A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Shanghai for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ao Nang or Shanghai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a accessible, popular, and beachfront town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a modern, cosmopolitan, and professional port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Ao Nang and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai. Although Ao Nang and Shanghai are both popular with visitors, Shanghai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Shanghai is more popular for its museums & sights, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ao Nang is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Ao Nang is popular for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund.

How is Ao Nang different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shanghai and Ao Nang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Shanghai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Shanghai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Ao Nang has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Ao Nang to choose from. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a good destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Ao Nang offers a nice beach destination. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Shanghai specifically to go shopping. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Shanghai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city getaway.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang and Shanghai are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Shanghai. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Shanghai is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shanghai is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Shanghai. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

You'll find some public transit in Ao Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Is Ao Nang or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Ao Nang and Shanghai are superb when it comes to walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Shanghai is very walkable. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Shanghai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

In either Ao Nang or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than Ao Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Ao Nang. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Shanghai, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Ao Nang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Shanghai that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shanghai than Ao Nang if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Shanghai.

One day in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

The town of Ao Nang offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Ao Nang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ao Nang, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Ao Nang is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Ao Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Shanghai, we can see that Ao Nang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ao Nang Expensive? and Is Shanghai Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 1830 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Shanghai, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ao Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Shanghai. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ao Nang is generally around the same temperature as Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the summer, Ao Nang often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in July than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

Ao Nang is a little warmer than Shanghai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Ao Nang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In the winter, Ao Nang is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ao Nang in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Shanghai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Ao Nang usually gets less rain in January than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 29°C (84°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Ao Nang