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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a reflective, somber, and informative town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul

Seoul 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Kanchanaburi and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Kanchanaburi. Seoul is bigger than Kanchanaburi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. 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 Kanchanaburi different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kanchanaburi. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War 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 Kanchanaburi or Seoul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi 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.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Families?

Seoul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seoul is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Couples?

Seoul is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Seoul are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Kanchanaburi or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Seoul is top-notch. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

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

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

In Kanchanaburi, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this somber destination offers. 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.

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanchanaburi. 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 fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

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

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the reflective destination of Kanchanaburi. 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 popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in 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 Kanchanaburi and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi.

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Seoul in the Summer?

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

Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi 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 the autumn, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kanchanaburi in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seoul during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Kanchanaburi. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Kanchanaburi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, 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. In January, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Seoul in the Spring?

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

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°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. In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Seoul. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Kanchanaburi