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

Should you visit Shanghai or Prague?

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 Prague. 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 trendy, modern, and cosmopolitan port city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Prague

Prague is a historical, beautiful, and festive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Shanghai and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Prague?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Prague than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Prague, Prague has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Prague is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Shanghai is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities. Prague is more touristy than Shanghai and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade.

How is Shanghai different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the terrific sights and museums in both Shanghai and Prague.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Shanghai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Prague has many famous sights for visitors. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Shanghai or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Prague 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 Prague just to party. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

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 Prague Better for Music?

Prague 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 Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Prague is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Prague is revered around the world. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Prague?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Prague is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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 visitors explore the shopping areas in Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

Is Shanghai or Prague Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Prague are excellent 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 Prague. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Is Shanghai or Prague Better for Couples?

Shanghai and Prague both terrific destinations for a couple.

Shanghai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Is Shanghai or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague 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 Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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 Prague Better for Students?

Prague 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.

Prague is a very popular place to visit for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

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

Prague 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 Prague can get you around easily. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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 Prague a more walkable city?

Prague is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Prague on foot. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Prague?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Prague than Shanghai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Prague that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Prague 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 Prague.

One day in Shanghai or Prague?

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 beautiful city of Prague offers live music and shopping. 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 Prague?

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.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Prague?

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.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan 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.

Prague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Prague 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Prague, 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 Prague is in Europe, 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 Prague Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Prague?

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

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 Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Prague in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Prague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Prague during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Prague. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Shanghai is much warmer than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Prague averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Prague. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Prague. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Prague in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Prague can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In January, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Prague. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Prague. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Prague for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Shanghai is much warmer than Prague in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Prague. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Prague. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Prague and Shanghai