A Travel Price Comparison for China Shanghai vs. Beijing for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Shanghai or Beijing?

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 Beijing. 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 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, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Beijing?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Beijing than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Beijing, Beijing has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Beijing is more popular for its nightlife, while Shanghai is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Shanghai and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the fantastic sights and museums in both Shanghai and Beijing.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Beijing has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Beijing both to be fantastic destinations.

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.

For foodies, Beijing is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Beijing has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Beijing?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Families?

Shanghai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Beijing are very good destinations for backpackers.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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 and backpackers visit Beijing. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Students?

Shanghai and Beijing are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Beijing is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

Both Shanghai and Beijing offer very good public transit options.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

The public transit in Beijing can get you to most places easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Shanghai or Beijing a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options 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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable port city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Beijing?

Both Shanghai and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than in Shanghai. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Beijing. 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 Beijing. 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 Beijing 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 Beijing?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Beijing offers food and shopping. 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 Beijing?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Five days in Shanghai or Beijing?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, 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 Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in China, and The Best Historical Tours in China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Beijing, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Shanghai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Shanghai than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Beijing?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Beijing. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Beijing, 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 Beijing?

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 Beijing in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Beijing. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Beijing. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Beijing averages at about 27°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Beijing. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Beijing in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Beijing. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beijing this time of year.

In October, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Beijing in the Winter?

Both Beijing and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. Shanghai is much warmer than Beijing in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Beijing fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Beijing. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Beijing in the Spring?

Both Beijing and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Beijing in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Beijing. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Beijing averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Beijing. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Shanghai