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

Should you visit Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan, professional, and diverse port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Shanghai travel costs.

Khao Lak and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai. Although Khao Lak and Shanghai are popular destinations, Shanghai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Shanghai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund.

How is Khao Lak different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Shanghai that are not to be missed. 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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Shanghai has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Shanghai has a few options to choose from. 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 Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Shanghai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Shanghai are very good to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Shanghai are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Shanghai are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great destination for students. However, Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Shanghai is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Khao Lak or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

In either Khao Lak or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than Shanghai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak or Shanghai?

The beautiful area of Khao Lak offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Khao Lak is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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

Five days in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. This area offers something for everyone.

Shanghai 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 port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife 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 Khao Lak and Shanghai, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Shanghai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shanghai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shanghai 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 Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Shanghai.

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

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 8590 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Khao Lak or Shanghai in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Shanghai. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, 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 October, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak 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. Khao Lak is much warmer than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Shanghai in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Shanghai. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 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 Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Khao Lak