Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
Direct flights connecting Shanghai's airports with Beijing's major international airports. Air China is one of China's largest carriers.
Flights typically depart from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) and arrive at Beijing Capital (PEK) or Beijing Daxing (PKX). Prices can vary significantly based on booking time, fare class, and demand.
China Eastern Airlines
USD 58-2612h 10m - 2h 30m
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening)Arrive: Varies by departure
Frequent direct flights between Shanghai and Beijing, offering a range of services from a major Chinese airline.
Operates extensive domestic routes. Flights depart from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) and arrive at Beijing Capital (PEK) or Beijing Daxing (PKX). Check specific airport terminals for departure and arrival.
Hainan Airlines
USD 65-2462h 15m - 2h 35m
Depart: Several daily servicesArrive: Varies by departure
Offers direct flights on the Shanghai-Beijing route, providing an alternative full-service option.
Hainan Airlines is known for its quality service. Flights operate between Shanghai's and Beijing's main airports.
Depart: Multiple times daily (over 40-50 departures, often hourly during peak times)Arrive: Varies by departure
Fast and efficient high-speed train services, primarily using modern Fuxing Hao trains, connecting major city centers.
High-speed trains typically depart from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and arrive at Beijing South Railway Station. These trains offer amenities like comfortable seating, power sockets, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
Depart: A few departures daily (e.g., 3-6 services in the evening)Arrive: Arrives the following morning
Overnight train services offering various sleeper classes, a more economical and time-saving option by combining travel and accommodation.
Overnight trains may depart from Shanghai Railway Station and arrive at Beijing Railway Station or Beijing West Railway Station. Offers a chance to rest during the journey and can save on a night's accommodation.
Bus via
China Bus Guide / Chinalink (Inter-city Bus)
USD 44-7312h - 18h
Depart: Limited daily departures (e.g., once daily or a few times per week)Arrive: Varies by departure
Direct long-distance bus services between Shanghai and Beijing. This is generally the most budget-friendly option, though it involves a significantly longer travel time.
Due to the long distance (over 1200 km), bus travel is considerably longer and generally less comfortable than flights or high-speed trains. Services may depart from major bus terminals in Shanghai, such as Shanghai General, and arrive at terminals in Beijing.
Drive via
Self-drive
USD 102-145 (estimated fuel costs), CNY 400-600 (estimated toll costs)12h - 15h (driving time without significant stops)
Depart: FlexibleArrive: Flexible
Driving yourself offers flexibility and the opportunity to stop along the way, covering the vast distance between Shanghai and Beijing.
The driving distance is approximately 1,200-1,300 km. Driving in China requires a valid Chinese driving license. Expressway tolls are significant and are charged based on distance traveled. Consider potential fatigue for a single driver over such a long journey.
Plan activities, hotels, and more around this journey