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

Should you visit Warsaw or Shanghai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Shanghai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a cultural, historical, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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

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.

Warsaw and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Warsaw or Shanghai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Warsaw. 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 Warsaw attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Shanghai is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Warsaw is famous for its historical position as a cultural and political center.

How is Warsaw different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shanghai and Warsaw. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Warsaw or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Warsaw 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Shanghai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Warsaw or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw 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.

Warsaw has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

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 Warsaw or Shanghai Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Warsaw 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.

Warsaw offers some nice shopping areas. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Is Warsaw or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw 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.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Warsaw or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Shanghai is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Shanghai is a great port city for couples, as it 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.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Is Warsaw or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a great port city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Warsaw 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Warsaw or Shanghai Better for Students?

For students, both Warsaw and Shanghai are very good places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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.

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

Warsaw and Shanghai both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Warsaw can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Is Warsaw or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great port city for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Shanghai?

In either Warsaw or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shanghai than Warsaw because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shanghai than Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Shanghai?

The beautiful city of Warsaw offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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.

A weekend in Warsaw or Shanghai?

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

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.

Five days in Warsaw or Shanghai?

Warsaw 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.

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.

A week in Warsaw or Shanghai?

Warsaw 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the professional 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Warsaw and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Warsaw is in Europe and Shanghai is in Asia, 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 Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Shanghai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Shanghai than you might in Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Warsaw. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw and Shanghai, 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 Warsaw or Shanghai?

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 Warsaw or Shanghai in the Summer?

Both Shanghai and Warsaw during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Warsaw is much colder than Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Warsaw in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Warsaw. In the summer, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Warsaw usually gets less rain in July than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Shanghai. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Warsaw is generally much colder than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 9°C (49°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

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

In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Warsaw or Shanghai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Shanghai. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. Warsaw is much colder than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Warsaw is much colder than Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Warsaw in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Warsaw