Which place is cheaper, Shanghai or Zhengzhou?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Zhengzhou or Shanghai?
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 Shanghai can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Shanghai?
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.
Shanghai
Shanghai is the largest and most modern city in China. With a population of over 23 million, it is the economic and financial hub of the country. It also continues to be one of the fastest growing cities in China with regular changes to the city's layout and skyline. It is not uncommon for buildings to be torn down, rebuilt and then torn down and rebuilt again. The city also has skyscrapers that rank among the tallest in the world. It has an ever changing downtown and street scape. In Shanghai, the general mantra remains "out with the old, in with the new".
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in China, The Best 10-Day Tours in China, The Best 2-Week Tours in China, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in China.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZhengzhou $100Shanghai $117
The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $100, while the average daily cost in Shanghai is $117. 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 Shanghai in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZhengzhou $37Shanghai $82
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZhengzhou $74Shanghai $164
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Shanghai
Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Shanghai? 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 $64Shanghai $3.95
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $65
- 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 Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Shanghai
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Shanghai:
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Taxi Ride$3.66
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Two Subway Tickets$0.84
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Shanghai
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Shanghai:
- Mount Mogan Self-Guided Tour from Shanghai by Private Transfer: $108
- Private Transfer from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to City Center : $30
- Private Transfer from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Pudong Airport : $43
- Tongli and Xitang Self-Guided Tour from Shanghai by Private Transfer: $114
- 1 Day-Pass for Disneyland Shanghai and Private Transfer Package: $245
- 3-hour Private Transfer to Shanghai ERA Acrobatic Show from City Center: $53
- Amazing Shanghai Night Lights:River Cruise &Private Transfer: $125
- Arrival Private Transfer Pudong Airport PVG to Shanghai City by Standard Sedan: $74
- Arrival Private Transfer: Pudong Airport PVG to Shanghai in Business Car : $117
- Arrival Transfer by High-Speed Maglev Train: Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Hotel: $79
- Chartered Transfer Vehicle in Shanghai: $150
- Chauffeur service, Limousine airport transfer in Shanghai-English speaking: $51
Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Shanghai?
Prices for flights to both Shanghai 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 $29Shanghai $22
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 Shanghai
Some typical examples of dining costs in Shanghai are as follows:
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Dumpling Breakfast$1.41
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Desserts in Jinmao Building Observatory$21
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Ajisen Lunch for Two$7.32
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Cantelope$1.69
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Dumplings and Soup$2.11
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Duck Dinner$4.22
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Pastries$2.96
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Barbeque Dinner$9.01
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Shanghai
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Shanghai.
- Online Cooking Class Sesame Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
- Online Cooking Class General Tso's Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
- Online Cooking Class Fried Rice by Sunflower Li : $20
- Aunthentic Local Food Tour in Downtown Shanghai : $32
- Evening Walking Food Tour: $69
- 3-Hour Biking and Local Food Tour: $72
- Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai: $79
- Late night food tour in Shanghai's French Concession: $88
- 4-Hour Food Tour in Qibao Water Town from Shanghai by Subway: $95
- 2.5hrs Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class: Xiaolongbao Soup Dumplings: $99
- 2.5hrs Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class: Art Steamed Dumplings: $110
- Shanghai Hot pot dinner foodie tour with guide and one way private transfer: $113
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zhengzhou $8.35Shanghai $8.59
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
- Day tour to Dengfeng Shaolin temple Yuan dynasty observatory: $200
- From Zhengzhou or Luoyang: Shaolin Temple Private Day Tour: $206
- Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Spots Private Tour : $209
- Private tour to Shaolin temple with Kongfu training class 2H: $210
- Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
- Private tour to Shaolin temple and Zen buddihsm Music show: $220
Typical Entertainment Prices in Shanghai
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Shanghai are as follows:
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30 Minute River Cruise for Two$28
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Zoo for Two$14
Tours and Activities in Shanghai
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Shanghai are as follows:
- The History of the French Concession: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket and Optional Attractions: $14
- Yu Garden Shanghai Entry Tickets Booking: $15
- Shanghai Yu Garden Entrance Tickets Booking Service: $16
- Shanghai Yu Garden Tour：Harmony & Spirituality in Garden Art: $20
- Shanghai Jinmao Tower 88th floor Sightseeing Hall Ticket: $22
- Shanghai Jinmao Tower 88th floor sightseeing hall: $23
- Shanghai French Concession Walking Tour: $29
- Shanghai Highlights Walking Tour: $29
- Shanghai bar hopping tour in the former french concession: $29
- Zotter Chocolate Indulgence Tour in Shanghai: $30
- Like a Local Customized Guided Tour: $35
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayZhengzhou $6.44Shanghai $7.49
Sample the Local Flavors in Shanghai
Also in Shanghai, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- 4-Hour Shanghai Pub Crawl (bars & nightclub hopping): $21
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zhengzhou and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Zhengzhou much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zhengzhou would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Shanghai Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Shanghai?
Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zhengzhou. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou or Shanghai?
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 Shanghai in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Shanghai. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In the summer, Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zhengzhou in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In Zhengzhou, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zhengzhou usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Zhengzhou gets 215 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.
Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zhengzhou gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zhengzhou usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyZhengzhou 28°C (83°F)Shanghai 28°C (83°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Shanghai in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Shanghai. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In October, Zhengzhou is generally cooler than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).
In the autumn, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.
Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in October than Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Shanghai 19°C (65°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Shanghai in the Winter?
Both Shanghai and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year.
It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. The weather in Zhengzhou can be very cold. Zhengzhou is much colder than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).
Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Zhengzhou gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZhengzhou 1°C (34°F)Shanghai 4°C (39°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Shanghai in the Spring?
Both Shanghai and Zhengzhou during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In the spring, Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zhengzhou in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).
It's quite sunny in Zhengzhou. In the spring, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun.
Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in April than Shanghai. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Shanghai 15°C (58°F)
Typical Weather for Shanghai and Zhengzhou
| Zhengzhou | Shanghai | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| Mar | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) | 9°C (48°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 15°C (58°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
| May | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 20°C (67°F) | 113 mm (4.5 in) |
| Jun | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 152 mm (6 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) | 28°C (83°F) | 128 mm (5 in) |
| Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 133 mm (5.2 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 156 mm (6.1 in) |
| Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 19°C (65°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| Dec | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 35 mm (1.4 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.