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

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Should you visit Seoul or Dubrovnik?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

How is Seoul different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Museums and Historical Sights?

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

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.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.


Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Food?

Both Seoul and Dubrovnik offer good local cuisine.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination. 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).

For foodies, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Dubrovnik are comparable 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dubrovnik has a few options to choose from. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Shopping?

Most people pick Seoul for the shopping over Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Families?

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

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 Dubrovnik. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.


Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Dubrovnik are 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.

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

While Seoul and Dubrovnik are both good for backpackers, overall Dubrovnik is more popular.

Many backpackers frequent Dubrovnik. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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 Dubrovnik better for Public Transit?

While Dubrovnik and Seoul both provide public transit, overall the system in Seoul is considered to be better.

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.

While Dubrovnik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Seoul and Dubrovnik both are comparable 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.

Dubrovnik is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.


Seoul and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Seoul
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers
Dubrovnik
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Dubrovnik?

In either Seoul or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Seoul is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Dubrovnik is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Seoul or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Seoul 3-7 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Seoul or Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal town 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik. 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 Dubrovnik?

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.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Dubrovnik?

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 charming destination of Dubrovnik. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Which city is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Seoul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $93, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is $80. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Seoul and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Seoul $47
    Dubrovnik $42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Seoul $94
    Dubrovnik $84

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seoul $13
    Dubrovnik $10
Typical Local Transportation prices in Seoul

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


  • Subway Card
    $3.91
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $5.47
  • Metro Ride
    $1.06
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $7.82

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • Seoul ⇄ Alpensia / Yongpyong Ski Resort Private Van Transfers: $469
  • Summer Activity in Korea: Water Leisure Tour at Gapyeong with Private Transfer: $360
  • Incheon Airport / Seoul ⇄ Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski Resort Private Van Transfers: $267
  • Incheon Airport Transfer- Private Service between Airport and Seoul (1-13 pax): $200
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-9 pax): $125
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Gimpo Airport (1-9 pax): $125
  • Departure Private Transfer Seoul City to Seoul Airport ICN by Business Minivan: $123
  • Departure Private Transfer Seoul City to Seoul Airport ICN by Luxury Sedan: $123
  • Private Transfer from Seoul Hotels to Incheon Int'l Airport: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-9 pax): $120
  • 1- Day Private Seoul or Outskirts Tour (Round-trip transfer to your hotel): $120
  • Everland Themepark Private Round trip Transfer + Ticket from Seoul: $115

Typical Local Transportation prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:


  • Bus Around Town
    $1.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

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

  • Shared Airport Transfer to/from City Center: $8.61
  • Ultra - Private Transfer from Dubrovnik Port to Cavtat: $9.41
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Dubrovnik Port to Dubrovnik, Orebic or Korcula Town Hotels: $15
  • Private Departure Transfer: Dubrovnik, Orebic or Korcula Town Hotels to Dubrovnik Port: $15
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Dubrovnik, Cavtat, Orebic and Korcula Town Hotels to Dubrovnik Airport: $19
  • Transfer Dubrovnik airport to Dubrovnik City: $24
  • Cruiser Taxi Private group Airport transfers in Dubrovnik: $25
  • Airport Private Transfer Dubrovnik: $25
  • Private Airport Transfer: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to Dubrovnik: $26
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): $26
  • Private transfer from city Dubrovnik to airport: $27
  • Departure Private Transfers: Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik Airport DBV in Business Car: $31

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik 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 $26
    Dubrovnik $27
Typical Food prices in Seoul

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


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $4.69
  • Waffle
    $0.78
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.56
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $4.30
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.56
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.49
  • Lunch Buffet
    $4.69
  • Donut
    $0.78
  • Mushroom Burger
    $4.07
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.58
  • Udon & Sushi
    $5.47
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.75
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $3.52
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.91
  • Fried Rice
    $4.30
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $7.43
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $7.43
  • Donut
    $1.96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

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

  • Night Market Food Tour: $48
  • Traditional Korean Cooking Class (Kimchi) & market tour with chef Joungy: $51
  • Korean Cooking Class with Full-Course Meal & Local Market Tour: $56
  • Small-Group Korean Cooking Class in Seoul: $56
  • Traditional Cooking Experience in Korean Style House in Seoul: $58
  • Secret of Banchan (side dish) cooking!: $61
  • Traditional Korean cooking class and market visit in Seoul: $62
  • Private 3-Hour Korean Cooking Class in Seoul: $68
  • Local Flavors of Seoul at Night: Street Food Tour: $70
  • Eat like a local! Most authentic Seoul food tour: $79
  • Historic Jongro District Authentic Food Tour in Seoul: $81
  • Gwangjang Market Food Tour including Lunch: $82

Typical Food prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

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

  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $73
  • Unique Sunset and Dinner Cruise in the Magnificent Traditional Karaka boat: $96
  • Dubrovnik Traditional Food Tour: $108
  • Old Town Food Tour: $130
  • Flavours of Dubrovnik - Food Tour: $131
  • Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik: $147
  • Croatian Traditional Cuisine: Peka Cooking Lesson: $149
  • Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside: $164
  • Cooking Classes Traditional Meals of Konavle region: $166
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour with Friendly Local Guide: $167
  • E-Bike Tour + Farm To Table Cooking Class: $184
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour by Vidokrug: $192

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Seoul $23
    Dubrovnik $16
Typical Entertainment prices in Seoul

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


  • Palace Tickets
    $6.26
  • Movie Ticket
    $6.26
  • Kimchi Museum
    $2.35

Tours and Activities in Seoul

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

  • "Nami Island" & "Petite France" or "Garden of Morning Calm" ※ Private Tour: $97
  • "Parasite" Filming Location Afternoon Tour with Free Jjapaguri(Ram-don): $44
  • 'My Love From The Star' TV Tour Including Petite France: $120
  • (Private) 9-Days Tasty Journey Around South Korea Tour: $3,475
  • 1 Day Seorak Mt. Private Tour: $314
  • 1 day Jeonju City tour by KTX Train from Seoul: $390
  • 10 Day Essential Korea Tour(Seoul, DMZ, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong, Jeju): $4,306
  • 1Day Customizable Private Daegu tour from Seoul by KTX train: $462
  • 2 Day Essential Tour-Nami Island,Petite Fr. and Mt.Seorak(Inc. Accom. & 4 Meals): $741
  • 2 Day Private: Rakkojae Korean Cultural Heritage Tour via Andong Hahoe Village: $654
  • 2 Day Tour for Seoul City/Nami, Petite,Garden of Morning Calm(Inc. Lun. & Din.): $555
  • 2 Days Gyeongju Private Tour from Seoul and Near Seoul: $490

Typical Entertainment prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2)
    $14
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    $56
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    $48

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

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

  • Walls of Liberty: an audio tour of Dubrovnik's rich history along the city walls: $5.99
  • Gornji Ugao Tower Admission Ticket: $7.66
  • Skip the Line: Love Stories Museum Admission Ticket: $8.71
  • Insider’s Virtual Tour of Dubrovnik: $8.71
  • Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik: $12
  • 'Up with the Chickens' Tour: $15
  • Dubrovnik 1-Hour Discovery Walking Tour: $15
  • Discovery Dubrovnik walking tour: $15
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • Dubrovnik Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • 'Up with the Chickens' or "Sunset chasing" Old Town Tour: $16
  • Dubrovnik By Night Walking Tour: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Seoul $10
    Dubrovnik $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

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

  • Seoul Pub Crawl and Party with Free Shots: $24
  • Pub Crawl and Party at City's Best Bars and Clubs: $25
  • 3-Hour Small Group Korean Pub Crawl + Food Tasting in Hongdae: $86

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:

  • Sunset Sea Kayaking and Wine Tasting Tour Dubrovnik: $44
  • Wine tasting and visit to Ston- Group Tour: $60
  • Peljesac Peninsula Wine Tour from Dubrovnik: $61
  • Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $63
  • FAMOUS LEGENDS OF PELJESAC and KORCULA with WINE TASTING: $65
  • Island of Korcula with Wine Tasting Day Trip from Dubrovnik: $69
  • Korčula tour with wine tasting from Dubrovnik: $69
  • Wine tasting and visit to Ston: $72
  • Wine Tasting Pelješac and a visit to Ston: $72
  • Konavle Valley Wine Tour from Dubrovnik with Train Ride and Wine Tasting: $75
  • Smiley wine tasting on peninsula Peljesac: $76
  • Smiley Hercegovina wine tour: $77

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Dubrovnik, we can see that Seoul 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 Dubrovnik is in Europe, 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.

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Seoul vs. Dubrovnik Travel Comparison

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