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

Should you visit Shanghai or Coffs Harbour?

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 Coffs Harbour. 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 bustling, trendy, and modern 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a fun, nature-filled, and lively vacation town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Shanghai and Coffs Harbour: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Coffs Harbour?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Coffs Harbour. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Coffs Harbour attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Coffs Harbour is famous for its popularity as a holiday destination, diverse marine environment, and the iconic "Big Banana".

How is Shanghai different from Coffs Harbour?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Shanghai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Coffs Harbour offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town is home to the infamous Big Banana Fun Park. It's a large amusement park that's become recognized for the "Big Banana" at the entrance - which is the first of the "Big Things" found in Australia. The town also has several other landmarks to check out such as the Forest Sky Pier, the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, and the Butterfly House.

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

Shanghai is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Coffs Harbour. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to families, couples, and all types of vacations. There are quaint cafes as well as fine dining restaurants and the cuisine ranges from local seafood to modern Australian favorites, or international treats.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Nightlife?

Coffs Harbour 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.

Coffs Harbour has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

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 Coffs Harbour Better for Resorts?

Coffs Harbour is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Coffs Harbour to choose from. There's a huge range of accommodation types in the area with everything from camping to luxury resorts. There are also budget-friendly hostels and family-friendly hotels.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Coffs Harbour is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Coffs Harbour. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in the area, as this is where the Solitary Islands Marine Park begins. The area sees a mix of the warm water from the Great Barrier Reef and the cooler waters from around Sydney, so the marine life is diverse. There are sheltered areas that offer snorkeling for all ages and you'll see a great mix of tropical and sub-tropical marine life, as well as both soft and hard corals.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Beaches?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Coffs Harbour offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. People come for the beaches, and they won't disappoint. You can enjoy everything from surfing, swimming, fishing, or simply walking and taking in the beauty. Popular beaches in the area include Emerald Beach, Woolgoolga, and the family-friendly Jetty Beach.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Hiking?

Coffs Harbour is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Coffs Harbour is a popular spot for hiking. There are many national parks and natural areas nearby with excellent hiking and bush walks. The Coffs Creek Walk is a walking and biking path that's in town and connects the city center to many of the top sights that are nearby. Out of town, there's the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, the Gumgali Track, Sherwood Nature Reserve and Ulidarra National Park.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Coffs Harbour?

Shanghai is very popular for shopping. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Shanghai. 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.

Coffs Harbour is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many shopping centers and markets where you can enjoy leisurely shopping or pick up any essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Families?

Coffs Harbour is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Coffs Harbour is very family-friendly. There are great beaches where kids can swim or learn to surf. There are also water parks, including the famous Big Banana Fun Park, as well as amusement parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Kids and adults alike will enjoy going dolphin or whale watching, or putting on a mask and going snorkeling.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. 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.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Couples?

Shanghai is very popular for romance. Also, Coffs Harbour is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Coffs Harbour frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful city and a popular honeymoon destination. Couples will enjoy the impressive beaches and fun activities. There are places to explore nature as well as restaurants and fun evening activities. There's also great scuba diving and snorkeling at the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour. There are a number of hostels around town as well as great water activities and a lively atmosphere, making this a nice stop off for backpackers.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour Better for Students?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Coffs Harbour 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.

Coffs Harbour is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Coffs Harbour. This is a very car dependent area and public transit is very limit. While there are buses, the area is spread out and you need the freedom of having your own vehicle to explore.

Is Shanghai or Coffs Harbour a more walkable city?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Coffs Harbour is lacking in options 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.

Coffs Harbour is not a walkable port city. Most visitors arrive with a car and you'll struggle to fully experience the area if you don't have your own form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in Coffs Harbour or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Coffs Harbour?

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

Families should spend more time in Coffs Harbour than Shanghai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Coffs Harbour, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Coffs Harbour. 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 Coffs Harbour 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 Coffs Harbour?

Shanghai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The vacation town of Coffs Harbour offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Coffs Harbour?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Coffs Harbour is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Coffs Harbour?

Shanghai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful port city of Shanghai. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Coffs Harbour is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Coffs Harbour has to offer. This vacation town 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Coffs Harbour?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Coffs Harbour. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Coffs Harbour, 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 Coffs Harbour?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Coffs Harbour is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Shanghai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Shanghai or Coffs Harbour in the Summer?

Both Coffs Harbour and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Coffs Harbour because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Coffs Harbourin January. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Coffs Harbour, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Shanghai. In the summer, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Coffs Harbourin January. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 237 hours of full sun.

Coffs Harbour gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Coffs Harbourin January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Coffs Harbour in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Coffs Harbour. 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 hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Coffs Harbour this time of year.

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Coffs Harbour in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 20°C (67°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Coffs Harbour this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Coffs Harbour receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Coffs Harbourin April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 215 mm (8.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Coffs Harbour in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Coffs Harbour. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Coffs Harbour for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than Coffs Harbour. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Coffs Harbour averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Coffs Harbourin July. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Coffs Harbour receives 219 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Coffs Harbourin July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Coffs Harbour in the Spring?

Both Coffs Harbour and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Coffs Harbour in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Shanghai is generally cooler than Coffs Harbourin October. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Coffs Harbour fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Coffs Harbour. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Coffs Harbour during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Coffs Harbour receives 257 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Coffs Harbour. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Coffs Harbourin October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Coffs Harbour receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Coffs Harbour and Shanghai