Shanghai Mid-Range Budget — Peak Season
Season-adjusted mid-range daily travel budget for Shanghai during peak season.
Mid-Range daily budget during peak season
$143 – $160
per person per day in Shanghai (USD)
| lodging | $50 – $56 |
| food | $36 – $40 |
| transport | $21 – $24 |
| activities | $21 – $24 |
| misc | $14 – $16 |
Estimates based on synthetic model. Use the calculator below for personalized results.
Visiting Shanghai in Peak Season
Peak season in Shanghai brings the highest demand and prices — roughly 14% above shoulder-season levels. Accommodation and tours sell out faster, so booking in advance is essential. Despite higher costs, this is when Shanghai is at its most vibrant with the best weather conditions for the East Asia region. Budget approximately $143–$160 per day for a mid-range experience.
Trip Budget Calculator
How Peak Season Affects Costs
During peak season, prices in Shanghai are approximately 14% higher compared to shoulder season. This affects accommodation, tours, and some dining prices.
Mid-Range Travel Tips for Shanghai
- Business hotels offer clean, reliable rooms at moderate prices
- Set lunch menus at restaurants cost much less than dinner
- Regional rail passes offer great value for multi-city trips
- Cooking classes and food tours are popular mid-range activities
- Mid-range ryokans include dinner and breakfast in Japan
- Shopping districts have diverse dining at various price points
- Book attraction tickets in advance for small discounts
- Department store food halls offer premium food at reasonable prices
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost per day in Shanghai during peak season?
A mid-range traveler can expect to spend approximately $143 to $160 per person per day in Shanghai during peak season. This covers accommodation, food, local transport, activities, and miscellaneous expenses. These are estimates — your actual costs depend on your choices and travel style.
Is Shanghai expensive for tourists?
Shanghai is relatively expensive for tourists. Daily costs range from $40 (budget) to $420 (luxury) per person. The East Asia region has a range of price levels, and Shanghai sits at about a 13 out of 10 on a global cost scale.
How does season affect prices in Shanghai?
Prices in Shanghai vary by season. During low season, costs are roughly -8% lower than shoulder season. Peak season sees prices increase by roughly 14%. Booking during shoulder or low season can lead to meaningful savings.
What is included in the daily budget estimate?
Our daily budget estimates for Shanghai include five categories: lodging, food, local transport, activities/sightseeing, and miscellaneous expenses (tips, SIM cards, etc.). Flights and international transport are not included. Use the calculator on this page to adjust estimates for your specific situation.
What is a comfortable daily budget for Shanghai?
A mid-range traveler can expect to spend approximately $125 to $140 per day in Shanghai. This includes accommodation, food, transport, activities, and miscellaneous costs. Adjust for season — peak can add 14% to these figures.
What are the best mid-range restaurants in Shanghai?
Food in Shanghai ranges widely. Mid-range restaurants are the norm for mid-range travelers. Expect to spend roughly $31–$35 per day on meals.
How much does a mid-range hotel cost in Shanghai?
Accommodation in Shanghai for mid-range travelers typically costs $44–$49 per night. Mid-range hotels and boutique stays are the most common choices.
Assumptions & Notes
- All figures are estimates based on a synthetic cost model — not exact prices.
- Daily budgets are per person and include: lodging, food, local transport, activities, and miscellaneous.
- International flights and intercity transport are not included.
- Season multipliers reflect typical demand patterns — actual seasonal variation depends on events and weather.
- Currency conversions use approximate fixed rates. Check current rates before traveling.
- Budget a 10–20% buffer above these estimates for unexpected expenses.
Model version: v1.0 · Dataset generated at build time