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

Should you visit Shanghai or Washington?

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 Washington. 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.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Shanghai and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Washington?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Washington than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Shanghai different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the first-rate sights and museums in both Shanghai and Washington.

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, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is notable for its theatre productions. However, Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Shanghai is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Washington 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, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Shanghai is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Washington?

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

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Shanghai does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a fantastic destination at Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Shanghai does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Washington 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 Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Couples?

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

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Shanghai or Washington Better for Students?

Washington 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington 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 Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington a more walkable city?

Washington 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 Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Washington?

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

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

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

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

One day in Shanghai or Washington?

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 Washington offers shopping and museums. 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 Washington?

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.

Washington 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 Washington?

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.

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

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.

Washington 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 Washington 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Washington?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

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

In July, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Washington. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Washington. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Washington. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington 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 Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Washington. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington 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 Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Washington. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Washington. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Washington in the Spring?

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

In April, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Washington. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 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 Washington. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Washington and Shanghai