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

Should you visit Pattaya or Seoul?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Seoul can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a colorful, active, and vibrant resort city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Pattaya and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Seoul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Pattaya. Seoul is bigger than Pattaya, 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 Pattaya is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Pattaya is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. 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 Pattaya different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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

Seoul is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Dining out in Pattaya is an experience not to be missed. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya 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.

Pattaya is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

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 Pattaya or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pattaya 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.

Pattaya is not a live music destination.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pattaya. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Beaches?

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

Pattaya is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Seoul?

Seoul is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Families?

Both Pattaya and Seoul are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

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 Pattaya or Seoul Better for Couples?

Seoul is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Seoul is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Seoul are notable places to visit.

Pattaya is a good resort city to visit for backpackers. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

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.

Is Pattaya or Seoul Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Pattaya is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Pattaya has a few public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Is Pattaya or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is a great city for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known 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.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Seoul?

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

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Pattaya. 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 Pattaya 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 Pattaya or Seoul?

In Pattaya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This resort 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.

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 Pattaya or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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 Pattaya or Seoul?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Pattaya. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Pattaya or Seoul?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Pattaya. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya 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 Pattaya or Seoul?

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

Should I visit Pattaya or Seoul in the Summer?

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

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

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

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Seoul in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In Pattaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seoul during autumn. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pattaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pattaya usually receives more rain than Seoul. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Should I visit Pattaya or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Seoul. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the winter, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

Pattaya usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Seoul. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Seoul in the Spring?

Both Seoul and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

Pattaya is much warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during spring. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Seoul. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Pattaya is December to April. The rainy season in Pattaya is June to October.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Pattaya