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

Should you visit Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a vibrant, high energy, and coastal city. 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Nha Trang and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nha Trang or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Nha Trang. Seoul is bigger than Nha Trang, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nha Trang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Nha Trang is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts. 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 Nha Trang different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nha Trang or Seoul?

Seoul is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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 Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

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

Seoul is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

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 Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is very popular for its live music scene. However, Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang is not a live music destination.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Resorts?

Nha Trang is very good for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Nha Trang makes a nice vacation spot. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nha Trang is a moderate city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Nha Trang. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Nha Trang is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Nha Trang to enjoy the beach. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nha Trang or Seoul?

Seoul is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Nha Trang to go shopping. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Families?

Both Nha Trang and Seoul are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nha Trang is very family-friendly. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

Seoul is known to be 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 Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Couples?

Nha Trang and Seoul both high quality destinations for a couple.

Nha Trang is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

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 Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

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 Nha Trang or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Nha Trang 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.

Nha Trang is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Nha Trang has a few public transit options. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Is Nha Trang or Seoul a more walkable city?

Nha Trang and Seoul are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Nha Trang is a very walkable city. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

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 Nha Trang Worth Visiting? and Is Seoul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Nha Trang?

How long in Nha Trang or Seoul?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Nha Trang. 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 Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang.

One day in Nha Trang or Seoul?

In Nha Trang, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city 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 Nha Trang or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nha Trang. 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.

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 Nha Trang or Seoul?

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

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 Nha Trang or Seoul?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Nha Trang. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, 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 Nha Trang and Seoul, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang.

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

Which is Bigger, Nha Trang or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nha Trang. When comparing the sizes of Nha Trang 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 Nha Trang or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Nha Trang or Seoul in the Summer?

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

Nha Trang is around the same temperature as Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nha Trang usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Nha Trang gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year. January to August is the dry season in Nha Trang. September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Seoul in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nha Trang and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Nha Trang year-round. 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, Nha Trang is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nha Trang in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Nha Trang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nha Trang usually receives more rain than Seoul. Nha Trang gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nha Trang as well as Seoul. Nha Trang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. 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, Nha Trang is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Nha Trang average around 24°C (75°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Nha Trang usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to August in Nha Trang is the dry season.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Seoul in the Spring?

Both Seoul and Nha Trang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Nha Trang throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

Nha Trang is much warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Nha Trang usually receives less rain than Seoul. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Nha Trang