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

Should you visit Shanghai or Dublin?

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 Dublin. 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 trendy, modern, and cosmopolitan 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Dublin?

Both Dublin and Shanghai have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dublin is more popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

How is Shanghai different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Shanghai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is notable for its live music scene. However, Shanghai is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Dublin 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 Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Dublin?

Shanghai is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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 visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Dublin are great 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 Dublin. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Dublin is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Dublin are great 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 Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Shanghai or Dublin Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

Shanghai is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Shanghai or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Dublin?

In either Shanghai or Dublin, 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 Dublin. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Dublin. 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 Dublin 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 Dublin?

Shanghai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Dublin offers museums and nightlife. 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 Dublin?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the trendy big city of Shanghai. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Dublin?

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

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 Dublin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Dublin. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Shanghai is much warmer than Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 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 Dublin. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Dublin. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Shanghai is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Dublin. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Dublin in the Winter?

Both Dublin and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. In January, Shanghai is generally cooler than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Dublin. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city.

Shanghai is much warmer than Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Shanghai