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

Should you visit Shanghai or Lyon?

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 Lyon. 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 Shanghai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Shanghai travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty in Lyon as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lyon travel costs.

Shanghai and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Lyon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lyon than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lyon is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Shanghai is more popular for its shopping and big city activities. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Shanghai different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the world-class sights and museums in both Shanghai and Lyon.

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, Lyon has many famous sights for visitors. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Lyon both to be world-class 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, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Is Shanghai or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon 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.

Lyon has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Lyon?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Shanghai or Lyon More Beautiful?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lyon as well. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

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.

Is Shanghai or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Lyon are great 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 Lyon. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Shanghai or Lyon Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Shanghai or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Lyon are great 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 Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Shanghai or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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 Lyon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Shanghai or Lyon a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Lyon?

In either Shanghai or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Lyon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lyon than Shanghai. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Lyon. 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 Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Shanghai or Lyon?

Shanghai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful city of Lyon offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lyon?

Shanghai is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Lyon 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Lyon?

Shanghai is a trendy big city where you can fill many days. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

The modern port city of Shanghai offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Lyon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Lyon?

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

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 Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Lyon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Lyon. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Shanghai is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Shanghai or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Lyon. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. In January, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Lyon. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Lyon. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Lyon. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Shanghai