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

Should you visit Shanghai or Seoul?

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 Seoul. 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.

Seoul

Seoul is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Seoul?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seoul than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Seoul, Seoul has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seoul is better known for its nightlife and music, while Shanghai is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Shanghai is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Shanghai different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Seoul both to be first-rate 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, Seoul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Is Shanghai or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul 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.

Seoul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

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 Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul 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 Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Seoul?

Both Shanghai and Seoul are first-rate shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Is Shanghai or Seoul Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Seoul 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 Seoul. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Is Shanghai or Seoul Better for Couples?

Shanghai is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Seoul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Is Shanghai or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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 Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

Is Shanghai or Seoul Better for Students?

Shanghai and Seoul are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students visit 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.

Seoul is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

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

Seoul 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 Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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 Seoul a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Seoul both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Seoul is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Seoul?

Both Shanghai and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Shanghai. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

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

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 Seoul offers museums and nightlife. 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 Seoul?

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.

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Seoul?

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.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the modern 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.

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul 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 Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Seoul, 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Seoul?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Seoul. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Seoul, 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 Seoul?

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 Seoul in the Summer?

Both Seoul and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Seoul. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Shanghai is a little warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in October than Seoul. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Seoul. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Seoul can be very cold. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In January, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Seoul. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Seoul. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Seoul. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Shanghai