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

Should you visit Shanghai or Budapest?

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 Budapest. 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 professional, diverse, and bustling 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural 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.

Shanghai and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Budapest?

Both Budapest and Shanghai have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, and shopping, while Budapest is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Shanghai different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Shanghai are world-renowned. 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 a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Shanghai is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Shanghai or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Budapest 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Budapest?

Shanghai is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Shanghai draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Shanghai or Budapest Better for Families?

Shanghai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Shanghai is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Shanghai or Budapest Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Shanghai 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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Shanghai or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a world-class destination for students. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Shanghai is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest can get you around easily. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Budapest?

In either Shanghai or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Budapest has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Budapest than Shanghai. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Shanghai or Budapest?

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 beautiful city of Budapest offers nightlife 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 Budapest?

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.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Budapest?

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.

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

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.

Budapest is a great place to explore. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Budapest, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shanghai is in Asia and Budapest 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 Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Budapest?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shanghai or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Budapest. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Shanghai is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Budapest. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In January, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Budapest. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Budapest. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Budapest. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Shanghai