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

Should you visit Seoul or Budapest?

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 Budapest 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Seoul or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Budapest. Seoul is bigger than Budapest, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, music, and shopping, while Budapest is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Budapest is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. 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 Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul
Budapest

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

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 Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.


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

Seoul
Budapest

Seoul is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its 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).

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Seoul or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Seoul
Budapest

Both Seoul and Budapest 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.

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Seoul or Budapest Better for Music?

Seoul
Budapest

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

Budapest is not a live music destination.


Is Seoul or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Seoul
Budapest

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Budapest?

Seoul
Budapest

Seoul is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Seoul or Budapest Better for Families?

Seoul
Budapest

Seoul is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seoul is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.


Is Seoul or Budapest Better for Couples?

Seoul
Budapest

Both Seoul and Budapest are very good 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.

Budapest makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Seoul or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul
Budapest

Budapest is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest Better for Students?

Seoul
Budapest

Budapest is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. 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.


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

Seoul
Budapest

Both Seoul and Budapest offer fantastic 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 Budapest can get you around easily. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Seoul or Budapest a more walkable city?

Seoul
Budapest

Budapest is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Budapest?

In either Seoul or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Budapest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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


  • How many days in Seoul or Budapest? Ideal Length of Stay
    Seoul 3-7 
    Budapest 2-5

One day in Seoul or Budapest?

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 Budapest, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this historic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest. 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 Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a fun place to experience. In Budapest, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this big city destination offers. 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 Budapest?

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 nightlife and shopping around the historic big city of Budapest. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.


Which place is cheaper, Budapest or Seoul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $107, while the average daily cost in Budapest is $89. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Seoul and Budapest in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Seoul $54
    Budapest $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Seoul $108
    Budapest $98
Compare Hotels in Seoul and Budapest

Looking for a hotel in Seoul or Budapest? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Seoul


Hotels in Budapest


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Seoul Hotel Prices and Budapest Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seoul $15
    Budapest $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:


  • Subway Card
    $3.62
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $5.07
  • Metro Ride
    $0.98
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $7.24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport 1-12 pax: $204
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-12 pax): $167
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Gimpo Airport (1-12 pax): $167
  • Private Airport Transfer * Incheon Airport <-> Seoul (1-5 people): $101
  • Private Transfer l Airport to/from Seoul: $100
  • Private Transfer To/From Incheon Airport: $99
  • Private Airport Transfer : Incheon airport to/from Seoul(~7 pax): $99
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-5 pax): $98
  • Incheon Airport Private Transfer between Seoul City: $98
  • Private Airport Transfer : Gimpo airport to/from Seoul (1~7pax): $95
  • Seoul Airport: Private Departure Transfer from Seoul City Center: $87
  • Seoul Incheon International Airport to from Incheon Private Transfer: $85

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Budapest

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    $6.91
  • Metro Pass
    $3.79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Budapest

Also for Budapest, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Airport Shuttle Bus Transfer: $13
  • Budapest Airport Private Departure Transfer : City to Airport: $16
  • Premier Outlet Shopping Transfer from City Center: $16
  • Budapest Private Arrival Transfer: Railway station to hotels: $16
  • Private One-Way Budapest Int Airport Transfer To/From Budapest: $24
  • Ferenc Liszt Intl Airport to Budapest - Arrival Private Transfer : $25
  • Budapest Airport Transfers: $26
  • Budapest Private transfer Airport or Hotel to or from Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Airport Transfer Budapest: $27
  • Budapest City - Budapest Airport Transfer: $31
  • Private Transfer Budapest Airport BUD to Budapest by car or van: $34
  • Transfer from Liszt Ferenc Airport to Hotel: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Budapest?

Prices for flights to both Budapest and Seoul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Seoul $30
    Budapest $23
Typical Food Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $4.34
  • Waffle
    $0.72
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.45
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $3.98
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.45
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.38
  • Lunch Buffet
    $4.34
  • Donut
    $0.72
  • Mushroom Burger
    $3.76
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.39
  • Udon & Sushi
    $5.07
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.48
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $3.26
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.62
  • Fried Rice
    $3.98
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $6.88
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $6.88
  • Donut
    $1.81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace : Tour, dinner and coffee: $36
  • Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour: $44
  • Grandma's Home Cooking Class at Korean House l Seoul: $45
  • Namdaemun Market: the Largest Traditional Market Food Tour: $46
  • Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour: $47
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $53
  • Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $54
  • Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner: $57
  • Sunset Walking Tour in Naksan Park with Dinner: $59
  • Night Market Food Tour: $70
  • Energizing Korean Cooking Class in a Local Home in Seoul: $71
  • Night Market Food Tour: $72

Typical Food Prices in Budapest

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:


  • Lunch
    $3.37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traveling Spoon Hungarian Goulash Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Downtown Budapest Cruise with Pizza and Beer: $45
  • Pizza & Beer Downtown Budapest Cruise: $46
  • Vegan Hungarian Food Tour (full meals): $51
  • Medieval Dinner Show with Drinks: $52
  • Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music: $74
  • Budapest Danube Cruise with Buffet Dinner, Performances and Music: $75
  • Evening Cruise and Dinner with Champagne: $85
  • Lángos (Hungary’s nr1 streetfood) cooking class: $87
  • Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music: $91
  • Budapest Danube River Candlelit Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $93
  • Hungarian Cooking Class - Foodapest: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Seoul $26
    Budapest $22
Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:


  • Palace Tickets
    $5.79
  • Movie Ticket
    $5.79
  • Kimchi Museum
    $2.17

Tours and Activities in Seoul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:

  • Full Day Tour Jeonju Hanok Village, Wansan Park and Gakwonsa: $72
  • Private Tour Nami Island with Petite France 'and/or' The Garden of Morning Calm: $98
  • (Private tour) Nami Island + Railbike + Garden of morning calm: $220
  • 2-Hour Makgeolli Tasting Experience in Seoul: $37
  • 2-Hour Private Kayaking and Paddleboarding Experience in Hanriver: $30
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour in Songpa Seoul: $49
  • 3-Hour Self-guided Sokcho Tour with Private Transportation: $33
  • 365-day DMZ Special Tour including Monday & National Holiday: $55
  • ARMY must visit BTS tour in Seoul: $55
  • Activity - Mt. Bukhan Hiking Guided Tour: $150
  • Afternoon Half Day Seoul City Tour, visit Queen's dorm: $67
  • All in One Full Day Tour 2 (Palace & Korean Folk Village): $125

Typical Entertainment Prices in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance to the Baths for Two
    $6.77

Tours and Activities in Budapest

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Budapest.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Free Tour Budapest Essential in Spanish: $3.26
  • Free Walking Tour Budapest incl. the Shoes on the Danube Bank: $3.27
  • Past and Present of Budapest Jewish District Tour: $3.27
  • Free walking tour in the Buda Castle incl. Fisherman's Bastion: $3.27
  • Communist History Evening Walking Tour of Budapest: $3.27
  • Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Walking Tour: $3.27
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Buda Castle: $5.45
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.86
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.86
  • Historical Heroes & Hot Spa Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • TOP 10 Budapest- City Tour : $6.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Seoul $12
    Budapest $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour: $10
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $21
  • Pub Crawl: $25
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $25
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $42
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs: $42

Sample the Local Flavors in Budapest

Also in Budapest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • The Original Budapest Pub Crawl - One Hour Open Bar + Free Shots: $17
  • 5-Hour Pub Crawl through Ruin Bars: $21
  • Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl: $23
  • Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $25
  • Budapest Original Ruin Pub Crawl Including 5 Shots: $28
  • Ruin Bar Pub Crawl with Entry Tickets: $29
  • Detective Pub Crawl Game by App: $38
  • Drunken History Bar Crawl Tour with Local Drinks: $42
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $42
  • Hungarian Wine Tasting (with Cheese and Charcuterie) in Budapest: $50
  • Budapest - Opera Gin Distillery Tour: $51


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Budapest, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Seoul is in Asia and Budapest 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 Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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


Which is Bigger, Seoul or Budapest?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Budapest. 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 Budapest this time of year.

Seoul is a little warmer than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Seoul 26°C (78°F) 
    Budapest 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seoul is a little warmer than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Seoul usually receives more rain than Budapest. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Seoul 15°C (59°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Budapest. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Seoul -3°C (27°F) 
    Budapest -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Budapest. Many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Budapest. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Seoul 13°C (55°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Budapest and Seoul

Seoul Budapest
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) -1°C (31°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -0°C (32°F) 25 mm (1 in) 2°C (35°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 369 mm (14.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 26°C (80°F) 294 mm (11.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 169 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 0°C (33°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)