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

Should you visit Shanghai or Orlando?

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 Orlando. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Orlando?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Orlando. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund.

How is Shanghai different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

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

Shanghai is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Orlando.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Orlando?

Shanghai is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Shanghai does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Shanghai does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. 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.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Couples?

Shanghai is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Shanghai or Orlando Better for Students?

Shanghai is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Orlando is a good port city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Shanghai is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Shanghai. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Shanghai or Orlando a more walkable city?

Shanghai is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is not a walkable port city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Orlando?

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

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

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

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Orlando?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Orlando 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orlando, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Orlando?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Orlando is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orlando has to offer. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Orlando?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Orlando. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Orlando. Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Shanghai is cooler than Orlando in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Orlando. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Orlando in the Winter?

Both Orlando and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than Orlando. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Orlando averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Orlando. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Orlando in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Orlando. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Shanghai is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Orlando. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Shanghai