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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a reflective, somber, and informative town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kanchanaburi 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Shanghai travel costs.

Kanchanaburi and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Shanghai than Kanchanaburi. Shanghai is bigger than Kanchanaburi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kanchanaburi is well known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. 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 Kanchanaburi different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Shanghai.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanchanaburi. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Shanghai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Shanghai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Shanghai is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

The town of Kanchanaburi offers food and shopping. 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.

Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kanchanaburi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Shanghai is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

Kanchanaburi 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.

Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Shanghai is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in 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 Kanchanaburi and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi.

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Shanghai. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Kanchanaburi. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Kanchanaburi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, 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. In January, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Kanchanaburi