Which place is cheaper, Seoul or Hanoi?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi 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.
Hanoi is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.
Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.
Visitors will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Hanoi, Hanoi has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Hanoi is better known for its museums and historical sights, while Seoul is more popular for its food and music. Hanoi is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seoul and Hanoi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Hanoi 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 Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.
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.
Seoul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.
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).
Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.
Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hanoi and Seoul.
Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.
Many people head to Seoul for the nightlife scene. 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.
Seoul is renowned for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.
Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.
Hanoi is not a live music destination.
Hanoi is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.
Hanoi has a world-famous historical area. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.
Seoul does not have a historic old town.
Shopping is a popular activity in both Seoul and Hanoi.
The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.
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.
Seoul is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.
Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.
Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
Seoul is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.
Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.
Hanoi 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 Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.
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.
Hanoi and Seoul are superb places to visit for students.
Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.
Many students visit 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.
Seoul is renowned for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.
Seoul has a great public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.
Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.
Seoul is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.
Seoul is a very walkable city. 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.
Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.
For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.
Both Hanoi 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 Hanoi. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.
Families should spend more time in Seoul than Hanoi. 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 Hanoi. 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 Hanoi 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 Hanoi.
Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.
In Seoul, many people enjoy the live music and food that this colorful big city offers. 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Seoul is a fun place to experience. In Seoul, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
You'll find food and shopping around the high energy big city of Hanoi. 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.
In Seoul, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this cultural big city offers. 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.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Hanoi is $49, while the average daily cost in Seoul is $111. 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 Hanoi and Seoul in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Hanoi 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.
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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hanoi:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hanoi:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:
Prices for flights to both Seoul and Hanoi 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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hanoi:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hanoi.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.
Here are a few typical costs in Hanoi for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Hanoi for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:
Also in Hanoi, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hanoi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hanoi 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 Hanoi.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hanoi Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.
Seoul has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hanoi. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi 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.
Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hanoi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
Hanoi is a little warmer than Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).
Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Seoul. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.
The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Seoul. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.
In the autumn, Hanoi is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).
Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Seoul. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.
Both Seoul and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi 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. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).
In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Seoul. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.
Both Seoul and Hanoi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.
Hanoi is much warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Seoul. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.
Hanoi | Seoul | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 17°C (63°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | -3°C (27°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
Feb | 17°C (63°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | -0°C (32°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
Mar | 21°C (70°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Apr | 24°C (75°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
May | 28°C (82°F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
Jun | 29°C (84°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
Jul | 29°C (84°F) | 210 mm (8.3 in) | 26°C (78°F) | 369 mm (14.5 in) |
Aug | 29°C (84°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 26°C (80°F) | 294 mm (11.6 in) |
Sep | 28°C (82°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 169 mm (6.7 in) |
Oct | 25°C (77°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Nov | 22°C (72°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
Dec | 18°C (64°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 0°C (33°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) |