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

Should you visit Shanghai or Miami?

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 Miami. 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 cosmopolitan, professional, and diverse port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach 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 beaches.

Shanghai and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Miami?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Miami than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Miami is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, and beaches, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Shanghai and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also well known for South Beach. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Shanghai that are not to be missed. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Miami both to be first-rate 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, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami 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 Miami just to party. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami 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 Miami Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Beaches?

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

Miami offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Miami?

Both Shanghai and Miami are first-rate 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 Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Miami are high quality 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 Miami. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Shanghai 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.

Miami is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Shanghai or Miami Better for Students?

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

Shanghai is very popular with students. 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 Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Shanghai is well known for its public transit. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Shanghai can move around easily with public transportation. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Shanghai or Miami a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Miami both are high quality 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.

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Miami or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Miami?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Miami. 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 Miami 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 Miami?

Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beach city of Miami offers live music and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Miami?

Shanghai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling big city of Shanghai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Miami is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Miami has to offer. This beach 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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Miami?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Miami. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Miami. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Miami during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Miami. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Miami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Miami. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Shanghai is cooler than Miami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Miami fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Miami. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Miami. Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Miami. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Miami in the Winter?

Both Miami and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than Miami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Miami averages at about 67°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Miami during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Miami. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Miami in the Spring?

Both Miami and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In April, Shanghai is generally much colder than Miami. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Miami. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Miami and Shanghai