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

Should you visit Shanghai or New Orleans?

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 New Orleans. 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 bustling, trendy, and modern 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and nightlife.

Shanghai and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or New Orleans?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in New Orleans than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than New Orleans, New Orleans has more sights and attractions for tourists. New Orleans is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also well known for The French Quarter. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

The French Quarter

How is Shanghai different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Shanghai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and New Orleans both to be fantastic 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, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans 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 New Orleans just to party. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a 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 New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans 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 New Orleans The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or New Orleans?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Shanghai. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for Families?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Shanghai is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans Better for Students?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

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

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Shanghai is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Shanghai or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Shanghai is very walkable. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or New Orleans?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Shanghai is a modern 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 New Orleans offers nightlife and live music. 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 New Orleans?

Shanghai is a trendy 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.

New Orleans 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 New Orleans, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or New Orleans?

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.

New Orleans is a popular choice for travelers. 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 New Orleans?

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.

New Orleans 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or New Orleans?

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

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 New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Shanghai. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 264 hours of full sun.

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or New Orleans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and New Orleans. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year.

Shanghai is cooler than New Orleans in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and New Orleans fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 240 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as New Orleans. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than New Orleans. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and New Orleans averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or New Orleans in the Spring?

Both New Orleans and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Shanghai is generally cooler than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Shanghai