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

Should you visit Beijing or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm 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 historic, massive, and jam-packed city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of Stockholm is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Stockholm travel costs.

Beijing and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Stockholm?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Stockholm, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and big city activities, while Stockholm is known for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Stockholm and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town.

How is Beijing different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Stockholm has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife in Stockholm has something for everybody. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for Music?

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

In Stockholm you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Stockholm offers plenty to see. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Stockholm?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Stockholm and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Beijing or Stockholm More Beautiful?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Stockholm is one of the main draws. This is among the cleanest and most beautiful cities in Europe.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for Families?

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

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Beijing or Stockholm Better for Students?

Beijing is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Stockholm?

Both Beijing and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Stockholm has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Stockholm than Beijing. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

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

One day in Beijing or Stockholm?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Stockholm, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Stockholm, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Stockholm?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Stockholm?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. In Stockholm, you'll find live music and food. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lhasa, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Stockholm, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm is in Europe, 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Stockholm?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

Both Stockholm and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In July, Beijing is generally a little warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Stockholm. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives less sunshine than Stockholm during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beijing is much warmer than Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Stockholm. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Stockholm in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Stockholm. Many travelers come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing is cooler than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Stockholm. Many visitors come to Beijing in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Beijing is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Stockholm. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Beijing