affect your credit. See our payment policy and guide to book now, pay later holidays and deposit schemes.
Compare Flights to Shanghai with TravelApp UK
Compare direct and connecting flights from the UK to Shanghai with TravelApp UK. Whether you prefer a non-stop journey from London or Manchester, or a one-stop connection from a regional airport, our team can help you explore available flight options.
Contact TravelApp UK with your departure airport, preferred travel dates and passenger requirements to discuss suitable flight options. You can also explore more routes on our flights page or return to the TravelApp UK homepage.
Planning Your Journey to Shanghai? Speak to TravelApp UK Today
-
Phone: +44 20 3137 0990
-
Email: info@travelapp.co.uk
Why choose TravelApp?
Best Deals
Get the best prices on flights with exclusive deals.
Trusted Service
Book with confidence thanks to years of experience in premium travel.
Flexible Booking
Enjoy flexible options with easy cancellation and modification policies.
24/7 Support
Our expert team is available round the clock for every request.
Things to Check Before Booking Your Flight to Shanghai
Time zone
China uses one time zone, UTC+8, all year. Shanghai is eight hours ahead of the UK in winter and seven hours ahead during British Summer Time.
Currency
China uses the renminbi (CNY), also called the yuan. Shanghai is largely cashless, and most shops, restaurants and taxis accept Alipay or WeChat Pay, so set one up before you travel. Carry a bank card and some cash as a backup.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the official language, and Shanghainese is widely spoken locally. English is used in many hotels, business districts and the main tourist areas, but a translation app is useful elsewhere.
Transport
The Maglev, Metro Line 2, buses and taxis link Pudong Airport with the city. Shanghai's metro network reaches most districts, and high-speed trains from Hongqiao connect the city with the rest of China.
Weather
Summers are hot and humid, with typhoon risk from around July to September. Winters are cool and damp. Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable seasons for sightseeing.
Baggage allowances
These differ by airline and fare. Many long-haul Economy fares include checked baggage, but check cabin and hold luggage limits before you book, especially on connecting itineraries.
Pre-booking options
You can arrange seats, extra baggage, airport transfers and hotels before you travel. Arrange travel insurance for your trip when you book.
Airport information
Most UK flights arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), about 30 kilometres from the city centre. Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) mainly serves domestic and regional routes, so check the airport code on your ticket.
Schedule flexibility
Some direct routes, such as Manchester to Shanghai, run only on selected days. Fares rise around Chinese New Year and the October National Day holiday, so flexible dates and a choice of departure airports give you more options. See our guide to the best time to book flights.
Entry requirements
British citizens can currently visit mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days, for tourism, business, family visits, exchange and transit, until 31 December 2026, as set out in the Chinese Embassy's visa waiver notice. Your passport must be valid for at least six months on arrival and have two blank pages. Check the latest China entry requirements on GOV.UK before you travel, see how long a UK passport renewal takes, and use the travel documents checklist to prepare.
You Might Also Like
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Shanghai
Find answers to common questions about traveling to Shanghai
Yes, direct flights operate from London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). British Airways and China Eastern operate Heathrow services, while China Eastern and Air China appear on published Gatwick schedules. Check your travel dates for the latest operating days and availability.
A direct flight from London to Shanghai generally takes around 11 to 13 hours. Actual flight time varies with the departure airport, airline, route, weather and operating conditions. Return flights to the UK usually take a little longer.
The Shanghai Maglev Train is the fastest rail option from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station. The journey takes approximately eight minutes, at speeds of up to around 300 km/h. You can transfer to the metro at Longyang Road for onward travel into the city.
China's current extended visa-free transit policy is 240 hours, or up to 10 days, rather than 144 hours, and British nationals are among the eligible nationalities.
To qualify, travellers generally need an ordinary passport and a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region, with a confirmed seat and departure date within the permitted period. Shanghai Pudong is an eligible entry port, but travellers must follow the designated entry procedures and stay within the permitted areas.
For example, a journey from London to Shanghai followed by a confirmed flight to Hong Kong may qualify, subject to immigration approval and the full policy conditions. Hong Kong and Macau are treated as separate regions for this purpose.
The 240-hour transit policy is different from the separate 30-day visa exemption currently available to eligible British ordinary passport holders. Check the latest rules from the National Immigration Administration before travelling.
Many standard long-haul Economy fares include a checked baggage allowance of around 23kg, but this depends on the airline and ticket type. Some promotional fares may not include checked luggage, while other fares may offer a higher allowance. Check your baggage allowance on the exact ticket before booking. If you have a connecting flight, also confirm whether your luggage will be checked through to Shanghai.
London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester have direct services to Shanghai Pudong. Travellers from Birmingham and Edinburgh can compare connecting options through international hubs. Schedules can change, so check availability for your dates.
Most long-haul international flights from the UK arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is closer to the city centre and mainly handles domestic and regional services. Check the airport code on your booking before arranging onward transport.
