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

Should you visit Seoul or Darwin?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Darwin

Darwin is a tropical, multicultural, and authentic town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Darwin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Darwin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Darwin. Seoul is bigger than Darwin, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Darwin is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Darwin is well known for its outdoor markets and tropical weather.

How is Seoul different from Darwin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

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

Seoul is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Seoul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Seoul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Music?

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

Darwin is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Beaches?

Darwin is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Darwin to enjoy the beach. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Hiking?

Darwin is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Darwin is a popular spot for hiking. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Darwin?

Seoul is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Darwin has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Darwin.

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 Darwin. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Couples?

Seoul is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Darwin is a good city for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Darwin 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 Darwin. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

Is Seoul or Darwin Better for Students?

Seoul is notable for students. However, Darwin is not popular with students.

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.

Darwin is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is terrific for its public transit. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Darwin has some public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

Is Seoul or Darwin a more walkable city?

Seoul is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Darwin is a somewhat walkable city. There are biking and walking paths around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Darwin or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Darwin?

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

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

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 Darwin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this tropical destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Darwin?

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 Darwin. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Darwin?

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.

Darwin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Darwin. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Darwin?

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 food and shopping around the local destination of Darwin. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Darwin, we can see that Darwin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Seoul is in Asia and Darwin is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Darwin?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Darwin. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Darwin, 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 Darwin?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Darwin is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Seoul has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Seoul or Darwin in the Summer?

Both Darwin and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Darwin for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is cooler than Darwin in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (83°F)in January.

Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 173 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Darwin. It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives less rain than Darwinin January. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Darwin in the Autumn?

Both Darwin and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Darwin in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Seoul is much colder than Darwin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (84°F)in April.

In Darwin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the autumn, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Darwinin April. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 267 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Darwinin April. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Darwin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Darwin. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Darwin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Darwinin July. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Darwin fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Darwin this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 312 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives more rain than Darwinin July. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Darwin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Darwin. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Darwin because of the beaches.

Seoul is much colder than Darwin in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (85°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the spring, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Darwinin October. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 291 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Darwinin October. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Darwin and Seoul