A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Beijing or Chicago?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Chicago 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Chicago travel costs.

Beijing and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Chicago?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chicago than Beijing. While Beijing is larger than Chicago, Chicago has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Beijing is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Beijing different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Chicago?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Chicago.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Beijing is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Beijing is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Beijing and Chicago can be an enjoyable experience.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

In Chicago you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Chicago is a world class destination for shoppers. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Beijing does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Beijing does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Beijing does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Beijing does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Beijing or Chicago More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of nice scenery and beauty in both Beijing and Chicago.

Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Couples?

Both Beijing and Chicago are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Is Beijing or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Beijing or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Chicago?

In either Beijing or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Chicago because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Beijing 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 Chicago.

One day in Beijing or Chicago?

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

In Chicago, you'll find food and shopping. This 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 Beijing or Chicago?

Because Beijing 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Chicago, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Beijing or Chicago?

Beijing 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 Beijing has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago 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 Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Chicago?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Beijing is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Chicago. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Beijing is around the same temperature as Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beijing in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Chicago. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Chicago. The winter months attract visitors to Beijing because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. The weather in Beijing can be very cold. In January, Beijing is generally a little warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around -4°C (26°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Chicago. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Chicago. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Beijing is a little warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Beijing