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

Should you visit Kaunas 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 Kaunas 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.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a young, vibrant, and cultural 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 and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

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, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Shanghai travel costs.

Kaunas and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Shanghai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Kaunas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is known for its historical sights. Shanghai is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Kaunas is popular for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Kaunas different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Kaunas and Shanghai.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kaunas. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

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 Kaunas or Shanghai Better for its Old Town?

Kaunas is a good destination for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Kaunas to see the old town. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Shanghai?

Shanghai is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city 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.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Shanghai is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Kaunas is a family-friendly city. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is renowned for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is notable for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is notable for students. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Kaunas. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.

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

Shanghai is notable for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Kaunas or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Kaunas is somewhat walkable. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Shanghai?

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

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

The city of Kaunas offers food and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Shanghai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Kaunas or Shanghai?

Kaunas 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 Kaunas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Kaunas or Shanghai?

Kaunas 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Kaunas or Shanghai?

Kaunas 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling big city of Shanghai. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When comparing the travel costs between Kaunas and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Kaunas is in Europe and Shanghai is in Asia, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas 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 Kaunas or Shanghai?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kaunas or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.

In July, Kaunas is generally much colder than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 18°C (64°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 Kaunas. Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Kaunas gets 256 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, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kaunas or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Kaunas during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kaunas is much colder than Shanghai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Shanghai. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Shanghai. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. In the winter, Kaunas is much colder than Shanghai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kaunas in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Shanghai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shanghai. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kaunas or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Shanghai. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Kaunas is generally much colder than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 7°C (44°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Kaunas usually gets less rain in April than Shanghai. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Kaunas