A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Shanghai for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. You'll find world class beauty in Similan Islands as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a professional, diverse, and bustling 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Shanghai travel costs.

Similan Islands and Shanghai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shanghai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Shanghai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Shanghai are world-renowned. 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Nightlife?

Shanghai is a port city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Similan Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Similan Islands offers some nice hiking trails. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

Shanghai is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Shanghai draws large crowds to its 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai More Beautiful?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands as well. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

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 Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Families?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Couples?

Both Similan Islands and Shanghai are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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 Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai Better for Students?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands 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.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Shanghai a more walkable city?

Shanghai is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

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

Should I spend more time in Shanghai or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

In either Similan Islands or Shanghai, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than Shanghai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-5 days is enough time in Shanghai.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Shanghai?

The beautiful island chain of Similan Islands offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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.

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

Similan Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 big city with plenty to do. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

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

Shanghai is a great place to explore. This port city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Similan Islands or Shanghai?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands has to offer. This island chain offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, 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 Similan Islands and Shanghai, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Shanghai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Shanghai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Shanghai?

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

Should I visit Similan Islands or Shanghai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Shanghai. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Shanghai in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Shanghai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Shanghai. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Shanghai in the Autumn?

Both Shanghai and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, 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, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Shanghai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Shanghai averages at about 19°C (65°F).

Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Shanghai in the Winter?

Both Shanghai and Similan Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts 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, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Shanghai. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Shanghai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Shanghai receives 135 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Shanghai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Shanghai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Shanghai in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Shanghai fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Shanghai during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Shanghai receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Shanghai. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Shanghai receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Shanghai and Similan Islands