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

Should you visit Seoul or Baltimore?

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 Baltimore 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.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful 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 Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Baltimore?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Baltimore. Seoul is bigger than Baltimore, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Baltimore is more touristy than Seoul and is known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. 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 Seoul different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore 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).

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Baltimore 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.

Baltimore has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Music?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Baltimore?

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

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 visitors explore the shopping areas in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Baltimore.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Seoul is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Baltimore 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 Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Seoul or Baltimore Better for Students?

Seoul is well known for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

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.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Is Seoul or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Seoul and Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Baltimore?

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

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Baltimore. 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 Baltimore. 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore?

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.

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant 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 Baltimore?

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.

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

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.

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

A week in Seoul or Baltimore?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Baltimore. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Baltimore?

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

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 Baltimore in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Baltimore. 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 Baltimore this time of year.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Baltimore in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Baltimore fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

Baltimore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Baltimore in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Baltimore. 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 Baltimore for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Seoul is around the same temperature as Baltimore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Baltimore averages at about 57°F (14°C).

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 Baltimore. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Baltimore. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Baltimore in the Winter?

Both Baltimore 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 Baltimore in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Baltimore can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Baltimore during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Baltimore in the Spring?

Both Baltimore 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 Baltimore for the activities around the city during these months.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Baltimore in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Baltimore fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Baltimore. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Seoul