Cheap Flights from Shanghai to Frankfurt — $303

Shanghai is served by two main airports: Pudong International (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA). Pudong is the international gateway and full-service hub, typically handling long-haul and many premium carriers, while Hongqiao functions more as a domestic and regional airport with a higher share of low-cost and business-focused flights. Pudong sits about 30–40 km east of the city center; airport express trains or maglev plus metro rides usually take 30–60 minutes and can cost roughly moderate fares, with taxis and app-based cars taking longer depending on traffic. Hongqiao is much closer, around 10–15 km west, often reachable by Metro Line 2/10 in 20–40 minutes or by taxi in similar time for a typically lower fare. Pros: Pudong offers extensive international connections and full-service facilities; Hongqiao is more convenient for domestic transfers and shorter ground times. Cons: Pudong can feel distant and busier during peak international waves; Hongqiao may have fewer long-haul options and tighter transfer windows. Both airports provide a mix of transport choices and facilities, so pick based on itinerary and tolerance for surface travel time.

Fly direct from Shanghai to Frankfurt for the quickest, most convenient way to connect these two major hubs — less hassle, no layovers, and more time to enjoy your trip. While connecting itineraries can sometimes be cheaper, choosing a nonstop gets you to Germany faster and with greater comfort, making it ideal for business travelers and vacationers alike.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is Germany’s primary international hub, serving long-haul carriers, Lufthansa’s main hub operations and many full-service alliances alongside some low-cost carriers. It sits about 12–15 km southwest of the city center, with fast rail links: the regional/long-distance train to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof typically takes 10–15 minutes and often costs in the mid-range for German rail fares; S-Bahn services take roughly 15–20 minutes with lower fares. Taxis and ride-shares can be convenient but are usually pricier and take around 20–30 minutes in normal traffic. Pros: extensive connections, frequent services and good passenger facilities; cons: can be busy and may involve longer walks between terminals.

The route Shanghai — Frankfurt is served by many carriers — 11 in total, including China Eastern Airlines, Lufthansa, Air China, Cathay Pacific, Hainan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Gulf Air, and Sichuan Airlines. This gives passengers wide opportunities: from finding the lowest fare (from $303) to selecting flights by schedule or service class. Our service aggregates data from multiple booking systems so you can compare offers in one place. This saves time and money: no need to check dozens of sites — just pick the right option and book online.