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

Should you visit Hanoi or Shanghai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi and Shanghai 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.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Hanoi, Hanoi has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Hanoi is better known for its nightlife and historical sights, while Shanghai is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Hanoi different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Plenty of people visit the fantastic sights and museums in both Hanoi and Shanghai.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Hanoi or Shanghai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shanghai is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Shanghai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Hanoi or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi 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.

Hanoi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

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 Hanoi or Shanghai Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Hanoi is revered around the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Shanghai and Hanoi.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Many people travel to Shanghai specifically to go shopping. 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 Hanoi or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port 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.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Hanoi or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Shanghai is a great port city for couples, as it 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.

Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Hanoi or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi 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 Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

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 Hanoi or Shanghai Better for Students?

Hanoi and Shanghai are very good places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international 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.

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

Shanghai is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Hanoi or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Shanghai?

In either Hanoi or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Shanghai has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Shanghai than Hanoi. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Hanoi. 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 Hanoi. 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 Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

One day in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

In Shanghai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse big city offers. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hanoi or Shanghai?

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

Shanghai is a fun place to experience. In Shanghai, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Shanghai?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cosmopolitan big city of Shanghai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Hanoi and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hanoi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Shanghai?

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

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

Should I visit Hanoi or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Shanghai in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Shanghai. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hanoi is a little warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Shanghai averages at about 19°C (65°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Hanoi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Hanoi is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Shanghai. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Hanoi