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

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.

Seoul and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Seoul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seoul is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dubrovnik is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dubrovnik can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 the Food Better in Seoul or Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Seoul and Dubrovnik offer world-class 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).

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

Seoul is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Seoul has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. 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 Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Seoul has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Dubrovnik. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Dubrovnik has a world-famous historical area. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

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

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Dubrovnik?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

Many people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. 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 is a great destination for shopping. 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 great 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?

Dubrovnik is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Dubrovnik has plenty to offer. 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.

Seoul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik 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 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 Students?

Seoul is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

Seoul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

Seoul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Seoul or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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 Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

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. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Seoul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubrovnik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dubrovnik that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik.

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 coastal 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. In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. 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 here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Dubrovnik?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 360 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In October, Seoul is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Seoul is much colder than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Seoul is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Seoul