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

Should you visit Shanghai or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg. 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.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive city. 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.

Shanghai and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Strasbourg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Strasbourg attracts visitors for its historical sights. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Shanghai different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg can be an interesting and educational experience. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Strasbourg?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Shanghai is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a great port city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a good port city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Both Shanghai and Strasbourg offer high quality public transit options.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

The public transit in Strasbourg can get you to most places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Shanghai or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable destination. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shanghai and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than in Strasbourg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

When visiting Shanghai, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Strasbourg offers food 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 Strasbourg?

When visiting Shanghai, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

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

Five days in Shanghai or Strasbourg?

Shanghai, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Strasbourg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Strasbourg?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

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

In July, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Strasbourg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Shanghai is much warmer than Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg 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. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Strasbourg can be very cold. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Strasbourg in the Spring?

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

In April, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 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 Strasbourg. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Shanghai