A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Seoul for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Seoul? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Samui and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Seoul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul. Although Koh Samui and Seoul are both popular with visitors, Seoul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seoul is more popular for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Samui is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Koh Samui different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Seoul?

Seoul is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

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.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Seoul has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is very popular for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Samui is a perfect choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is very popular for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Samui is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Koh Samui is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Seoul?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. 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.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Seoul.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Seoul is 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 Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Seoul make for a great place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Samui is a great resort island to visit for backpackers. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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 Koh Samui or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Seoul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Is Koh Samui 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, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its public transit.

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

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known 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.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Seoul?

Both Koh Samui and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Seoul has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seoul than Koh Samui. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Koh Samui. 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 Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Seoul?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island 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.

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Seoul?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Seoul?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Seoul in the Summer?

Both Seoul and Koh Samui during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Samui is generally around the same temperature as Seoul. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Seoul in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Seoul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Seoul. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. Also, October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Seoul. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Seoul averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Koh Samui usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Seoul in the Spring?

Both Seoul and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Seoul. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Koh Samui