A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Seoul for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ao Nang or Seoul?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ao Nang or Seoul? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a accessible, popular, and beachfront town. Ao Nang is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Ao Nang travel costs.

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Seoul travel costs.

Ao Nang and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Seoul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul. Although Ao Nang and Seoul are both popular with visitors, Seoul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seoul is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Ao Nang is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Ao Nang different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Seoul?

Seoul is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Seoul offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Seoul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Seoul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Ao Nang and Seoul.

Ao Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Seoul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Ao Nang is not a live music destination.

Seoul has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Ao Nang is not a live music destination.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ao Nang. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is very good for the beach. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Ao Nang to enjoy the beach. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Seoul?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul More Beautiful?

Ao Nang is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ao Nang is a beautiful place to visit, too. The surrounding area is filled with stunning beauty and wonderful excursions.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Families?

Seoul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Couples?

Seoul is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Seoul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ao Nang is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Seoul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Ao Nang is not popular with students.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Seoul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Ao Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Is Ao Nang or Seoul a more walkable city?

Ao Nang and Seoul are great when it comes to walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Seoul is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Seoul?

Both Ao Nang and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Ao Nang. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Ao Nang. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Seoul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Ao Nang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seoul that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Ao Nang or Seoul?

In Ao Nang, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this popular destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ao Nang or Seoul?

Ao Nang is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ao Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Seoul?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the popular destination of Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Seoul, we can see that Ao Nang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ao Nang Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 1290 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Seoul, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ao Nang or Seoul?

Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Seoul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Seoul. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ao Nang is generally around the same temperature as Seoul. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the summer, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Seoul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. Ao Nang usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Ao Nang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Ao Nang is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ao Nang in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Seoul averages at about -3°C (27°F).

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

Ao Nang usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city.

In April, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 29°C (84°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Seoul. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Ao Nang