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

Should you visit Seoul or Antwerp?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Antwerp can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a cultural, bustling, and modern 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a authentic, genuine, and cultural port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Antwerp?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Antwerp. Seoul is bigger than Antwerp, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, music, and big city activities, while Antwerp is more popular for its historical sights. Seoul is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Seoul different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Seoul and Antwerp.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Antwerp are very good when it comes to partying.

Seoul offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Antwerp has a large number of nightlife venues. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Music?

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp 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.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Antwerp?

Both Seoul and Antwerp are fantastic shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Families?

Seoul is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Seoul is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Seoul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Antwerp is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Antwerp are notable destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Seoul or Antwerp Better for Students?

Seoul and Antwerp are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Seoul is very popular with students. 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.

Antwerp is a great city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Seoul or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Seoul and Antwerp both are very good when exploring on foot.

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.

Antwerp is a very walkable destination. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Antwerp. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul than Antwerp 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 Seoul or Antwerp?

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.

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Seoul or Antwerp?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Five days in Seoul or Antwerp?

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.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Antwerp?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the genuine destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Antwerp?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Antwerp. The summer months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

Seoul is a little warmer than Antwerp in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Antwerp. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Seoul is a little warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Antwerp averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the autumn, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Antwerp. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months.

Seoul is much warmer than Antwerp in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Antwerp. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Seoul