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

Should you visit Shanghai or Toronto?

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 Toronto. 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 bustling, trendy, and modern 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Shanghai travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Toronto travel costs.

Shanghai and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Toronto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Toronto than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Toronto, Toronto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Toronto is very popular for its nightlife, while Shanghai attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Toronto is famous for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also well known for the CN Tower.

How is Shanghai different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the fantastic sights and museums in both Shanghai and Toronto.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Toronto has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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

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

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Shanghai or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto 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 Toronto just to party. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

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 the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Toronto?

Both Shanghai and Toronto are fantastic 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 Toronto specifically to go shopping. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Is Shanghai or Toronto More Beautiful?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Toronto Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Toronto are very good 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 Toronto. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Shanghai or Toronto Better for Couples?

Shanghai is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Shanghai is a great port city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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 Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Shanghai or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Toronto are very good 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 Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Is Shanghai or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is a world-class destination for students. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Shanghai is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Toronto is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Toronto can get you around easily. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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.

Is Shanghai or Toronto a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Toronto both are very good 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.

Toronto is a very walkable destination. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Toronto?

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

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Toronto. 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 Toronto. 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 Toronto 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 Toronto.

One day in Shanghai or Toronto?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Toronto offers food and shopping. 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 Toronto?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Toronto?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toronto, 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 Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toronto 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 Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Toronto, we can see that Toronto is more expensive. And not only is Shanghai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shanghai is in Asia and Toronto is in North America, 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 Shanghai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shanghai 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 Toronto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toronto than you might in Shanghai.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Toronto?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Toronto. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Toronto, 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 Toronto?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shanghai or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Toronto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Toronto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Shanghai. In the summer, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Toronto. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in July than Toronto. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Toronto. 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

Shanghai is much warmer than Toronto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toronto. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Toronto. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Toronto. It's quite cold in Shanghai in the winter. In the winter, Shanghai is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Toronto averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Toronto. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Toronto in the Spring?

Both Toronto and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Toronto during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Toronto. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Shanghai