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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul

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. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Helsinki and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Helsinki. Seoul is bigger than Helsinki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Helsinki is more popular for its impressive beauty. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. 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 Helsinki different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Seoul.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Seoul?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki 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 Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or Seoul Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Seoul are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Seoul Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Seoul are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Seoul are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Helsinki or Seoul Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Seoul are superb destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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.

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

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

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.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Seoul?

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

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Seoul?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nature-focused destination 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.

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Seoul?

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

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Seoul?

Helsinki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Helsinki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Helsinki. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, 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 Helsinki and Seoul, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Helsinki is in Europe and Seoul is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul 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 Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki than you might in Seoul.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Seoul?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seoul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Seoul. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Helsinki is much colder than Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. Helsinki usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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, Helsinki is much colder than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Seoul. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. 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. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Seoul. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. Helsinki is much colder than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Seoul. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Helsinki