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

Should you visit Da Nang or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Shanghai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a trendy, modern, and cosmopolitan port 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.

Da Nang and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Shanghai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Shanghai than Da Nang. Shanghai is bigger than Da Nang, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Shanghai is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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

Shanghai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Da Nang has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang 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.

Da Nang has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

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 Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Da Nang to choose from. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a good destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Da Nang offers a nice beach destination. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Da Nang or Shanghai.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. 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 Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Shanghai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Da Nang or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a well-known place for students. However, Da Nang is not popular with students.

Shanghai is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Da Nang is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Da Nang or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good 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.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Shanghai?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Da Nang. 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 Da Nang. 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 Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Shanghai?

The city of Da Nang offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Da Nang or Shanghai?

Da Nang 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Da Nang, 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 Da Nang or Shanghai?

Da Nang is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Da Nang or Shanghai?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, 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 Da Nang and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Da Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Da Nang 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 Da Nang.

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Da Nang. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Da Nang is around the same temperature as Shanghai in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

It's quite sunny in Shanghai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Shanghai during summer. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. In July, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December.

Should I visit Da Nang or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Da Nang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

In the autumn, Da Nang is a little warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Da Nang in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Shanghai averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Da Nang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Shanghai. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In January, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Shanghai during winter. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Shanghai. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Da Nang is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Da Nang this time of the year. In the spring, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Da Nang usually gets less rain in April than Shanghai. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Da Nang