Shanghai SHA to San Francisco, CA SFO flight with British Airways

Thu, Sep 17
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Journey information

Overview: Shanghai to San Francisco, CA flight

ChinaChina
USAUSA
Icon of flight

Flights from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA depart on average 58 times per day, taking around 20h 50m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at CHF436 if you book in advance.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:10, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 6139 miles (9881 km) distance in 11h 10m. November 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
20h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF436
Flights per day
58
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
11h 10m
First flight
12:10 AM
Last flight
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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

The cheapest and fastest flights from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

CHF443

Average ticket price on Sep 17

CHF595

Fastest journey on Sep 17

11 h 30 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

19 h 10 m

Flights on Sep 17

2

Distance

9881 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA will cost around CHF595 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF443.

Fast flights

On Thu, Sep 17, we found 2 flights from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 17 the direct flights cover the 9881 km distance in an average of 19 h 10 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 11 h 30 m .

On Thu, Sep 17 the longest flights will take 1 d 2 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Eva Air
    11:40 AM26h50
    Shanghai
    2:30 PMSan Francisco, CA
    CHF4431One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    4:10 AM11h30
    Shanghai
    3:40 PMSan Francisco, CA
    CHF7471One-way
    0 transfers

Live departures

Shanghai to San Francisco, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Shanghai to San Francisco, CA flights for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
United4:10 AM Shanghai
11h30
3:40 PM San Francisco, CA0 transfersDirect
Eva Air11:40 AM Shanghai
26h50
2:30 PM San Francisco, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Shanghai to San Francisco, CA 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.

Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23

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

Air China as well as United, Korean Air, Asiana and more offer flights services from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA.

Why book with Omio vs Air China?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Air China, but also compare tickets for the likes of United, Korean Air or Asiana to find the best option for your trip from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA.
  • 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, Edreams or Skyscanner?

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

Airlines: British Airways, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, American Airlines, United, Eva Air, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, All Nippon Airways, China Southern from Shanghai to San Francisco, CAFind the best flights between Shanghai to San Francisco, CA with Omio's travel partners British Airways, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, American Airlines, United, Eva Air, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, All Nippon Airways, China Southern from CHF436. 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 United Duration
11h 10m
Cheapest United Price
CHF560
United frequency
3 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.

British Airways

About
British Airways (BA) is the United Kingdom’s flag carrier airline with headquarters in London near its main hub at London Heathrow Airport (LHR). BA is the second largest UK-based airline in terms of fleet size and number of passengers carried. Known as a full-service global airline, British Airways offers year-round low fares to destinations worldwide and flies to and from centrally-located airports. Its extensive global route network includes more than 170 destinations in nearly 80 countries throughout Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Australia. syn p British Airways (BA) is the flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom with its headquarters in London near its main hub at London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Known as a full-service global airline, BA offers low fares year-round to destinations around the globe and flies to and from centrally-located airports. Its extensive global route network includes more than 170 destinations in nearly 80 countries throughout Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Australia. BA is also the second largest airline based in the UK in terms of its fleet size and number of passengers carried.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average British Airways Duration
25h 50m
Cheapest British Airways Price
CHF1383
British Airways frequency
18 a day
Luggage included
Economy Basic includes 1 cabin bag (max 23kg, 56x45x25cm) plus 1 personal item (40x30x15cm)
Additional luggage
Additional checked bags can be purchased, with prices varying by route and fare class
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policy depends on ticket type - Basic tickets non-refundable, Flexible tickets can be cancelled for a full refund
Pregnant on board
Travel permitted until end of 36th week for single pregnancies, end of 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical clearance required after 28th weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Young flyers aged 5-11 can travel alone using British Airways' Skyflyer Solo service. Service must be booked in advance and is available on most routes
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
British Airways provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and special assistance through airports.
Pets
Pets travel in the hold except assistance dogs. Advance booking required. Only cats and dogs accepted on most routes

Qatar Airways

About
Qatar Airways is the national airline of Qatar, headquartered in Doha and based at Hamad International Airport. Established in 1993 and re-launched in 1997, it has grown into one of the Middle East's largest network airlines, operating an extensive network of international services across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. The airline offers passenger and air cargo transportation, along with services like corporate travel, online check-in, and in-flight entertainment. Qatar Airways is a member of the Oneworld alliance and operates a modern fleet of over 200 aircraft. It has received numerous accolades, including "World's Best Airline" multiple times.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Qatar Airways Duration
24h 20m
Cheapest Qatar Airways Price
CHF893
Qatar Airways frequency
20 a day
Luggage included
Economy Classic includes 25kg checked baggage and 7kg hand baggage (50x37x25cm)
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type. Most flexible fares offer full refund, while restricted fares may be non-refundable.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to 28th week without medical certificate. Between 29-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-15. Service must be booked in advance. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Qatar Airways provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before flight.
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin (max 6kg including carrier) on select routes. Larger animals travel as cargo.

Lufthansa

About
Lufthansa is Germany’s largest airline and one of the leading carriers in Europe, connecting travelers to destinations worldwide from its main hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. Its modern fleet offers a wide choice of travel experiences, from Economy Class with affordable fares and onboard entertainment to Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class with extra comfort, fine dining, and exclusive lounge access.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lufthansa Duration
24h 40m
Cheapest Lufthansa Price
CHF1432
Lufthansa frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (8 kg) and 1 personal item included in Economy Class
Additional luggage
Additional bags can be purchased, prices vary by route and fare type
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type; most flexible fares offer full refund, basic fares are non-refundable
Pregnant on board
Lufthansa allows travel up to end of 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-11 (mandatory) and 12-17 (optional). Service fee applies
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Lufthansa provides wheelchair service and special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin or cargo hold, fees apply. Service animals travel free of charge

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average American Airlines Duration
17h 10m
Cheapest American Airlines Price
CHF700
American Airlines frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Japan Airlines

About
Japan Airlines (JAL) is a major Japanese airline headquartered in Tokyo, established in 1951. It is considered the flag carrier of Japan and operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, serving over 90 destinations worldwide. JAL's main hubs are Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports, with secondary hubs in Osaka. The JAL Group includes several subsidiaries for domestic feeder services and cargo operations. JAL is also a member of the Oneworld airline alliance, enhancing its global reach.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Japan Airlines Duration
11h 50m
Cheapest Japan Airlines Price
CHF655
Japan Airlines frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Economy Class includes 2 pieces of checked baggage up to 23kg each
Additional luggage
Additional pieces can be purchased, fees vary by route and frequent flyer status
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type; some tickets are non-refundable while others allow cancellation with fees up to 24 hours before departure.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies and 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
Available for children aged 5-11 on international flights and 6-11 on domestic flights. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
JAL provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including dedicated staff assistance and accessible facilities throughout the journey.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed in cabin on domestic flights only, subject to restrictions and fees

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 Korean Air Duration
12h 35m
Cheapest Korean Air Price
CHF456
Korean Air frequency
3 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.

All Nippon Airways

About
All Nippon Airways (ANA) is Japan's largest airline, operating an extensive network of domestic and international flights. Established in 1952, ANA has grown to become a leading member of the Star Alliance, offering high-quality air transportation services. The airline's fleet includes a variety of aircraft, such as the Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A320neo, catering to both short and long-haul routes. ANA's main hubs are Tokyo–Haneda and Tokyo–Narita airports, with secondary hubs in Osaka–Itami and Osaka–Kansai. The airline is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience for its passengers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average All Nippon Airways Duration
12h 0m
Cheapest All Nippon Airways Price
CHF1147
All Nippon Airways frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Economy Class includes 1 carry-on bag (56x36x23cm) and 1 personal item
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, fees vary by route and booking class
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by fare type, some tickets are non-refundable while others allow cancellation with fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnancy up to 28th week: no restrictions. 28-36 weeks: medical certificate required. After 36 weeks: not allowed to fly
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied using ANA's UM Service. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
ANA provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including mobility aids and support throughout the journey
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin, must be in approved carriers under 10kg total weight

Eva Air

About
EVA Air is a Taiwanese international airline, headquartered in Taoyuan City, operating passenger and dedicated cargo services to over 40 international destinations across Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. A privately owned affiliate of the Evergreen Group, EVA Air is recognized as a 5-star airline by Skytrax. The airline is known for pioneering Premium Economy class, which it introduced in 1991. EVA Air operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Its subsidiary, UNI Air, handles domestic and regional flights within Taiwan and to nearby destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eva Air Duration
13h 10m
Cheapest Eva Air Price
CHF552
Eva Air frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag (7kg) and 1 personal item. Business Class: 2 carry-on bags (10kg each) and 1 personal item.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available if cancelled 24 hours after booking and at least 7 days before departure.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to 32 weeks without medical certificate. Between 32-36 weeks, medical certificate required within 7 days of departure.
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with EVA Air's UM service. Service fee applies.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
EVA Air provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Request must be made at least 48 hours before departure.

China Southern

About
China Southern Airlines, headquartered in Guangzhou, China, is one of the country's three major airlines and a prominent global carrier. It boasts the largest fleet in Asia and operates over 850 passenger and cargo aircraft, including Boeing and Airbus models. The airline offers an extensive network with more than 3,000 daily flights to 224 destinations across 40 countries and regions. China Southern focuses on building international hubs, particularly with its "Canton Route" from Guangzhou, and provides various travel classes, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and Deluxe First.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average China Southern Duration
13h 50m
Cheapest China Southern Price
CHF441
China Southern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of carry-on luggage (20x40x55cm, max 5kg) and 1 personal item (20x30x40cm)
Additional luggage
Up to 32kg per piece, fees vary by route
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24h of booking, after that fees apply based on fare type and timing
Pregnant on board
Up to 32 weeks for single pregnancy, 28 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Available for children aged 5-12, must be booked at least 24h in advance, fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair assistance available, must be requested 48h before departure

Complete guide to San Francisco, CA

Things to do in San Francisco, CA

Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

California Academy of Sciences

Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.

  • Must visit

de Young Museum

Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.

  • Must visit

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.

US Dollar ($)

Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$90+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.

FAQs: Shanghai to San Francisco, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as CHF436 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Shanghai to San Francisco, CA is CHF2175 ; 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 Shanghai to San Francisco, CA is 11h 10m 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 Shanghai to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct flights a day from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA with Air China, United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Air China, United, Korean Air, Asiana for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Shanghai and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA generally leave from Shanghai Pudong and arrive in San Francisco International Airport.Shanghai Pudong is 21 miles (34 km) away from Shanghai city centre and San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA is November.
Yes, you can take a flight between Shanghai and San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Shanghai nor San Francisco, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of China and United States. 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 Shanghai and San Francisco, CA.
The best events to attend in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Fleet Week, a maritime celebration featuring the Blue Angels and naval ship tours
  • Outside Lands, a major music festival showcasing top artists and local food
  • Chinese New Year Parade, the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside Asia with colorful floats and performances
  • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
  • Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
  • Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
  • Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
  • Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
  • Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best holidays to experience in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Thanksgiving, mild weather and a festive atmosphere with family gatherings
  • Christmas, beautiful decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city
  • Memorial Day, the start of summer with outdoor activities and parades
  • Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and beaches.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
  • Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
  • Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
  • Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
The best season to visit San Francisco, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Francisco, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA 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.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Shanghai to San Francisco, CA

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

Departure airports in Shanghai
Arrival airports in San Francisco

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

Flights from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA depart from Shanghai Pudong. The airport is 21 miles (34 km) from Shanghai city centre at Shanghai Pudong Intertiol Airport, Pudong, Shanghai, Chi.
Shanghai Pudong (PVG)Shanghai Pudong Intertiol Airport, Pudong, Shanghai, ChiWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
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 · CHF3 · every ~11 min
Night Bus · 1h 1m · CHF5 · every ~3 min
Subway2 · 35m · CHF7 · every ~28 min
2 · 1h 8m · CHF1 · 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

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Shanghai Pudong: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Shanghai Pudong: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Shanghai Pudong.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, such as Ramada Pudong Airport Hotel..

Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA)Hongqiao Airport, Minhang District, Shanghai, ChiWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Shanghai Hongqiao from Shanghai city centre

Shanghai Hongqiao is 11 km from Shanghai city centre. Public transport options include:

Subway10 · 22m · CHF1 · every ~22 min

Shanghai Hongqiao airport facilities and services

Shanghai Hongqiao 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 are available, including Chinese and Western options, located in both terminals. Popular choices include Starbucks and KFC.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering services from major banks.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Shanghai Hongqiao: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Shanghai Hongqiao: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Shanghai Hongqiao: Ramps, assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels are available within walking distance, including the Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Hotel..

More options for your journey from Shanghai to San Francisco, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular flights to and from San Francisco, CA and Shanghai

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