Which place is cheaper, Seoul or Jerusalem?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Jerusalem or Seoul?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Jerusalem 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.
Where Should I go: Jerusalem or Seoul?
Jerusalem
Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel, as well as one of the most historically rich cities in the world. It is also the largest city in the country. While Tel Aviv holds many of the responsibilities of a capital city, officially, Jerusalem is still considered the capital. It is important to note that most countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, not in Jerusalem.
Seoul
With a population of more than 11 million, Seoul is easily the largest city in South Korea. It is also the financial, political, and cultural capital of the country and has much to offer open minded travelers. It is often overlooked by travelers who instead head to Tokyo or Shanghai, but Seoul has a wide range of cultural experiences, food options, and historical sights. Seoul is a city of contrasts with ancient traditions, flashy technology, religious temples and a modern youth culture. It is also more affordable than many of the other Asian metropolis' to which it is often compared. If you're looking for an interesting and different experience that is a little off the tourist trail, Seoul can definitely offer that opportunity.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Israel, The Best Budget Tours to Israel, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.
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Jerusalem Prices
Israel PricesSeoul Prices
South Korea Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayJerusalem $159Seoul $124
The average daily cost (per person) in Jerusalem is $159, while the average daily cost in Seoul is $124. 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 Jerusalem and Seoul in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personJerusalem $78Seoul $52
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomJerusalem $156Seoul $104
Compare Hotels in Jerusalem and Seoul
Looking for a hotel in Jerusalem 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.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jerusalem Hotel Prices and Seoul Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Jerusalem $8.18Seoul $15
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Local Bus$3.85
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Light Rail Jerusalem$12
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jerusalem
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Jerusalem:
- Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Airport (TLV) - Departure Private Transfer: $83
- Private Transfer From Amman or Dead Sea To Petra and Wadi Rum: $85
- Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport Private Departure Transfer: $85
- Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Airport (TLV) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
- Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Airport (TLV) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
- Private Transfer: From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv: $95
- Jerusalem Private Transfer To Tel Aviv Airport: $130
- Jerusalem Private Transfer to Allaenby Bridge: $130
- Jerusalem Private Transfer To Dead Sea: $130
- Private Transfer from Jerusalem to Airport: $143
- Jerusalem Private Transfer to Amman with VIP Service: $175
- Private Airport Transfers to/from Hotel: $183
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:
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Subway Card$3.47
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Short Taxi Ride$4.85
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Metro Ride$0.94
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Seoul City Pass Plus$6.93
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:
- Seoul Private Transfer Airport Gangneung Jeonju Gyeongju Busan: $14
- Night Views Tour with Guide and Transfers: $41
- From Round-Trip Transfer to Dae Jang Geum Park: $50
- Seoul to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) Departure Private Transfer: $63
- Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
- Incheon Airport (ICN) Transfer to Seoul/Suwon/Seongnam/Yongin: $68
- Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul - Arrival Private Transfer: $79
- Seoul to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
- Private Seoul KTX Station Transfer from/to Seoul Area: $85
- Incheon Airport Transfer service pick up drop off Seoul ~7 Pax: $89
- Private Airport Transfer : Gimpo airport to/from Seoul (1~7pax): $89
- Seoul to Incheon &Gimpo Airport Transfer 24/7 Departure Service: $90
Is it cheaper to fly into Jerusalem or Seoul?
Prices for flights to both Seoul and Jerusalem 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.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayJerusalem $67Seoul $49
Typical Food Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of dining costs in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Orange Juice$3.26
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Watermelon$4.90
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Lunch$14
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Food at Market$19
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Juice$3.26
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Bagels$9.79
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Lunch for 2$18
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Snacks$6.86
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jerusalem
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jerusalem.
- Mahane Yehuda Market Walking Food Tour in Jerusalem: $63
- Mahane Yehuda Market Guided Food Tour: $89
- Private Lunch or Dinner at a Local Traditional Restaurant from Dead Sea: $107
- Private Madaba Haret Jdoudna Restaurant Lunch or Dinner from Dead Sea: $127
- Christmas Eve Jerusalem and Bethlehem with Dinner from Jerusalem: $180
- Experience Shabbat With Dinner In Jerusalem: $231
- The Best Food Tour in Jerusalem-Perfect for Viral Travel Content: $237
Typical Food Prices in Seoul
Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:
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Rice with Kimchi & Bacon$4.16
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Waffle$0.69
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Dippin' Dots$1.39
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Chicken Fried Rice$3.81
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Chicken Stick$1.39
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Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew$1.32
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Lunch Buffet$4.16
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Donut$0.69
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Mushroom Burger$3.60
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Green Tea Ice Cream$2.29
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Udon & Sushi$4.85
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Fresh Burger$3.33
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Soba Noodles Lunch$3.12
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Bibimbap Lunch$3.47
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Fried Rice$3.81
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Vietnamese Dinner$6.58
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Breakfast and Coffee for 2$6.58
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Donut$1.73
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.
- Guided Street Food Tour at Namdaemun Market: $45
- Seoul Night Run for Local-Favorite Korean BBQ Dinner: $50
- EG Tour Gimpo Peace and Food Tour: $50
- [Wine & K-BBQ] A Perfect Pairing Dinner in Sinchon: $51
- Korean Grandma Cooking Class l Gimbap & Kimchi Pancake l Seoul: $52
- Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $57
- Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing: $61
- Explore Seoul's Flavors on Group Cooking Class Adventure: $63
- Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $64
- Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner: $67
- Cooking Class in Seoul with Korean Grandma: $68
- Namdaemun Market Food Tour: $69
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Jerusalem $10Seoul $25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Cooking Classes for 2$41
Tours and Activities in Jerusalem
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Jerusalem are as follows:
- A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem's Old City: $9.99
- Jerusalem’s Old City Walls: An Audio Tour Through Time and Faith: $9.99
- Skip the Line:1.5Hour AudioTour - Yad Vashem Holocaust Remembrance Center Ticket: $11
- Jerusalem Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum Tour: $12
- In The Footsteps of Jesus - Self Guiding Tour: $13
- Classic Jerusalem Old City - Self Guiding Tour: $13
- Tram Tour of The Old City of Jerusalem: $30
- Old City Highlights Tour: $39
- Old City Morning Tour: $39
- Bethlehem Half Day Christian Guided Tour: $40
- Bethlehem Half Day Guided Group Tour: $40
- Jerusalem Jewish Orthodox Neighborhood Walking Tour: $49
Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:
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Palace Tickets$5.54
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Movie Ticket$5.54
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Kimchi Museum$2.08
Tours and Activities in Seoul
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:
- Seoul Ghost Tour: Self-Guided Haunted Walk: $5.85
- Seoul Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
- Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.00
- Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul: $7.00
- Gyeongbokgung Palace Web Guide and Room Escape Tour Ticket: $7.30
- Alternative A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
- Gwanghwamun Tour l 120 Minutes to Understand South Korea: $10
- Undercity Core Techno Party Ticket: $11
- Skip the Line: Figure Museum W Ticket (내국인 불가): $11
- Bukchon Hanok Village Seoul Walking Tour with Audioguide: $12
- Insadong Running Man Themed Activity Experience Center: $13
- Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski + Eobi Ice Valley Day Tour fr Seoul: $14
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayJerusalem $19Seoul $12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Beer$5.88
Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul
Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Discover Makgeolli: Inside Seoul's Hidden Urban Brewery: $10
- Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute: $20
- Pub Crawl: $25
- The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $26
- LGBTQ+ Pub Crawl and Drag Show with Local Drag Queen: $28
- Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $44
- Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier - Finest Makgeolli (& Soju): $46
- Soju Tasting at Distillery: $51
- Premium Pub Crawl with Open Bottles: $57
- Craft Makgeolli Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience: $67
- Learn and Craft Makgeolli in a Traditional Brewery: $78
- From Yeongdong Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Janggu: $91
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jerusalem and Seoul, we can see that Jerusalem is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jerusalem is in Middle East 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 Jerusalem would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jerusalem 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 Jerusalem Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Jerusalem or Seoul?
Seoul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Jerusalem. When comparing the sizes of Jerusalem 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 Jerusalem or Seoul?
Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jerusalem experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
Should I visit Jerusalem or Seoul in the Summer?
Both Seoul and Jerusalem are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jerusalem throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Jerusalem is cooler than Seoul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jerusalem in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Seoul averages at about 26°C (78°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jerusalem. Jerusalem usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during summer. Jerusalem gets 364 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. In July, Jerusalem usually receives less rain than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyJerusalem 23°C (73°F)Seoul 26°C (78°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Seoul in the Autumn?
Both Seoul and Jerusalem during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Jerusalem because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.
In October, Jerusalem is generally a little warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Jerusalem average around 19°C (66°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).
In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jerusalem. In the autumn, Jerusalem often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun.
Jerusalem usually gets less rain in October than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberJerusalem 19°C (66°F)Seoul 15°C (59°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Seoul in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jerusalem and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jerusalem year-round. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. Jerusalem is much warmer than Seoul in the winter. The daily temperature in Jerusalem averages around 8°C (46°F) in January, and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).
Jerusalem usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during winter. Jerusalem gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Jerusalem usually receives more rain than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryJerusalem 8°C (46°F)Seoul -3°C (27°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Seoul in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Jerusalem as well as Seoul. Jerusalem attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city.
In the spring, Jerusalem is a little warmer than Seoul. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jerusalem in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Seoul averages at about 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 Jerusalem this time of the year. In the spring, Jerusalem often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 269 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun.
Jerusalem usually gets less rain in April than Seoul. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilJerusalem 16°C (61°F)Seoul 13°C (55°F)
Typical Weather for Seoul and Jerusalem
| Jerusalem | Seoul | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 8°C (46°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | -3°C (27°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
| Feb | 9°C (48°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | -0°C (32°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
| Mar | 12°C (54°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
| Jun | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
| Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 26°C (78°F) | 369 mm (14.5 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 26°C (80°F) | 294 mm (11.6 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 169 mm (6.7 in) |
| Oct | 19°C (66°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Nov | 15°C (59°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
| Dec | 10°C (50°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 0°C (33°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.