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

Should you visit Seoul or Austin?

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 Austin can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Austin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Austin attracts visitors for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Seoul different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin 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 Austin?

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Seoul and Austin.

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 Austin can be an interesting and educational experience. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Both Seoul and Austin offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Austin is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Is Seoul or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin 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.

Austin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Seoul or Austin Better for Music?

Both Seoul and Austin offer terrific live music venues.

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.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Is Seoul or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Austin?

Seoul is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Seoul is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Seoul or Austin Better for Families?

Seoul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Seoul or Austin Better for Couples?

Seoul is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Seoul or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin 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.

Austin is a great city to visit for backpackers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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 Seoul or Austin Better for Students?

Seoul and Austin are both excellent 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.

Austin is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Seoul or Austin a more walkable city?

Seoul is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Seoul is very walkable. 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Austin. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Austin. 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 Austin. 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 Austin 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 Austin.

One day in Seoul or Austin?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Austin, many people enjoy the live music and food that this lively destination offers. 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.

A weekend in Seoul or Austin?

Seoul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Seoul or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Austin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Austin. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Austin?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the eccentric destination of Austin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Austin, we can see that Austin 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 Austin is in North America, 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 Austin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Austin 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 Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Austin?

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

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 Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Austin. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 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 Austin. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Austin. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Austin in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Seoul is cooler than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the autumn, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Austin. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Seoul is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Austin. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Seoul