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

Should you visit Bangkok or Seoul?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Seoul can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a cultural, alluring, and spirited capital city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bangkok travel costs.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Bangkok and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bangkok or Seoul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Bangkok. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its music, while Bangkok attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Bangkok different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Seoul?

Bangkok
Seoul

Bangkok is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bangkok are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.


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

Bangkok
Seoul

Foodies will find both Bangkok and Seoul both to be amazing destinations.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Eat your way through Seoul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Is Bangkok or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok
Seoul

Bangkok is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Bangkok is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Bangkok or Seoul Better for Music?

Bangkok
Seoul

Seoul is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Seoul is a world class music destination. 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.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Seoul?

Bangkok
Seoul

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seoul and Bangkok.

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Known for shopping, Seoul draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Is Bangkok or Seoul More Beautiful?

Bangkok
Seoul

Bangkok is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bangkok or Seoul Better for Families?

Bangkok
Seoul

Both Bangkok and Seoul are superb to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seoul is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Bangkok or Seoul Better for Couples?

Bangkok
Seoul

Bangkok is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Bangkok has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

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.

Is Bangkok or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok
Seoul

Bangkok is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

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 Bangkok or Seoul Better for Students?

Bangkok
Seoul

Seoul is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seoul. 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.

Bangkok is not popular with students.


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

Bangkok
Seoul

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Bangkok has some very good public transit options. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Seoul a more walkable city?

Bangkok
Seoul

Seoul is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Seoul?

Both Bangkok and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bangkok has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bangkok than Seoul. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok than Seoul if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bangkok.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Seoul? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Seoul 3-7

One day in Bangkok or Seoul?

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This capital city 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.

In Seoul, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Bangkok or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

In Seoul, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Bangkok or Seoul?

Bangkok is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Bangkok or Seoul?

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. In Seoul, you'll find live music and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.


Which place is cheaper, Seoul or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $103, while the average daily cost in Seoul is $118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bangkok and Seoul in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $49
    Seoul $50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $98
    Seoul $100
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Seoul

Looking for a hotel in Bangkok or Seoul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bangkok


Hotels in Seoul


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bangkok Hotel Prices and Seoul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $6.42
    Seoul $14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.46
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.91
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.98
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.80
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.67
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.76
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.53
  • Trains to airport
    $4.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Museum of Contemporary Art Moca Bangkok Entry Ticket and transfer: $14
  • Private Transfer from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport(BKK): $15
  • Bangkok Ancient City Admission Ticket With Optional Transfers: $15
  • Shared Airport Transfer: Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Bangkok Hotel: $19
  • Transfer Suvarnabhumi Airport(BKK) to Bangkok City Center: $19
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Private Transfer – Toll Included: $19
  • Bangkok Airport & Intercity Transfers by Spacious Private Vehicle: $20
  • Bangkok Premium Private SUV and MPV Transfer: $20
  • Bangkok Airport(BKK) to Bangkok hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $20
  • Bangkok Airport(BKK) to Bangkok hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $20
  • Bangkok City Tour with Guided Temple Visits and Shared Transfers: $20
  • Bangkok Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Tour with Transfers: $22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:


  • Subway Card
    $3.32
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $4.64
  • Metro Ride
    $0.90
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $6.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • From Round-Trip Transfer to Dae Jang Geum Park: $50
  • Gimpo Airport GMP Private Transfer To From Seoul Hotels: $108
  • Gimpo Airport to Seoul /Seoul to GMP Private Transfer (1-7pax): $70
  • Incheon Airport (ICN): Private Transfer To/From Seoul Hotels: $104
  • Incheon Airport transfer directly to Seoul city: $113
  • Incheon International Airport (ICN): Private Seoul Transfer: $95
  • Lotte World 1Day Pass+Obesrvatoy+Private round transfer(Seoul): $115
  • Lotte World Theme Park Private Transfer: $214
  • Premium Seoul Airport Transfer: Affordable & Convenience: $105
  • Private Airport Transfer * Incheon Airport Seoul (1-5 people): $90
  • Private Airport Transfer - Incheon Airport ⇔ Seoul (Up to 7 or 11 people): $130
  • Private Airport Transfer : Gimpo airport to/from Seoul (1~7pax): $89

Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Seoul?

Prices for flights to both Seoul and Bangkok change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangkok $36
    Seoul $47
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $28
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $6.14
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.38
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.92
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $6.14
  • Pad Thai
    $2.15
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $17
  • Lunch for 2
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.

  • Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $25
  • Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $27
  • Chao Phraya Princess Sunset and Dinner Cruise: $27
  • Bangkok Sawasdee Sunset Dinner Cruise from ICONSIAM+Beer FreeFlow: $27
  • Chao Phraya River Meridian Dinner Buffet Cruise Tour: $28
  • Chao Phraya Princess Bangkok Sunset Dinner Cruise: $29
  • Alangka Bangkok Sunset Dinner Cruise: $30
  • Bangkok Sunset or Evening Dinner Cruise (The Planet Cruise): $30
  • Smile Riverside Cruise Luxury Buffet Dinner from Bangkok: $31
  • Nopparat’s Traditional Thai Dinner & Dance: $31
  • Bangkok Newest Luxury Noah Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise: $31

Typical Food Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $3.98
  • Waffle
    $0.66
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.33
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $3.65
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.33
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.26
  • Lunch Buffet
    $3.98
  • Donut
    $0.66
  • Mushroom Burger
    $3.45
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.19
  • Udon & Sushi
    $4.64
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.18
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $2.98
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.32
  • Fried Rice
    $3.65
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $6.30
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $6.30
  • Donut
    $1.66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.

  • Guided Street Food Tour at Namdaemun Market: $45
  • Seoul Night Run for Local-Favorite Korean BBQ Dinner: $50
  • [Wine & K-BBQ] A Perfect Pairing Dinner in Sinchon: $51
  • Korean Grandma Cooking Class l Gimbap & Kimchi Pancake l Seoul: $52
  • Kimchi Cooking Class in Hanok House & Donate Kimchi: $57
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $57
  • Sunset Walking Tour in Naksan Park with Dinner: $58
  • Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner: $58
  • Hidden Market Food Tour with 12+ Tasters & Drinking Games: $59
  • Dinner at a Local's Hanok & Seoul's Night Life: $60
  • Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing: $61
  • Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $18
    Seoul $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $4.91
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $11
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.53
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $6.14
  • Club Cover Charge
    $12
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $74
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.60
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $3.07
  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    $12

Tours and Activities in Bangkok

Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bangkok Chinatown Eats: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.13
  • Bangkok Noi Canal: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Bangkok Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Boat from Bangkok: $6.28
  • Bangkok Walking Tour 2h40 and 22 audio reviews: $6.75
  • Grand Palace Self-Guided Walking Tour (entry not incl.): $6.99
  • Wat Pho Reclining Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl.): $6.99
  • Chinatown & Golden Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl): $6.99
  • Bangkok's Wireless Road: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Erawan Museum & Ancient City Admission Ticket - Bangkok: $10
  • Skip the Line: Patpong Museum Guided Tour: $11
  • Bangkok Meland Siam Paragon Entry Ticket: $11

Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:


  • Palace Tickets
    $5.30
  • Movie Ticket
    $5.30
  • Kimchi Museum
    $1.99

Tours and Activities in Seoul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:

  • K-Culture Adventure in Seoul Self-Guided Walking Tour: $3.54
  • Seoul Ghost Tour: Self-Guided Haunted Walk: $5.91
  • Seoul Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Seoul Walking Tour 3h30 and 19 audio reviews: $6.69
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul: $7.00
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Web Guide and Room Escape Tour Ticket: $7.30
  • Gwanghwamun Tour l 120 Minutes to Understand South Korea: $10
  • Street Hustle Adventure in Seoul: $10
  • Rabbithole Drag Show Entry Ticket: $10
  • [Seoul] Football Faentasium Admission Ticket (내국인 불가): $10
  • Seoul Job Experience Theme Park Ticket for Kid (내국인 불가): $13
  • Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Experience at hanboknam: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $5.52
    Seoul $11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.23

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Sunset Rooftop, TukTuk Ride, Night Market & Bar Crawl: $21
  • The Original Speakeasy & Iconic Venues Pub Crawl: $22
  • GoGo Bar Crawl With Party Vehicle and Party Guide: $63
  • Bangkok Bar Crawl by Tuk Tuk: $69

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl: $25
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $26
  • LGBTQ+ Pub Crawl and Drag Show with Local Drag Queen: $28
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $41
  • Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier - Finest Makgeolli (& Soju): $46
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery: $51
  • Premium Pub Crawl with Open Bottles: $57
  • Craft Makgeolli Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience: $67
  • Korean Craft Makgeolli Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience: $73
  • Learn and Craft Makgeolli in a Traditional Brewery: $78
  • From Yeongdong Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Janggu: $91


When comparing the travel costs between Bangkok and Seoul, we can see that Seoul 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 Bangkok Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bangkok. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Bangkok or Seoul in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bangkok is a little warmer than Seoul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bangkok in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Seoul averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun in the summer.

Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Seoul. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bangkok 29°C (84°F) 
    Seoul 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Seoul in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Seoul. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 28°C (83°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seoul. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Seoul. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bangkok 28°C (83°F) 
    Seoul 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Bangkok is much warmer than Seoul in the winter. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Seoul. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bangkok 27°C (80°F) 
    Seoul -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Bangkok or Seoul in the Spring?

Both Seoul and Bangkok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bangkok is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bangkok in April average around 31°C (87°F), and Seoul averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in April than Seoul. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bangkok 31°C (87°F) 
    Seoul 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Seoul and Bangkok

Bangkok Seoul
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) -3°C (27°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) -0°C (32°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Mar 29°C (85°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 31°C (87°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
May 30°C (86°F) 220 mm (8.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 29°C (85°F) 149 mm (5.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 369 mm (14.5 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 197 mm (7.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 294 mm (11.6 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 344 mm (13.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 169 mm (6.7 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 242 mm (9.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 0°C (33°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)