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

Should you visit Shanghai or Picton?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Shanghai and Picton. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a diverse, bustling, and trendy port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Shanghai travel costs.

Picton

Picton is a scenic, quaint, and relaxing town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Picton travel costs.

Shanghai and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Picton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai. Although Shanghai and Picton are both popular with visitors, Shanghai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Shanghai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Picton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Picton is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Shanghai different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Shanghai on the map. 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.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

Shanghai is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Picton. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Shanghai is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Beaches?

Picton is notable for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Picton for it's beautiful beaches. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Hiking?

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

Picton is a popular spot for hiking. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Picton?

Shanghai is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Shanghai is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Shanghai or Picton More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Picton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Picton are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Picton. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Couples?

Shanghai is very popular for couples. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Picton are excellent destinations for backpackers.

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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Is Shanghai or Picton Better for Students?

Shanghai is a well-known place for students. However, Picton is not popular with students.

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.

Picton is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Shanghai or Picton a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Picton both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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.

Picton is a very walkable destination. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Picton or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Shanghai or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Shanghai than Picton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

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

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

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.

The town of Picton offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Picton?

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.

Picton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Picton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Picton?

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.

Picton 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.

A week in Shanghai or Picton?

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.

Picton is a great place to explore. 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Picton, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Picton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shanghai is in Asia and Picton is in Pacific, 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 Picton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Picton 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 Picton.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Picton?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 4870 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Picton, 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 Shanghai or Picton?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Picton is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Shanghai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Shanghai or Picton in the Summer?

Both Picton and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

In the summer, Shanghai is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Picton averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Picton in the Autumn?

Both Picton and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Picton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Pictonin April. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Pictonin April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Picton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Picton. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Picton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. Shanghai is much colder than Picton in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

Picton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Picton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Picton. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Picton for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Shanghai is a little warmer than Picton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Picton averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Pictonin October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Picton and Shanghai