Guangzhou to Shanghai from $25: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Guangzhou to Shanghai: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$25 by trainBest price

1219.2 kmDistance

3h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Guangzhou to Shanghai with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Guangzhou to Shanghai

The journey from Guangzhou to Shanghai offers an intriguing contrast, with Guangzhou showcasing its rich Cantonese culture and culinary delights, while Shanghai dazzles with its modern skyline and vibrant nightlife.

Best Neighbourhoods in Shanghai

Shanghai boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

The Bund

• Stunning waterfront views of historical architecture.

• Vibrant nightlife with popular bars and restaurants.

Xuhui

• Trendy cafes and boutiques in tree-lined streets.

• Cultural spots like the Shanghai Museum nearby.

French Concession

• Charming narrow lanes filled with history.

• Great for exploring local art galleries and eateries.

Best Times To Visit Shanghai's Attractions

Maximize your Shanghai experience by timing your visits to attractions right.

Shanghai Tower

Visit early morning or late afternoon for shorter lines and stunning views.

The Bund

Evenings offer fewer crowds and a mesmerizing skyline lit up at night.

Yu Garden

Weekdays, especially early in the day, ensure a peaceful stroll through the gardens.

Shanghai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Shanghai experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters; the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for mild temperatures. Weather impacts your travel experience, so be prepared for summer humidity and occasional rain in the spring and early summer.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable culinary experience in Shanghai, try xiaolongbao at Din Tai Fung, where the delicate soup dumplings burst with flavor unlike anything in Guangzhou. The vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the emphasis on local ingredients, presents a distinct contrast to the rich and hearty dishes typical of Cantonese cuisine.

Guangzhou - Shanghai operators

Explore transport companies operating between Guangzhou and Shanghai, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

csair.com

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 17m

Estimated price

$150-400

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Pudong

Average Duration

2h 17m

Estimated price

$180-450

Plane from Shenzhen Bao'an International to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 12m

Estimated price

$170-350

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Hangzhou Xiaoshan

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$120-340

Website

en.ceair.com

Plane from Foshan to Shanghai Pudong via Wenzhou

Average Duration

5h 40m

Estimated price

$110-360

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 14m

Estimated price

$120-340

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Pudong

Average Duration

2h 16m

Estimated price

$130-340

Plane from Shenzhen Bao'an International to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$140-320

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Hangzhou Xiaoshan

Average Duration

Estimated price

$100-290

Website

xiamenair.com

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 11m

Estimated price

$120-330

Plane from Shenzhen Bao'an International to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 6m

Estimated price

$140-320

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Hangzhou Xiaoshan

Average Duration

Estimated price

$95-410

Website

juneyaoair.com

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 16m

Estimated price

$110-330

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Pudong

Average Duration

2h 22m

Estimated price

$130-700

Plane from Shenzhen Bao'an International to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 12m

Estimated price

$130-320

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Hangzhou Xiaoshan

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$110-300

Website

airchina.com

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 22m

Estimated price

$120-430

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Shanghai Pudong

Average Duration

2h 21m

Estimated price

$130-650

Plane from Shenzhen Bao'an International to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

2h 20m

Estimated price

$140-360

Plane from Guangzhou Baiyun to Hangzhou Xiaoshan

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$100-290

Train

Contact phone

(86)12306

Website

12306.cn

Train from Guangzhou South to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

11h 22m

Estimated price

$70-170

Train from Guangzhou South to Shenzhen North

Average Duration

37m

Estimated price

$6-8

Train from Shenzhen North to Shanghai Station

Average Duration

7h 26m

Estimated price

$95-110

Contact phone

(86)12306

Website

chinahighlights.com

Train from Hangzhou East to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$8-16

Train from Guangzhou South to Shenzhen North

Average Duration

37m

Estimated price

$5-11

Train from Guangzhou South to Shanghai Hongqiao

Average Duration

11h 22m

Estimated price

$70-170

Contact phone

(86)12306

Website

chinahighlights.com

Train from Guangzhou Train Station to Shanghai South

Average Duration

24h 45m

Estimated price

$24-60

Bus

Contact phone

bus@chinatrainguide.com

Website

chinabusguide.com

Bus from Guangzhou Fangcun Bus Station to Zhejiang Hangzhou

Average Duration

14h

Estimated price

$56-56

Bus from Hangzhou to Shanghai South Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$10-10

Guangzhou to Shanghai: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Guangzhou and Shanghai offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Guangzhou to Shanghai covering a distance of 1442.0 km, with an estimated drive time of 14 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing between different price ranges for the journey, with car transfer costs ranging from $180 to $270.

Average price

$180 - $270

🚆 The train journey from Guangzhou to Shanghai is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant Chinese cities. There is no direct train, but with a couple of transfers, passengers can reach their destination in approximately 9 hours and 41 minutes. 🌆 Departing from Haizhu Square in Guangzhou, travelers will first board a train at Guangzhou South Station before transferring at Shenzhen North. 💰 Train tickets between Guangzhou and Shanghai are affordable, with prices ranging from $25 to $62 depending on the class and amenities chosen. With a total travel time of 26 hours and 22 minutes, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as they make their way from Guangzhou to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai.

Departure Point

Guangzhou South station

Arrival Point

Shanghai Station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services on the high-speed trains from Guangzhou to Shanghai include a variety of catering options. You can enjoy meals from the dining car featuring Chinese cuisine, snacks that can be purchased from onboard attendants, and beverages including tea, coffee, and soft drinks. It's advisable to check the menu before departure if you have specific dietary preferences.

• The major train operators for this route include China Railway and its subsidiary, CRH (China Railway High-speed). Seating options vary by operator but commonly include Business Class, First Class, and Second Class (Economy). Business Class offers the most spacious seating and luxurious services, while First Class provides comfortable reclining seats. Second Class is more affordable but still offers a comfortable travel experience. For more details, visit their respective websites: CRH and China Railway.

• Upon arriving at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, expect a large and bustling environment. You can leave your luggage at the luggage storage services available at the station for a nominal fee. Restrooms are available, but make sure to check for toilet facilities as they may vary in cleanliness and availability. Showers are not generally offered in the station, so plan accordingly.

🛫 The quickest flight from Foshan Airport to Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is a direct flight that takes 2 hours and 15 minutes with China United Airlines. ✈️ It takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes to travel from Guangzhou to Shanghai by plane, offering a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. 💸 The prices for flights between Shanghai and Guangzhou can range from $126 to $250, allowing travelers to choose options that fit their budget and schedule preferences.

Departure Point

Foshan Airport

Arrival Point

Shanghai Hongqiao Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Book your flight with China United Airlines early to secure competitive prices; round-trip fares can vary significantly, ranging from $126 to $250, so keep an eye on promotional offers.

• Upon arrival at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, use the airport's clear signage to navigate to the Metro Line 10, which provides a quick and efficient route to the city center; expect your journey to take approximately 30 minutes.

• Taxi fares from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport to the city center typically range from ¥50 to ¥100 ($7 to $14), but use the Didi app for a more accurate fare estimate and to avoid language barriers during your ride.

🚌 Traveling by bus from Guangzhou to Shanghai provides a scenic journey that lasts approximately 17 hours and 1 minute. 🎫 The prices for a bus ticket from Guangzhou to Shanghai typically range from $67 to $69, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Guangzhou to Shanghai.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Guangzhou and Shanghai is approximately 1219.9 km by air, 1442.3 km by road, and the travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes approximately 26 hours and 22 minutes to reach Shanghai from Guangzhou. By subway and airplane, the journey takes around 4 hours and 34 minutes. By plane alone, the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 26 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes approximately 14 hours and 29 minutes to reach Guangzhou from Shanghai, while a bus journey takes about 17 hours and 1 minute to reach Shanghai from Guangzhou.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Guangzhou to Shanghai is by train, with fares ranging from $24 to $60. Although it is not the quickest mode of transportation, taking approximately 26 hours and 22 minutes, it is a more affordable choice. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 4 hours and 26 minutes. However, it is important to note that flights can be more expensive, with tickets costing between $120 and $250.

The prices for a train journey between Guangzhou and Shanghai can range from $24 to $57, depending on the class of ticket and train type chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip between Shanghai and Guangzhou typically range from $67 to $69.

To get from Guangzhou to Shanghai without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car or hiring a private driver. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1442 km, and it takes around 14 hours and 29 minutes to drive. The prices for hiring a car or driver vary, ranging from $180 to $270.

To travel from Guangzhou to Shanghai without a car, the best options are by train or by flying. Taking the train via Shenzhen is a convenient choice as it takes around 9 hours and 39 minutes and costs between $85 and $130. Flying is a faster option, with a travel time of around 4 hours and 26 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $120 to $250. Another possibility is taking a bus, which takes longer at 17 hours and 1 minute, but is a more budget-friendly option, costing about $66 to $69.

Yes, there is a direct link between Guangzhou and Shanghai but it involves transfers. Train services operated by China Railways G-Class are available, with the journey taking approximately 9 hours and 39 minutes. The trains depart from Guangzhou South station and arrive at Shanghai Station. Transfers are required at Haizhu Square and Shenzhen North.

The flight between Guangzhou and Shanghai typically takes 2 hours and 5 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific flight and airline. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $120 to $243, depending on factors like the time of booking and availability.

There are plenty of options for accommodations near Shanghai. With over 461 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a variety of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start as low as $86 per night, offering a range of choices for travelers.

Guangzhou to Shanghai from $25: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Guangzhou to Shanghai: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Guangzhou to Shanghai

Best Neighbourhoods in Shanghai

Best Times To Visit Shanghai's Attractions

Shanghai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Guangzhou - Shanghai operators

Guangzhou to Shanghai: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for train travellers

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Guangzhou

Trips to Hong Kong

Popular routes