How much is a Shanghai–Hangzhou day trip by car?

It starts at $130 for a sedan (up to 3), $170 for a Buick GL8 (up to 6), and $250 for a Mercedes V-Class (up to 8), including the full round trip and waiting time.

How long is the drive from Shanghai to Hangzhou?

About 175 km and roughly 2.5 hours each way via the expressway. Traffic at rush hour can add time.

Is it better by train or private car?

The high-speed train is fast, but a private car saves station time, handles luggage, and lets you visit West Lake, Lingyin and Longjing on one flexible route without transfers.

Can we add Wuzhen or a water town?

Yes — we can route via Wuzhen or Xitang water town on the way back, though that makes for a longer day.

Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip by Private Car

A day trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou — home to the UNESCO-listed West Lake, the ancient Lingyin Temple and the famous Longjing (Dragon Well) tea — is one of the best excursions from the city. With a private car, you avoid the crowded high-speed rail stations and get door-to-door comfort both ways.

The drive is about 2.5 hours each way. Your driver waits while you cruise the lake, visit the temple and stroll the tea fields. Fixed pricing from $130 for the full day.

Distances & Driving Time

Route	Distance	Driving Time
Shanghai city center → Hangzhou (West Lake)	~175 km	~2.5 hours
Shanghai (Hongqiao) → Hangzhou	~160 km	~2.25 hours
West Lake → Lingyin Temple	~6 km	~20 min
Lingyin Temple → Longjing Tea Village	~8 km	~25 min

Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip by Private Car — Rates

Professional driver, fixed price. All prices include driver, fuel, tolls and parking. MPV for 4–6 guests, Mercedes V-Class for 7–8.

Vehicle	Seats	Full-Day Charter
VW Passat / Toyota Camry (sedan)	1–3	$130 ~¥936
Buick GL8 MPV	4–6	$170 ~¥1224
Mercedes V-Class	7–8	$250 ~¥1800