A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Shenyang for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang?

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 Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang. 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.

Where Should I go: Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang?

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, often referred to as KL, is the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia. It is also the largest city in the country, having grown out of a small Chinese mining village. Today Kuala Lumpur is a microcosm of the country of Malaysia. The population is split between the Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures which you can see reflected in the city's neighborhoods, cuisine, and entertainment. It's also an incredibly affordable city, even if you're looking for the comforts of a five star hotel or a luxury restaurant. Prices are almost always a fraction of what you would pay in Europe or the United States.

Shenyang

Shenyang, China is the capital, and largest, city in the Liaoning Province in northwest China which borders North Korea. Shenyang has a long, imperial, history and is the birthplace of the Qing Dynasty. The city has a blend of beautifully preserved architecture and modern buildings, creating a pleasant atmosphere for exploring!

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best 10-Day Tours in China, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in China.


Which place is cheaper, Shenyang or Kuala Lumpur?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kuala Lumpur is $62, while the average daily cost in Shenyang is $70. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kuala Lumpur $36
    Shenyang $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kuala Lumpur $72
    Shenyang $82
Compare Hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang

Looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur


Hotels in Shenyang


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $6.41
    Shenyang $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.67
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Taxi From Airport
    $19
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.68
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • i-City Shah Alam Theme Park Adventure with Return Transfer: $59
  • VIP Transfer by Mercedes Benz : Airport to Kuala Lumpur Hotel: $75
  • VIP Arrival Transfer : Kuala Lumpur Airport: $196
  • VIP Airport Transfer - Departure: $183
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Kuala Lumpur APT-HTL (KUL): $19
  • Transfer To Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort : $30
  • Taman Negara Kuala Tahan Transfer Private Hyundai Starex: $120
  • Sunway Lagoon: Ticket with Transfer from Kuala Lumpur: $87
  • Sunway Lagoon: Admission Ticket & 2-Way Transfer: $72
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park with Round-Trip Transfer: $83
  • Sunway Lagoon Theme Park Ticket and 1 WAY Transfer (SIC – shared transfer): $55
  • Sunway Lagoon One-Day Admission Tickets Including Transfer: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang?

Prices for flights to both Shenyang and Kuala Lumpur change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kuala Lumpur $15
    Shenyang $18
Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $8.39
  • Roti Bread
    $0.21
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.02
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $4.51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • ARAS Restaurant at KL Tower Buffet Dinner: $28
  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $43
  • Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Cultural Night Experience with Buffet Dinner : $53
  • From Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $53
  • Cultural Night Tour with Dinner: $55
  • Malaysia Cooking Classes: $60
  • Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
  • Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $62
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $63
  • Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour Include Seafood Dinner (Free Boat Ride): $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $13
    Shenyang $7.69
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $9.43
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.05

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $241
  • Batu Caves And Countryside Tour: $24
  • Full Day Kuala Lumpur City Tour with Petronas Twin Tower Tickets: $95
  • Full Day Melaka Tour with The Shore Sky Tower 43rd Floor - Unesco Heritage: $188
  • Historic And Heritage Melaka Tour: $55
  • History, Heritage & Culture Of Malaysia Tour: $62
  • Ipoh "The Land Of Grace" + Orang Utan Island +Lunch(Guided Tour): $241
  • Kuala Lumpur (Genting Highlands 7.5 hours Private Tour): $65
  • Kuala Lumpur Full Day City & Shopping Tour with Lunch (PRIVATE TOUR): $77
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • Malaysia: Aquaria KLCC Entry Ticket: $13
  • *13 Hrs Kuala Lumpur & Melaka Van Tour from Bentong w' Tour Guide: $108

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kuala Lumpur $6.21
    Shenyang $5.82
Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.43


When comparing the travel costs between Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang, we can see that Shenyang 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang?

Shenyang has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang?

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

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang in the Summer?

Both Shenyang and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Shenyang. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Shenyang averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Shenyang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Shenyang during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Shenyang receives 214 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shenyang. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives less rain than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Shenyang receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F) 
    Shenyang 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang in the Autumn?

Both Shenyang and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Shenyang. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Shenyang fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In Shenyang, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shenyang receives 216 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Shenyang receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F) 
    Shenyang 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Shenyang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

Shenyang can be very cold during winter. Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Shenyang in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Shenyang fluctuates around -11°C (13°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Shenyang during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Shenyang receives 167 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Shenyang receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F) 
    Shenyang -11°C (13°F)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Shenyang in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Shenyang. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Shenyang averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shenyang. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shenyang receives 241 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Shenyang. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Shenyang receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F) 
    Shenyang 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Shenyang and Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Shenyang
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) -11°C (13°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 200 mm (7.9 in) -7°C (19°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Apr 28°C (82°F) 240 mm (9.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 200 mm (7.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 280 mm (11 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 290 mm (11.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 250 mm (9.8 in) -7°C (19°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)