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Whether you are visiting for fun, work, or school, getting around Shanghai can be a little confusing at first. While the metro system is fast and cheap, sometimes you just want the comfort of a taxi that takes you straight to your destination.
However, taxis here can sometimes be expensive, especially during busy times or when you are not sure about the prices. Some tourists even pay more than they should because they don’t know the local tricks.
In this blog, we show you how to get cheap taxis in this big city using simple tips that anyone can follow, even if you don’t speak perfect Chinese or are not a travel expert.
The easiest and cheapest way to book a taxi in Shanghai is by using an app called Didi. It is like Uber but for China, and you can download it from your app store. There is even an English version of the app, which is great for tourists.
Once you open the app, you can enter your current location and your destination. The app will then show you the price before you book, so you don’t get any surprises later. You can also choose between different types of cars. The regular taxis are usually the cheapest.
If you try to get a taxi outside busy tourist places like The Bund or People’s Square, you might get charged more. Some drivers wait in these places hoping to get tourists who don’t know the local rates.
Instead, walk a few streets away from the busy area before calling a taxi. You can also use the Didi app to book instead of waving one down from the street. Booking through the app helps you avoid drivers who want to charge extra.
Even though many taxi drivers in Shanghai don’t speak English, that shouldn’t stop you. You can write down your destination in Chinese or show it on your phone. Use apps like Google Translate or Pleco (a Chinese-English dictionary). If you are using Didi, it even shows the driver your destination clearly in Chinese.
When drivers see that you are prepared, they are less likely to overcharge you. It also saves time and helps avoid confusion.
Shanghai taxis are supposed to use a meter to calculate the price. Always check that the driver turns on the meter when you get in. If they refuse, kindly get out and look for another taxi. Typically, fares start low and then go up based on distance and time. Avoid taxis that offer a fixed price without using the meter, as they might charge more.
Taxi prices can go up during peak hours, like 7:30 to 9:30 am and 5 to 7:30 pm, because of traffic and high demand. If you can avoid travelling at these times, you will save even more. Late at night (after 11 pm), taxis might also add a small extra charge. Plan your day so you travel during cheaper times.
Getting around in Shanghai doesn't have to be expensive or difficult. With a little help from apps like Didi, smart planning, and a few local tricks, you can ride taxis around the city without breaking your budget. Always try to avoid tourist traps, use official taxis, and make sure the meter is running. Also, try to travel during less busy times, and consider ride-sharing if you want to save even more.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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