Shanghai or Hong Kong: Which one should you visit?

Choosing between Shanghai or Hong Kong isn't as simple as it seems. At first glance, both represent that more international side of China, with skyscrapers, a fast pace, and a very cosmopolitan atmosphere. But of course, when you delve a little deeper into each city, the differences start to show.

Shanghai reflects the most modern and ever-changing mainland China, while Hong Kong combines British heritage and Cantonese culture with a character of its own.

Ultimately, the choice really depends on what you're looking for, your budget, and more. Shall we take a look?

🆚 Shanghai vs Hong Kong: Key travel differences

Before going into detail, it's worth taking a quick look at the differences between Shanghai and Hong Kong. Although both are very international cities, they differ quite a bit in key aspects such as budget, atmosphere, and how you get around. Here is an express comparison to get you up to speed in less than a minute.

🤔 Shanghai vs Hong Kong: a complete comparison

Although both are two of the most international cities in Asia, the atmosphere you experience in each one is quite different. It all depends on what you are looking for during your trip.

🏙️ Shanghai

• Modern, futuristic, and very business-oriented atmosphere.
• Pudong is home to some of the most impressive skyscrapers in Asia.
• The Bund and the French Concession provide the city's historical contrast.
• A fast-paced lifestyle, with a distinct international influence.
• Rooftops and the illuminated skyline take centre stage when night falls.

🌆 Hong Kong

• It combines skyscrapers, traditional neighbourhoods and a significant British legacy.
• Street markets, shopping centres and neighbourhoods that are all very different from one another.
• Cantonese culture is very much present in the local cuisine and everyday life.
• Mountains, beaches and islands are all part of the cityscape.
• Victoria Harbour offers one of the most iconic skylines in the world.

🍜 Where is the food better: Shanghai or Hong Kong?

Both cities are a paradise for food lovers, although each has a very distinct culinary identity.

🏙️ Shanghai

• Try the xiaolongbao, shengjianbao and hairy crab (when in season), three of their most famous specialities.
• Other standout dishes include the spring onion noodles (cong you ban mian) or the braised pork belly, hong shao rou.
• You'll find a huge variety of regional Chinese cuisine, from Sichuan to Canton, as well as international restaurants.
• It's a perfect city for discovering markets and street food stalls.

🌆 Hong Kong

• Dim sum is the real star of the show, especially in traditional restaurants and tea houses.
• You can't miss out on the roast goose, char siu, wonton noodles, or Cantonese-style roast goose.
• For dessert, egg tarts and mango sago are two classics that are well worth trying.
• Cha chaan tengs, Hong Kong's iconic cafes, serve up local specialities like Hong Kong milk tea, buttered toast, and Cantonese-style noodles.
• What's more, the city boasts one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world.

🚇 Is it easier to get around Shanghai or Hong Kong?

Getting around either of these destinations is a breeze thanks to their excellent transport networks. That said, each city has its own advantages.

🏙️ Shanghai

• 🚇 The Shanghai Metro has over 20 lines and connects the city's main neighbourhoods, tourist attractions and both airports.
• 🚄 High-speed trains depart from Hongqiao Railway Station for destinations such as Suzhou, Hangzhou or Beijing.
• 🚀 The Maglev connects Pudong International Airport with the city in just 8 minutes.
• 🚖 Didi is the most widely used app for getting around quickly by taxi or private car.
• 💳 You can pay for transport with the Shanghai Public Transportation Card, as well as Alipay or WeChat Pay.

🌆 Hong Kong

• 🚇 The MTR connects Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and the airport quickly and very efficiently.
• ⛴️ The Star Ferry crosses Victoria Harbour between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui and is one of the city's most iconic experiences.
• 🚋 The historic Hong Kong Tramways runs across Hong Kong Island and remains one of the most affordable ways to get around.
• 🚌 Buses reach beaches, hiking trails, residential neighbourhoods and other areas that the metro doesn't get to.
• 🚠 The Ngong Ping 360 offers a comfortable way to reach the Tian Tan Big Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery.
• 🦑 The Octopus Card can be used to pay for practically all public transport and even in many shops and restaurants.

💳Where is it easier to pay and get internet: Shanghai or Hong Kong?

In Shanghai, paying means adapting. Alipay and WeChat Pay are the norm, and although you can use a card in some places, it doesn't always work. And watch out for this, because you need a VPN to use many Western apps. That said, with an eSIM you've got it pretty much under control if you're prepared.

Hong Kong is much more straightforward. Visa and MasterCard cards work without any issues, you can use Octopus for transport and small payments, and Apple Pay or Google Pay work perfectly. Plus, the internet is free, with no blocks.

🏞️ Which city has the best day trips?

If you like to make the most of your trip by discovering other nearby destinations, both Shanghai and Hong Kong offer some great day trips. Mind you, the type of experience changes quite a bit.

🏙️ Day trips from Shanghai

• 🌿 Suzhou (30-40 minutes by high-speed train): famous for its classical gardens, canals, and traditional architecture.
• 🌅 Hangzhou (45-60 minutes by high-speed train): perfect for exploring West Lake, temples, and Longjing tea plantations.
• 🚣Zhujiajiao (1 hour by metro + bus or taxi): one of the most accessible water towns from Shanghai.
• 🏮 Wuzhen (1.5-2 hours by bus or car): one of the best-preserved water towns in China.
• 🌉 Tongli (30 minutes by high-speed train to Suzhou + taxi): perfect for strolling among canals, bridges, and traditional houses.

🌆 Day trips from Hong Kong

• 🎰 Macau (55-60 minutes by ferry): a blend of Portuguese heritage, casinos, and excellent gastronomy.
• 🏙️ Shenzhen (14-18 minutes by high-speed train, depending on the border crossing): a modern city known for its skyscrapers, shopping centres, and theme parks.
• 🏛️ Guangzhou (45-60 minutes by high-speed train): stands out for its historical heritage and authentic Cantonese cuisine.
• 🛕 Lantau Island (35-45 minutes by MTR + Ngong Ping 360 cable car or bus): home to the Tian Tan Big Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery.
• ⛴️ Cheung Chau or Lamma Island (30-60 minutes by ferry): two tranquil islands, perfect for hiking, enjoying beaches, and eating fresh seafood.

🛍️ Where to go shopping: Shanghai or Hong Kong?

If you love shopping while travelling, both cities offer plenty to choose from. The difference lies in the type of shops and products you'll find.

🏙️ Shanghai

• Nanjing Road: department stores, international brands, cosmetics, fashion and souvenirs.
• Huaihai Road: luxury boutiques, brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada or Dior, and exclusive shopping malls.
• Xintiandi: designer shops, independent fashion, galleries, cafés and restaurants in a restored historic setting.
• IFC Mall: high-end fashion, watches, jewellery and premium brands like Chanel, Hermès or Cartier.

🌆 Hong Kong

• Causeway Bay: fashion, trainers, Asian cosmetics, department stores and international chains.
• Harbour City: one of the largest shopping centres in Asia, featuring hundreds of luxury, technology, toy and home decor shops.
• Tsim Sha Tsui: a mix of boutiques, shopping centres, electronics stores, jewellers and international brands.
• Mong Kok: electronics, mobile accessories, trainers, streetwear, video games and popular markets.
• Temple Street Night Market: souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, accessories, traditional Chinese items and street food stalls.

💰 Shanghai vs Hong Kong: Which destination is cheaper?

Although Shanghai and Hong Kong share that international profile, the budget changes more than it seems.

*Prices are approximate and may vary significantly depending on the season, exchange rates and spending habits. Always check the latest prices before booking.

💱 Currency conversion (approx.)

• Chinese Yuan (CNY ¥ → GBP £): ¥1 ≈ £0.087 | ¥100 ≈ £8.70 | ¥500 ≈ £43.50
• Hong Kong Dollar (HKD $ → GBP £): HK$1 ≈ £0.10 | HK$100 ≈ £10 | HK$1,000 ≈ £100

🚄 How to get from Shanghai to Hong Kong?

Getting between Shanghai and Hong Kong is fairly straightforward, which is no mean feat considering the distance. We’re talking about roughly 1,200 km, so the key here is choosing the right way to make the journey.

✈️ Getting from Shanghai to Hong Kong by plane

Flying is, quite simply, the fastest option and the one most travellers use. You can be there in about 2 and a half to 3 hours, just like that.

Flights mainly depart from Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) and land at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), which is very well connected to the city centre. Plus, there's a huge number of daily flights, with several airlines operating throughout the day.

As for the price, it usually ranges between £105 and £260 (≈ HK$950–2,400 / ¥950–2,400), depending on how far in advance you book and the season. Keep an eye out, as booking early can help you find some great deals.

💡 Trip.com tip: although it is the fastest option, between airport transfers, security checks, and waiting times, the total travel time can end up being longer than expected. Even so, it remains the most practical alternative in most cases.

🚅 Can you travel from Shanghai to Hong Kong by high-speed train?

Yes, you can take the bullet train, and the experience is quite interesting if you fancy seeing the route. Mind you, there are nuances here. The high-speed train journey takes between 8 and 9 hours, connecting Shanghai with Hong Kong West Kowloon station, which is right in the city centre. And that is where it scores points, because you arrive directly without having to travel as far as you would from the airport.

The trains are comfortable, punctual and relatively modern. Overall, the journey is quite easy to manage. Compared with flying, the process is also simpler, with fewer security checks and less hassle.

In terms of price, tickets usually cost around £105–£175 (≈HK$900–1,600 / CNY ¥800–1,600), depending on the seat class. It is not the cheapest option, but it offers a good balance between comfort and convenience.

💡 Trip.com tip: if you decide to take this journey by train, try to book in advance and choose a window seat. It’s a long journey, but quite comfortable, and it’s a great way to take in the scenery at your own pace and make the trip much more enjoyable.

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