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

Should you visit Shanghai or Munich?

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 Munich. 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 diverse, bustling, and trendy 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling 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 shopping.

Shanghai and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Munich?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Munich than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Munich, Munich has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Munich is more popular for its nightlife and music, while Shanghai is known for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Shanghai different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Shanghai on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Shanghai or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich 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 Munich just to party. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Munich?

Both Shanghai and Munich are world-class 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 Munich specifically to go shopping. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Is Shanghai or Munich Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Munich 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 Munich. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Shanghai or Munich Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Munich is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Shanghai or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich 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 Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich Better for Students?

Munich 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.

Munich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

Munich 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 Munich can get you around easily. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Munich 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.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Munich?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Munich. 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 Munich. 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 Munich 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 Munich.

One day in Shanghai or Munich?

Shanghai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Munich offers museums 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 Munich?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Munich 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Shanghai. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Munich is a great place to explore. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Munich?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Munich. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shanghai is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Munich averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 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 Munich. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Munich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Munich. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Munich because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Munich. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Munich in the Winter?

Both Munich and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

It's quite cold in Munich in the winter. The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. Shanghai is much warmer than Munich in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Munich. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Munich in the Spring?

Both Munich and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Munich for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Shanghai is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Munich. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Munich. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Shanghai