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

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Seoul?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Seoul, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a friendly, charming, and cultural city. Chiang Rai is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Chiang Rai travel costs.

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Seoul travel costs.

Chiang Rai and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Chiang Rai. Seoul is bigger than Chiang Rai, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Chiang Rai is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Chiang Rai is well known for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Chiang Rai different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

Chiang Rai 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 Chiang Rai are among the most recognizable in the world. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

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 Chiang Rai or Seoul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chiang Rai and Seoul can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Rai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Seoul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Chiang Rai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Chiang Rai is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Seoul. 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.

Chiang Rai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Chiang Rai. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Hiking?

Chiang Rai is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Chiang Rai. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Chiang Rai. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul More Beautiful?

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

Chiang Rai is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by the mountains and filled with temples and impressive parks, this city is a beautiful place.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Families?

Chiang Rai and Seoul are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Rai is very family-friendly. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

Seoul is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai and Seoul are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Chiang Rai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Couples visit Seoul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai 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.

Chiang Rai is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

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 Chiang Rai or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Chiang Rai is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Seoul is top-notch. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Is Chiang Rai or Seoul a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai and Seoul are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Rai is a very walkable city. The old city is easy to explore on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. 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 Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

Both Chiang Rai 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 Chiang Rai. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

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

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Chiang Rai. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai 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 Chiang Rai.

One day in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

In Chiang Rai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This 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.

When visiting Seoul, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Rai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

When visiting Seoul, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

Chiang Rai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chiang Rai. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Seoul, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Rai or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Chiang Rai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Rai and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Rai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Rai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Rai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Seoul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seoul than you might in Chiang Rai.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Chiang Rai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai 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.