What are the most exciting events happening in Shanghai?

The best events to attend in Shanghai include: Chinese New Year, a vibrant celebration marking the start of the lunar new year with fireworks, dragon dances, and family reunions Shanghai International Film Festival, an annual event showcasing films from around the world with screenings, awards, and celebrity appearances Shanghai Fashion Week, a premier fashion event featuring local and international designers presenting their latest collections.

What are the best holidays to spend in Shanghai?

The best holidays to experience in Shanghai include: Chinese New Year, vibrant festivities and cultural celebrations throughout the city Labor Day, pleasant weather and various local events National Day, patriotic displays and a festive atmosphere with fireworks.

SAN FRANCISCO to SHANGHAI flight from $586 (€482) with United (SFO to SHA)

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Journey information

Overview: San Francisco, CA to Shanghai flight

USA

China

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai depart on average 47 times per day, taking around 14h 16m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $586 (€482) if you book in advance.

There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:17, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 6139 miles (9881 km) distance in 13h 30m. January is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.

Price information

Distance

6139 miles (9881 km)

Average flight duration

14h 16m

Cheapest ticket price

$586 (€482)

Flights per day

Direct flights

Fastest flight

13h 30m

First flight

12:17 AM

Last flight

11:58 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jul - Sep

Price information

Live departures

San Francisco, CA to Shanghai flight times

The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Shanghai flights for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers	Tickets
	7:55 PM San Francisco, CA	13h30	9:25 AM Shanghai	0 transfersDirect
This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Shanghai by flight

Compare flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Shanghai flights with Omio?

United as well as China Eastern or Korean Air offer flights services from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai.

Why book with Omio vs United?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for United, but also compare tickets for the likes of China Eastern or Korean Air to find the best option for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai.
Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.

Why book with Omio over Kayak, Skyscanner or Trip?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of China Eastern or Korean Air to find the best option for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai.

Airlines: United, China Eastern, Korean Air from San Francisco, CA to ShanghaiFind the best flights between San Francisco, CA to Shanghai with Omio's travel partners United, China Eastern, Korean Air from $586 (€482). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

United

About

United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

13h 30m

Cheapest Price

$715 (€588)

United frequency

6 a day

Luggage included

Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.

Additional luggage

Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.

Luggage storage

Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.

Refund

Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.

Pregnant on board

Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.

Unaccompagned minor

Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.

Amenities on board the airplane

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.

Seat reservation

Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.

Bikes

Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.

Pets

United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

Learn more about United

China Eastern

About

China Eastern Airlines, headquartered in Shanghai, is one of China's three major state-owned aviation transportation groups. Established in 1957, it operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, serving over 200 destinations across five continents. As a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, China Eastern expands its global reach through partnerships with other airlines. The airline boasts a modern fleet of over 800 aircraft, including Airbus A320s, Boeing 737s for short-haul, and Boeing 777s and 787s for long-haul operations. China Eastern also provides cargo transport, tourism, and other related services.

Luggage & cancellation policy

China Eastern frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

1 piece carry-on (56x36x23cm) and 1 personal item

Additional luggage

Up to 32kg per piece, fees vary by route

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking, after that fees apply based on fare type

Pregnant on board

Up to 36 weeks for single pregnancy, 32 weeks for multiple. Medical certificate required after 32 weeks

Unaccompagned minor

Ages 5-12, must book service 48 hours in advance, additional fee applies

Amenities on board the airplane

Wifi

Food sold onboard

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair assistance available, must be requested 48 hours before flight

Pets

Small pets in cabin, max 6kg including carrier

Learn more about China Eastern

Korean Air

About

Korean Air is the flag carrier and largest airline of South Korea, headquartered in Seoul. Established in 1969, it operates an extensive network of domestic and international passenger and cargo flights. Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance and SkyTeam Cargo. The airline is recognized as a 5-star airline by Skytrax and is among the top 20 airlines globally in terms of passengers carried. Its fleet includes aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus, serving destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and North America.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

30h 0m

Cheapest Price

$656 (€540)

Korean Air frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of carry-on baggage (max 10kg) and 1 checked baggage (23kg) included for economy.

Additional luggage

Additional baggage can be purchased, fees vary by route and weight.

Cancellation Policy

Full refund available if cancelled within 24 hours of purchase. After that, refund fees apply based on fare type and timing.

Pregnant on board

Travel permitted up to 36 weeks for single pregnancy, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancy. Medical certificate required after 32 weeks.

Unaccompagned minor

Available for children aged 5-11. Must be booked at least 3 days before departure. Service fee applies.

Amenities on board the airplane

Wifi

Food sold onboard

USB plugs

Accessibility

Korean Air provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including mobility aids and medical equipment.

Pets

Small pets allowed in cabin and cargo hold, must be booked in advance. Maximum weight including carrier: 7kg for cabin.

FAQs: San Francisco, CA to Shanghai Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Shanghai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Cheap plane tickets from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai can start from as little as $586 (€482) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Shanghai is $679 (€559) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

The average journey time by plane from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai is 13h 30m to travel the 6139 miles (9881 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.

The earliest flight from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai leaves at 12:17 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The latest flight from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai leaves at 11:58 PM.

Yes, there are 2 direct flights a day from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai with United, China Eastern. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.

When taking a flight from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai, you can count on United, China Eastern, Korean Air for the best way to get you to Shanghai. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Shanghai and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai generally leave from San Francisco International Airport and arrive in Shanghai Pudong.San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from San Francisco, CA city centre and Shanghai Pudong is 21 miles (34 km) from Shanghai city centre.

The cheapest month for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai is January.

Yes, you can take a flight between San Francisco, CA and Shanghai.

Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Shanghai are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and China. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.

There is a time difference of 16 h in winter and 15 h in summer between San Francisco, CA and Shanghai.

The best events to attend in Shanghai include:

Chinese New Year, a vibrant celebration marking the start of the lunar new year with fireworks, dragon dances, and family reunions
Shanghai International Film Festival, an annual event showcasing films from around the world with screenings, awards, and celebrity appearances
Shanghai Fashion Week, a premier fashion event featuring local and international designers presenting their latest collections.

The best holidays to experience in Shanghai include:

Chinese New Year, vibrant festivities and cultural celebrations throughout the city
Labor Day, pleasant weather and various local events
National Day, patriotic displays and a festive atmosphere with fireworks.

The best season to visit Shanghai is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Shanghai is during April-May or September-November.

We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai among Omio's users.

For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.

Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.

The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

China uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY) as its currency. For travelers, using cards like UnionPay is widely accepted in cities, but cash is still essential in smaller towns and markets where card acceptance may be limited.

In Shanghai, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and unofficial taxi scams where drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Beware of fake ticket sellers at popular attractions and street vendors offering counterfeit goods. It's also advisable to use official transportation apps and authorized taxi services to avoid fraud. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots helps ensure a safe visit.

Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular airports

Popular airports from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai

Most San Francisco, CA to Shanghai flights use the San Francisco International Airport to Shanghai Pudong airport pair, with some services landing at Shanghai Hongqiao. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and Shanghai airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in San Francisco

Arrival airports in Shanghai

Which San Francisco, CA airport do flights to Shanghai leave from?

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai depart from San Francisco International Airport. The airport is 1 miles (2 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at San Francisco, CA 94128, USA.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)San Francisco, CA 94128, USA Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to San Francisco International Airport from San Francisco city centre

San Francisco International Airport is 1 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus292, 397 · 57m · $4 · every ~6 min

SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 27m · $11 · every ~21 min

Yellow-S, Red-S · 29m · $11 · every ~15 min

San Francisco International Airport airport facilities and services

San Francisco International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Francisco International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.

More about San Francisco International Airport

Which Shanghai airport do flights from San Francisco, CA arrive at?

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Shanghai most often arrive at Shanghai Pudong. Some flights land at Shanghai Hongqiao, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Shanghai arrival airport.

Shanghai Pudong (PVG)Shanghai Pudong Intertiol Airport, Pudong, Shanghai, Chi Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Shanghai Pudong from Shanghai city centre

Shanghai Pudong is 34 km from Shanghai city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus2 · 1h 5m · $4 · every ~11 min

Night Bus · 1h 1m · $6 · every ~3 min

Subway2 · 35m · $9 · every ~28 min

2 · 1h 8m · $1 · every ~28 min

Shanghai Pudong airport facilities and services

Shanghai Pudong has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Various restaurants in terminals, including Chinese and Western cuisine