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

Should you visit Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a colorful, cultural, and lively 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.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a diverse, bustling, and trendy port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hat Yai and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Hat Yai, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Hat Yai is popular for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Shanghai on the map. 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.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Is the Food Better in Hat Yai or Shanghai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Hat Yai and Shanghai offer a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Hat Yai and Shanghai.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

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 the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Is Hat Yai or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is notable for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shanghai is a very popular port 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is notable for students. However, Hat Yai is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Hat Yai is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is notable for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Shanghai. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Hat Yai or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

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

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Shanghai?

In either Hat Yai or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than Hat Yai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai?

The city of Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai, 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Hat Yai is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Hat Yai is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, 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 Hat Yai and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai.

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

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hat Yai. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Hat Yai or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hat Yai is generally around the same temperature as Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 29°C (83°F), 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 Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Hat Yai gets 206 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. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In July, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Hat Yai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. 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.

Hat Yai is much warmer than Shanghai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 182 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 Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. 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 the winter, Hat Yai is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hat Yai in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Shanghai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Shanghai. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Hat Yai is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 30°C (85°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the spring, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in April than Shanghai. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. May to December in Hat Yai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Hat Yai