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

Should you visit Bangkok or Shanghai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Shanghai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a cultural, alluring, and spirited capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan, professional, and diverse port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Shanghai?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bangkok than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Bangkok, Bangkok has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bangkok is famous for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also well known for The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Bangkok different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Shanghai?

Both Bangkok and Shanghai have fantastic landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bangkok that are not to be missed. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

The museums and tourist attractions in Shanghai are world-renowned. 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.

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

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Shanghai both to be fantastic destinations.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Bangkok or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Bangkok just to party. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

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 the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Shanghai?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Shanghai and Bangkok.

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Known for shopping, Shanghai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Is Bangkok or Shanghai Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Shanghai are very good to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Shanghai is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bangkok or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Shanghai are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Shanghai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Bangkok or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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 Bangkok or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Shanghai. 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.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Shanghai is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Shanghai?

In either Bangkok or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Shanghai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Bangkok. 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 Bangkok. 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 Bangkok than Shanghai 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 Bangkok.

One day in Bangkok or Shanghai?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Shanghai, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Bangkok or Shanghai?

Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Shanghai, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bangkok or Shanghai?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Bangkok or Shanghai?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. This capital city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Shanghai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Shanghai than you might in Bangkok.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bangkok. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Bangkok or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bangkok is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bangkok in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Shanghai. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 28°C (83°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. Bangkok is much warmer than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February.

Should I visit Bangkok or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Bangkok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bangkok is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bangkok in April average around 31°C (87°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bangkok usually gets less rain in April than Shanghai. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Bangkok