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

Should you visit Shanghai or Houston?

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 Houston. 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.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind 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 live music, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Houston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Shanghai than Houston. Shanghai is bigger than Houston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Houston is more popular for its nightlife and music. Shanghai is more touristy than Houston and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Shanghai different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Houston 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.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Shanghai or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Houston 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.

Houston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Shanghai is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Houston?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Shanghai or Houston Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Houston 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 Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Shanghai or Houston Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good port city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Shanghai or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Shanghai or Houston Better for Students?

Shanghai is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Shanghai is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Shanghai can get you to some places easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Shanghai or Houston a more walkable city?

Shanghai is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable port city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shanghai and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than in Houston. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Houston offers museums and nightlife. 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 Houston?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Houston 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Houston?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Houston 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 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Houston?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Houston. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

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

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Houston. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Houston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Houston. 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 Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Shanghai is cooler than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston 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 Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In January, Shanghai is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Houston. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Houston in the Spring?

Both Houston 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 Houston for the activities around the city during these months.

Shanghai is cooler than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Houston. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Shanghai