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Chengdu or Shanghai?
Both are culture, history and food destinations in Asia. Shanghai adds city life.
| Chengdu | Shanghai | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | China | China |
| Cost of a week | mid-priced | expensive |
| Crowds at peak | medium | medium |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct | Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Warmest month | July, 31°C | July, 32°C |
| Coolest month | January, 10°C | January, 10°C |
| Known for | Chengdu Research Base, Wuhou Shrine, Dufu Thatched Cottage, Kuanzhai Alley | The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Yuyuan Garden, Jing'an Temple |
Month by month, side by side
| Month | Chengdu | Shanghai |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10°C | 10°C |
| Feb | 13°C | 11°C |
| Mar | 19°C | 16°C |
| Apr | 22°C | 21°C |
| May | 26°C | 25°C |
| Jun | 30°C | 29°C |
| Jul | 31°C | 32°C |
| Aug | 31°C | 32°C |
| Sep | 27°C | 28°C |
| Oct | 21°C | 23°C |
| Nov | 17°C | 18°C |
| Dec | 11°C | 11°C |
So which one?
Pick Chengdu if…
It suits solo travellers particularly well. It also works in March, when Shanghai is off-season.
Pick Shanghai if…
you want city life. It suits luxury particularly well. It also works in November.
Both are at their best in April, May, September, October.
Book whichever wins
Common questions
Is Chengdu or Shanghai cheaper?
Chengdu is mid-priced for a week, Shanghai is expensive.
Which is warmer, Chengdu or Shanghai?
Chengdu peaks at 31°C in July; Shanghai peaks at 32°C in July.
Can you do both in one trip?
Yes — they are in the same country, so combining them is straightforward.
Temperatures are measured averages (ERA5, Open-Meteo). Hotel links are partner links — your price is unchanged.