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

Should you visit Shanghai or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle. 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, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Shanghai travel costs.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a trendy, coastal, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Newcastle travel costs.

Shanghai and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Newcastle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Newcastle, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle is known for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Shanghai is more touristy than Newcastle and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Newcastle is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks.

How is Shanghai different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

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

Shanghai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Shanghai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle 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.

Newcastle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

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 Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Newcastle is notable for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newcastle for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Newcastle is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Newcastle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Newcastle?

Shanghai is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Shanghai is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newcastle. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Families?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Shanghai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly port city. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Shanghai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shanghai is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle Better for Students?

Shanghai is a well-known place for students. However, Newcastle is not popular with 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.

Newcastle is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Newcastle has some public transit options. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Shanghai or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Newcastle is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Shanghai or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Shanghai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Newcastle. 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 Newcastle. 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Newcastle offers food and shopping. 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 Newcastle?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Newcastle 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newcastle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Newcastle?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

Newcastle 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 Newcastle?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Newcastle, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Shanghai is in Asia and Newcastle is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shanghai Expensive? and Is Newcastle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Newcastle?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Newcastle is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Shanghai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Shanghai or Newcastle in the Summer?

Both Newcastle and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Newcastle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastle during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Newcastlein January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Newcastle in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newcastle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Newcastlein April. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein April. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun.

Newcastle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Newcastlein April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Newcastle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Newcastle. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can get quite cold in the winter. Shanghai is much colder than Newcastle in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Newcastle fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Newcastlein July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Newcastle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Newcastle. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Shanghai is cooler than Newcastle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Newcastle averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein October. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Newcastlein October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Shanghai