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

Should you visit Shanghai or Amsterdam?

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 Shanghai and Amsterdam. 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.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a trendy, modern, and cosmopolitan port city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Shanghai and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Shanghai is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Shanghai and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Shanghai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Shanghai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout 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 Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Shanghai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 explore the shopping areas in Amsterdam. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Shanghai is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Amsterdam is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 Shanghai or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Shanghai is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you to most places easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Is Shanghai or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

Both Shanghai and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Shanghai. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Shanghai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Shanghai 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Amsterdam offers live music and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Shanghai or Amsterdam?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Amsterdam 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

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

A week in Shanghai or Amsterdam?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Shanghai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shanghai is in Asia and Amsterdam is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam 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 Shanghai Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Amsterdam?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Amsterdam, 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 Shanghai or Amsterdam?

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 Shanghai or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Shanghai is much warmer than Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Shanghai is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

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

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. In January, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Shanghai is much warmer than Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Amsterdam. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Amsterdam. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Shanghai