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

Should you visit Shanghai or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast. 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 modern, cosmopolitan, and professional 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, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Shanghai travel costs.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a vibrant, colorful, and high energy coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Gold Coast travel costs.

Shanghai and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Gold Coast?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Gold Coast than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Gold Coast, Gold Coast has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gold Coast is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Shanghai is known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Gold Coast specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Shanghai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Gold Coast makes for a great culinary experience. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast just to party. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Gold Coast for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Gold Coast offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Gold Coast is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Gold Coast is a popular spot for hiking. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Gold Coast?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for shopping.

Many people travel to Shanghai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a great port city for its scenery and beauty. However, Gold Coast is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Gold Coast is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast 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, Gold Coast is very family-friendly. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Shanghai and Gold Coast both amazing destinations for a couple.

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.

Gold Coast makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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 Gold Coast Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Gold Coast is not popular with students.

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.

Gold Coast is not popular with students.

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

Both Shanghai and Gold Coast offer superb 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 Gold Coast can get you to most places easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

Is Shanghai or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great port city for its ease of walking around. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline 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.

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Gold Coast?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Gold Coast than Shanghai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Gold Coast that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Shanghai or Gold Coast?

When visiting Shanghai, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The coastline of Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast?

When visiting Shanghai, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast?

Shanghai, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Gold Coast is a great place to explore. 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 Gold Coast has to offer. This coastline 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 Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Gold Coast, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Shanghai is in Asia and Gold Coast is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Gold Coast?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Gold Coast. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Gold Coast. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gold Coast for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shanghai is a little warmer than Gold Coast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin January. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Gold Coastin January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

Both Gold Coast and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Gold Coast in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally cooler than Gold Coastin April. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Gold Coastin April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Gold Coast in the Winter?

Both Gold Coast and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can get quite cold in the winter. Shanghai is much colder than Gold Coast in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin July. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Gold Coastin July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Gold Coast in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Gold Coast. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Shanghai is cooler than Gold Coast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Gold Coast receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coastin October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Shanghai