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

Should you visit Seoul or Brussels?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Brussels. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its food, nightlife, and music, while Brussels attracts visitors for its historical sights. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Seoul different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Seoul and Brussels.

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 Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Seoul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Seoul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for Music?

Seoul is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Seoul is a world class music destination. 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.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Brussels?

Both Seoul and Brussels are first-rate 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 Brussels specifically to go shopping. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Brussels.

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 Brussels. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Brussels are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Brussels makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Seoul or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Brussels Better for Students?

Seoul and Brussels are both high quality 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.

Brussels is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Both Seoul and Brussels offer first-rate public transit options.

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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Is Seoul or Brussels a more walkable city?

Seoul and Brussels both are high quality 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.

Brussels is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Brussels?

In either Seoul or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Brussels. 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 Brussels 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 Brussels.

One day in Seoul or Brussels?

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Brussels, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This 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 Brussels?

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. In Brussels, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Brussels?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic big city of Brussels. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Brussels?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Brussels. Many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Seoul is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 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 Brussels. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Seoul is a little warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 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 Brussels. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. The weather in Seoul can be very cold. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Brussels. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In April, Seoul is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Seoul