A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shanghai vs. Surfers Paradise for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise. 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 modern, cosmopolitan, and professional 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. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Shanghai travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a thrilling, active, and ritzy city. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Shanghai and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai. Although Shanghai and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Shanghai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Shanghai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Surfers Paradise is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Shanghai and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund.

How is Shanghai different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise?

Shanghai is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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

Shanghai is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Shanghai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Surfers Paradise makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Surfers Paradise just to party. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Surfers Paradise for its luxury resorts. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Surfers Paradise offers some nice hiking trails. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Both Shanghai and Surfers Paradise are world-class shopping destinations.

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.

Many people travel to Surfers Paradise specifically to go shopping. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is very family-friendly. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for couples. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Surfers Paradise. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise Better for Students?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Shanghai or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Shanghai is a very walkable destination. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Both Shanghai and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise than in Shanghai. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

Couples should spend more time in Shanghai than Surfers Paradise. 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 Surfers Paradise than Shanghai 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Surfers Paradise offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Surfers Paradise 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.

Five days in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Surfers Paradise has to offer. This city 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Surfers Paradise, 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. Even though Shanghai is in Asia and Surfers Paradise is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Surfers Paradise?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 790 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Surfers Paradise, 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 Surfers Paradise?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

Both Surfers Paradise and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shanghai is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Shanghai. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Surfers Paradisein January. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Surfers Paradise. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally cooler than Surfers Paradisein April. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein April. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Surfers Paradise. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. Shanghai is much colder than Surfers Paradise in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the winter, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches.

In the spring, Shanghai is cooler than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Surfers Paradisein October. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Shanghai