Which place is cheaper, Beijing or Zhengzhou?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Zhengzhou or Beijing?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Beijing can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Beijing?
Zhengzhou
Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.
Beijing
Beijing is the capital of China and, with 21.5 million people, it is the second most populated city in the world after Shanghai. It is a city that keeps pockets of its history hidden in old neighborhoods or back alleys, despite the constant change and modernization that goes on around it. As the capital city of China, there is plenty of history and culture. You can still get yourself lost in one of the last remaining hutongs, which are old neighborhoods that remain untouched by the city's modernization. The alleys that weave between the old homes are lined with drying clothes, corner markets, and people going about their daily lives the way they have for centuries. Surrounding these hutongs you'll find modern buildings and a booming economy, all threatening to destroying these last bits of Beijing's history. Beijing offers a glimpse into a microcosm that represents the entire country of China. Make sure you give yourself enough time in China to truly experience Beijing. You can pass a lot of time soaking up life in the city, which remains as diverse as the country it resides within.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in China.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZhengzhou $98Beijing $77
The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $98, while the average daily cost in Beijing is $77. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zhengzhou and Beijing in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZhengzhou $36Beijing $39
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZhengzhou $72Beijing $78
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Beijing
Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Beijing? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Zhengzhou $63Beijing $7.65
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
- Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
- Private Transfer to Guoliang Village and Tunnel from Zhengzhou: $160
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Zhengzhou Special Car Service, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $65
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Beijing:
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Taxi$4.72
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Train from Airport for Two$6.91
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Taxi to Hotel$8.29
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2 Metro Passes$2.21
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Metro$0.55
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:
- Jinshanling Great Wall Self-hiking Tour by Private Transfer Service : $98
- Private English Transfer to Shilin Gorge Platform And Ming City Wall : $140
- Private One-Way Transfer Between Beijing Railway Station and Hotel: $30
- Private Transfer to Daxing International Airport : $35
- 1-Day Beijing Layover Private Tour: Forbidden City with Round Airport transfers: $198
- 1-Day Beijing Layover Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall with Round Airport Transfers: $208
- 1-Day Bejing Layover Tour:Mutianyu Great Wall,Forbidden City & Airport Transfers: $250
- 1-Way Private Transfer between Beijing Airport and City Hotels: $30
- 4-Hour Huanghuacheng Great Wall Sunset Tour with Airport Transfer: $160
- Acrobatic Show at Red Theater With Private Transfer: $45
- Acrobatics Show with Private Driver Service and Hotel Round Transfer: $65
- Arrival Private Transfer: Capital Airport PEK to Beijing in Business Car: $72
Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Beijing?
Prices for flights to both Beijing and Zhengzhou change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayZhengzhou $28Beijing $21
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.
- Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145
Typical Food Prices in Beijing
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:
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Popcorn$0.83
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Hot Pot Dinner$6.91
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Dumpling Breakfast for Two$2.76
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Watermelon$1.94
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Peking Duck Dinner for 2$16
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Two Popsicles$0.83
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Beijing.
- Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef : $20
- Beijing Acrobatic Show Tickets w/ Optional Dinner or Transfer: $48
- 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
- Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $60
- 3 hours Morning or Afternoon Tea Tasting on Maliandao Street and Tea Restaurant Lunch or Dinner Tour: $69
- Mogolian Hot Pot Dinner with no limit soft drink and local beer .: $70
- discovery more Beijing back street evening food tour with locals : $79
- Old Beijing Dinner Tour: $80
- Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner Private Tour: $80
- Authentic Lunch or Dinner Tour in Beijing's Best Hidden Spots: $80
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zhengzhou $8.20Beijing $24
Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou
Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Kaifeng City Highlights Independant Tour from Zhengzhou: $80
- Private Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $126
- Private Independent Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $158
- Private Independent Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $169
- Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
- All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $209
- Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Spots Private Tour : $209
- Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
- Zhengzhou Private Half-Day Tour: Shaolin Temple & Kungfu Show: $222
- Private Tour to Zhongyue Temple and Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $233
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Songyang Academy from Zhengzhou: $233
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing
Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Entry to Summer Palace for Two$8.29
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Two Opera Tickets$59
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Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)$9.68
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Forbidden City (for 2)$17
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Forbidden City Tickets$17
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Audio Guides at Forbidden City$11
Tours and Activities in Beijing
Here are a few actual costs in Beijing for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Beijing's Old Hutongs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
- Small Group Temple of Heaven Walking Tour: $5.00
- Small Group Hutongs Walking Tour : $5.00
- Summer Palace+Ming Tombs/Heaven Temple/China National Museum Tour: $8.00
- Beijing Temple of Heaven Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $8.00
- Beijing Summer Palace Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $8.00
- Summer Palace Admission Ticket Pre-booking Service: $8.80
- Forbidden City Ticket : $9.90
- Beijing Forbidden City Admission Ticket Pre Booking Service: $9.98
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- The Temple of Heaven OR Summer Palace Entry Ticket: $12
- The Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace Entry Ticket: $13
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayZhengzhou $6.32Beijing $12
Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Beijing:
- Beijing Brewery Bike Tour: $99
- Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing: $110
- Full Day Private Chateau Changyu Wine Tour from Beijing: $161
- Private Tour-Bejing Old Hutong Food Tasting+Local Brewery Beer: $165
- 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178
- Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour and Mutianyu Great Wall Visit: $238
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zhengzhou and Beijing, we can see that Zhengzhou is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Zhengzhou would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zhengzhou than you might in Beijing.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Beijing Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Beijing?
Beijing has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zhengzhou. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou and Beijing, 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 Zhengzhou or Beijing?
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 Zhengzhou or Beijing in the Summer?
Both Beijing and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Zhengzhou is generally around the same temperature as Beijing. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 28°C (83°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).
It's quite sunny in Beijing. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing during summer. Zhengzhou gets 215 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. It's quite rainy in Zhengzhou. In July, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyZhengzhou 28°C (83°F)Beijing 27°C (80°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Beijing in the Autumn?
Both Beijing and Zhengzhou during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
Zhengzhou is a little warmer than Beijing in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).
In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Zhengzhou often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.
Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Beijing 14°C (56°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Beijing in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Beijing. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Beijing because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
The weather in Beijing can be very cold. Zhengzhou can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zhengzhou is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zhengzhou in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Beijing averages at about -4°C (26°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. Zhengzhou usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during winter. Zhengzhou gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Zhengzhou usually receives more rain than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZhengzhou 1°C (34°F)Beijing -4°C (26°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Beijing in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Beijing. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beijing this time of year.
In April, Zhengzhou is generally a little warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zhengzhou this time of the year. In the spring, Zhengzhou often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.
Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in April than Beijing. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Beijing 14°C (57°F)
Typical Weather for Beijing and Zhengzhou
| Zhengzhou | Beijing | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | -4°C (26°F) | 3 mm (0.1 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | -1°C (30°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
| Mar | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 9 mm (0.4 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 26 mm (1 in) |
| May | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 20°C (68°F) | 29 mm (1.1 in) |
| Jun | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 25°C (76°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) | 27°C (80°F) | 176 mm (6.9 in) |
| Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) | 25°C (78°F) | 182 mm (7.2 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) | 20°C (69°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 14°C (56°F) | 19 mm (0.7 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
| Dec | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | -1°C (29°F) | 2 mm (0.1 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.