Car rental at the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

There are numerous car hire companies located at the airport. While driving in Shanghai can be a challenge due to the busy traffic, having a rental car gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Here are our top 3 car rental stations:

• AVIS: Located in the arrivals hall
• Hertz: At the eastern end of the terminal building
• Europcar: In Terminal 2, near the baggage claim area

Our personal tip: Book your car rental in advance to ensure availability and to get the best prices.

Driving in Shanghai

Driving in Shanghai is not for the faint-hearted; the city's traffic can be chaotic, and the driving habits can be different from those in the UK. For a more relaxed experience, consider renting a smaller car, which can easily navigate the city's narrow streets and busy traffic.

Fuel Stations near the Airport

There are several petrol stations located near the airport. Make sure to keep your tank full, as some parts of the city have restrictions on petrol sales to control pollution. Here is a list of nearby petrol stations:

1. CNCP Petrol Station, Yang'an West Road
2. Sinopec Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Petrol Station, Yingbin 3rd Road
3. PetroChina, Huqingping Highway

Surrounding Cities

Beyond Shanghai, there are a number of interesting cities worth exploring. Suzhou, known as the 'Venice of the East', is just an hour's drive away. You can also visit the historic city of Hangzhou, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site West Lake

Weather and Climate

Shanghai boasts a humid subtropical climate, making it warmer throughout the year compared to the UK. Be prepared for hot and humid summers and cool-to-cold winters. Don’t forget your umbrella as the city does experience frequent rainfall throughout the year.

Local Currency

The local currency in Shanghai is Renminbi (RMB), also known as Yuan. You can change British Pounds to RMB at currency exchange counters at the airport, banks, or hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in big cities, but it might be useful to carry some cash just in case.

Enjoy your trip and safe travels!