A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Can Tho vs. Shanghai for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Can Tho or Shanghai?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Can Tho and Shanghai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a unique, fascinating, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Can Tho travel costs.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a professional, diverse, and bustling port city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Shanghai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Shanghai travel costs.

Can Tho and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Can Tho or Shanghai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Shanghai than Can Tho. Shanghai is bigger than Can Tho, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Can Tho is well known for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund.

How is Can Tho different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Can Tho or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Can Tho can be an interesting and educational experience. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Can Tho is an experience not to be missed. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Is Can Tho or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Can Tho and Shanghai.

If you're looking for night time activities Can Tho has a few options to choose from. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

If you're looking to go shopping, Can Tho and Shanghai both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

Known for shopping, Can Tho draws large crowds to its stores. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

Shanghai is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Can Tho or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Shanghai is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Shanghai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Can Tho or Shanghai Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Shanghai.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Can Tho is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

Shanghai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Can Tho or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Shanghai has plenty to offer. 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.

Can Tho is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Is Can Tho or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Can Tho and Shanghai are high quality places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Can Tho. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

Shanghai is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Can Tho or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Can Tho is not popular with students.

Shanghai is very popular with students. 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.

Can Tho is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Can Tho or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Can Tho is a somewhat walkable city. The city center is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Shanghai?

In either Can Tho or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than Can Tho because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Can Tho, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Can Tho. 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 Can Tho. 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 Can Tho 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

The city of Can Tho offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

Can Tho is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Can Tho, 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

Can Tho is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

Can Tho is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, 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 Can Tho and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Can Tho much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Can Tho would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Can Tho 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 Can Tho.

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

Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Can Tho. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho 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 Can Tho or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Can Tho or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Can Tho during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Can Tho is around the same temperature as Shanghai in the summer. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Can Tho often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Can Tho gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets more rain in July than Shanghai. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Can Tho or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Can Tho is a little warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Can Tho in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Shanghai averages at about 19°C (65°F).

Can Tho usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Shanghai during autumn. Can Tho gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho.

Should I visit Can Tho or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Shanghai. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In January, Can Tho is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 26°C (78°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Can Tho this time of the year. In the winter, Can Tho often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Can Tho gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Can Tho usually gets less rain in January than Shanghai. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Can Tho or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Can Tho are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Can Tho is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Can Tho gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. It's quite rainy in Can Tho. In April, Can Tho usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shanghai. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Can Tho is December to April. The rainy season in Can Tho is May to November.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Can Tho