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

Should you visit Shanghai or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles. 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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Shanghai and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Los Angeles?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Los Angeles, Los Angeles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Los Angeles is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Shanghai is known for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the terrific sights and museums in both Shanghai and Los Angeles.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

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

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Los Angeles both to be terrific destinations.

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.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles just to party. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Los Angeles?

Both Shanghai and Los Angeles are terrific shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Shanghai and Los Angeles both terrific 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.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Los Angeles are excellent 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 Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for students. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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.

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

Shanghai is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Shanghai. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Shanghai or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Los Angeles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Shanghai or Los Angeles?

Shanghai is a trendy port city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Shanghai is a modern big city where you can fill many days. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Shanghai is a diverse port city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Los Angeles?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Los Angeles. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shanghai or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the summer, Shanghai is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Los Angeles. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In October, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. Shanghai is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Los Angeles. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Shanghai