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

Should you visit Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe and Shanghai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

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

Shanghai

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan, professional, and diverse port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Shanghai travel costs.

Koh Lipe and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai. Although Koh Lipe and Shanghai are popular destinations, Shanghai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Shanghai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lipe attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Koh Lipe is famous for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Shanghai that are not to be missed. 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 Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Shanghai is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Shanghai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lipe to choose from. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Lipe offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai Better for Hiking?

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

Koh Lipe is a popular spot for hiking. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Shanghai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe as well. Many visitors consider this to be one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It still holds on to that undiscovered quality and the nearby national park offers excellent nature to explore.

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 Lipe or Shanghai Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Shanghai.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Shanghai is very family-friendly. 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 Lipe or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lipe and Shanghai are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Lipe or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Shanghai. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai Better for Students?

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

Shanghai is very popular with students. 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 Lipe is not popular with students.

Is Koh Lipe 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 Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Shanghai can move around easily with public transportation. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe and Shanghai both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Shanghai is a very walkable island. 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 Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Shanghai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

In either Koh Lipe or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe than Shanghai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

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

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

The beautiful island of Koh Lipe offers scuba diving and snorkeling 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.

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

Koh Lipe is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shanghai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

Koh Lipe is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Lipe, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shanghai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

Koh Lipe is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Lipe has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Shanghai is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Shanghai, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Shanghai in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Shanghai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Lipe in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Shanghai averages at about 28°C (83°F).

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Shanghai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Shanghai. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, 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, Koh Lipe is generally a little warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (81°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Koh Lipe receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in October than Shanghai. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. May to October in Koh Lipe is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. 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. Koh Lipe is much warmer than Shanghai in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Shanghai in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Koh Lipe is much warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Lipe in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Shanghai averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in April than Shanghai. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Koh Lipe. May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Koh Lipe