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

Should you visit Shanghai or Brussels?

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 Brussels. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Brussels?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Brussels than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Brussels, Brussels has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Shanghai different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Shanghai is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Brussels.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Brussels?

Both Shanghai and Brussels are terrific shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Brussels are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for Couples?

Shanghai is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brussels is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Brussels are excellent 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 Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Shanghai or Brussels Better for Students?

Shanghai and Brussels are both excellent 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.

Brussels is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Brussels 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 Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Brussels both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Brussels is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Brussels?

In either Shanghai or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Shanghai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Shanghai than Brussels. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Brussels. 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 Brussels. 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.

One day in Shanghai or Brussels?

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.

The city of Brussels offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Brussels?

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.

Brussels 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 Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Brussels?

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.

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Brussels?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Brussels. The summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In July, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 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 Brussels. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Brussels in the Autumn?

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

Shanghai is much warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In the winter, Shanghai is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Brussels. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Shanghai