There are 2 way(s) to get from Shenzhen to Shanghai
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
High-speed trains in China, especially on popular routes, can sell out days or even weeks in advance. To avoid disappointment, aim to book your tickets as soon as your travel dates are firm. This is particularly true for peak season or holidays.
Many large Chinese cities have multiple train stations. Always double-check your ticket for the exact station name (e.g., Shenzhen North, Shanghai Hongqiao) to avoid arriving at the wrong one. Use mapping apps to confirm its location.
Your passport is essential for booking train tickets online from abroad and also for collecting physical tickets and boarding the train. Keep it handy and ensure the details match your booking exactly.
Second class on Chinese high-speed trains is surprisingly comfortable, offering ample legroom and a smooth ride. Unless you desire extra space or amenities, it's usually the best value for money and perfectly suitable for most journeys.
Booking train tickets from abroad is easiest through reputable online platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau. These services streamline the process, offer English interfaces, and accept international payment methods, providing instant confirmation.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Shenzhen to Shanghai offers two main efficient options: a high-speed train or a domestic flight. Knowing which one to pick depends on your priorities for time, comfort, and experience. For this specific route, both offer compelling advantages, making it essential to compare them side-by-side to ensure you make the best choice for your China adventure, avoiding any wasted time or unnecessary stress.
The high-speed train journey from Shenzhen to Shanghai clocks in at around 6 hours and costs approximately €85. This is a fantastic way to see the Chinese landscape fly by, offering a comfortable and spacious ride. Alternatively, a flight takes about 3 hours and typically costs around €80. While the flight time is shorter, remember to factor in airport transfers, check-in, and security, which can easily add several hours to your total travel time.
Booking your train tickets in advance is crucial, especially for popular routes like Shenzhen to Shanghai, as they can sell out days ahead. You can easily book these online from abroad using platforms that cater to foreign travelers, usually requiring your passport details for booking and collection. Don't worry about navigating multiple stations; for high-speed trains, mega-cities usually have a main station, and we'll guide you to the right one. Forget slow overnight trains; modern bullet trains are the way to go for speed and comfort.
Frequently asked questions — Shenzhen → Shanghai
For Shenzhen to Shanghai, the high-speed train is often the better choice. While the flight time is shorter (3h vs 6h), the train offers a city-center to city-center experience without airport transfers, check-in, and security queues, often making the total journey comparable or even faster. Plus, you get to enjoy the scenery.
The high-speed train from Shenzhen to Shanghai typically takes around 6 hours. Prices for a second-class ticket are approximately €85. First-class tickets will be slightly more expensive but offer additional space and amenities. Booking in advance can sometimes secure better rates, but prices are generally quite stable.
It's highly recommended to book your high-speed train tickets for Shenzhen to Shanghai at least a few days, or even a week, in advance, especially during peak travel times. Yes, you can absolutely book from abroad using international booking platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau, which accept foreign passports and payment methods.
High-speed trains to Shanghai typically depart from Shenzhen North Railway Station (深圳北站). This is a major hub and well-connected to the city center by metro. Ensure your ticket specifies 'Shenzhen North' to avoid confusion with other local stations. Arrive early to navigate the large station.
✨ Why visit Shanghai?
- ✓ Stroll along The Bund for iconic skyline views and colonial architecture.
- ✓ Explore the futuristic landscape of Pudong, home to the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower.
- ✓ Discover the historical charm of Yu Garden and the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar.
- ✓ Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Shanghai Museum or Power Station of Art.
- ✓ Experience local life and street food in the French Concession or Tianzifang.
☀️ When to visit Shanghai?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
Autumn (September to November) or Spring (March to May) — pleasant temperatures and less rain, ideal for exploring.
What to do in Shanghai?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Shanghai?
For an independent traveler, plan 3-5 days in Shanghai. This allows you to explore the Bund, visit museums, enjoy local cuisine, and take a day trip to a water town. For a quicker trip, 2 full days cover the main sights, but you'll feel rushed.
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