A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shanghai vs. Koh Tao for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Shanghai or Koh Tao?

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 Koh Tao. 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.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Shanghai and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Koh Tao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Shanghai different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination 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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Tao to choose from. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Koh Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Koh Tao?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Shanghai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Koh Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Koh Tao Better for Students?

Shanghai is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Shanghai or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Koh Tao both are great when exploring on foot.

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.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Koh Tao?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao. 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 Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Shanghai or Koh Tao?

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 beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Koh Tao?

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.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Koh Tao?

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.

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

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.

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao has to offer. This island 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 Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Koh Tao?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 10570 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Koh Tao, 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 Koh Tao?

Shanghai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Shanghai is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Koh Tao is October and November.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. In January, Shanghai is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Koh Tao. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Shanghai is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 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 Koh Tao. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Shanghai