Trip.com Offers Free Shanghai Tours for international Layovers Starting April 15

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Don’t let international layovers confine you to airport terminals. Instead, seize the opportunity to explore the country you’re passing through. Introducing “Shanghai Express” by Trip.com Group, offering free layover city tours to showcase the best of Shanghai within a limited timeframe.

Commencing on April 15, 2024, international travelers with layovers exceeding eight hours at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) can partake in these unique tours, a first of its kind in Shanghai. Say goodbye to the hassle of planning, as these tours handle everything: airport transfers, attraction tickets, e-sim cards, and more. Simply show up and let the adventure begin.

These tours cater to international travelers eligible for China’s 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, as well as those with a 24-hour temporary entry permit issued by the airport border inspection.

“As visa-free transit policies open up new avenues for international travellers to explore China, Trip.com Group is excited to unveil this innovative programme for those with just a short stopover,” said Ms Han Feng, Head of Marketing at Trip.com. “We will leverage our extensive resources to ensure a memorable tour experience and provide world-class customer service to help flyers enjoy what Shanghai has to offer.”

Exploring Shanghai During Layovers

Upon clearing customs at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, travelers can visit the Trip.com Group currency exchange counter on Island A in Terminal 2’s Departure Hall for in-person tour registration. A professional guide will assist with registration an hour before each tour, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Choose from various tour timings, each accommodating up to ten travelers for five to six hours, including roundtrip airport transportation. These tours highlight Shanghai’s top attractions listed on the AI-powered Trip.Best, offering a glimpse into the city’s past, present, and future.

• Shanghai Highlights City Tour (9:00-14:00): Explore iconic spots like Yu Garden and the Bund’s futuristic skyline.
• Strolling Under the Trees Citywalk Tour (16:00-22:00): Romantic walk through old villas, charming cafes on Wukang Road, Yu Garden, and the historic Bund.
• Huangpu River Cruise Sightseeing Night Tour (18:00-23:00): Experience the city’s nightlife with a Huangpu River Cruise and night visit to Yu Garden.

Led by English-speaking guides, tours include transportation, tickets, e-sim cards, and team insurance. Luggage storage is available at the airport or on shuttle buses if space permits. Please note meals are not included, but guides can offer dining suggestions.

Increasing Transit Through China

Shanghai Express Tours aim to enhance transit experiences, encouraging travelers to explore China further. Transit numbers have been rising, with over 330,000 travelers experiencing layovers in mainland China in December, marking a 47% monthly growth. Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou are key hubs for international flights, especially in the Asia Pacific region.

Nationals from 54 countries can enjoy 72/144-hour transit visa-free policies in 23 mainland Chinese cities, with transit through nine designated airports without immigration procedures for connecting flights within 24 hours.

Facilitating Travel to China

As China relaxes visa requirements, Trip.com Group supports international travelers to explore the country. Visa-free entry expansions and initiatives like the “Explore China” campaign with Air China and “Beyond Shanghai: Experience China” with China Eastern Airlines offer additional flights within China.

Various initiatives streamline travel, including the China Travel Guide on the Trip.com app and partnerships with Alipay for digital payments. With triple-digit year-on-year rises in international travel bookings, Trip.com Group continues to make exploring China convenient and memorable for all travelers.

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