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

Should you visit Shanghai or Valencia?

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 Valencia. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia

Valencia is a cultural, historic, and architectural coastal 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Shanghai and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Valencia?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Valencia than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Valencia is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Shanghai is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Valencia is well known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.

How is Shanghai different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Valencia. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Valencia both to be world-class 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, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia 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 Valencia just to party. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a good destination for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a good destination for the beache. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Valencia offers a nice beach destination. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Valencia is revered around the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Valencia offers some nice hiking trails. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Valencia?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Valencia. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Valencia are great 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 Valencia. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Valencia is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Valencia are great destinations for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

Is Shanghai or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

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

Shanghai is well known for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Shanghai or Valencia a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Valencia both are great 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.

Valencia is a very walkable destination. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Valencia?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Valencia. 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 Valencia 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 Valencia.

One day in Shanghai or Valencia?

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful coastal city of Valencia 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 Valencia?

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shanghai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Valencia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Valencia?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shanghai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Valencia 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 Valencia?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Valencia 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 coastal 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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Valencia, we can see that Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Valencia?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Valencia, 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 Valencia?

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 Valencia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Valencia. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Valencia in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Valencia. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Valencia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Valencia. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Valencia because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Valencia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Valencia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Valencia. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. In January, Shanghai is generally much colder than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Valencia. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Valencia in the Spring?

Both Valencia and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Valencia in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Valencia. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Shanghai