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

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Mykonos. Seoul is bigger than Mykonos, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Mykonos is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. 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 Mykonos different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


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

Mykonos
Seoul

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Seoul can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos 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.

Mykonos is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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 Mykonos or Seoul Better for Music?

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.


Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Seoul

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Mykonos is a perfect choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos 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 Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos is a well-known place for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Mykonos is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Seoul is not a beach destination.


Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Seoul

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

Mykonos has a world-famous historical area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos is not a good place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Seoul?

Mykonos
Seoul

Both Mykonos and Seoul are first-rate shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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.


Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Families?

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Mykonos has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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.

Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is a good destination for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.


Is Mykonos or Seoul Better for Students?

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Seoul

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Seoul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Mykonos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Is Mykonos or Seoul a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Seoul

Mykonos 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 Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Seoul?

Both Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul than Mykonos 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.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Seoul? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Seoul 3-7

One day in Mykonos or Seoul?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this party-oriented destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This Greek 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.

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mykonos or Seoul?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint 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.

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Seoul?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the party-oriented destination of Mykonos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.


Which place is cheaper, Seoul or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €237, while the average daily cost in Seoul is €101. 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 Mykonos and Seoul in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Seoul 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Seoul 102
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Seoul

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos 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.

Hotels in Mykonos


Hotels in Seoul


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Seoul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Seoul 15
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • TRANSFER FROM MYKONOS PORT(Cruise Terminal) TO MYKONOS TOWN: $8.61
  • 24-hour Point-Point Mykonos Airport and Port Transfers Service: $20
  • Private Luxury Transfer up to 11 Passengers : $22
  • 24 Hour Private Transfer Service All Around Mykonos Island: $27
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $31
  • Mykonos Island VIP Transfers: 24/7 Private Transportation: $33
  • Private One-way Transfer From Mykonos Airport To Mykonos: $34
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport (JMK) to Tagoo : $36
  • Private Transfer around Mykonos City: $39
  • Transfer Service: $43
  • Private Mykonos Airport Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer from Old Port of Mykonos to Mykonos Airport (JMK): $46

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:


  • Subway Card
    3.42
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.79
  • Metro Ride
    0.92
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    6.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • From Half-Day MBC Dae Jang Geum Park Transfer: $55
  • Transfer Service from Gimpo Airport to Hotel City: $57
  • From Everland Admission Ticket with Transfer: $75
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-5 pax): $80
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City - Gimpo Airport (1-5 pax): $80
  • Seoul Incheon International Airport to from Incheon Private Transfer: $85
  • Seoul Airport: Private Departure Transfer from Seoul City Center: $87
  • Private Airport Transfer : Gimpo airport to/from Seoul (1~7pax): $95
  • Private Gimpo Airport Transfer to Seoul and Vice Versa: $95
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-5 pax): $98
  • Incheon Airport Private Transfer between Seoul City: $98
  • Private Airport Transfer : Incheon airport to/from Seoul(~7 pax): $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Seoul?

Prices for flights to both Seoul and Mykonos 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mykonos 48
    Seoul 28
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $70
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $101
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $161
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $197
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $285
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $613

Typical Food Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    4.11
  • Waffle
    0.68
  • Dippin' Dots
    1.37
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    3.77
  • Chicken Stick
    1.37
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    1.30
  • Lunch Buffet
    4.11
  • Donut
    0.68
  • Mushroom Burger
    3.56
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    2.26
  • Udon & Sushi
    4.79
  • Fresh Burger
    3.29
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    3.08
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    3.42
  • Fried Rice
    3.77
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    6.50
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    6.50
  • Donut
    1.71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.

  • Korean Cooking @ Seoul Cooking Club!: $0.11
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace : Tour, dinner and coffee: $37
  • Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour: $44
  • Namdaemun Market: the Largest Traditional Market Food Tour: $47
  • Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour: $48
  • Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $54
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $54
  • Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner: $58
  • Sunset Walking Tour in Naksan Park with Dinner: $58
  • Half Day Seoul Afternoon Food Tour and visit 3 landMarks of Seoul: $67
  • Night Market Food Tour: $70
  • Energizing Korean Cooking Class in a Local Home in Seoul: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Seoul 25

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • Find your (queer) god Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.72
  • Old Town Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Mykonos Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Paddle Boat Experience: $16
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company : $30
  • Sunset Party Boat Cruise with 1 Drink: $32
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $38
  • Walking Tour as a Local: $38
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • Mykonos Old Town Walking Tour: $43
  • From Ano Mera Farm Tour: $48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:


  • Palace Tickets
    5.48
  • Movie Ticket
    5.48
  • Kimchi Museum
    2.05

Tours and Activities in Seoul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul: $7.00
  • Seoul Changdeokgung Palace Hanbok Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.20
  • [NEWTRO ART TOUR] Media art museum & walking tour: $8.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Skip the Line: Figure Museum W Ticket (내국인 불가): $11
  • Seoul Job Experience Theme Park Ticket for Kid (내국인 불가): $13
  • Dongdaemun City Tour Bus(내국인불가): $14
  • 63 Aqua Planet and 63 Building Seoul Observatory Tickets: $14
  • Seoul : Guided Consultation Tour (Filler, Cosmetic Surgery): $16
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Private Half-Day Tour: $19
  • Virtual Tour of Korean Demilitarized Zone: $19
  • Seoul Myeongdong Catholic Church Historic Private Walking Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Seoul 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $73
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $74
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Mykonos Town: Wine tour in Greek Gastronony with a local: $103
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $129
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $129

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour: $11
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $21
  • Pub Crawl: $25
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $26
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs: $43
  • Learn and Craft Makgeolli in a Traditional Brewery: $81


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Seoul, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mykonos 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos 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 Mykonos Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Seoul?

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