A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Shanghai for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chiang Mai and Shanghai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a natural, temple-filled, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a bustling, trendy, and modern 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and hiking, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its big city activities. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Chiang Mai different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Spend time exploring the terrific sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Shanghai.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Shanghai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Shanghai both to be terrific destinations.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai 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.

Chiang Mai has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Shanghai both offer plenty of terrific spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

The abundance of shops in Shanghai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Shanghai are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Chiang Mai is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Is Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a great port city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Chiang Mai or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great port city for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

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

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Chiang Mai. 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 Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the professional port city of Shanghai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Chiang Mai 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Shanghai, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Shanghai, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, 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 Chiang Mai and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Mai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Chiang Mai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 146 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 Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Shanghai. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Shanghai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Shanghai can get quite cold in the winter. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 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. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Chiang Mai