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Planning a self-guided trip to Shanghai? Discover the essential travel expenses for Shanghai and learn money-saving tips with Mytour!
With its dazzling beauty and vibrant lifestyle, Shanghai attracts visitors not only for its grand architectural landmarks but also for its streets that preserve cultural imprints across generations. For travelers wanting to explore Shanghai without worrying about costs, careful planning is crucial.
In this article, Mytour Vietnam will guide you through the expenses of a Shanghai trip, including accommodation, dining, sightseeing, entertainment, and transportation. Along with budget-saving tips, you can fully enjoy an impressive journey without stressing over your budget.
How Much Does a Chinese Tourist Visa Cost?
The cost of applying for a Chinese tourist visa (Type L) in Vietnam includes two main fees: the consular fee and the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) fee. These fees vary depending on the visa type, number of entries, and processing time.
1. Regular Visa (5 Working Days)
- Single entry for 3 months: 60 USD (consular fee) + 685,000 VND (CVASC fee).
- Double entry for 3 months: 90 USD + 685,000 VND.
- Multiple entries for 6 months: 120 USD + 685,000 VND.
2. Urgent Visa (2-3 Working Days)
- Single entry for 3 months: 85 USD + 1,028,000 VND.
- Multiple entries for 6 months: 145 USD + 1,028,000 VND.
3. Special Visa (1 Working Day)
- Single entry for 3 months: 97 USD + 1,371,000 VND.
- Multiple entries for 1 year: 217 USD + 1,371,000 VND.
(*) Note:
- The CVASC fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
How Much Does a Flight Ticket to Shanghai from Vietnam Cost?
The cost of flight tickets from Vietnam to Shanghai varies significantly, depending on the flight time, airline, and ticket type. On average, one-way tickets typically range from 6,900,000 - 7,050,000 VND, while round-trip tickets cost between 10,291,000 - 12,397,000 VND (including taxes and fees).
Currently, there are direct flights from Vietnam to Shanghai operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines. The frequency is approximately 5 flights per day for both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Hanoi - Shanghai: Direct flight duration is 4 hours 15 minutes.
- Ho Chi Minh City - Shanghai: Direct flight duration is 4 hours 10 minutes.
Additionally, some international airlines like Cathay Pacific Airways, China Airlines, and EVA Airways offer connecting flights with 1-2 stops, providing greater flexibility in scheduling.
Ticket prices tend to drop during off-peak months like June to August, offering opportunities to find cheaper fares. However, during peak seasons or holidays, round-trip ticket prices can rise up to 22,000,000 VND. To optimize costs, passengers should book early, remain flexible with their schedules, and consider connecting flights if time is not a priority.
How Much Does Transportation Cost in Shanghai?
Transportation costs in Shanghai are quite reasonable, thanks to its developed and diverse public transport system, catering to various needs and budgets.
- Metro: A popular choice due to its affordability and convenience, connecting most tourist spots. Fares range from 3 - 8 RMB (10,000 - 28,000 VND) depending on distance.
- Bus: Ideal for exploring street scenery with fares as low as 1 - 5 RMB (around 7,000 - 17,000 VND) per trip, making it the most economical option.
- Taxi: The starting fare is around 16 RMB (50,000 VND), with an additional 3 RMB (10,000 VND) per kilometer. Suitable for groups or traveling to distant locations.
- Ride-hailing: Apps like Didi offer competitive prices, often lower than traditional taxis.
On average, travelers can expect to spend around 500,000 VND per day on transportation, including public transport and a few short taxi rides. For budget-conscious travelers, the metro and bus are the top choices.
How Much Does Entertainment & Leisure Cost in Shanghai?
Shanghai is not only a bustling financial hub but also an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy exciting entertainment and leisure activities. The cost of entertainment here varies widely: admission to the Oriental Pearl Tower costs around 160 CNY, while a visit to Yuyuan Garden is approximately 40 CNY. For shopping and exploration enthusiasts, Nanjing Road is a must-visit with its free entertainment options. Amusement parks and art performances range from 200 to 500 CNY depending on the event.
1. How Much Does Admission to Shanghai Attractions Cost?
Exploring Shanghai offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the blend of modernity and tradition through its famous landmarks. Visitors can discover iconic sites like the Oriental Pearl Tower for panoramic city views or enjoy the ancient ambiance of Yu Garden with its unique traditional architecture. Outdoor enthusiasts can take a boat ride on the Huangpu River or visit animals at the Shanghai Wild Animal Park.
Admission fees typically range from 30 - 200 CNY depending on the location and type of experience. Below are some popular attractions and their costs:
- Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket: 199 CNY
- Yu Garden Ticket: 40 CNY (peak season): 30 CNY (off-peak season)
- Huangpu River Cruise Ticket: 100 CNY
- Shanghai Wild Animal Park Ticket: 165 CNY
- Shanghai Film Park Ticket: 80 CNY
2. How Much Do Amusement Park Tickets Cost in Shanghai?
Shanghai is a captivating destination for experiencing world-class amusement parks. From the magic of Shanghai Disneyland and thrilling rides at Happy Valley to the stunning snowscapes of Yaoxue Snow Park, visitors have countless exciting options. These activities are not only perfect for families but also attract groups of young travelers seeking unique experiences.
The cost of visiting amusement parks in Shanghai typically ranges from 200 - 500 CNY, depending on the location and ticket type. Check out the prices of popular amusement parks below and plan ahead to make the most of your trip.
- Shanghai Disneyland Ticket: 402 CNY
- Yaoxue Snow Park Shanghai: 220 CNY
- Happy Valley Shanghai Ticket: 260 CNY
- SAGA Light City: 498 CNY
3. How Much Does a Day Tour in Shanghai Cost?
The cost of day tours in Shanghai typically ranges from 600 - 1,800 CNY, depending on the itinerary and destinations. You’ll have the chance to explore the ancient beauty of Zhujiajiao, one of China’s most famous water towns, and visit the dazzling Xitang Ancient Town at night. These tours not only include visits to iconic landmarks but also offer opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine.
- Half-day Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town: 600 CNY
- Day and Night Tour to Xitang Ancient Town: 800 CNY
- 1-Day Suzhou + Xitang Ancient Town Night Tour: 1,800 CNY
- 1-Day Tour to Zhujiajiao - China's First Water Town: 1,000 CNY
- Shanghai City Walking Tour: 345 CNY
Of course, you can book these Shanghai tours in advance on Mytour and use discount codes to save on costs!
How Much Does Dining Cost in Shanghai?
Not only does Shanghai boast countless tourist attractions, but it is also a food paradise for culinary enthusiasts. On average, a simple meal at street food stalls costs between 20 to 50 CNY (around 70,000 - 170,000 VND), while a meal at a casual restaurant ranges from 60 to 150 CNY (200,000 - 500,000 VND). For upscale dining, the cost can go up to 300 - 600 CNY (1 million - 2 million VND) for a full-course meal.
1. Soup Dumplings - Xiao Long Bao
This is a famous and beloved dish in Shanghai. The dumplings, filled with meat and soup, leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries them. A serving of Xiao Long Bao at local eateries costs between 30 - 60 CNY (around 100,000 - 200,000 VND) for a portion of 6-10 pieces.
2. Cold Eel Noodles in Shanghai
Cold eel noodles are a signature dish of Shanghai, deeply rooted in tradition and especially popular during the summer. This dish can cost between 40 - 80 CNY (140,000 - 280,000 VND), depending on the restaurant and ingredients used.
3. Eight-Treasure Duck in Shanghai
This dish features duck stewed with special ingredients like mushrooms, lotus seeds, and spices, offering a rich and intricate Eastern flavor. A serving of Eight-Treasure Duck typically ranges from 100 - 200 CNY (350,000 - 700,000 VND) at upscale restaurants.
4. Spicy Malatang Hotpot in Shanghai
Malatang hotpot is a standout in Chinese cuisine, known for its spicy flavor and aromatic broth. You can enjoy this dish at hotpot restaurants for around 50 - 120 CNY (170,000 - 400,000 VND) for a small pot serving 1-2 people. Malatang is beloved for its flexibility in ingredient selection.
5. Steamed Hairy Crab - A Shanghai Delicacy
As a premium specialty of Shanghai, steamed hairy crab is highly sought after for its rich, buttery flavor. Prices for a serving of hairy crab range from 200 - 400 CNY, with higher costs during the peak crab season from September to November.
How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Shanghai?
With Shanghai's rapid development, the city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays, catering to all types of travelers. Accommodation costs in Shanghai range from 300 - 600 CNY (1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND) per night for budget hotels, while mid-range hotels cost around 600 - 1,500 CNY (2,000,000 - 5,000,000 VND). Luxury hotels or resorts can start from 1,500 CNY (5,000,000 VND) and above per night, providing a high-end experience for visitors.
1. Affordable Resort Recommendations in Shanghai
1.1. Stay Package at Haichang Ocean Park Resort Hotel Shanghai
- Address: No. 777, Qiqing Road, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai
- Reference Price: 4,530,000 VND/night
1.2. Stay Package at Shanghai International Tourism Resort
- Address: Pudong New District
- Reference Price: 1,749,000 VND/night
2. Affordable Hotel Recommendations in Shanghai
2.1. Pullman Shanghai Qingpu Excellence
- Address: No. 1, 340 Lane, Zhiuying Road (Qingpu)
- Reference Price: 1,700,000 VND/night
2.2. Urcove by HYATT Shanghai Jing'an
- Address: No. 1185 Wuding West Road
- Reference Price: 2,450,000 VND/night
2.3. Artyzen Habitat Lingang Shanghai
- Address: No. 1-3, Lane 39, North Shuiyun Road
- Reference Price: 2,121,000 VND/night
3. Affordable Guesthouses & Hostels in Shanghai
3.1. Shanghai Meego Youth Hostel
Address: No. 495 Jiangning Road (Jing'an District)
Reference Price: 757,000 VND/night
3.2. Dayin International Youth Hostel - People's Square & Old Town
- Address: Lane 678, Zhonghuaxin Road (Jing'an District)
- Reference Price: 1,720,000 VND/night
4. Popular Guest House Recommendations in Shanghai
4.1. Xixili Guesthouse 2nd Branch
- Address: South Shendi Road and Linggan Street
- Reference Price: 1,131,000 VND/night
4.2 Kevin's Old House
- Address: No. 4, Lane 946, Changle Road
- Reference Price: 3,793,000 VND/night
4.3. CSDY Guesthouse
- Address: No. 635 Zhendong County
- Reference Price: 2,588,000 VND/night
How Much Do Travel Conveniences Cost in Shanghai?
The cost of purchasing travel conveniences in Shanghai depends on your usage needs, with many options available to ensure connectivity and convenience throughout your trip. A 4G WiFi device from Uroaming costs around 17 CNY/day, ideal for group travel requiring constant internet access.
If you prefer a more flexible and cost-effective option, a 4G eSIM for China, Hong Kong, and Macau is available for 56 CNY/5 days, offering convenience without the need for a physical SIM card. Additionally, traditional 4G SIM cards are a popular choice, priced at 63 CNY/3 days, suitable for short trips.
What Is the Total Cost of a Self-Guided Trip to Shanghai?
Shanghai, China's bustling port city, attracts visitors with its blend of ancient and modern architecture, diverse cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. However, planning a budget-friendly trip is crucial before exploring this city. Below is a reference cost breakdown for a 7-day trip to Shanghai:
Khoản phí | Chi phí ước tính (VNĐ) |
Visa Trung Quốc | 2.100.000 - 3.500.000 |
Vé máy bay khứ hồi | 7.000.000 - 15.000.000 |
SIM du lịch Thượng Hải | 200.000 - 500.000 |
Lưu trú (7 ngày/người) | 4.000.000 - 15.000.000 |
Di chuyển (7 ngày/người) | 700.000 - 2.000.000 |
Ăn uống (7 ngày/người) | 3.500.000 - 10.000.000 |
Vui chơi & tham quan | 2.000.000 - 7.000.000 |
Mua quà lưu niệm | 1.000.000 - 3.000.000 |
Chi phí khác | 1.000.000 - 2.000.000 |
Tổng chi phí (7 ngày/người) | 21.500.000 - 57.500.000 |
(*) Please note that these figures are for reference only and may vary depending on individual travel budgets.
Money-Saving Tips for Traveling to Shanghai with Mytour
To make your Shanghai trip budget-friendly and convenient, keep these tips about currency, payment methods, and savings in mind:
- Currency: The official currency in China is the Renminbi (CNY). Exchange money at reputable banks or currency exchange points before arriving in Shanghai for better rates.
- Payment Methods: Cash is widely accepted, especially in traditional markets and small shops. However, digital wallets like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly popular in Shanghai. Download and register for these apps before your trip for easier payments.
- Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels: Instead of luxury hotels, consider affordable hostels or budget-friendly accommodations that still ensure quality.
- Use Public Transport: Shanghai's metro system is well-developed and cost-effective. Utilize it to save on transportation costs.
- Dine at Local Eateries: Avoid upscale tourist restaurants and opt for small local eateries to enjoy authentic cuisine at reasonable prices.
- Bargain While Shopping: At markets, don’t hesitate to negotiate for better prices.
- Explore Free Attractions: Shanghai offers many free attractions like parks and walking streets. Plan your itinerary to save on sightseeing costs.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid peak travel seasons to secure better prices for flights and accommodations.
With its blend of modernity and tradition, Shanghai is a captivating destination for all travel enthusiasts. The city is not only known for its skyscrapers and bustling shopping districts but also offers countless exciting activities.
Through this article, Mytour Vietnam has provided insights into the costs of traveling to Shanghai, including accommodation, dining, transportation, and entertainment. Don’t forget to visit Mytour Blog for more exciting travel information about Shanghai, such as 15 Must-Try Shanghai Delicacies, Latest Tips for Buying a China Travel SIM, 8-Day Itinerary for Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou, 15 Day Tours in Shanghai for Independent Travelers, and 25 Must-Visit Attractions in China.
Now that you know how much a trip to Shanghai costs, start planning your adventure today!
