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

Should you visit Shanghai or Perth?

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 Perth. 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. Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Shanghai travel costs.

Perth

Perth is a isolated, sunny, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Perth travel costs.

Shanghai and Perth: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Perth?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Perth. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its beaches. Shanghai is more touristy than Perth and is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Shanghai different from Perth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Perth can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

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

Shanghai is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Perth.

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 Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Beaches?

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

Perth offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Perth?

Shanghai is very popular for shopping. Also, Perth 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.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Is Shanghai or Perth More Beautiful?

Shanghai is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Perth 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 Perth. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Couples?

Shanghai is very popular for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Shanghai or Perth Better for Students?

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

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.

Perth is a good port city to visit for students. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Is Shanghai or Perth 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. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Is Shanghai or Perth a more walkable city?

Shanghai is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Perth or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Perth?

It's fun to spend time in either Shanghai or Perth. 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 Perth.

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

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 city of Perth 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 Perth?

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.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Perth?

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.

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Perth?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse 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.

Perth is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Perth?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth 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 Perth in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Perth. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Perth in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Perthin January. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Perth fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Perthin January. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 331 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Perthin January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Perth receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Perth in the Autumn?

Both Perth and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Perth for the shopping scene during these months.

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Perth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Perth fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Perth. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Perth during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 219 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Perthin April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Perth receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Perth in the Winter?

Both Perth and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Perth because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than Perth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Perth averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Perthin July. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 166 hours of full sun.

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Perthin July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Perth receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Perth in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Perth. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Perth this time of year.

In April, Shanghai is generally cooler than Perthin October. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Perth fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Perth during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Perthin October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Perth receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Perth and Shanghai