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Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality to Qingdao, Shandong from $45: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Shanghai, China
to
Qingdao, China

How to Get from Shanghai to Qingdao: 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.

$45 - Train, BusBest price
550 kmDistance
4h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Shanghai to Qingdao 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.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  12m
Estimated price
$98-204
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  30m
Estimated price
$45-59
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 550 km
Duration: 4h 12m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
12h  39m
Estimated price
$46-120
Company
various
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
4h  12m
Estimated price
$65-181
Company
China Railways G-Class
Train
Average Duration
7h  6m
Estimated price
$78-84
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$80-345
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  20m
Estimated price
$90-140
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Shanghai to Qingdao

The journey from Shanghai to Qingdao offers a fascinating contrast, with Shanghai's bustling metropolis vibe giving way to Qingdao's charming coastal atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Qingdao

Qingdao offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Old Town
• Colonial architecture reflects rich history.
• Vibrant markets and local eateries abound.
Laoshan District
• Stunning mountains and coastal views await.
• Home to famous Taoist temples and parks.
Badaguan
• Picturesque streets lined with historic villas.
• Scenic waterfront perfect for strolls.

Best Times To Visit Qingdao's Attractions

Planning your visit to Qingdao? Here are optimal times to enjoy its attractions.

Tsingtao Brewery
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds.
Zhongshan Park
Early spring and autumn offer beautiful blooms and pleasant weather.
Qingdao's Beaches
Try visiting in the late afternoon for picturesque sunsets and fewer visitors.

Qingdao Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Qingdao experiences a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making spring and autumn the best times to plan your visit. Weather conditions can significantly enhance or detract from your experience, so being prepared can help you enjoy outdoor attractions and festivals to the fullest.

Dining in Qingdao: A Taste of the Coast

Try the fresh seafood dishes at Laoshan Seafood Restaurant, where the ocean's bounty comes alive with flavors distinct from Shanghai's culinary scene. The relaxed seaside atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients deliver a memorable experience that showcases Qingdao's coastal heritage.

Shanghai - Qingdao operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
en.ceair.com

Plane from Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$120-260

Plane from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$90-280

Plane from Sunan Shuofang (WUX) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$75-800
Website
juneyaoair.com

Plane from Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$110-260

Plane from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$80-280

Plane from Sunan Shuofang (WUX) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$70-410
Website
sda.cn

Plane from Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$120-290

Plane from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$110-290
Website
csair.com

Plane from Shanghai Pudong (PVG) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$85-290

Plane from Sunan Shuofang (WUX) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$70-410
Website
ceair.com

Plane from Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) to Qingdao (TAO)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$170-330
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
(86)12306
Website
12306.cn

Train from Shanghai Station to Qingdao North

Average Duration
6h 26m
Estimated price
$75-85

Train from Shanghai Station to Wuxi

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$8-9

Train from Shanghai Station to Suzhou

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$5-7
Bus
Website
chinabusguide.com

Bus from Suzhou West to Qingdao

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$38-38
Subway
Contact phone
(86)021-64370000
Website
shmetro.com

Subway from West Nanjing Road to Longyang Road

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$1-2

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

Traveling between Shanghai and Qingdao 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 an exciting 450-mile journey by car from bustling Shanghai to charming Qingdao, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood. 💰 Depending on your preferences and budget, the cost of driving from Shanghai to Qingdao ranges from $90 to $140, offering flexibility for various travel needs and accommodations along the way. 🌊 Enjoy a scenic road trip lasting approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, where you'll traverse through diverse landscapes, experience the local culture, and create memorable moments on the road to Qingdao.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚂 Traveling from Shanghai to Qingdao by train is a convenient option despite the lack of a direct route. The journey involves transfers and takes approximately 7 hours and 6 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the Shanghai to Qingdao train range from $78 to $84, offering an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two coastal destinations in China.
Departure Point
Shanghai Station
Arrival Point
Qingdao North station
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Shanghai to Qingdao with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 25 minutes. Airlines like Shanghai Airlines, Juneyao Airlines Eastern Airlines, and Shandong Airlines operate this convenient route. 🌊 Enjoy the scenic views as you fly from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport to Qingdao Airport, which typically takes around 4 hours and 12 minutes. Admire the sprawling landscapes of China unfold beneath you during this relatively brief flight. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Qingdao and Shanghai range from $98 to $204, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Plan your trip accordingly and discover the beauty of both cities with ease.
Departure Point
Shanghai Hongqiao Airport
Arrival Point
Qingdao Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport at least 1.5 hours before your flight, as check-in lines and security checks can be longer than expected, especially during peak travel times.
• Once you land at Qingdao Airport, follow the signs for baggage claim; note that the airport can get crowded during peak seasons, so try to keep an eye on your belongings while waiting.
• Expect to pay around ¥80-¥150 ($12-$23) for a taxi ride from Qingdao Airport to the city center; it’s usually best to use the official taxi queue located just outside the arrivals hall to avoid any potential overcharges.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Shanghai to Qingdao.

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The distance between Shanghai and Qingdao is approximately 342 miles or 447 miles by road. The typical travel time by train from Shanghai to Qingdao is 7 hours and 10 minutes. If you choose to take a train and then a bus, the travel time increases to 9 hours and 30 minutes. The fastest mode of transportation is by plane, which takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes. Driving by car from Qingdao to Shanghai takes approximately 7 hours and 17 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Shanghai to Qingdao is by taking a train and bus combination, which costs around $40 to $60. This option takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to reach Qingdao is by flying, which takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes but can cost between $110 and $230. Both options provide different trade-offs between cost and time efficiency, allowing travelers to choose according to their preferences and needs.
The prices for trains between Shanghai and Qingdao range from $67 to $84. It is advisable to check with specific train providers for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the class and type of train selected. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates.
To travel from Shanghai to Qingdao without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is around 447 miles, and it takes approximately 7 hours and 17 minutes by car. The driving route offers flexibility and independence, allowing you to explore at your own pace and enjoy the scenic views along the way. However, it's important to note that the prices for gas and toll fees may range from $90 to $130 for this journey.
The best way to travel from Shanghai to Qingdao without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes and typically costs between $65 and $85. Taking a train allows you to comfortably enjoy the scenic route and avoid the hassle of driving in traffic. Additionally, trains are a popular mode of transportation in China and provide a reliable and efficient way to travel between cities.
Yes, there is a link between Shanghai and Qingdao. Although there is no direct train service between the two cities, passengers can take a train from Shanghai Station to Qingdao North, with an approximate travel time of 7 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers. The train services are operated by China Railways G-Class. Once at Qingdao North station, passengers can continue their journey to Wusi Plaza by another means of transportation.
The flight between Shanghai and Qingdao typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary from $113 to $224, depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to check for options and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Qingdao. With over 80 hotels available, travelers can choose from a variety of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Qingdao start at $24 per night, making it accessible for different types of travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, Qingdao has a range of choices to accommodate your needs.

Trips from Shanghai