A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Shanghai for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a peaceful, quiet, and beautiful island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lanta as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

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 Shanghai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Shanghai travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Koh Lanta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shanghai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Koh Lanta is well known for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

How is Koh Lanta different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Koh Lanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Koh Lanta or Shanghai has a better nightlife scene.

Koh Lanta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

If you're looking for night time activities Shanghai has a few options to choose from. 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 Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is notable for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Koh Lanta offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Koh Lanta is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options 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.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Lanta as well. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

With stunning beauty, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Families?

Both Koh Lanta and Shanghai are very good to visit with kids.

Koh Lanta is a very kid-friendly island. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lanta and Shanghai are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Koh Lanta is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Shanghai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great destination for students. However, Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a great destination for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Shanghai can get you to some places easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

In either Koh Lanta or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Shanghai has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Shanghai than Koh Lanta. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Koh Lanta. 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 Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

The beautiful island of Koh Lanta offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Koh Lanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lanta, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

A week in Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Koh Lanta is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, 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 Koh Lanta and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Lanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 2400 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta or Shanghai?

Shanghai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Lanta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Shanghai in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Shanghai during summer. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Shanghai. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lanta in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Shanghai averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Koh Lanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lanta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In January, Koh Lanta is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (80°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during winter. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Shanghai in the Spring?

Both Shanghai and Koh Lanta during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the spring, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 249 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in April than Shanghai. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Koh Lanta