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

Should you visit Shanghai or Anchorage?

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

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Shanghai and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Anchorage. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Shanghai different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Anchorage 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 Anchorage?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Shanghai is a port city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Anchorage?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Families?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Shanghai is 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly port city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Shanghai is a great port city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 backpackers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage Better for Students?

Shanghai is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage 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.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Shanghai or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city 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.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable port city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shanghai and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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 Anchorage offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

A week in Shanghai or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage 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 Anchorage is in North America, 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage 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 Anchorage Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Anchorage?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Anchorage, 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 Anchorage?

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 Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the autumn. Shanghai is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Anchorage. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Anchorage. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Anchorage in the spring for the natural beauty.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Shanghai