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

Should you visit Hoi An or Seoul?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and Seoul. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a peaceful, beautiful, and traditional town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Seoul

Seoul is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Hoi An and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Seoul?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Hoi An and Seoul are popular destinations, Seoul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seoul is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hoi An attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. 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 Hoi An different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Seoul?

Spend time exploring the high quality sights and museums in either Hoi An or Seoul.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Seoul offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Hoi An or Seoul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hoi An and Seoul.

Eat your way through Hoi An, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

For foodies, Seoul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Hoi An or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Is Hoi An or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is terrific for live music. However, Hoi An is not a live music destination.

Seoul is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Hoi An is not a live music destination.

Is Hoi An or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hoi An to enjoy the beach. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Seoul Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Seoul?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Hoi An and Seoul.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hoi An. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 Hoi An or Seoul Better for Families?

Both Hoi An and Seoul are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Hoi An is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Hoi An or Seoul Better for Couples?

Hoi An and Seoul both high quality destinations for a couple.

Hoi An makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

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 Hoi An or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An 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 Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

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 Hoi An or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Hoi An is not popular with 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.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Hoi An, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Is Hoi An or Seoul a more walkable city?

Hoi An is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Hoi An on foot. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time 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 Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Seoul?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Seoul?

In Hoi An, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or Seoul?

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

Seoul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Seoul?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Hoi An. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam, 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 Hoi An and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

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

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An 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 Hoi An or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Hoi An or Seoul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Seoul. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hoi An is a little warmer than Seoul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hoi An in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Seoul averages at about 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hoi An this time of the year. In the summer, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hoi An or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Hoi An is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 25°C (78°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during autumn. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Seoul. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hoi An or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Hoi An during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Seoul can be very cold. Hoi An is much warmer than Seoul in the winter. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

In the spring, Hoi An is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hoi An in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Seoul averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seoul during spring. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Seoul. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Hoi An