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

Should you visit Shanghai or Liverpool?

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 Liverpool. 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.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a fun-filled, diverse, and historic port city. And you can't forget about the live music, shopping, and museums.

Shanghai and Liverpool: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Liverpool?

You'll generally find more things to do in Shanghai than Liverpool. Shanghai is bigger than Liverpool, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Liverpool is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, and music. Shanghai is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

How is Shanghai different from Liverpool?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Theater?

Liverpool is notable for its theatre productions. However, Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool 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.

Liverpool has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

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 Liverpool Better for Music?

Liverpool is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Liverpool Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Liverpool?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Liverpool 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 Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Liverpool are very good 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 Liverpool. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Liverpool is a good port city for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is well known for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 backpackers visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool Better for Students?

Shanghai and Liverpool are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Liverpool is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

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

Shanghai is well known for its public transit. Also, Liverpool 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 Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Shanghai or Liverpool a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Liverpool both are very good 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.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Liverpool or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Liverpool?

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

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

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The port city of Liverpool offers theater 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 Liverpool?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Liverpool is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Liverpool, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Liverpool?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

Liverpool is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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 Liverpool?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Liverpool is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Liverpool?

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

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 Liverpool in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Liverpool. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Shanghai is much warmer than Liverpool in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Liverpool fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Liverpool during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 176 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 Liverpool. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Liverpool in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Liverpool. 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. Additionally, the shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year.

In the autumn, Shanghai is much warmer than Liverpool. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Liverpool averages at about 12°C (53°F).

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

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Liverpool. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Liverpool in the Winter?

Both Liverpool and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In January, Shanghai is generally cooler than Liverpool. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Liverpool fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Liverpool during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Shanghai or Liverpool in the Spring?

Both Liverpool and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Liverpool. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 144 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Liverpool and Shanghai