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

Should you visit Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a colorful, cultural, and lively city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Hat Yai travel costs.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Hat Yai and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Seoul?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Hat Yai, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seoul is more touristy than Hat Yai and is known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Hat Yai is popular for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Seoul?

Seoul is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seoul. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

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

Both Hat Yai and Seoul offer a number of amazing restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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 Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Seoul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Music?

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

In Seoul you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Hat Yai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Seoul?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Seoul is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Families?

Seoul is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Couples?

Seoul is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

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

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Seoul is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is notable for students. However, Hat Yai 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.

Hat Yai is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Hat Yai or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

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.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Seoul?

Both Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Hat Yai. 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 Hat Yai. 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 Seoul than Hat Yai 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 Seoul.

One day in Hat Yai or Seoul?

In Hat Yai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Hat Yai or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. 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.

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 Hat Yai or Seoul?

Hat Yai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hat Yai. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Hat Yai or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Hat Yai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures 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 Hat Yai and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai.

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

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hat Yai. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai 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 Hat Yai or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Hat Yai or Seoul in the Summer?

Both Seoul and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hat Yai is generally a little warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 29°C (83°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during summer. Hat Yai gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In July, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Hat Yai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Hat Yai is much warmer than Seoul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Hat Yai often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 182 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in October than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Furthermore, 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 the winter, Hat Yai is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hat Yai in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Seoul averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during winter. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Seoul. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

In April, Hat Yai is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 30°C (85°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the spring, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun.

Hat Yai usually gets less rain in April than Seoul. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. May to December in Hat Yai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Hat Yai